Tibbits Summer Theatre is proud to present The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, running July 25, 26, and July 30 through August 2, at Tibbits Opera House, generously co-sponsored by Case Realty Group and WTVB AM 1590/FM 95.5.
COLDWATER – Make sure you’ve studied and get the juice boxes in the cooler, because The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee is coming to the stage at Tibbits Opera House, starting on July 25. This production, which will finish off Tibbits 2025 Summer Theatre Season, is generously co-sponsored by Case Realty Group and WTVB.
In The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, six quirky tweens are determined to outspell each other for the coveted Putnam County Spelling Bee championship. While tackling a series of ultra-challenging words, these spellers share hilariously awkward stories from their home lives that could make anyone question the definition of “normal.” One speller will walk away with the trophy and bragging rights, while the others face the soul-crushing humiliation of a “ding” for a missed word and the consolation prize of a juice box. What could be worse than that?
As a winner of the Tony and Drama Desk Awards for Best Book, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee keeps audiences in stitches with its quick-witted dialogue and outrageous characters. It’s one spelling event that proves it’s not just about winning, but about having a good laugh along the way!
Case Realty Group is Branch County’s local real estate connection and lake specialist, bringing years of experience to their clients’ home search, whether on or off any of the lakes dotting the Coldwater and Branch County area. Learn more about their efforts by visiting Case-Realty.com, or calling 517-238-5588.
WTVB is Branch County’s award-winning leader for local news and information, plus a mix of classic hits from the ‘70s, ‘80s, and early ‘90s, and is a part of almost every community event. Throughout the year, the station features Tibbits Talk every Tuesday at 8:45 am, with Summer Theatre cast members, and highlights of other community productions and events at Tibbits. You can visit WTVB online to see more about their daily schedule and read about community news by visiting WTVBAM.com.
The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee runs July 25, 26, and July 30 through August 2. Tickets and information are available at Tibbits.org, or by calling 517.278.6029. All performances are held at the historic Tibbits Opera House, 14 S. Hanchett Street, in Coldwater.
Case Realty Group and WTVB AM 1590/FM 95.5 are generously co-sponsoring Tibbits Summer Theatre’s production of The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, running July 25, 26, and July 30 through August 2, at Tibbits Opera House.
COLDWATER – Tibbits Opera House wishes to thank the staff and management of Case Realty Group, as well as WTVB AM 1590/FM 95.5 for their co-sponsorship of The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee as a part of this year’s Summer Theatre Series. Tibbits is tremendously excited to welcome Case Realty as a sponsor for the upcoming season, and to continue its longstanding relationship with WTVB.
Case Realty Group is Branch County’s local real estate connection and lake specialist, bringing years of experience to their clients’ home search, whether on or off any of the lakes dotting the Coldwater and Branch County area.
WTVB is Branch County’s award-winning leader for local news and information, plus a mix of classic hits from the ‘70s, ‘80s, and early ‘90s, and is a part of almost every community event. Throughout the year, the station features Tibbits Talk every Tuesday at 8:45am, with Summer Theatre cast members, and highlights of other community productions and events at Tibbits.
In The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, six quirky tweens are determined to outspell each other for the Putnam County Spelling Bee championship. While tackling a series of ultra-challenging words, these spellers share hilariously awkward stories from their home lives that could make anyone question the definition of “normal.” One speller will walk away with the trophy and bragging rights, while the others face the soul-crushing humiliation of a “ding” for a missed word and the consolation prize of a juice box. What could be worse than that? Winner of the Tony and Drama Desk Awards for Best Book, this charming musical keeps audiences in stitches with its quick-witted dialogue and outrageous characters. It’s one spelling event that proves it’s not just about winning, but about having a good laugh along the way!
The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee runs July 25, 26, and July 30 through August 2. Tickets and information are available at Tibbits.org, or by calling 517.278.6029. All performances are held at the historic Tibbits Opera House, 14 S. Hanchett Street, in Coldwater.
