Hill Country Community Theatre takes center stage
The idea of a community theater in the Highland Lakes was conceived by two theater-loving friends from the Horseshoe Bay area. During a small cocktail party in 1985, they pitched the idea to their like-minded pals. The group enthusiastically embraced the suggestion, and the Hill Country Community Theatre was born.
The group hosted gatherings to learn the inner workings of live theater and honed their skills with informal readings from their favorite plays. The HCCT was fluid in its formation: Rehearsals and set creation were done wherever space allowed. The theater’s first public performance took place in a neighborhood community building, and it brought the house down.
A STAR IS BORN
Following the success of its first public show, the young theater group was invited to perform at the Horseshoe Bay Resort Yacht Club. The successful shows and community interest helped grow the Hill Country Community Theatre. Some years later, a permanent building was purchased and the HCCT settled in at its current home: 4003 FM 2147 West in Cottonwood Shores.
The HCCT has evolved into a wonderful addition to the Highland Lakes community with summer camps for children, talent shows, fundraisers, and even scholarships for local graduating seniors interested in pursuing a performing arts education. Today, nearly 40 years after it began, the Hill Country Community Theatre is sustained by dedicated performers, volunteers, and donations.
BOX OFFICE SUCCESS
The HCCT is currently in its 39th season (2024-25). Audiences will find talented performers from the community—seasoned veterans and newcomers to the stage—all with a love of live theater. Be sure to reserve a night at the Hill Country Community Theatre while visiting the Highland Lakes of Burnet County. Performances are typically on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
ON THE STAGE
The lineup for Season 39 includes past productions for “Jekyll & Hyde” and “A Christmas Story” and the upcoming Agatha Christie’s “Murder on the Orient Express” (Feb. 7-23, 2025), “Steel Magnolias” (March 28-April 13), “Oklahoma!” (June 13-29), and “Forever Plaid” (Aug. 15-24). The HCCT Summer Youth Theatre Program will perform “Matilda Jr. The Musical” (July 17-20). The theater also has a handful of special events planned. Check its shows page for a schedule.
The Hill Country Community Theatre is located at 4003 FM 2147 West in Cottonwood Shores. Tickets for performances may be purchased online at thehcct.org or by calling the box office at 830-798-8944.
