Tibbits welcomes families and theatre-goers of all ages to enjoy the next Popcorn Theatre performance, Snow White, July 18, 19, 25, and 26 at the historic Tibbits Opera House.
COLDWATER – Tibbits Popcorn Theatre is excited to offer a new version of an old classic, as Snow White opens on the Tibbits Opera House stage on Friday, July 18.
With six dwarves missing, Snow White takes the stage alongside Dwarf Four—the one nobody remembers. Audiences should expect a zany game of dress-up as two actors juggle characters and uncover the true story behind the fairy tale.
This version of Snow White promises to be a fast-paced, frenetic, funny romp through the classic fairy tale, as Tibbits welcomes young theatre-goers to come in on Friday and Saturday mornings, July 18, 19, 25, and 26. The show will begin at 10:00am and will run until approximately 11:30, including a brief intermission.
Tickets for Popcorn Theatre shows at Tibbits are priced $10 each, and include complimentary popcorn and juice, donated by Dr. Ed Lake and McDonalds: The Maynard Organization. Children ages 2 and under are free but must have a comp ticket reserved by calling the Tibbits box office at 517.278.6029. Discounts for groups and families of five or more are also available by calling the box office. Families are encouraged to secure their tickets early for these popular shows. They can be purchased at Tibbits.org, by calling Tibbits Opera House, or visiting the administration office located at 93 West Chicago St.
Tibbits also wishes to extend its heartfelt thanks to all the sponsors who make these performances possible: Dr. Jon and Seibra Herbener, the Bushouse Family, Asama Coldwater Manufacturing, Matthew C. Christopher, DDS, PC, Coldwater Exchange Club, and Vested Risk Strategies. Additional support is also provided by The Philip & Sarah Rosenberg Family Trust. Their generous support played a crucial role in bringing these vibrant cultural experiences to the community.
Explore a world of enchantment and wonder with Tibbits’ lineup of captivating Popcorn Theatre performances, perfect for the whole family!
COLDWATER – Tibbits Popcorn Theatre returns for its 38th season with family-friendly shows to fill Friday and Saturday mornings from June 6 through August 2, including three plays brought to life by Tibbits’ professional Summer Theatre company members, a musical storybook from Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra and the comedy magic of Jonathon LaChance.
Popcorn Theatre kicks off with Dragons Love Tacos June 6, 7, 13 and 14. When a boy decides to throw a taco party for his dragon pals, he overlooks a crucial detail on the mild salsa jar. Will a spicy mistake turn the party into a fiery disaster? This comedic production will be followed by The Girl Who Swallowed a Cactus June 20, 21, 27 and 28. When Sheila and her friends decide to build a summer fort, they end up attracting the attention of a fancy coyote. Suddenly, they’re zooming through a desert full of talking cacti, the Council of Howls, and other strange creatures.
On July 11 and 12, a Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra quintet will perform one of their musical storybooks, Last Stop on Market Street, by Matt de la Peña. What do you see in your city? In this partnership between Tibbits and the KSO, the story follows curious CJ on a bus ride with his loving grandmother through their city in an ode to kindness, empathy, and imagination! Then, on July 18, 19, 25 and 26, Popcorn Theatre will present Snow White. Hold onto your crowns, because with six dwarves missing, Snow White takes the stage alongside Dwarf Four. Expect a zany game of dress-up as two actors hilariously juggle characters and uncover the true story behind the fairy tale.
As the summer winds down, Popcorn Theatre will close with magician and comedian Jonathon LaChance, August 1 and 2. With a unique blend of mind-bending magic and side-splitting comedy, LaChance has appeared on Penn & Teller: Fool Us, Masters of Illusion, The Today Show and many more.
Tickets for these Popcorn shows are priced $10 each, and include complimentary popcorn and juice, donated by Dr. Ed Lake and McDonalds: The Maynard Organization. Children ages 2 and under are free but must have a comp ticket reserved by calling the Tibbits box office at 517.278.6029. Discounts for groups and families of five or more are also available by calling the box office. Families are encouraged to secure their tickets early for these popular shows. They can be purchased at Tibbits.org, by calling Tibbits Opera House, or visiting the administration office located at 93 West Chicago St.
