History of the Saint Vincent Summer Theatre
When Archabbot Boniface Wimmer founded the Saint Vincent monastery in 1846, he encouraged an appreciation of drama as a means of building self-confidence and character. That appreciation has become a tradition.
The popularity and wide range of dramatic activities over the years have been evident in Saint Vincent Preparatory School productions, the annual Passion Play, operettas in cooperation with Saint Xavier’s Academy, College plays such as “A Man for All Seasons” and audience-pleasing student musicals such as “West Side Story.”
In 1969, the curtain rose on a unique dramatic adventure, the Saint Vincent Summer Theatre. Founded by Father Tom Devereux, O.S.B., the theatre has offered students unique opportunities to work with professionals in all aspects of the theatre. Thousands of lives have been enhanced by the Summer Theatre’s impact on the artistic life of Saint Vincent College and the surrounding community.
“Father Tom was the courageous one who placed it all on the line and made it work, so that we who began with him could have what we took away from the place—large portions of who we are and our purpose in life. Tom made us understand that we served the people, and he was our model when he parked cars and passed out beer and hot dogs. He made us aware of how special a gift we’d been given, and he demonstrated how to use it humbly. Nothing can ever duplicate what he did, but a spirit of community and hospitality at the theatre can certainly continue it. I pray that the special nature of the place can be retained. It was special, it is special, and I pray that it will always be special.” — John Carosella, co-founder of the Saint Vincent Summer Theatre.
