The Chanticleers Community
Theatre started when a small group of thespians started
rehearsals in an old and cold chicken coop belonging to John Hayes, one of the group's members. While trying to think of a name, they
decided that it only seemed natural for them to be called
Chanticleers, an old french euphemism to roosters. In 1952,
Chanticleers incorporated as a nonprofit organization and,
starting in 1958, performaces were held in the Palomares
schoolhouse until it was burned down in 1976. The group found a
new home in Castro Valley by leasing the old Castro Valley
Community Center from H.A.R.D. The indoor basketball court was
transformed into a 100-seat theatre by volunteers to meet the
needs of Chanticleers and its audiences.
Click here for a listing of shows from the 1950's to present.