Tibbits extends its heartfelt thanks to all the sponsors who make these performances possible: Dr. Jon and Seibra Herbener, the Bushouse Family, Asama Coldwater Manufacturing, Matthew C. Christopher, DDs, PC, Coldwater Exchange Club, and Vested Risk Strategies. Additional support provided by The Philip & Sarah Rosenberg Family Trust. Their generous support played a crucial role in bringing these vibrant cultural experiences to the community.
COLDWATER – Tibbits Opera House invites families and fans of all ages to experience the magic of Disney’s Frozen on the big screen. As a nod to Tibbits’ history as a movie theatre from the 1930s-1950s, Popcorn Theatre will conclude its 2024 Summer Theatre season with two showings of Frozen at 10 am on August 2 and 3.
In the movie, audiences follow Elsa, who possesses the ability to create ice and snow, as she struggles to control her powers. Her spirited sister Anna joins forces with a rugged mountain man named Kristoff, his loyal reindeer Sven, and an endearing snowman named Olaf on a perilous journey to save their kingdom from eternal winter. Along the way, they discover the true power of love, friendship, and self-discovery.
Tibbits presents Disney’s animated masterpiece “Frozen” on August 2 and 3, bringing the enchanting tale of Elsa and Anna to Coldwater.
Originally released in 2013, Frozen became an instant global phenomenon, captivating audiences with its heartwarming story and unforgettable music. Iconic songs like “Let It Go” and “Do You Want to Build a Snowman?” have become anthems for fans worldwide. The film received widespread critical acclaim for its storytelling and animation, earning two Academy Awards, including Best Animated Feature.
This special screening of Frozen is made possible through the generous support of the Bushouse Family, Dr. Jon and Seibra Herbener, Asama Coldwater Manufacturing, Vested Risk Strategies, Coldwater Exchange Club, Matthew C. Christopher, DDS, PC, and Coldwater Elks Lodge #1023. These community supporters are dedicated to providing vibrant cultural experiences for Coldwater and beyond.
Don’t miss this opportunity to relive the magic of Frozen on the big screen at Tibbits. Tickets are $10 and include free popcorn and juice at intermission, generously donated by Ed Lake and McDonald’s: The Maynard Organization. To reserve your seat, visitTibbits.org, call 517-278-6029, or go to the Tibbits Admin Office at 93 W. Chicago. Group rates are available.
COLDWATER – Tibbits Opera House presents Pooh Corner, the enchanting tale set to hit the Popcorn Theatre stage on July 19, 20, 26, and 27 at 10 am. In this whimsical adaptation, audiences will be transported into the heartwarming world of Winnie the Pooh and his friends in the Hundred Acre Wood.
Pooh Corner brings to life the timeless charm of Winnie the Pooh, Piglet, Tigger, and the rest of the beloved characters from A.A. Milne’s cherished books. The show features a delightful collection of stories filled with fun, friendship, and gentle life lessons. As Winnie the Pooh and his friends embark on their adventures, they explore themes of kindness, bravery, and the joy of friendship. This family-friendly production captures the essence of the Hundred Acre Wood and celebrates the classic tales that have captivated audiences for generations.
Joining the talented cast are Aidan Eddy as the lovable Winnie the Pooh, Tariq Woods as the melancholic Eeyore, Brennan Wood as the cheerful Piglet, Aidan Kelly as the wise Owl, Matthew Palmer as the thoughtful Christopher Robin, and Emma Kops as the kind-hearted Kanga. Abby McDonough will enchant audiences as the mischievous Tigger, Alondra Schuck as the curious Roo, and Mika Umemura as the industrious Rabbit. Behind the scenes, the creative team is led by artistic associate Chad Tallon and director Isobel Duncan, with Taylor Poling serving as company manager, and Sarah-Parker Martin as production stage manager.
Tibbits presents “Pooh Corner”, a magical adventure in the Hundred Acre Wood for the whole family to enjoy.
