The Glendale Center Theatre has had its share of magical moments over the decades. Now celebrating its 65th anniversary, the company is “family owned” by actors Tim and Brenda Dietlein, continuing a long, rich tradition at the theater founded by Tim’s grandparents in 1947.
Tim Dietlein grew up in the theater, first cleaning the floors and building sets. Later he became a producer, elevating the theater to its current professional level. Many of the cast and crew credit his tenacity and multitasking with keeping the audiences showing up, in both good economic times and bad.
“He’s very charismatic. Exhausted, he will work all day, change clothes then go out in front of packed house and say ‘Good evening, ladies and gentlemen,’” said Richard Malmos, who plays Tevye in the GTC’s upcoming production of “Fiddler On The Roof.” “The energy and powerful charisma he brings, even after building sets all day is not phony. It’s real and the audience feels that.”