David Thompson

Founder- Troupe of American College Players

In 1966, David Thompson and his family, with the assistance of the Grand Lake Arts Council, launched The Troupe of American College Players.  It remained in Grand Lake until a 1976 move to Colorado Springs.  Area residents, viewing theatre as a valuable commodity, established The Grand County Theatre Association which produced summer theatre with Kansas State University for two years, and Loretto Heights College for eight years.  For a time, these shows were presented in the round room of the old Pine Cone Theatre in what today houses Pancho and Lefty’s Restaurant and even in a tent! 

Pinecone Theatre circa 1968

Strong community support and personal finances kept the theatre alive until 1986.  In 1989, the Town of Grand Lake asked the Thompson Company to return to its roots and Rocky Mountain Repertory Theatre obtained its initial not-for-profit 501(C)(3) status.  David Thompson, his wife Audrey and their six children kept the theatre alive until David’s untimely death in 1993.

Judith & Skelly Warren

In 1995, former company members Judith and Skelly Warren took over the leadership of RMRT at the request of the Thompson Family and gave rebirth to professional, live theatre in Grand Lake.  The Warrens, with the aid of the Grand Lake Recreation District, developed the Youth Theatre Workshops in 1998, now serving over 100 youth each summer. RMRT has evolved from a small enterprise, essentially run by two talented individuals, to an established presence with a year round office to manage the business/financial arm of RMRT, a full-time executive director, and a dedicated Board of Trustees.

Thank you Audrey and Dave