The Old Globe Honors Rosemary Pope with Center Renaming

The Old Globe, a prominent theatre in San Diego, has officially renamed its 30,000-square-foot technical center after local community leader Rosemary Pope. The announcement was made during a ceremony on October 6, 2023, where Globe officials celebrated Pope’s significant contributions to the community, particularly her advocacy for seniors and low-income families.

Artistic Director Barry Edelstein highlighted Pope’s longstanding involvement in enhancing the cultural landscape of southeastern San Diego. He remarked, “By naming our technical center after one of the pillars of southeastern San Diego and a beloved icon of our city, we reaffirm our commitment to this vibrant neighborhood.” Pope has been a key supporter of the Globe’s community-based initiatives, advocating the transformative power of art for local seniors and residents.

Opened in 2008 at the intersection of Market and 54th streets, the newly named Ms. Rosemary Pope Old Globe Technical Center plays a crucial role in the production of various theatrical performances. It houses facilities for building scenery, prop-painting, and storing costumes, as well as an engineering center equipped with specialized machinery.

In addition to the renaming, The Old Globe announced plans to enhance community outreach through the center. This includes new programs such as tours, workshops, and career-training initiatives aimed at engaging local youth. The Globe’s Arts Engagement program will introduce “Behind the Curtain” workshops led by technical designers, while students in middle and high school will have opportunities to tour the facility.

A new technical apprenticeship program, developed in collaboration with local service organizations, will provide recent high school graduates with essential training and mentorship in technical theatre roles.

During the ceremony, Pope reflected on her decade-long partnership with The Old Globe, which has included hosting performances at the George L. Stevens Fourth District Seniors Resource Center. She expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts that have allowed community members to participate in hands-on workshops with Globe artists and even see their own plays performed on stage.

“What began as a shared vision has blossomed into a decade-long journey of inspiring creativity, deepening community ties, and elevating the role of theater and of arts in all of our lives,” Pope stated. She emphasized the importance of collaboration in the arts, saying, “We rise higher when we lift each other up.”

The renaming of the technical center serves as a lasting tribute to Rosemary Pope’s dedication and influence, ensuring her legacy will continue to inspire future generations in San Diego.