Jenkin and Barbara David, founders of the original Bell Road Barn Playhouse, moved their family to Parkville, MO in 1952 when Mr. David accepted a position at Park College. When they purchased property on Bell Road that included a house and small barn, the Davids converted the barn into a “playhouse” as a summer activity for their four young daughters.
“You Can’t Take It with You” was the first production, and early plays were cast with family members, neighbors, and friends.
When Mr. David became professor of theatre at Park College, the “Bell Road Barn Playhouse” provided students with summer experience and academic credit. Audiences and community involvement grew, and by 1977, the Bell Road Barn Players registered as a Missouri 501(c)(3) corporation, elected a board of directors, and received tax-exempt status.