Adding to the magic of Pooh Corner are Josh Rockwell as technical director, Jake McDivitt as sound designer, engineer, and board ops, MJ Fox as scenic designer, props master, and scenic artist, Samantha “Sam” Watson as carpenter and scenic painter, while Olivia Riddle supports as assistant props. Kayla Hemphill and Jade Zhang serve as costume designers, Jacob Thompson works as a carpenter, and Trey Ewart handles lighting design, board ops, and electrician duties. For a complete list of the staff, please go to Tibbits.org
Sarah-Parker Martin, production stage manager for Popcorn Theatre, expresses her anticipation for Pooh Corner saying, “I am a Disney geek and have been a Disney lover my whole life! With being a part of this production with these beloved characters, it brings on a big smile across my face. Audiences will love this adaptation and this cast because it’s all about bringing the Hundred Acre Wood to life and continuing the legacy of these iconic characters.”
Generously sponsored by the Bushouse Family, Dr. Jon and Seibra Herbener, Asama Coldwater Manufacturing, Vested Risk Strategies, Coldwater Exchange Club, Matthew C. Christopher, DDS, PC, and Coldwater Elks Lodge #1023, Popcorn Theatre offers vibrant cultural experiences for the community.
Pooh Corner marks the fifth show of the 2024 Popcorn Theatre season, following A Morning with Master Puppeteer Kevin Kammeraad. After Pooh Corner, the season will conclude with a special screening of Disney’s animated movie Frozen.
Don’t miss your chance to visit the Hundred Acre Wood and create lasting memories with your loved ones. All Tibbits Popcorn Theatre performances are Fridays and Saturdays at 10 am and run through August 3. Tickets are $10 and include free popcorn and juice at intermission, generously donated by Ed Lake and McDonald’s: The Maynard Organization. To reserve your seat, visitTibbits.org, call 517-278-6029, or go to the Tibbits Admin Office at 93 W. Chicago. Group rates are available.
Coldwater – Tibbits Popcorn Theatre will present A Morning with Kevin Kammeraad and Friends, starring Kevin Kammeraad, an acclaimed master puppeteer, artist, children’s author, and music maker. Scheduled for July 12 and 13 at 10 am, the puppet show promises to delight audiences of all ages with storytelling, music, and interactive fun.
Kammeraad has captivated audiences for over two decades with his dynamic performances at schools, family events, libraries, and festivals. His imaginative approach to engaging children through visual storytelling has also made “Wimee’s Words,” an acclaimed PBS TV show, a beloved program nationwide. As a co-producer and lead puppeteer, he brings his creative vision to life, inspiring young minds with each episode.
Master Puppeteer Kevin Kammeraad brings his whimsical characters and storytelling magic to Tibbits.
The performances will offer an immersive experience that sparks imagination and creativity in audiences of all ages. With its interactive nature and captivating storytelling, attendees will be transported into a world where whimsical characters unite, offering an unforgettable journey of joy and discovery.
Sarah-Parker Martin, Production Stage Manager for Popcorn Theatre, expresses her anticipation for the show stating, “This whole summer for Popcorn Theatre has been one fun event after another. Even the adults have a grand time at shows! Audiences will be excited to see the art of puppetry come to life by Kammeraad and have their eyes gleaming with joy.”
Popcorn Theatre offers vibrant cultural experiences for the community, and is generously sponsored by the Bushouse Family, Dr. Jon and Seibra Herbener, Asama Coldwater Manufacturing, Vested Risk Strategies, Coldwater Exchange Club, Matthew C. Christopher, DDS, PC, and Coldwater Elks Lodge #1023.
A Morning with Master Puppeteer Kevin Kammeraad and Friends is the fourth show of the 2024 Popcorn Theatre season. Up next, audiences can enjoy Pooh Corner, performed by the Tibbits Professional Summer Theatre cast, followed by a special screening of Disney’s animated movie, Frozen, to conclude the season.
Don’t miss your chance to embark on this adventure and create lasting memories with your loved ones. All Tibbits Popcorn Theatre performances are Fridays and Saturdays at 10 am and run through August 3. Tickets are $10 and include free popcorn and juice at intermission. Popcorn is donated by Ed Lake, with juice donated by McDonalds: The Maynard Organization. To reserve your seat, visit Tibbits.org, call 517-278-6029, or go to the Tibbits Admin Office at 93 W. Chicago. Group rates are available.
