For over 100 years, the Beaumont Community Players (BCP) has produced an array of high-quality plays and musicals, bringing life to the Beaumont, Texas theatre. Originating as Beaumont's "Little Theatre" in 1915, the organization has grown, with almost 300 active dates a year.

After the BCP's nation-wide search for an Executive Director in 2017, John Manfredi - a candidate for the position - visited the area. Although he self-admittedly confessed having no intention of accepting the job, his mind was quickly changed after seeing the enthusiasm of those involved with the theatre and the sense of community he encountered. "It sold me," John said.

Bringing with him over 40 years of professional experience in the arts, John has directed productions across the country, worked with non-profits, and served as an educator. Moreover, John is an accomplished actor both on stage and screen, having performed in nearly 200 plays and appearing in film and television such as Real Steel, The Great and Powerful Oz, and Law and Order.

When cast members walk in the door, they're treated as professional staff. "It's not amateur theater...we're not messing around," John said. The work is approached in a professional manner, and members of the production team are given a real glimpse of what theatre is like as a profession.

Emphasizing diversity, equity, and inclusion, the BCP's mission is to be the "biggest tent in Texas."

The BCP isn't just a community theatre - it's a community organization. Offering classes and workshops for adults and kids and boasting their award-winning summer youth program, KIDmunity, John expressed, "we're not just here to make plays; we're here to make memories."

"A part of the fiber of Beaumont," the BCP embraces the community in community theatre.

During the thick of COVID-19, the BCP became an emergency triage center for a local hospital. Most recently, the BCP served as a collection center for Hurricane Ida relief donations.

John explained that art and culture is an economic driver and the best way to support the BCP is to attend a show.

A full roster of shows fills the 2021-22 season line-up including the likes of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change, and Pride & Prejudice.