Hearst Greek Theatre
historic place
The Hearst Greek Theatre, a historic place in Berkeley, California, is located in Alameda County. Newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst financed its construction, which began in February 1903. The theatre officially opened on September 24, 1903. University of California president Benjamin Ide Wheeler championed the project. Architect John Galen Howard designed the theatre, inspired by the ancient Greek theater of Epidaurus. The site, previously known as "Ben Weed's Amphitheater" since 1894, hosted President Theodore Roosevelt in May 1903, prior to its official opening. The formal dedication in September 1903 included a student production of "The Birds." The Hearst Greek Theatre was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1982. It is significant as the first permanent outdoor theatre in California and the first Greek Theatre built in the United States.