50th Anniversary

Fifty years ago in 1976, the Foundation took the title to Tao House under the vision and tenacity of three amazing women—Thalia Brewer, Darlene Blair, and Lois Sizoo. We are celebrating this important milestone throughout 2026, with special events and recorded memories of the Foundation’s early days.

When the Foundation took the title to Tao House in 1976, the down payment was enabled by fundraising efforts like Jason Robards Jr. and Jack Dodson’s performance of O'Neill's Hughie at the Zellerbach, an innovative performance of The Hairy Ape in the courtyard of Tao House, and support from State and Federal legislators.

Enjoy these audio clips, which celebrate and recognize Foundation founders, builders, and more below. Visit often as memories are added through the year.

View our historical timeline here.

FOUNDERS

PURCHASING TAO HOUSE

NPS Ranger Hilary Grabowska reads Founder Lois Sizoo’s memory on purchasing Tao House

PRESIDENT FORD

Ranger Matthew Bayless reads Ford's statement, establishing Tao House as a home for the performing arts

builDERS

CRAIG DORMAN

Wendy Cooper reflects on first NPS superintendent

FIRST FESTIVAL

Wendy Cooper remembers the inaugural Festival

CARLOTTA MEETS O'NEILL

Jessica Freels shares Travis Bogard's insights on Carlotta

HEPBURN'S APPEAL

Tessa Auberjonois reads Katharine Hepburn's letter to Gumps

O'NEILL'S BED

Florence McAuley remembers getting creative to install O'Neill's bed