Mark Rains has been a construction worker, a carpenter, an ‘80s rock musician and even a playwright.
Now, after his 60th birthday, the jack of all trades from Guthrie has decided to leave his construction job and focus on his real passion.
“I want to do what I enjoy, not what I have to do,” Rains said.
Having written eight plays, with four on the burner, theater has taken new levels of interest for him. Utilizing his carpentry and construction skills, Rains has built Guthrie’s newest venue, the Sticks-N-Stones Theatre, after a year-anda-half of hard work.
Covered with vintage signs of old Guthrie, the outdoor venue at 1474 N. 7th is open to both locals and out-of-town folks to rent for events, shows, rallies, movie nights and more.
Having lived in Guthrie for about 50 years, Rains enjoys helping talented individuals in the city and Logan County area so they can have a place to perform.
Just this weekend, for example, two bands -- Revenant and the Jason Young Band -- were preparing to take the stage.
The metal signs on the structure are part of a collection he started about eight years ago when Muscle Car Ranch really sparked his interest in historical and vintage signage. He enjoys looking through Guthrie flea markets and antique stores to find other vintage signs to expand his collection.
While enjoying performances at the venue, be sure to bring your own chairs and blankets, and take advantage of the four outdoor fireplaces and the onsite food merchants, as well.
Check out Sticks-N-Stones Theatre’s Facebook page for more information on upcoming events and auditions for Rains’ upcoming play productions.
Sticks N Stones