Theroustabouts.org Theatre Company: San Diego’s Home for Bold, Original Theatre
Introduction
Live theatre has a special way of bringing people together. It makes us laugh, think, and feel deeply. In San Diego, one theatre company stands out for its fresh approach to storytelling. theroustabouts.org is the online home of The Roustabouts Theatre Company, a non-profit group dedicated to producing bold, original works that entertain and inspire audiences.
Founded by a group of passionate local artists, this company has quickly become a beloved part of Southern California’s theatre scene. From world-premiere dramas to clever comedies, The Roustabouts bring something unique to the stage. Whether you are a long-time theatre lover or new to live performances, their shows offer something for everyone. Visit theroustabouts.org to explore their current season, buy tickets, and learn more about their mission to celebrate the creative spirit.
Featured Snippet Definition
What is theroustabouts.org?
theroustabouts.org is the official website of The Roustabouts Theatre Company, a non-profit San Diego theatre company dedicated to entertaining, educating, and inspiring audiences by producing fresh visions of classics, contemporary plays, and new works. The site offers show information, ticket purchases, and company updates.
What Is The Roustabouts Theatre Company?
The Roustabouts Theatre Company is a non-profit theatre group based in San Diego, California. The company’s name comes from the word “roustabout,” which refers to a hardworking, versatile laborer. This name fits perfectly because the company takes on a wide range of productions, from serious dramas to lighthearted comedies.
A Non-Profit with a Powerful Mission
The Roustabouts are dedicated to entertaining, educating, and inspiring audiences in Southern California. They do this by producing:
- Fresh visions of classic plays
- Well-known contemporary works
- Brand-new plays written by local and national playwrights
Their goal is to bring together the best local actors, directors, and designers to create theatre that truly connects with people. As co-founder Phil Johnson puts it: “We celebrate the artist and honor the creative impulse by drawing from the rich, diverse talents of actors, directors, designers, and playwrights who live in our region”.
The Founders and Creative Team
The Roustabouts was founded by a team of experienced theatre professionals. The co-founders include:
- Phil Johnson – Actor, writer, and artistic director
- Will Cooper – Playwright
- Rosina Reynolds – Director
These talented individuals have decades of experience in the theatre world. They have worked with major companies like North Coast Repertory Theatre, San Diego Repertory Theatre, and Cygnet Theatre. Their expertise ensures that every Roustabouts production is top-quality.
Notable Productions You Should Know About
Since launching in 2017, The Roustabouts have produced a wide variety of shows. Each production brings something fresh and exciting to the stage. Here are some of their most memorable works.
Margin of Error – The Company’s Debut
The Roustabouts launched their first season with the world premiere of Margin of Error, a play written by co-founder Will Cooper. This fast-moving drama explores science, academic politics, and morality. The story centers on a famous scientist, his students, and his wife as they confront each other in a tense evening full of secrets and passion.
The production was directed by Rosina Reynolds and featured a talented cast including Ruff Yeager, Roxane Carrasco, and Kate Reynolds. It played at the Lyceum Theatre in Horton Plaza in spring 2017. The show was so well-received that the company later released an archival recording for virtual viewing during the pandemic.
Withering Heights – A Comic Twist on a Classic
One of the company’s most popular shows is Withering Heights – and yes, that spelling is intentional. This comedy is a playful take on Emily Brontë’s classic novel Wuthering Heights. Written and performed by Phil Johnson and Omri Schein, the show was directed by David Ellenstein.
The production ran at Diversionary Theatre in Hillcrest from June to July 2017. Critics praised the clever writing and the chemistry between the two actors. It was the company’s second world-premiere work in a row, showing that The Roustabouts were serious about bringing new stories to the stage.
Roosevelt: Charge the Bear – History Comes Alive
In 2020, during a heated election season, The Roustabouts presented Roosevelt: Charge the Bear. This one-man play, written by Phil Johnson and Marni Freedman, captures Theodore Roosevelt in the first months of his presidency.
The show explores Roosevelt’s struggles with a nation in mourning and a national coal strike. Johnson spent four years researching Roosevelt’s life to create this compelling 90-minute performance. The play was initially streamed online due to the pandemic, allowing audiences to enjoy it from home.
True West – A Dark Comedy Masterpiece
More recently, The Roustabouts staged Sam Shepard’s classic dark comedy True West. The play follows two brothers – one a screenwriter, the other a drifter – as their tense relationship unravels over a few days in their mother’s home.
The production received strong reviews for its powerful acting and expert direction by Phil Johnson. Critics noted that the show was both anxiety-inducing and humorous, with standout performances from David McBean and Jason Maddy.
The Savoyard Murders – Mystery and Laughter
Another hit was The Savoyard Murders, a hilarious murder mystery written by Omri Schein. Set in a Victorian apartment, the play follows a group of theatre enthusiasts trapped together as a murder is discovered. The show ran at Scripps Ranch Theatre in September 2023.
A Jewish Joke – A Story of Conscience
In 2018, The Roustabouts presented A Jewish Joke, a powerful play set in 1950s Hollywood during the Communist Blacklist. The story follows a comedy screenwriter who must decide whether to name names to save his career or protect his friend. The play won an award at the United Solo Fest in New York City.
