Description
As a blacklisted actor in the 1950s, Will Geer couldn't find much work in Hollywood, so he put on his own shows at his place in Topanga. But Geer, who'd later go on to portray Grandpa on The Waltons, wasn't exactly performing in his garage. Instead, he built a beautiful midsize outdoor theater that wended its way perfectly into the natural setting, with a gorgeous sylvan backdrop and large oak trees hovering over the wooden stage. Performers often use the trees and nearby hillside as part of the extended stage, and the milieu is shady and relaxing, especially during the summer, when Geer's nonprofit Theatricum Botanicum presents most of its events. The Botanicum is best known for its in-house repertory theater and annual Shakespeare productions, but it's also hosted concerts by such stellar folks as Burl Ives, Della Reese, Arlo Guthrie and Pete Seeger, as well as many newer young folkies, roots and pop stylists coming out of this hidden corner of Los Angeles. As with the Topanga Community Club across the street, Geer's merry treehouse is a local cultural nexus and one of the few places to hear live performances regularly in the Topanga. All ages. Lot parking.
