Ankeny Community Theatre (ACT) was founded in 1981 when a group of civic-minded theatre-lovers sought to create a more robust cultural environment for Ankeny. ACT is the only performance venue for live theatre located in Ankeny. The theater itself is a small, inviting space, technically known as a "black box" with a simple performance area in a large square room with black walls. The theater has the capacity to seat up to 100 people. ACT is non-profit organization that has no paid staff members. The theater is run by many great volunteers, of all ages, and is a member of the American Association of Community Theatre. In addition to a six show season, ACT offers theatre education programs for children grades K-12.