Through the years, Litchfield has established a tradition of theater arts in the community.

The people who have a passion for live theater have been the driving force behind the scenes of the wonderful productions performed on the Litchfield stage. It was the late Bernie Aaker, along with Charlie Blesener, the Litchfield Community Education director in 1977, who had the idea to form a community theater in Litchfield. The partnership between Litchfield Community Education and Litchfield Community Theatre has since thrived.

As a result, Litchfield has one of the longest consecutive runs of community theater productions in the state of Minnesota, according to Al Anderson, who has directed and acted in many LCT shows. “For a community this size it’s spectacular.”

In the summer of 2010, LCT performed “Footloose” in Bernie Aaker Auditorium, named after the longtime director.

Litchfield Community Theatre will present its 35th consecutive production in summer 2011 with “Seussical the Musical.”

Another growing force is Litchfield Community Youth Theatre, which encourages young, budding actors to learn more about and build an appreciation for theater. Children performed “The Music Man Junior” in spring 2010.

Other arts and entertainment events include:
• The annual Holiday Showcase the first weekend of December, featuring the musical talents of local residents.
• A fall musical put on by Litchfield High School’s drama department, which performed “The Wizard of Oz” in 2010.
• Litchfield High School choir and band concerts throughout the year. The school’s choirs and bands have received numerous state and national awards.