Learn more about Case Realty Group by visiting Case-Realty.com, or calling 517-238-5588.
You can visit WTVB online to see more about their daily schedule and read about community news by visiting WTVBAM.com.
COLDWATER – Tibbits Opera House wraps up its final performances of the 2024 Summer Theatre season, inviting audiences to experience the heartwarming family comedy Over the River and Through the Woods one last time before the final curtain call. Set in New Jersey, the production revolves around Nick’s cherished weekly Sunday dinners with his grandparents—a tradition jeopardized when he lands his dream job offer across the country.
AM1590/FM95.5 WTVB takes center stage as the proud sponsor of Over the River and Through the Woods, enhancing the excitement of this unforgettable theatrical experience. As Branch County’s premier source for local news and information, WTVB continues its steadfast support of Tibbits Summer Theatre. Featuring News Director Jim Measel and morning show host Ken Delaney, the station delivers timely updates on local news, sports, and weather forecasts.
Beyond its news coverage, AM1590/FM95.5 WTVB actively engages in Branch County’s community life, highlighted by its popular “Your Greatest Hits” playlist, featuring beloved classics from the 70s, 80s, and early 90s. Committed to being The Voice of Branch County, WTVB remains a steadfast supporter of local culture and events.
Catch the heartwarming comedy “Over the River and Through the Woods before the final curtain falls this week. Pictures courtesy of Laura Pentecost.
Penned by Joe DiPietro, author of I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change, this heartwarming comedy captivates audiences young and old alike. With witty dialogue, endearing characters, and relatable family dynamics, the production guarantees an unforgettable experience. Chad Tallon, Tibbits Interim Artistic Director who also portrays Nunzio, praises DiPietro’s writing, stating “He has a distinctive rhythm to his writing that brings every moment to life.”
Reflecting on the production, Jackson Poulin, who embodies Nick, explains, “The show has a lot of character work, and that’s what makes it funny. There are so many little bits, but it’s also set up for greater themes of self-identity, family, and the meaning of life.”
Don’t miss this heartwarming production. Final performances of Over the River and Through the Woods are scheduled for August 1 to 3 at Tibbits Opera House. Ticket prices range from $20 to $46, including fees. Secure your seat today and get ready to enjoy a hilarious family comedy that will leave you laughing until your sides ache. For more information, contact Tibbits Opera House at 517.278.6029, visit the administration office at 93 West Chicago St, or go to Tibbits.org.
COLDWATER – Tibbits Opera House brings the heartwarming comedy Over the River and Through the Woods to its 2024 Summer Theatre stage. This production follows the story of a lovable Italian-American from Hoboken whose life takes a humorous turn when his doting, yet quirky, grandparents go to great lengths to keep him close.
Set against the backdrop of New Jersey, the play revolves around Nick’s weekly Sunday dinners with his grandparents, a cherished tradition that comes under threat when he receives his dream job offer across the country. Determined to keep Nick nearby, his grandparents embark on a series of uproarious plots and schemes, including enlisting the help of the charming Caitlin O’Hare as bait.
Written by Joe DiPietro, the mastermind behind ‘I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change,’ this comedy delivers a heartwarming message about the importance of family and love. Director Charles Burr shares, “I’m always glad to come back to direct a show at Tibbits. But it is especially nice this season to do a gentle family comedy after spending so many years doing frenetic farces. ‘Over the River and Through the Woods’ is a funny, sweet and warm comedy—that I know our audiences will embrace.”
The production features a stellar professional cast led by Paul Kerr as Frank, Brenda Sparks as Emma, Jackson Poulin as Nick, Lindsay Rosser as Caitlin, Gloria Logan as Aida, and Chad Tallon, Tibbits Interim Artistic Director, as Nunzio, under the direction of Burr. Behind the scenes, a skilled team ensures every aspect of the production is meticulously orchestrated. Taylor Poling serves as company manager, Miranda Munson as production stage manager, and Elizabeth Kulaga and Sarah-Parker Martin as assistant stage managers, with Martin also contributing as sound support.
