When you visit Santa Fe, New Mexico, step into performing arts history at the Santa Fe Playhouse. Founded in 1919 by novelist and social activist Mary Hunter Austin as The Santa Fe Little Theatre, this non-profit professional venue holds the proud title of the oldest continuously running theatre west of the Mississippi. Located at 142 East De Vargas Street, you will find this historic institution nestled inside a charming renovated old livery stable right in the heart of the Barrio De Analco Historic District.
Inspired by the national Little Theater movement, the venue provides an intimate space for progressive and experimental productions outside of profit-driven corporate theater. When attending a performance, you can see a diverse range of artistic works, ranging from classic plays and intimate dramas to unique productions like the annual Santa Fe Fiesta Melodrama written by local writers. Over the years, the theater has welcomed notable guest performers like Ali McGraw, Laura Gomez, Kate Udall, Bradley Lewis, and Larysa Olynik to its stage.
Led by Artistic Director Anna Hogan, the theater offers an authentic local culture experience in a venue that evolved from temporary Plaza shelters and rodeo tents into a beloved permanent Santa Fe staple.
What to see at Santa Fe Playhouse
- Oldest continuously running theatre west of the Mississippi, founded in 1919.
- Housed in a converted livery stable in the Barrio De Analco Historic District.
- Focuses on intimate, progressive, and experimental stage productions.
- Hosts the annual Santa Fe Fiesta Melodrama written by local residents.
- Features notable guest actors including Ali McGraw, Laura Gomez, and Kate Udall.
Visiting tips
Plan your visit around scheduled performance showtimes at their permanent venue on East De Vargas Street.
How long: 2-3 hours · Best time: Evening showtimes
How to get there & what’s nearby
Santa Fe Playhouse is easy to reach on Santa Fe’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Palace of the Governors and Santa Fe Plaza. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Santa Fe travel guide.
See the full Santa Fe travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.