COLDWATER – Tibbits Opera House will present the Big Fun Magic Show with John Shango on July 5 and 6 at 10 am. Shango, an acclaimed touring magician, brings his electrifying performance to Popcorn Theatre, promising an unforgettable experience filled with laughter and wonder for the whole family.
With decades of experience performing magic across the country, John Shango is celebrated for his ability to captivate audiences with his unique blend of humor, mystery, and astonishing illusions. His shows are renowned for their interactive nature and engaging storytelling, making each performance a delightful journey into the world of magic and entertainment.
“We are excited to host Shango at Popcorn Theatre,” said Ella Carvalho, Marketing and Communications Director at Tibbits. “His magical prowess and charismatic stage presence are sure to enchant our audiences.” This engaging performance is part of Tibbits’ commitment to providing quality family entertainment throughout the season.
Magician John Shango brings his mesmerizing illusions to Popcorn Theatre.
Popcorn Theatre offers vibrant cultural experiences for the community, and is generously sponsored by the Bushouse Family, Dr. Jon and Seibra Herbener, Asama Coldwater Manufacturing, Vested Risk Strategies, Coldwater Exchange Club, Matthew C. Christopher, DDS, PC, and Coldwater Elks Lodge #1023.
The Big Fun Magic Show marks the third show of the 2024 Popcorn Theatre season, featuring an exciting lineup of family-friendly performances. Next to hit the stage will be touring artist Kevin Kammeraad with A Morning with Master Puppeteer Kevin Kammeraad and Friends, then Pooh Corner, performed by Tibbits Professional Summer Theatre cast. Closing out the season is a special screening of Disney’s animated movie, Frozen.
Don’t miss your chance to embark on this adventure and create lasting memories with your loved ones. All Tibbits Popcorn Theatre performances are Fridays and Saturdays at 10 am and run through August 3. Tickets are $10 and include free popcorn and juice at intermission. Popcorn is donated by Ed Lake, with juice donated by McDonalds: The Maynard Organization. To reserve your seat, visit Tibbits.org, call 517-278-6029, or go to the Tibbits Admin Office at 93 W. Chicago. Group rates are available.
Tibbits Opera House presents Rumpelstiltskin, a magical adventure for the whole family to enjoy.
COLDWATER – Tibbits Opera House presents Rumpelstiltskin, the enchanting tale set to hit the Popcorn Theatre stage on June 21, 22, 28, and 29 at 10 am. In this whimsical adaptation of the classic fairy tale, audiences will be transported into a world of mystery and wonder.
Director Chad Tallon remarks, “Rumpelstilskin is a perfect addition to this year’s Popcorn Theatre line-up as it tells the tale of a man with a secret name that dates back all the way to 16th Century Europe. With Popcorn Theatre, it is so important to give kids unique theatrical experiences that provide messages they can take with them far beyond Tibbits. Rumpelstilskin‘s core ideas of family, love, hard work, and acceptance are messages that are important to be told and are perfect for our young Tibbits Audience.”
Joining the talented cast are Lindsay Rosser as the spirited Jessica, the miller’s Daughter, Isaiah Young in the role of Mitch, the father, Cade Ostermeyer brings his charisma to the role of the King, and Brennan Wood enchants as the mysterious Rumpelstiltskin. Adding to the magic behind the scenes are Taylor Poling as company manager, and Elizabeth Kulaga as production stage manager, with Sarah-Parker Martin as assistant stage manager and sound support.
Production staff includes Ethan Rickert as technical director, Jake McDivitt as sound designer, engineer, and board ops, Kayla Hemphill and Jade Zhang as costume designers, Josh Rockwell as assistant technical director and master carpenter, and Trey Ewart handling lighting design, board ops, and electrician duties. For a complete list of the staff, please go to Tibbits.org.
Sarah-Parker Martin, Assistant Stage Manager & Sound Support, expresses her anticipation stating, “I am so grateful to be making my Tibbits Summer Theatre debut this year! This season is filled with productions that fill a wide range of theatre where you have heart-wrenching musical dramas to comfort plays that make you feel all fuzzy inside. Even with the Popcorn Theatre, these stories help fill the childlike wonder in all of us. I hope audiences embrace all of the different aspects in which live theatre is created to make the story be told.”
