Originally opened in 1927, the Little Theater thrived as the ideal stage for community theater productions, recitals, puppet shows, poetry readings and other gatherings. In 1982, it closed its doors until it reopened eighteen years later, after a group of business and community leaders worked diligently for almost four years to restore it to its former elegance. The group dedicated the restoration in honor of Jean Runyon, known for her extensive contributions to the Sacramento theater community. The Little Theater was dedicated and named after Jean Runyon on May 24, 2000.