February 1, 2026 marks a major milestone for ARIEL Theatrical – 25 years in the Karen Wilson Children’s Theatre on Main Street in Oldtown Salinas. In the early days, for 15 years prior to having a permanent home, ARIEL utilized driveways, garages, barns, homes, churches, schools, and warehouses, as rehearsal spaces. Performances were scattered around Salinas in a variety of venues, and Sherwood Hall shows, attended by tens of thousands of school children, became the main event each year. Despite these achievements, ARIEL had nowhere to call home.

After an “all-hands-on-deck” capital fundraising campaign and years of planning and construction, ARIEL could now call the Karen Wilson Children’s Theatre on Main Street “home.” This new reality was wonderful and exciting, but not without challenge. Earthquake retrofits, electrical and plumbing upgrades, audience seating, lighting and sound equipment, and hundreds of other projects kept the early years in the building very busy – and expensive. When one problem was solved, another would not be far behind. Most notably, in 2015 a massive fire in the neighboring building put the theatre in extreme peril and caused significant damage. In 2020, the COVID pandemic closed theatre doors around the world. ARIEL continued to endure.

What began as an idea discussed decades ago at founder Gail Higginbotham’s kitchen table, stands today as a welcoming and vibrant community gathering place where engaging programs and family-friendly entertainment are available to all. At ARIEL, young people are encouraged to make choices that will help them achieve success on stage, and more importantly, in their own lives.

Annually, approximately 500 kids perform at ARIEL, and roughly 10,000 audience members attend shows. ARIEL has seen growth and change over the years, but continues to stand firmly on its guiding foundational principles: Accountability, Respect, Integrity, Excellence and Leadership – A-R-I-E-L. Here’s to the next 25 years on Main Street!

Anniversary celebration events will be announced on the ARIEL website and through social media channels.

ARIEL is honored to acknowledge the Sally Hughes Church Foundation as the 2026 Presenting Partner. ARIEL is also grateful to local individuals and businesses for their generous support, including the 2026 Season Sponsors Taylor Farms, Hastie Financial Group, Cardinale Moving & Storage, and Aladin Properties.

For more information, visit ARIEL in the Karen Wilson Children’s Theatre, 320 Main Street, online at www.arieltheatrical.org or call 831-775-0976.