Oakland Light Opera Association

19511957

The Oakland Light Opera Association was founded by director John Falls. Their first performance was "The Gondoliers" in 1951, at what is now the Malonga Casquelourd Center for the Arts. ¹ It was originally formed as the Victory Players in 1942, as a group to entertain U.S. soldiers. Their first performance was "HMS Pinafore" in 1942. ^4,5 [ NB: The 1966 article says 1940, but that is an error. ]

They were probably best known as providing the core for the musicals at Woodminster. ³

The association was active until at least 1969, when they performed "Pirates of Penzance" at the John F. Kennedy Playhouse at 35th and Foothill. ²

Links and References

1. Will Present 'Gondoliers' Oakland Tribune March 25, 1951
2. theater listing Oakland Tribune August 31, 1969
3. 'Merry Widow' Will Be Given Friday, Saturday Oakland Tribune August 14, 1957
4. Oakland Light Opera Slates Gilbert-Sullivan's 'Patience' Oakland Tribune July 25, 1966
5. Victory Players Appearing Here Oakland Tribune August 23, 1942
6. Victory Players to Open 1947 Season Oakland Tribune January 26, 1947

• Victory Players at Joaquin Park Oakland Tribune July 9, 1943