About

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Who we Are

Cinnabar Theater is a professional community theater; a cultural treasure performing in Petaluma and Rohnert Park, right in the heart of Sonoma County. Celebrating 53 years of theater, Cinnabar has something for everyone!

This season, Cinnabar Theater is presenting 5 professional shows, and 4 Young Repertory main stage shows, as well as our new Jr. Rep program.

The professional shows are an eclectic mix of musicals, drama, comedy, and cabaret shows.

This season, we are on the road while we build our new home at the Petaluma Outlet Mall. You can learn more about our build by visiting raisethecurtain.org.

While we're building our new theatre, we are taking our 53nd season on the road, performing at Sonoma State University. We hope you'll join us for this exciting new chapter!

 

Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion

The Mission of Cinnabar Theater:

Our mission is to present a wide range of performing arts which remain relevant to contemporary life and challenging to professionals and audience members alike. Additionally, we seek and train young talent in the performing arts and help them make a lasting and meaningful connections between performing arts and their daily life.

Statement of Values:

Cinnabar Theater believes that the performing arts matter.
Our commitment is to make it matter to more people!

The History of Cinnabar Theater

Origins:

The Cinnabar Theater began in Petaluma in the late 20th century as a community-driven effort to provide a home for live theatre in the North Bay. It was formed by local artists and arts advocates looking to create accessible, intimate productions for the community.

Organization and mission:

It developed as part of the Cinnabar Arts Center, a nonprofit organization that oversees theatre productions and related arts programs. The aim has been to produce quality theatre while fostering local talent and engaging audiences through education and community involvement.

Growth and programming:

Over the years, the venue expanded its programming and established itself as Petaluma’s anchor for intimate plays, musicals, and performing arts education. It has served as a venue for both established productions and opportunities for local artists to develop work.

Today:

The Cinnabar Theater continues as a producing theatre within the Cinnabar Arts Center, offering a mix of performances and continuing arts education and community programs for residents and visitors.
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Benefits to the Petaluma–North Bay region:

Economic impact

  • Attracts audience spending to downtown Petaluma (tickets, concessions, parking) and nearby businesses (restaurants, shops).
  • Creates local jobs and opportunities for freelancers in acting, design, stagecraft, tech, and education staff.
  • Supports local vendors for sets, costumes, lighting, sound, and other production services.

Cultural vitality and identity

  • Adds a steady, intimate live-theatre option for residents and visitors, enriching the region’s arts calendar.
  • Provides a platform for local artists to premiere work, gain experience, and showcase talent.
  • Contributes to a distinctive regional arts scene that can attract other cultural activities and events.

Education and workforce development

  • Offers workshops, classes, and youth programs that build arts literacy and performance skills.
  • Provides internships and hands-on training in acting, design, production, and management, helping cultivate the next generation of theatre professionals.
  • Community engagement and inclusivity
  • Brings diverse programming and opportunities to Petaluma artists