Productions at the Washington Community Center. Photos by Sally Y. Hart

Forty years ago the Washington Community Center was constructed and raised the curtain for its first show – “Of Thee I Sing,” a musical comedy about American politics. Saturday 40 years of shows on the stage in Washington will be celebrated with a gala.

Dr. Max Smith, who resides at the United Presbyterian Home, was in that first show and encourages others to try theater locally. He stills goes to see plays and musicals at the community center when he can.

Saturday the gala includes a cocktail reception at 6:30 p.m. followed by the Southeast Iowa Symphony Orchestra playing a collection of songs from shows that have been performed in Washington. There will also be a presentation about Leon Hilfman, who helped at the theater for many years on and off stage. Tickets can be purchased in advance at the theater’s website or at the window for $30.

For more information listen to a full interview with SEISO director Bob McConnell here.