Generously sponsored by the Bushouse Family, Dr. Jon and Seibra Herbener, Asama Coldwater Manufacturing, Vested Risk Strategies, Coldwater Exchange Club, Matthew C. Christopher, DDS, PC, and Coldwater Elks Lodge #1023, Popcorn Theatre offers vibrant cultural experiences for the community.
Rumpelstiltskin marks the second show of the 2024 Popcorn Theatre season, featuring an exciting lineup of family-friendly performances. Next to hit the stage will be touring artists John Shango with The Big Fun Magic Show, then Kevin Kammeraad with A Morning with Master Puppeteer Kevin Kammeraad and Friends. Then Pooh Corner, performed by Tibbits Professional Summer Theatre cast. Closing out the season is a special screening of Disney’s animated movie, Frozen.
Don’t miss your chance to embark on this adventure and create lasting memories with your loved ones. All Tibbits Popcorn Theatre performances are Fridays and Saturdays at 10 am and run through August 3. Tickets are $10 and include free popcorn and juice at intermission. Popcorn is donated by Ed Lake, with juice donated by McDonalds: The Maynard Organization. To reserve your seat, visit Tibbits.org, call 517-278-6029, or go to the Tibbits Admin Office at 93 W. Chicago. Group rates are available.
Tibbits Opera House presents “The Emperor’s New Clothes,” offering audiences a chance to laugh and question what they see.
COLDWATER – The Emperor’s New Clothes, the first Popcorn Theatre production of Tibbits’ 2024 professional summer theatre season, opens with a colorful cast of characters on stage. A vain emperor and a mischievous tailor will bring this magical world to life on June 7, 8, 14 and 15 at 10 am.
This adaptation of the classic Hans Christian Andersen fable by Kathryn Schultz Miller brings lessons of truth and self-awareness to the stage. Peter, the mischievous tailor, comes up with a sure-fire get rich quick scheme. He convinces the vain Emperor that he can make magic clothes only the very smart can see. Everyone pretends they can see the clothes, until someone shouts out the truth.
Reflecting on the play, director Brenda Sparks shares, “The story teaches us the importance of honesty, the dangers of vanity, and hilariously shows us what happens when we go along with the crowd just to fit in. Our production will be taking a classic cartoon approach and will be chock-full of classical music in keeping with the spirit of those wonderful Saturday mornings where some of us heard our first operas and concertos, as acted by Bugs Bunny and Elmer Fudd.”
Making up the professional cast of The Emperor’s New Clothes is Sarah Odom as Peter the Lowly Tailor, Matthew Palmer portrays both Alex and the Narrator, the vain Emperor is brought to life by Aidan Kelly, Jessica Vanek joins as Catherine and Narrator, and Mika Umemura plays the part of the Empress. Chad Tallon takes the helm as artistic associate, Taylor Poling serves as company manager, and Sarah-Parker Martin as production stage manager and sound support, with Elizabeth Kulaga as assistant stage manager.
Production staff features Ethan Rickert as technical director, and Jake McDivitt as sound designer, engineer and board ops. Costume design is done by Kayla Hemphill and Jade Zhang, who also supervises the costume shop. Josh Rockwell assists as technical director and master carpenter, and Trey Ewart handles lighting design, board ops and electrician duties. For a complete list of the staff, please go to Tibbits.org.
Popcorn Theatre is generously sponsored by the Bushouse Family, Dr. Jon and Seibra Herbener, Asama Coldwater Manufacturing, Vested Risk Strategies, Coldwater Exchange Club, Matthew C. Christopher, DDC, PC, and Coldwater Elks Lodge #1023. Their support plays a crucial role in bringing these vibrant cultural experiences to the community.
The Emperor’s New Clothes is the first show of the 2024 Popcorn Theatre season. With a great lineup, families will also have the opportunity to see Rumpelstiltskin and Pooh Corner, performed by Tibbits Professional Summer Theatre cast, and touring artists John Shango with The Big Fun Magic Show, and Kevin Kammeraad with A Morning with Master Puppeteer Kevin Kammeraad and Friends. Closing out the season is a special screening of Disney’s animated movie, Frozen.
