The mission of the Shelterbelt Theatre is to provide a safe and nurturing environment in which to focus the development of original work and to provide for the practical education of writers, performing artists, creative and technical staff, and the general public in the art and science of moving an idea from the mind to the stage.

About Us

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.

DIRECTIONS:

FROM THE WEST... Since you "can't" turn left off of Dodge, Head East on Dodge Street to Saddle Creek. Go North on Saddle Creek to California. Turn right onto California and follow it until just past 33rd. We offer street parking only.

FROM THE EAST... Head West on Dodge Street to 33rd street. Take a right (North) onto to 33rd street. Take a right on California Street. We offer street parking only.

FROM COUNCIL BLUFFS... Take 480 North to the 30th St. exit. Take a right (North) onto to 30th street. Take a left on California Street. We offer street parking only.

MAP IT!

Our theatre is wheelchair accessible. If there is a wheelchair in your party, please call ahead for special seating arrangements.

Theatre Information

Box Office:
402-341-2757

Mailing Address:
PO Box 31607
Omaha, NE 68131

Theatre Address:
3225 California St.
Omaha, NE

Ticket Policy

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.

History

It all started in 1993 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 Kilgores. 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 .

Why do we call ourselves the Shelterbelt? What is a shelterbelt?

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 15 rings and is growing stronger.

Awards

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.