The organization was started in 1975 by Bette Greedy, who was quickly joined by a group of local thespians who wanted to share their passion with others. Bette secured enough money to stage the first show, a musical called Little Mary Sunshine. The show was performed in Ye Olde Barn Theatre on the edge of Decorah. The barn was not entirely waterproof, and this propelled the group to look for other locations. During the early years, New Minowa Players (NMP) performed shows in such diverse places as The Elks Club and Nob Hill. Over time, though, the need for a permanent home grew.