All Tibbits Popcorn Theatre performances are Fridays and Saturdays at 10am and run through August 3. Tickets are $10 and include free popcorn and juice at intermission. Popcorn is donated by Ed Lake, with juice donated by McDonalds: The Maynard Organization. To reserve your seat, visit Tibbits.org, call 517-278-6029, or visit the Tibbits Admin Office at 93 W. Chicago. Group rates are available.
The cast of Tibbits Popcorn Theatre’s production of “The Emperor’s New Clothes” begin their rehearsals.
COLDWATER— Tibbits Popcorn Theatre is a cherished tradition that brings family and friends together for mornings of fun and engaging entertainment. It is a tradition that has spanned generations and would not be possible without the generous donations of sponsors from within the Coldwater community, including: The Bushouse Family, Jon & Seibra Herbener, Dr. Matthew Christopher, Longstreet Living, Coldwater Exchange Club, Coldwater & Hillsdale Orthodontics, ASAMA Coldwater Manufacturing, and Vested Risk Strategies.
The Bushouse Family has been attending and involved in Tibbits Summer Theatre for decades. The family shares a deep appreciation for the arts. For the visual arts, their impact on students can be seen in the growth of the Annual Kids Art Rocks exhibit. They became sponsors three years ago to assist the theatre as it transitioned to performances at The Ponds and happily continue for Popcorn Theatre’s return.
The Herbeners have been attending Tibbits since they were first married in 1967 and Popcorn Theatre since its inception. Through Tibbits shows they were able to foster a deep appreciation for live theatre for two generations, first bringing their children, then their grandchildren. They have been overall sponsors of Popcorn Theatre since 2010.
Matthew C Christopher, DDS, PC is proud to support Tibbits Opera House. They appreciate the various opportunities Tibbits offers to the community, and hope to be a part of that for many years to come. Dr. Christopher and his staff enhance community health by providing quality dental care for the entire family. Conveniently located in Union City and Coldwater, they handle most treatment in office. They see children as early as one-year-old and accept most insurances. Additionally, Dr. Christopher provides hospital dentistry at ProMedica, Three Rivers, and Oaklawn. They craft smiles to last a lifetime.
Longstreet Living is a third-generation, family owned and operated furniture, flooring, and home improvement store in Coldwater, MI. When you walk into their store, you will most likely be greeted by a member of their family. They have been providing customers with quality, name brand furniture, flooring, local delivery, in-home estimates, installation, and special financing services for over 50 years!
Coldwater Exchange Club holds near to its heart three core values – Family, Community and Country. The Noon Exchange Club’s support of community in the form of Tibbits Opera House goes back to the 1960s when local service groups banded together to save, renovate, and reopen the historic theatre. Decades later, Noon Exchange stepped up as a Popcorn Theatre sponsor in 2001. Visit them @Coldwater Exchange Club on Facebook to learn about the benefits of membership and their ongoing projects.
Coldwater & Hillsdale Orthodontics believes there is no age limit when it comes to achieving a beautiful smile! They offer customized treatment options including Invisalign, silver and LightForce custom braces. They welcome everyone to their state-of-the-art facility where they thrive on the friendships that grow with their patient family! Dr. Potocki is happy to support Tibbits this summer.
Asama Coldwater Manufacturing (ACM), a leader in manufacturing of precise and high quality products for the automotive industry, has been supporting Tibbits since it first opened the Coldwater facility in 1996. ACM seeks continuous improvement for all areas of its business and demonstrates a commitment to its employees and the community. Over the years ACM has shown its support of Tibbits through membership, school and youth programs, golf and auction, as well as Summer Theatre. ACM is also co-sponsor this summer of Tibbits Theatre Workshop.
Vested Risk Strategies celebrates its 95th anniversary this year, but they pride themselves on a fresh, new approach, striving to be a trusted advisor. They help identify, prioritize and build a strategy to manage the risks faced by individuals, families and businesses. They deliver peace of mind and a sense of control beyond just insurance. Chris Sumnar, VRS President says “Having a venue like Tibbits with such amazing programming for all ages is a huge asset to the community.”
Tibbits also receives grant funding from the National Endowment for the Arts and Michigan Arts and Culture Council.
