When the Dutch Village Mall was created in Lynden in 1987 by Jim and Carolyn Wynstra, and Judd Rinsema, it contained a 160-seat theatre named after a Queen of the Netherlands, Juliana, who reigned from 1948-1980. The Original theatre was in keeping with the Dutch theme of the City of Lynden.

In its early days, several plays were presented at the theatre by various groups but small audiences convinced the Mall's owners that it would be more profitable to turn it into another retail space.

Claire vg Thomas would not let this happen! In 1992, with the help of theatre-loving friends, she established the Lynden Performing Arts Guild. The guild has become a huge artistic success, putting on at least four productions a year lasting several weeks each, and playing to full houses.

Claire (VanderGriend) was born in Lynden 80-plus years ago. She started playing the piano at age 5, and became an accomplished pianist/organist, with an eventual Masters Degree in Music. Her early career years were in New York where she was employed by the world-famous team of Rodgers & Hammerstein! From 1947 to 1949, she provided piano accompaniment for all those who auditioned for roles in their musicals.

She and her family returned to Whatcom County in 1972, where she became involved in "all things musical." She became President of the Board of Directors of the Lynden Performing Arts Guild at its inception, and the members of the Board decided to honor her by re-naming the Theatre in 2001.