(1960-1961)
James “Jim” C. Branson was a cornerstone of Boise Little Theater for over two decades, known for his tireless dedication, versatility, and deep-rooted love for every part of the theatrical process. Serving as President during the 1960–61 season, Jim’s involvement extended far beyond leadership—he was a true theater polymath whose contributions touched nearly every production from the early 1950s through the mid-1970s.
Jim’s first appearance on the BLT stage was in The Silver Whistle as a Policeman (1951), and over the years he would shine in roles like Joseph in My Three Angels—earning Best Lead Actor—and Leander Longfellow in Pure as the Driven Snow. As an actor, director’s assistant, and award-winning stage and production manager, he helped bring to life a wide array of shows, including Guys and Dolls, Come Blow Your Horn, Of Mice and Men, Tiger at the Gates (for which he received a Co-Best Set Design award), and Night Watch.
Offstage, Jim was known for his unmatched dependability. His wife, Pat, was part of the Branson package and his daughter, Kathi, was the Box Office Manager from 69-73. Jim was the picnic coordinator extraordinaire! After they moved out of state, the picnic was named the “Jim Branson Annual Picnic” People claimed it would never dare to rain on a picnic Jim coordinated.
He served as a longtime board member, house manager, usher, and picnic coordinator, taking great pride in BLT’s sense of community.
He contributed heavily to set construction and backstage work, often supervising logistics, managing properties and costumes, and even working manual labor for the theater’s building improvements.
He was also a reliable force for theater events, serving as Buildings & Grounds Security, House Manager, and the ever-willing hand for BLT’s seasonal picnics and community gatherings.
Jim Branson’s decades of dedication helped build and sustain the heart of Boise Little Theater. With a hammer in one hand and a script in the other, his legacy is remembered in the countless productions he supported and in the community he helped foster both onstage and off.
