10/31/2025
Missouri Street Theatre: Community FAQ
Over the last several days, many of you have reached out with questions about the future of Missouri Street Theatre and the Downtown Theatre. We value transparency and want to provide clear answers.
Q: Why can’t MST just rent the theatre under the new operator?
MST operates at a high level of artistic, technical, and professional standard. For us to maintain the quality our audiences expect, we must work in an environment that supports stability, transparency, and the needs of a large-scale producing company.
Renting under a third-party operator does not guarantee those conditions for us.. This decision is based on professional and operational standards, not emotion.
Q: Is this about ego or unwillingness to collaborate?
No. MST has collaborated with countless organizations across the region for over a decade with great success. This is about protecting the integrity, safety, and stability of our organization and the artists we serve.
Q: Can’t you just bring your equipment for each show?
Unfortunately, no.
Approximately 75% of the equipment used to create MST productions belongs to MST, not the venue. This equipment represents nearly $500,000 in investment over many years.
Asking us to move that level of equipment in and out for every production is:
* Unsafe for crew and performers
* Risky for expensive technology
* Logistically unrealistic
* Financially irresponsible
No professional theatre company would be expected to operate under those terms.
Q: Does this mean MST is closing?
Absolutely not.
MST is not closing. We are exploring next steps to ensure we continue creating exceptional theatre for Solano County and beyond.
Our mission and commitment remain unchanged. WE JUST MAY NEED SOME TIME.
Q: What happens to the youth program?
Our youth program remains a top priority. We will continue to provide high-quality training and performance opportunities for young artists in a safe, stable, and artistically nurturing environment. More information will be shared soon.
Q: How can the community support MST right now?
Thank you for asking — your support means everything.
You can support by:
* Staying engaged & spreading facts
* Attending our upcoming productions
* Continuing to stand with local arts
* Encouraging civic leaders to support established, reputable arts organizations.
We are here because of you — and we will continue forward because of you.
Q: When will there be more updates?
Soon. We are working on finalizing details and will share announcements as they become available.
Thank you for the outpouring of love and support. Missouri Street Theatre is strong, united, and looking ahead. Our story is far from over — in fact, a new chapter is beginning.
With gratitude, Missouri Street Theatre
