The 450 seat Norris Theatre was established in 1983 with state-of-the-art sound and lighting, and is managed by professionals. Jim Gruessing is the Artistic Director of Palos Verdes Performing Arts at the Norris Theatre. He was born in Albuquerque, New Mexico, where he began acting at age 13. He moved to California to work in theaters and the Hollywood Bowl. He came to the Norris Theatre, where he has produced and directed a number of shows as well as acting in several movies and musicals.
 
The Norris’ 2016-17 Season begins on September 23 (he passed out brochures). Among the events are the locally-produced 3-Play Series (Young Frankenstein, Nunsense, & the Music Man), the Presents Series (1776 in Concert, Las Vegas Variety Spectacular, A Big Band Christmas, Four by Four, the Texas Tenors, Step Crew, & Tribute to the Hollywood Icons), Cabaret Jazz Series, Chamber Orchestra of the South Bay, and South Bay Live (top rock, pop & country performers).
 
The Norris Theatre tries to book major events 1½ years in advance. In addition, the Theatre and Pavilion are available for scheduling weddings, bar mitzvahs and other social events. Picking any 5 shows in the 3-Play or Presents series in advance allows a 20% discount, flexibility of seating locations and dates, best available seats, and priority renewal for the next season. Community Support Groups include Act II, Backstage, Bravo!, Chorus Liners, The Encore Circle, and Friends of Palos Verdes Performing Arts. For information on performances, tickets, and Support Groups, see the Theatre’s new website, www.palosverdesperformingarts.com.