The production staff includes Josh Rockwell overseeing technical direction, MJ Fox serving as scenic designer, props master, and scenic artist, with Olivia Riddle assisting with props. Jessica Hawks joins as scenic artist, and Jade Zhang designs costumes with support from Kayla Hemphill as costume stitcher. Jacob Thompson and Samantha “Sam” Watson contribute their carpentry expertise, while Trey Ewart manages lighting as master electrician and board ops. Jamie Gresens oversees lighting and board ops, and Jake McDivitt serves as sound designer, board operator, and engineer.
Tibbits Summer Theatre presents “Over the River and Through the Woods”, a side-splitting family fiasco you won’t want to miss!
Reflecting on the production, Tallon states, “Our goal this summer season has been to create lifelong memories in the blink of an eye, and plays like ‘Over The River and Through the Woods‘ are perfect for achieving that. Through dedication, passion, and a commitment to sharing memorable stories that span generations, we are making it all happen.”
Over the River and Through the Woods is proudly sponsored by WTVB AM 1590/FM 95.5, a long-standing supporter of Tibbits Summer Theatre. As Branch County’s premier source for local news, sports, and weather, WTVB has been an integral part of the community for 75 years, lending their voice to countless local events and earning widespread recognition and trust across the region.
The production runs from July 25 to 27, 31, and August 1 to 3, with tickets available for purchase, and prices ranging from $20 to $46. Secure your seat today and prepare to experience a hilarious family comedy that will have you laughing until your sides ache. For more information, contact Tibbits Opera House at 517.278.6029, visit the administration office located at 93 West Chicago St, or go to Tibbits.org.
Tibbits raises the curtain on its 2024 Summer Theatre season, bringing a diverse array of productions to the stage once again.
Coldwater – Tibbits Opera House rolls out the red carpet for the highly anticipated 2024 Summer Theatre season. From June 13 to August 3, audiences will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in a series of exciting and diverse productions. From close-harmony groups to vengeful barbers, magicians to puppeteers, there will be something for every taste. Andy French, Development Director at Tibbits, expressed his enthusiasm, stating “I’m thrilled to witness the expanded opportunities this season’s shows bring to the community.” Tibbits Summer Theatre features three energetic musicals and a play, along with the popular Popcorn Theatre.
The season kicks off with Forever Plaid, running from June 13 to 15, and 19 to 22. Featuring close-harmonies and beloved tunes, the production sets the stage for an unforgettable journey down memory lane. Audiences will follow a group of aspiring singers as they return from the afterlife to perform the concert they never got to complete in life. With classic hits from the 1950s and 60s, such as “Three Coins in the Fountain” and “Love is a Many-Splendored Thing,” this nostalgic musical will delight theatergoers of all ages.
Following Forever Plaid, Tibbits will present Stephen Sondheim’s iconic masterpiece, Sweeney Todd, from June 27 to 29, and July 3, 5, and 6. Set in 19th-century London, this chilling tale of revenge and redemption features some of Sondheim’s most haunting melodies, including “The Ballad of Sweeney Todd” and “A Little Priest.” Audiences will be drawn into the dark and twisted world of Fleet Street as they witness the infamous barber’s quest for justice. This production is rated PG-13 due to mature themes, stage violence, and imagery.
Next on the bill is the Tony Award-winning rock musical, Rent, running from July 11 to 13, and 17 to 20. Set in New York City’s East Village during the height of the AIDS crisis, Rent follows a group of struggling artists as they navigate love, friendship, and loss. With iconic songs such as “Seasons of Love” and “La Vie Bohème,” it continues to resonate with people of all backgrounds with its universal messages of acceptance, and the importance of seizing the day. The show is rated PG-13, and contains mature themes, including substance abuse, sexuality, and strong language.
