The History of the Las Cruces Community Theatre

 

The Las Cruces Community Theatre (LCCT) was founded in 1963 by Michael Coquat, a graduate student from New Mexico State University. In an effort to establish a community theater group, Coquat engaged the community. Consisting of a dozen interested individuals, the group performed in the yard of the former St. Genevieve's Church (formerly adjacent to the present Rio Grande Theater).

 

At the Fountain Theater

The group later sought a new venue in Mesilla, formerly called The Fountain of Joy Theater (currently the Fountain Theater), owned by Arthur Fountain. LCCT officially moved into the Fountain Theater in Mesilla in 1964.

 

At the State Theater

The current location of LCCT is known to many in the community as the former State Theater, which opened in December 1941. The State Theater opened weeks after the United States entered World War II. Designed as a single-screen movie house, The State fell upon hard times and closed in 1975. In 1977, the building on Main Street in downtown Las Cruces became the new home of Las Cruces Community Theatre. (Berg, Jeff. Historic Movie Theatres of New Mexico. The History Press. 2018.)

 

63 Seasons and Counting

With the hard work and determination of many volunteers, LCCT has produced a wide variety of musicals and plays for more than years and remains an important part of the Las Cruces community. Proudly serving the community as a not-for-profit organization that includes a Board of Directors, LCCT is committed to being a fully volunteer-staffed organization. Each year, LCCT continues to attract talent from Las Cruces and surrounding areas to produce high-quality entertainment in a historical venue right on Main Street.

 

And it takes a community!

Over the years, LCCT has faced several challenges, including the maintenance of the old building. LCCT is grateful for donors who help us bring you the best theatrical experience possible.

 

Please consider making a donation to the Las Cruces Community Theatre and help us bring more great theatre to you!

 

Compiled by John Hadsell. Revised January 2024.

 

Las Cruces Community Theatre archives may be found in the Rio Grande Historical Collection housed in Branson Library at New Mexico State University. For more information, call 575-646-3839 or email archives@nmsu.edu.