Ushers are the unsung heroes of the theater world.

They know their way around the theater when us patrons don’t have a clue where we’re going.

Charlie Upchurch, the Top Usher at the Strand Theatre, has been helping people navigate the terrain for 17 years.

“I haven’t missed any days since I started,” says Upchurch. “Sometimes, I don’t even know what’s playing, I just show up. I just like being around people.”

The Strand holds a lot of memories for Upchurch. He saw John Wayne there when he was in town for his movie, The Horse Soldiers, which played at the Strand.

“I used to go to all the picture shows there in the ’50s,” says Upchurch. “I remember seeing Gone with the Wind there with my mother.”

All the Strand’s ushers are volunteers. They do it because they love people. And they love live theater.

“When there is a play, I can’t wait to see it,” says Rosemary Short, who has been a Strand usher for 25 years.

“I have been to the Pantages Theater in Toronto and countless Broadway shows, and the Strand is the epitome of grandeur and luxury. It’s the elegance of the building for me. I just can’t explain it.”

When Rosemary escorts a Strand rookie to their seat, she says she doesn’t always sit them down right away.

“What I love is the people who attend,” says Short. “I just feel I can offer something to someone who has never been there before.”

“Don’t sit in the seat yet. Come with me. This is the grandeur. Look up and see the chandelier. It brings you right into the scene that you’re going to be watching.”

“So many people have thanked me for showing them around.”

Caden Ingram, a student at Captain Shreve High School, also loves speaking with patrons of the Strand whenever he ushers shows.

“I love all my patrons,” says Ingram. “I love explaining the history of the Strand and of downtown Shreveport.”

“It’s just a fun experience,” says Angela Roberson-King, who has been a Strand usher for about 10 years.

“I recognize a lot of the regular season ticket holders, and you just never know who else is going to show up!”

Say “hey” to your usher when you go check out the 40^th season.

They will be happy to show you around and point you in the right direction.

It’s their job.

But really, it’s their passion.

The 40th Season of the Strand includes:

LeAnn Rimes Sep 20, 2024

Indigo Girls Oct 12, 2024

A Christmas Carol Dec 8, 2024

Ben Folds Dec 15, 2024

Black Jacket Symphony presents Led Zeppelin IV Apr 5, 2024

The Addams Family: A Musical Comedy Jun 25, 2024

Season tickets were made available to “Friends of the Strand” (Donors) on June 20, 2024.  The general public may purchase tickets beginning July 22, 2024. Ticket Prices are subject to change per show.