The Shelterbelt Theatre, known for its intimate setting, is an exciting performance space where audience members are never more than 15 feet away from the stage.
The Theater is located on California Street, just two storefronts east of California Tacos, which resides on the southeast corner of 33rd and California Street (map)
Our theatre is wheelchair accessible. If there is a wheelchair in your party, please call ahead for special seating arrangements.
Our box office number is
402-341-2757
PO Box 31607
Omaha, NE 68131
3225 California St.
Omaha, NE
The Shelterbelt Theatre does not offer refunds for unused tickets.
In the event that you will not be able to attend, please call the box office within 48 hours of the performance, and we will convert your payment into a tax deductible donation. All reservations are held up until ten minutes before showtime.
It all started 12 years ago when Scott Working, a local Omaha playwright, brought his script ,V OF GEESE through the doors of what was then known as Kilgore's, a local coffee shop and lounge. Scott walked up to the Manager and asked a simple innocent question: "Have you ever thought about doing a play here?" It was this question that piqued the interest of the manager and in turn, allowed Scott to produce his play at Kilgore’s. Scott, along with Alicia McGarr, L. Scott Blankenship, and Ken Jacobs opened V OF GEESE in October of 1993 and at the same time, founded the Shelterbelt Theatre.
Funny you should ask. A shelterbelt is a long row trees (notice our logo?) that protects a farmer's homestead as well as his family. These four founding members wanted a place where an artist could get away from the negative aspects of modern theatre and take refuge in a more healthy, less restrictive environment. A place that incubates talent and allows them to grow. A place that protects, like a row of strong trees.
The Shelterbelt's strength is the roots it has planted in this community. Drawing on the talents of local writers, actors, directors, musicians, artists, and technicians we have been able to carve a unique niche in the Omaha theatre scene. From day one it has been a labor of love. When you cut a tree in half you can see it's rings of service inside, one ring for each season of growth and change, each a tribute to life and endurance. The Shelterbelt now has 12 rings and is growing stronger.
Over the years, the Shelterbelt Theatre, its writers and actors have accumulated many theatre awards. Please take some time to visit our awards page and check out the Shelterbelt Theatre's accomplishments.