Watch on the Rhine – A Haunting Drama
In fall 2023, The Roustabouts partnered with JPlays to present Lillian Hellman’s Watch on the Rhine. This haunting drama tells the story of a German family who flees Hitler’s Germany and finds sanctuary in America, only to return to fight fascism.
Why Live Theatre Matters More Than Ever
In a world full of streaming services and on-demand entertainment, live theatre offers something unique. It’s a shared experience that connects us to each other and to the stories being told on stage.
Here’s why live theatre still matters:
- It builds community – Watching a play with others creates a sense of togetherness.
- It sparks conversation – Great plays make us think and talk about important issues.
- It supports local artists – Theatre companies like The Roustabouts give work to actors, directors, and designers in our own communities.
- It preserves culture – Theatre keeps classic stories alive while also creating new ones.
- It’s a break from screens – In a digital world, live performance is a refreshing change.
The Roustabouts understand this. They are committed to producing theatre that is not just entertaining but also meaningful. Their shows often tackle big themes – politics, morality, family, and identity – in ways that feel relevant today.
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How to Get Tickets and Plan Your Visit
Ready to see a show? Getting tickets through theroustabouts.org is simple and convenient.
Ticket Options and Pricing
Ticket prices vary depending on the production and venue. Generally, you can expect:
- General admission – Around $36 to $38
- Senior and military discounts – $4 off admission
- Student tickets – Around $20
- Streaming tickets – For virtual shows, tickets are around $25
You can purchase tickets directly on theroustsabouts.org. Some productions also offer group rates or special discounts for members.
Venues Where The Roustabouts Perform
The Roustabouts perform at several venues across San Diego, including:
- Diversionary Theatre – 4545 Park Blvd., University Heights
- Lyceum Theatre – 79 Horton Plaza, downtown
- Scripps Ranch Theatre – 9783 Avenue of Nations
- David and Dorothea Garfield Theatre – Lawrence Family Jewish Community Center
Each venue offers a unique atmosphere, so check the website for details on your chosen show.
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The Roustabouts’ Impact on the San Diego Arts Scene
Since their debut in 2017, The Roustabouts have made a significant impact on San Diego’s theatre community. Here’s how:
Supporting Local Talent
The company consistently hires local actors, directors, and designers. This creates jobs and helps build a vibrant arts community in the region.
Producing New Works
The Roustabouts are committed to world premieres. Plays like Margin of Error, Withering Heights, and The Savoyard Murders were all first produced by this company. This brings fresh stories to the stage that audiences can’t see anywhere else.
Making Theatre Accessible
With discounts for students, seniors, and military members, The Roustabouts make live theatre more affordable. They also offered virtual streaming during the pandemic, allowing people to enjoy shows from home.
Building Community
Through partnerships with organizations like JPlays and venues like Diversionary Theatre, The Roustabouts connect with diverse audiences across San Diego.
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External Resources
- Actors’ Equity Association – The labor union representing professional actors and stage managers in the United States.
- San Diego Union-Tribune Theatre Coverage – Local news and reviews of San Diego’s theatre scene.
- BroadwayWorld San Diego – Comprehensive coverage of theatre events and productions in the San Diego area.
Conclusion
The Roustabouts Theatre Company has quickly become a vital part of San Diego’s cultural landscape. From their very first production in 2017, they have shown a commitment to quality, creativity, and community. Their shows are more than just entertainment – they are thought-provoking, emotionally engaging, and often unforgettable.
Whether you are a lifelong theatre fan or someone looking for a new experience, visiting theroustabouts.org is your first step toward an amazing night out. The company’s dedication to producing fresh visions of classics and exciting new works ensures that there is always something worth seeing. With affordable ticket prices, multiple venue options, and a welcoming atmosphere, The Roustabouts make live theatre accessible to everyone.
Don’t wait – explore their current season, grab your tickets, and discover why this company is making waves in Southern California. Visit theroustabouts.org today and experience the magic of live theatre!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is theroustabouts.org?
theroustabouts.org is the official website of The Roustabouts Theatre Company, a non-profit San Diego theatre group that produces fresh classics, contemporary plays, and new works.
2. Where is The Roustabouts Theatre Company located?
The company performs at various venues across San Diego, including Diversionary Theatre, Lyceum Theatre, Scripps Ranch Theatre, and the Garfield Theatre.
3. How can I buy tickets to a Roustabouts show?
You can purchase tickets directly on theroustabouts.org. Prices vary by production, with general admission around $36–$38 and discounts available for students, seniors, and military members.
4. What types of plays does The Roustabouts produce?
The company produces a mix of classic plays, contemporary works, and world-premiere new plays. Their repertoire includes dramas, comedies, and historical pieces.
5. Is The Roustabouts Theatre Company a non-profit?
Yes, The Roustabouts is a non-profit theatre company dedicated to entertaining, educating, and inspiring audiences in Southern California.
6. Who founded The Roustabouts Theatre Company?
The company was founded by Phil Johnson, Will Cooper, and Rosina Reynolds – all experienced theatre professionals.
7. Does The Roustabouts offer streaming or virtual shows?
Yes, during the pandemic the company offered virtual streaming of some productions. Check theroustabouts.org for current offerings.
8. Can I get discounts on Roustabouts tickets?
Yes, discounts are available for seniors, military members, and students. Some shows also offer group rates.
