WWTF Radio

Founded in 1977 by Al Simpkins, Bushfire Theatre of Performing Arts bought the old Locust Street Theater that dates back to 1909. The theater, purchased in 1980 is located at 52nd and Locust Streets in West Philadelphia. The historically designed building was once a vaudeville house turned movie house. When we arrived the structure was abandoned and in disrepair. It is now a 428 seat performing arts space. In 1981, the Board of Directors developed a five year plan to acquire three adjoining abandoned buildings, an artistic strategy to present world premiere plays, develop new professional actors and a playwrights workshop.