This year, Tibbits Popcorn Theatre presents “Aladdin’s Luck” on June 9th, 10th, 16th, and 17th; Doug Scheer’s “Wacky Science” on June 23rd and 24th; “Once Upon a Princess Storytime & Songs” on July 14th and 15th; “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland” on July 21st, 22nd, 28th, and 29th; and Disney’s animated feature film “Encanto” on August 4th and 5th.
With help from sponsors in the community, Tibbits Opera House will continue this beloved tradition for many years to come.
Coldwater, MI – A world of moonlight,
magic and romance combine in the musical “The Fantasticks,” when Tibbits Summer
Theatre continues its professional summer theatre season June 30- July 9 at The
Ponds of Coldwater.
“The
Fantasticks” is a funny and romantic musical about a boy, a girl, and their two
fathers who try to keep them apart. It’s the longest-running musical in the
world and with good reason: Its poetry, passion, playfulness and pathos combine
to create a comic and wistful romantic fable about love that grows with each
new season. In this moving tale, young lovers who have become disillusioned discover
a more mature, meaningful love. The story is punctuated by a bountiful series
of catchy, memorable songs, like “Try to Remember,” which have become classics.
According
to Tibbits Artistic Director Peter Riopelle, “This
show blends together all of the vital characteristics that make up a truly
great musical: A romantic, Romeo and Juliet type coming-of-age story, and a
lush, timeless musical score, combined with huge doses of passion, poetry and
great comedy to boot!” On the outdoor location, he says, “The show
works best in an intimate setting, and I felt it would be absolutely perfect
for our venue at the Ponds: A thrilling, wistful and gorgeous evening of
romance and fun out under the stars…”
Tibbits Summer Theatre continues its 2021 season at The Ponds of Coldwater with “The Fantasticks,” the longest-running musical in the world. Last year Tibbits performed its summer season as staged readers theatre at The Ponds, including the show, “It Started With Eve.”
Tibbits Summer Theatre will feature a core group of professional company members from across the United States. “The Fantasticks” will include Max Gonzalez as El Gallo and Brooke Jackson as Luisa. They will be joined onstage by other veteran Tibbits actors Liz Davis, Michael Motkowski, Matt Scott, Chad Tallon, and newcomer Nile Birch. The production will be directed by Peter Riopelle with music direction by Wayman Ezell. It will feature lighting design by Catie Blencowe, set design by Stephanie Burdick and Peter Riopelle, costume design by Dusti Donbrock, and sound design by Henry Sendek. Lexa Walker leads the technicians as technical director with Rachel Marengere as stage manager, and Josh Rockwell, Scott Pauley, and Leon Kriser rounding out the technical staff.
“The Fantasticks,” along with the rest
of the 2021 TST Season, is presented through the generous sponsorship support
of Coldwater Board of Public Utilities, Vandervoort, Christ & Fisher, P.C.;
Parrish Excavating, Inc.; and Frederick Family Dental. Additional sponsors include
Coldwater Orthodontics & Aligner Center; Dr. Jon & Seibra Herbener; The
Bushouse Family; ASAMA Coldwater
Manufacturing; Coldwater Exchange Club; Matthew C. Christopher, DDS; Great
Lakes Chiropractic; Honor Credit Union; and Vested Risk Strategies. Additional
funding is provided by the Michigan Council for the Arts and Cultural Affairs
and the National Endowment for the Arts.
Tickets for “The Fantasticks” are $28
(including fees) for all seats, with discounts available to Tibbits members.
Performances will run June 30, July 2, 6, 8 and 9 at 7:30pm and July 1 and 7 at
2pm. Tickets are available online at Tibbits.org, at the Tibbits admin office
at 93 W. Chicago St. in Coldwater 9 am to 5 pm weekdays or by calling
517-278-6029.
Other shows
in the 2021 season, which runs from now until August 6, include the witty and
charming musical “You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown” and the heartwarming play,
“On Golden Pond.” All summer theatre performances will be held at the beautiful
outdoor event pavilion nestled among 30 acres of lush landscaping at The Ponds
of Coldwater, just minutes from the historic Tibbits Opera House in downtown
Coldwater. Golf carts are provided to transport guests who need assistance from
the parking lot to the pavilion. “The Fantasticks”is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International
(MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI.
www.MTIShows.com.