Rounding out the season is Over the River and Through the Woods, gracing the stage from July 25 to 27, 31, and August 1 to 3. This heartwarming comedy follows the antics of an Italian-American family as they navigate the challenges of generational differences and cultural heritage. Famous for its humor and heart, Over the River and Through the Woods offers a poignant exploration of family, love, and the ties that bind.
Tibbits extends its heartfelt thanks to Parrish Excavating, Frederick Family Dental, CBPU and WTVB AM1590 FM95.5, whose generous support have made these performances possible, playing a crucial role in bringing vibrant cultural experiences to the community.
Meanwhile, audiences will have the opportunity to enjoy a series of family-friendly performances every Friday and Saturday at 10 am with Popcorn Theatre. The series opens with The Emperor’s New Clothes on June 7, 8, 14 and 15. The comedic production will be followed by Rumpelstiltskin on June 21, 22, 28 and 29. As the summer progresses, Magician John Shango will perform mind-bending illusions and disappearing acts on July 5 and 6. Following this, on July 12 and 13, Kevin Kammeraad will offer a unique blend of puppetry and interactive entertainment. Then Pooh Corner will take center stage on July 19, 20, 26 and 27. Closing out the season on August 2 and 3 is a special screening of Disney’s animated movie, Frozen.
Chad Tallon, Interim Artistic Director at Tibbits Opera house, remarks “I could not be more excited for the Tibbits community to experience this special group of artists come together to create a magical summer experience.” Tallon continues, “With an incredibly talented group, this is bound to be one of the most memorable summers in the storied history of Tibbits and will provide the audience with laughter, tears, and many thought-provoking moments that will linger long after patrons leave our beautiful Opera House.”
Tibbits Summer Theatre continues its tradition of excellence, offering a rich tapestry of stories brought to life by a professional ensemble of actors, directors, and production staff from across the country. Tickets range from $20 to $46, including fees, and can be purchased by calling Tibbits Opera House at 517.278.6029, visiting the administration office located at 93 West Chicago St, or going to Tibbits.org.
The Founding’s “A Celtic Christmas” will feature traditional and original Christmas and Celtic tunes with its performance at the historic Tibbits Opera House Friday, Dec. 16 at 7pm. Tickets are on sale at Tibbits.org.
COLDWATER – From traditional and original Christmas tunes as well as favorite traditional and original Celtic tunes, The Founding’s “A Celtic Christmas” will bring holiday cheer and nostalgia to the stage with its performance at the historic Tibbits Opera House Friday, Dec. 16 at 7pm.
Last performing on Tibbits’ stage in 2018, they are looking forward to returning with this holiday version of their show. This progressive Celtic band from Kalamazoo, Mich. has a unique, energetic, and powerful approach to songwriting, striving to constantly push the boundaries of the Irish and Scottish music traditions.
Becoming one of the premier acts in their genre in Michigan over the past five years, The Founding features a band of six multi-instrumentalists: Elizabeth June as lead singer/flautist; Lukas Stanley on keys, percussion, and viola; Joel Tyrone Myers on mandolin and fiddle; Patrick Hartson on guitar and cello; John Robey on fiddle and vocals; and Kyle Pitcher on bass and vocals.
This young band has performed at venues throughout the Midwest, making appearances at the Michigan Irish Music Festival, the Sparta Celtic Festival, the Kalamazoo Irish Festival, and many more. Their discography includes Form, To a City, Fair, and the single “Silhouettes Against the Soil.” Their recordings have been featured on NPR affiliates WMUK Kalamazoo and WUTC Chattanooga, as well as Michigan Irish Music Cafe, Sounds Like Ireland, and The Irish and Celtic Music Podcast.
This performance is made possible with the generous support of sponsor Karen Hargreave and media sponsor WTVB Am 1590/FM 95.5 as well as through grant funding from Michigan Arts and Culture Council and the National Endowment for the Arts.
