In 1957, Alameda Little Theatre Inc. (performing since 1938) moved to an abandoned grocery store at 1409 High Street. Because the building was so small, it was decided to seat the audience on all four sides and perform in the middle. Because this style of "in-the-round" theater is often referred to as "arena" seating, the initials of Alameda Little Theatre (ALT) and the "arena" style of performing were combined into the name "ALTarena."