The Gem Theatre is Garden Grove’s historical playhouse.  The theatre’s current tenant, One More Productions (OMP), is an award-winning theater company in Orange County. 

On April 23, 2008, the City and OMP entered into a 10-year agreement for OMP to be the sole operator of the Gem Theatre.  In exchange for providing $150,000 in capital upgrades, OMP operated the Gem Theatre rent-free, for a term of 10 years.  During this term, OMP brought nearly 50 theatrical productions and expanded the artistic reach into the community with award-winning musicals.

Through its productions and generous support of local non-profits and businesses, OMP has added artistic value to the Downtown Civic Center area and helped to revitalize Historic Main Street.

The City intends to extend the Facilities Usage Agreement for multiple years; however, the City would like to extend the current agreement to April 23, 2019, with the sole purpose of drafting a suitable multi-year agreement.

There is no additional financial impact to the City.  

It is recommended that the City Council:

•  Approve the amendment to the Facilities Usage Agreement between the City and One More Productions for the Gem Theatre;

•  Authorize the City Manager to execute the Agreement, and make minor modifications as appropriate thereto, on behalf of the City; and

•  Authorize the City Manager to enter into future amendments to this Agreement on behalf of the City.

By:  Elaine Ma'ae, Sr. Administrative Analyst