The Little Theatre was built in 1921 and through the years has been known as “The Ideal Theatre”, a community playhouse & “The Rialto”, a silent movie house and then talkies in the 50’s & 60’s. At times it was used for basketball, high school graduations and other community activities. In the 70’s it became “The Little Theatre” and the high school began holding their drama class rehearsals and productions there. This continued until the early 90’s when the building was condemned. A group from the New London-Spicer area formed and through a massive effort of fund-raising and contributions of time and materials the theater was restored. The Crow River Players was founded in 1998 as a community theatre group to provide the communities of New London, Spicer and the surrounding area with quality live theatre productions.

Our Mission Statement:

1. Preserve, restore and operate the historic structure known as The Little Theatre.

2. The operation of the theatre shall be for the purpose of providing space for students of the New London-Spicer School District as well as other persons or organizations who desire to use the theatre for any lawful purpose including plays, lectures, concerts and meetings.

3. Advance the performing arts of the New London-Spicer schools and the community at large.

The Little Theatre/Crow River Players promote community involvement and afford artists personal growth opportunities. In addition to plays the group has held artist showcases featuring local musicians, concerts, displayed artwork of visual artists and worked with local organizations to create special programs for special events. The group has no paid staff [only the production Directors are paid]. Profits are used to maintain and improve the building.

The Historic

Little Theatre

New London, MN

Built in 1921

The Little Theatre

Crow River Players

PO Box 536

New London, MN 56273