By Mary O’KEEFE

One of the hardest hit businesses during the pandemic has been live stage theatre. Historically during society’s darkest times that is when artists are most needed to remind us that there is beauty and creativity in the world. But with COVID-19 closing theatre doors, that creative outreach turned within.

That makes it even more amazing that some of the theatres are ready to bring light back to the stage … and audiences are ready to fill the seats again.

“There is something that happens in the theatre that doesn’t happen in the movies. It a synergy between the audience and the actor,” said Doug Haverty of The Group Rep at the Lonny Chapman Theatre.

The theatre opened its doors in 1972 with 12 actors performing scenes for audiences in a laundromat turned 36-seat theatre on Van Ness Boulevard. Lonny Chapman was the artistic director with the Group Repertory Theatre. As the theatre, and its audience, grew the theatre moved from one location to another until finally coming home to 10900 Burbank Blvd. in North Hollywood, according to The Group Rep website.

During the pandemic the company continued to reach out to its loyal and growing audience.

“We tried to film some stuff during the pandemic,” Haverty said. He said their efforts were appreciated by the company and audience; however, nothing can replace live stage.

“When [you are on stage] you work with the reaction from the audience. It’s like riding a wave where laughs build and crest, just like a wave,” he said.

Haverty is a writer, producer and director on his own and knew that there was a need for live theatre but was concerned who would return once the doors were allowed to reopen. But he didn’t have to worry because he found that the audience as as dedicated to the stage as the actors and stage technicians.

“I love the enthusiasm of our audiences,” he said. “They are thrilled to be there.”

Currently playing at The Group Rep is “To Grandmother’s House We Go.”

“This is a published play I saw [when it was] on Broadway 30 years ago. I loved it and it stayed with me,” Haverty said.

He added this play is a dramedy that is as relevant today as it was 30 years ago. The story follows what happens when the empty nest becomes filled again, when grown children and grandchildren move back home. This phenomenon is something that is common in today’s world where rents are skyrocketing and housing prices soar forcing more and more grown children to return to the nest.

“But it’s about how family lives change and it is never too late to pursue your dreams,” he added.

“To Grandmother’s House We Go” runs from through March 6. To purchase tickets, get more information and support live stage theatre, visit thegrouprep.com or call (818) 763-5990.