Tickets for “A Celtic Christmas” range from $12-23 and are available at Tibbits.org, by calling 517-278-6029 or stopping at the Tibbits office at 93 W. Chicago St. The performance will be held at the beautiful historic Tibbits Opera House, 14 S. Hanchett Street, in Coldwater. It begins at 7pm; doors open for seating at 6:30 pm.
To add to the Tibbits experience, Tibbits’ art gallery and the Ghost Light Bar are open before the show and at intermission. Patrons are also invited to view current “Seasons of Love” art gallery exhibit or the historic exhibit displays throughout the theatre.
Three Men and a Tenor will bring their vocal talents with another rousing show filled with holiday spirit Saturday, Dec. 10 at 7pm at Tibbits Opera House. Tickets are on sale now at Tibbits.org.
COLDWATER – Highlighting the holiday season and back by popular demand, Three Men and a Tenor will bring their vocal talents with another rousing show filled with holiday spirit Saturday, Dec. 10 at 7pm at Tibbits Opera House.
Featuring the powerful vocal harmonies of Paul Felch, Chuck Colby, Mark Stiles, and Glenn Williams, the group performed at Tibbits in April including a special performance for students. This new show filled with feel-good Christmas favorites and original music is perfect for audiences of all ages.
Great pop vocal music, quick-witted humor, and overall likeability make The Three Men and a Tenor show a unique, unmatched musical experience for audiences. The group has a national touring schedule and has opened shows for entertainment legends like Jay Leno and The Beach Boys. They’ve performed the national anthem to start the NASCAR FireKeepers 400, and had a national PBS-TV special that was shown from Los Angeles to Nashville.
Three Men and a Tenor was formed by Felch, Colby, Stiles, and Williams in 1992 when the foursome were all members of the MSU Men’s Choir. Born and raised in different cities in Michigan, the group formed expecting to only sing one song together as added entertainment for a concert for the MSU Choir and Jazz Band concert in Grayling. Now, after 30-years together, they’ve won “The Best Entertainment in Michigan” four times, and presented nearly 4,000 performances, including two performance tours of U.S. Military Bases and Landstuhl Hospital in Germany for U.S. troops and their families.
Three Men and a Tenor have regularly sold-out shows at performing arts centers, theatres, and festivals and fairs including a long history working with schools sharing their love of music and their signature blend of powerful vocal harmonies and feel-good music for all ages.
This performance is made possible with grant funding by Michigan Arts and Culture Council and the National Endowment for the Arts as well as by the generosity of media sponsor WTVB AM 1590/FM 95.5. WTVB has been supporting Tibbits since the station first began broadcasting, with its formal sponsorship-partnerships beginning in the mid-90s. Throughout the year the station features “Tibbits Talk” every Tuesday at 8:45 am, with Summer Theatre cast members interviewed during the summer, and highlights of other community productions and events at Tibbits the rest of the year.
Tickets for Three Men and a Tenor’s holiday show range from $12-25 including fees and are available at Tibbits.org, by calling 517-278-6029 or stopping at the Tibbits office at 93 W. Chicago St. The performance is held at the beautiful historic Tibbits Opera House, 14 S. Hanchett Street, in Coldwater. It begins at 7pm; doors open for seating at 6:30 pm.
To add to the Tibbits experience, Tibbits’ art gallery and the Ghost Light Bar are open before the show and at intermission. Patrons are also invited to view current “Seasons of Love” art gallery exhibit or the historic exhibit displays throughout the theatre.
COLDWATER – Tibbits Opera Foundation announces WTVB AM 1590/FM 95.5 as the sponsor of it Masters of Soul concert Friday, May 27 at 7:30 pm.
WTVB has been supporting Tibbits since the station first began broadcasting. Its formal sponsorship-partnerships began in the mid-90s. Throughout the year the station features “Tibbits Talk” every Tuesday at 8:45 am, with Summer Theatre cast members interviewed during the summer, and highlights of other community productions and events at Tibbits the rest of the year. Podcasts of the interviews are available on Tibbits Facebook and at www.wtvbam.com
Masters of Soul brings the best sounds of Motown and Soul to Tibbits Opera House and sponsored by Coldwater Township Sunrise Rotary.
