Page "The Groundlings" Paragraph 16

The Groundlings Theatre at 7307 Melrose Avenue ( previously an interior decorator ’ s studio, a furniture showroom, a gay bar, and then a ' massage parlor ') was acquired by the company in 1975.

Through equity and with the use of their own funds, company members set out to modernize the building and turn it into a performance space.

It would be four years of battling red tape, building codes, and parking restrictions before any shows would appear on the stage.

During that time, The Groundlings performed their revues at a handful of theatres all over town, including The Improv, The Matirx, The Hollywood Canteen, and the White House.

Finally, in April 1979, the revitalized 99 seat theatre was finally able to open its doors to audiences.