During a recent gathering of the Kiwanis Club in Los Alamos, Kelly Dolejsi, a member of the Los Alamos Little Theater (LALT), delivered an insightful presentation. She discussed the theater's storied past, accomplishments, upcoming challenges, and long-term aspirations. Established during the Manhattan Project era, LALT has played a pivotal role in the local arts scene, presenting hundreds of productions and engaging in extensive community outreach efforts. The organization is now preparing for renovations at its Performing Arts Center while continuing its mission to foster artistic growth through various initiatives.

The origins of LALT trace back to 1943, marking it as the inaugural organization in Los Alamos. Born amidst the wartime fervor of the Manhattan Project, the group staged seven productions during this period, including the iconic "Arsenic and Old Lace," which featured Director Robert Oppenheimer in a silent role. For many years, LALT performed without a permanent venue until 1973 when they collaborated with the county to transform the old East Cafeteria into what is now known as the Performing Arts Center (PAC). This facility remains their home base today.

Since securing a stable location, LALT has presented over 230 diverse performances, ranging from dramatic plays to comedic masterpieces and intimate musicals. All operations and management of the PAC are handled entirely by volunteers who dedicate their time and passion to sustaining the theater's legacy.

Looking ahead to the 2024-2025 season, Dolejsi highlighted several key projects. These include a variety of performances, partnerships with other artistic groups, and educational programs aimed at nurturing younger talent. Among these initiatives is the innovative "Littler Theater" project, offering children hands-on experience in all facets of theatrical production. Additionally, plans encompass workshops led by professional directors, music concerts, comedy nights, and short play presentations tailored for senior audiences.

This summer marks a significant milestone as renovations commence at the PAC. To ensure continuity, LALT intends to embrace its historical roots by staging performances in alternative venues temporarily. Collaborations with the county will focus on upgrading critical systems such as fire suppression, addressing asbestos concerns, enhancing accessibility for hearing-impaired patrons, and acquiring modern seating arrangements.

Kelly Dolejsi’s address underscored the enduring spirit of LALT and its commitment to enriching the cultural landscape of Los Alamos. As they navigate the challenges posed by renovation works, the organization remains steadfast in its dedication to delivering high-quality performances and fostering community engagement through the arts. With ambitious goals set for both immediate and future endeavors, LALT continues to inspire and captivate audiences across generations.