The main driving force behind Gladstone Theatre in the Park began in 1988. In June of that year, a very dedicated couple devoted much of their time to provide the Northland community with quality entertainment. Van and Susie Ibsen, along with the City of Gladstone, began a tradition that summer with the first GTIP production. "Oliver!". Van Ibsen was the director, carpenter, painter, not too mention anything else that needed to be done. Susie Ibsen did choreography, costuming, and made all the frayed ends come together.

We all know that in order to have a musical, you must have music. The Northstar Community Band, conducted by Faye Rader, is sponsored by Antioch Music Center and the NKC School District Community Education Program. They have provided the pit music each season.

Seventeen hears after they founded it, Van and Susie Ibsend decided to retire from the day-today responsibilites of the Theatre in the Park program. In an effort to continue this wonderful volunteer based program, the Mayor and City council established and appointed a five memeber Advisory Council who would oversee the transition to a community based organization

The appointed Gladstone Theatre in the Park Advisory Council are: Becky Clark, Michelle Coon, Julie Crawford, Lennette Johnson, and Jennifer Kessler.

In addition to these five members, Van Ibsen will remain as "Artistic Director Emeritus", Faye Rader of the North Star Community Band and Sheila Lillis, Director of Parks and Recreation will also serve on this Council as non-voting memebers.

History of the Amphitheatre click here

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