Mariemont Players: Setting the Stage Since 1936

By Mary Casey-Sturk

If you’ve been to a performance at Walton Creek Theater, then you’ve seen the passion that goes into each show. From the actors to the stagehands, to the director and everyone in between, they’re clearly dedicated and proud of their award-winning work.

As an all-volunteer organization, they stage six productions a year, ranging from comedies and musicals to thrillers and mysteries. 

Founded 90 years ago as a church group that performed plays, in 1960, they purchased the historic Plainville four-room school building (dating to 1869, with the brick building dating from 1910) at Walton Creek and Muchmore Roads (just between Mariemont and Terrace Park). They turned this space into Walton Creek Theater. They’re one of the few local community theaters with a permanent home. 

And it’s within these walls that magic happens.

Indian Hill Living spoke with Kristen Vincenty, of Mariemont Players, about the role of community theater and the Mariemont Players

IHL: Why is community theater important?

Vincenty shares, “Community theater is the heartbeat of local culture. It’s where neighbors perform for neighbors, and that creates an energy you simply can’t get from a screen. At Mariemont Players, we’ve been ‘setting the stage’ since 1936, and that 90-year legacy is built on the idea that the arts should be accessible and shared. It brings people together not just as an audience, but as a family of volunteers working toward a beautiful, singular goal.”

IHL: Running an all-volunteer organization for nine decades must have its hurdles. What are your biggest challenges?

“Staging a new production every two months is a whirlwind! Our biggest challenge is the ‘balancing act.’ Our actors, directors, and stagehands are your neighbors—doctors, teachers, and retirees who spend their evenings building sets or memorizing lines.” Vincenty continues, “I want to shout out every single person behind the scenes. From the folks who manage the box office to the tech crews who ensure the lights and sound are flawless, they are the heartbeat of MPI. Their passion is the reason we’ve won so many awards over the years.”

“We’re also constantly looking toward the future; right now, we’re running our ‘Light the Way’ campaign to raise $75,000 for modern LED lighting to replace our aging system. Maintaining a historic building that dates back to 1910 is a labor of love, but it’s what allows us to provide such an intimate, award-winning experience for Greater Cincinnati.” states Vincenty.

IHL: Why is it important to introduce the arts to kids at a young age?

Vincenty notes, “It builds empathy, confidence, and a sense of wonder. When a child sees a story come to life in a space as intimate as ours, they learn that creativity has no limits. We love welcoming the next generation—whether they are sitting in the front row or auditioning for the first time. We invite performers of all experience levels to join us, ensuring that the magic of theater continues for another 90 years.” 

IHL: What would you like to say about everyone involved with the theater?

“I wish I could give a standing ovation to every single person who walks through our doors. It truly takes a village, and it’s important to remember that everyone you see—from the lead actors and directors to the stagehands, costumers, and set builders—is a volunteer. They all work tirelessly for the sheer love of the craft.” Vincenty continues, “We’ve won many awards over the years, but our real pride comes from the collective heart of this all-volunteer team and the loyal patrons who keep coming back season after season.”  

IHL: You have an incredible 90th anniversary season coming up. Can you tell us about the variety we’ll see?

“Variety is our hallmark! We stage a new production every two months to ensure there is always something fresh. To finish out our current standard season, we have the classic comedy The Curious Savage (May 7-24), and the iconic musical Cabaret (July 9-26).”

Vincenty shares that the audience helped choose the lineup, “For our milestone 90th season in 2026/27, our patrons actually voted on the lineup, casting over 1,500 votes for their favorites! Receiving over 1,500 votes for our 90th season proved that our audience feels a sense of ‘ownership’ in what we do. They aren’t just ticket holders; they are part of our family. The result is a spectacular mix: the Dark Comedy: Arsenic & Old Lace, Holiday Comedy: A Tuna Christmas (featuring our original ‘Tuna’ cast!), Classic Wit: Nöel Coward’s Blithe Spirit, Historical Drama: The Lion in Winter, Romantic Comedy: Enchanted April and the Timeless Drama: 12 Angry Jurors.”

Whether you love a good laugh or a challenging mystery, there is truly something for everyone at Mariemont Players.”

Ready to take the stage yourself? Mariemont Players invites performers of all experience levels to audition for upcoming performances. Visit their website for opportunities. 

For a full list of performances and to purchase tickets or learn more, visit mariemontplayers.com

Historical Timeline of the Building now known as Walton Creek Theater

Late 1800s (1869): The original cornerstone for a four-room schoolhouse known as the Plainville School was laid on this site.

1910: The current solid brick structure was built, replacing or expanding the original school building. It served as a school for several decades.

1957: The Mariemont Players (founded in 1936) signed a lease to use the building for their productions, officially naming it the Walton Creek Theater.

1960: The theater group purchased the building at a public auction for approximately $8,250 and has occupied it ever since.

Present: The building has undergone numerous renovations, including the addition of an elevator, modern lighting systems, and a new roof, while maintaining its historic character.

Photos provided.