In less than two months through the efforts of volunteer workers of all ages, the former warehouse was completely remodeled to emerge as an informal playhouse and workshop.

Still but four walls and a roof (on which was a debt for damages inflicted by a recent tornado) they visualized its possibilities as a Workshop. At that time in 1941 there were no theaters available for rental so the Footlight Players turned again to their warehouse. In 1938 began a three-year period during which an affiliation was in effect between the Footlight Players and the Carolina Art Association, which terminated in 1941. In November 1937, upon invitation of the City of Charleston, the Footlight Players opened the reconstructed Dock Street Theater with a special gala production of 'The Recruiting Officer'. Several plays were presented alfresco and the Victory Theater was used from December 1936 to April 1937.

It was in the old Academy of Music that most of these early plays were presented until 1936 when a Footlight production closed the history of this famous Charleston landmark, the building then being razed after 70 years of theatrical activity. Yet until 1938, all productions were given in rented theaters, and the warehouse was used for storage and scenery construction. In 1934, the Footlight Players purchased an old cotton warehouse at 20 Queen Street with the idea of eventually converting it into a finished playhouse. Reflecting this spirit, in March 1931, a small group presented a program of one-act plays, and so started the history of this company, formally organized as 'The Footlight Players, Inc.' in the fall of 1932. Heirs to a tradition dating back to the early 19th century, a nucleus of Charlestonians wanted a truly community theater for their city. “We have cast members from Michigan City, LaPorte and Chesterton and while we usually are able to find a stage opportunity for everyone who comes out for an audition, this show is very specialized and required us to focus on fine-tuned stage experience.Charleston's oldest community theater group, the Footlight Players had their beginnings sixty years ago. Meyer said auditions and casting for “Jerry’s Girls” was challenging because it required versatile talent able to sing, dance and act. “The ladies have long gloves and parasols in some numbers and canes and top hats used for other songs that are in both acts of the show.” “One of the fun aspects of this show is that the movement and choreography are blended with the costuming because there are so many added accessories used during each of the musical numbers,” Chase said.

“The Man in the Moon,” “If He Walked Into My Life,” “Time Heals Everything,” “Open a New Window,” “Before the Parade Passes By,” “The Best of Times,” “I Am What I Am” are among some of the hit songs showcased, as well as show title songs like “Mame” and “Hello, Dolly!” The Dolly Levi dress, for example, had to be made and we also are using some very fun 1920s flappers’ dresses for another of the numbers.” Many of the gowns worn are very heavy because of the beading and design. “This production of ‘Jerry’s Girls’ has 30 costume changes and they are quick changes to make sure none of the musical numbers lag.

Footlight players theater