Nifong Park in Columbia, Missouri was established in the 1960’s as a historical garden park, with emphasis placed on cultural and historical activities.  The Columbia Parks and Recreation Department’s Master Plan of 1968 included a suggestion for use of the park’s Barn as a “performing arts center.”  This suggestion ultimately led to the formation of the Nifong Steering Committee, which in turn formed a fundraising and programming advisory committee in 1973.

Later that same year, the Nifong Steering Committee approved the formation of the Maplewood Barn Theatre Committee.  The theatre committee’s mission, ultimately brought to fruition with performances beginning that summer, was to establish a theatre in the community that could serve family audiences, and to make a place for the performing arts in the facilities of the Parks and Recreation Department, thus enhancing the appeal of Nifong Park and encouraging the respectful use of the park and its historic buildings by the community.

On April 5, 2010, a fire consumed the 133-year-old barn structure we called home, along with most of the theatre’s possessions, including lumber, costumes, set pieces, props, and tools.  The opening of the new Barn is eagerly anticipated to take place in May 2012, with the kick-off of what is sure to be a memorable season.