Community involvement and great music are the hallmark of AM 1590/FM 95.5 WTVB, proudly supporting Tibbits Summer Theatre as the media sponsor again this season.
WTVB is Branch County’s award winning leader for local news and information, with News Director Jim Measel and longtime morning show host Ken Delaney.
In addition to local news, sports, and weather, AM 1590/FM 95.5 WTVB is a part of almost every community event in Branch County, and features “Your Greatest Hits”, a mix of classic hits from the 70s, 80s and early 90s. WTVB truly is The Voice of Branch County.
Motown and its legendary sound take center stage with all of its incredible harmonies and smooth moves when Masters of Soul performs on Friday May 27 at Tibbits Opera House.
This concert is a tribute to the artists who defined an era in our country’s history that produced many of the greatest music acts ever recorded: The Temptations and the Four Tops, Diana Ross & the Supremes, to Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell, Smokey Robinson and James Brown.
Based in Virginia Beach, Virginia, the 10-person cast consists of three lead male vocalists and three lead female vocalists backed by a four-piece band of seasoned musicians who’ve been touring together for decades. Masters of Soul has performed to numerous sold-out audiences and garnered rave reviews across the country at venues ranging from community theaters and universities to performing arts venues and concert halls.
For many, Masters of Soul is the ultimate stroll down memory lane. For younger generations, the show offers an opportunity to experience the sound, the costumes, the dance moves of Motown and soul that became the fabric of the 60s and 70s.
Masters of Soul is generously sponsored by WTVB, Branch County’s award winning leader for local news and information. Tibbits also receives grant funding from the Michigan Arts & Culture Council as well as the National Endowment for the Arts.
The concert begins at 7:30pm with doors to the theatre, Ghost Light Bar, and Art Gallery open at 6:30pm and seating beginning at 7pm. Tickets range from $25-45 including fees. Discounts for Tibbits members are available. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit Tibbits.org, stop at Tibbits business offices at 93 W. Chicago St. in Coldwater, or call 517.278.6029. The performance will be held at Tibbits Opera House, located at 14 S. Hanchett St. in Coldwater, MI.
COLDWATER – Motown and its legendary sound take center stage with all of its incredible harmonies and smooth moves when Masters of Soul performs on Friday May 27 at Tibbits Opera House.
This concert is a tribute to the artists who defined an era in our country’s history that produced many of the greatest music acts ever recorded: The Temptations and the Four Tops, Diana Ross & the Supremes, to Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell, Smokey Robinson and James Brown.
Based in Virginia Beach, Virginia, the 10-person cast consists of three lead male vocalists and three lead female vocalists backed by a four-piece band of seasoned musicians who’ve been touring together for decades. Masters of Soul has performed to numerous sold-out audiences and garnered rave reviews across the country at venues ranging from community theaters and universities to performing arts venues and concert halls.
For many, Masters of Soul is the ultimate stroll down memory lane. For younger generations, the show offers an opportunity to experience the sound, the costumes, the dance moves of Motown and soul that became the fabric of the 60s and 70s.
Masters of Soul is generously sponsored by WTVB, Branch County’s award winning leader for local news and information. Tibbits also receives grant funding from the Michigan Arts & Culture Council as well as the National Endowment for the Arts.
The concert begins at 7:30pm with doors to the theatre, Ghost Light Bar, and Art Gallery open at 6:30pm and seating beginning at 7pm. Tickets range from $25-45 including fees. Discounts for Tibbits members are available. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit Tibbits.org, stop at Tibbits business offices at 93 W. Chicago St. in Coldwater, or call 517.278.6029. The performance will be held at Tibbits Opera House, located at 14 S. Hanchett St. in Coldwater, MI.
