PHOTO BY JESSICA SINICHAK

Comtra Theatre, the community theater organization that has presented plays and musicals in Cranberry for decades, is closing.

A statement posted to the organization’s Facebook page blames financial factors for the decision. “Unfortunately, we can no longer sustain the operational costs and demands required to maintain our operations,” the post reads.

Comtra staged shows from mannered farces to edgy musicals including “Rent” and “The Rocky Horror Show” year-round in a barn-shaped theater overlooking Route 19.

The organization, which initially presented its productions under a tent on the property before the building was constructed, was founded in the early 1980s by the late Marie Teets; a small business owner and theater lover, she continued to perform at the theater until her 2013 death. Her son, Cecil, and daughter-in-law, Becky Ruff, ran Comtra for the next decade.

In recent years, the theater also became a venue for stand-up comedy and drag shows, serving as a rare northern outpost for artforms more frequently found within city limits.

“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all who have supported us throughout the years, including our loyal audiences, dedicated volunteers, talented actors, directors, musicians, costumers, set builders, choreographers and many others who have contributed to our theatre,” the Facebook post added. “We also acknowledge and appreciate the pioneering spirit of Marie, whose vision led to the founding of the Comtra Theatre 42 years ago.”