Arts Council Theatre Advisor and Director - Simon Frederick

* This year is an exciting year for the Tin Shop. Like every year before, we try to make improvements before the start of each season, and this year is no exception. In mid April, the entire theatre seating area will be carpeted and the office will get a new floor. Improvements are planned for the techbooth and around the outside of the building aswell.

* If you are interested in becoming a part of our growth, contact the Buchanan Fine Arts Council through the Box Office at after May 15th, or email the Council President anytime at president@tinshoptheatre.org. (See our contact page for more options). Remember, we are always on the look-out for volunteers for the Council or maybe a Tin Shop usher.

* We also encourage you to visit Pears Mill and The Buchanan common this summer, both within walking distance of The Tin shop theatre, and forming our Cultural and Historic District.

- Pears Mill is a functioning flour mill built in the 1850's in the Greek Revival Style, with Gift Shop and demonstrations of historic trades. Open Saturday (mill operates) and Sunday from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Free Admission, Donations appreciated.

- The Buchanan Common is an outdoor amphitheater built in 1995 where concerts and other events are held. For schedule of activities and information call City Hall at (616) 695-3844.

Dear Theatregoer,

The 2002 summer theatre season is rapidly approaching! Last year we saw our first sold out performance for an opening night ("The Odd Couple"), and the production of "The Frog Prince" smashed all attendance records. Thanks so much for your attendance and support.

This year The Tin Shop Theatre opens its 18th summer season on June 7 with The Queen of Bingo by Jeanne Michels and Phyllis Murphy. This charming comedy highlights one of America's most popular pastimes. A real bingo game is played by the audience during the show and somebody will win a frozen turkey at every performance!

Our second main production is a delightful treat for the entire family, the children's musical The Real Story of Little Red Riding Hood. Book is by Judy Wolfman, with music and lyrics written by David Reiser. The play opens August 2 with a special curtain time of 7:30pm.

Opening September 20 is the third and last summer production, the comdey-drama The Old Lady's Guide to Survival, written by Mayo Simon. The play was originally produced at the Humana Festival of Plays by the prestigious Actor's Theatre of Louisville and features the return of talented actress Linda Canfield to the Tin Shop stage. "...a very funny, truthful and poignant examination of what it means to grow old." The Miami Herald. All three main productions will be directed by Simon Frederick, with technical direction by Phillip Place.

Three "Single" night events are once again included with this year's Season Ticket: Singer Betty Cornwell (June 29), The Southshore Sounds and Chord Authority (July 20) and the customer designed, clean and clever comedy of Craig Tornquist (September 7). Click here for more information on all the shows this season.

The price of a Season Ticket will remain the same as last season, $42.00 for All six events! This bargain in fine entertainment represents a 22% savings over the purchase of the tickets on an individual basis. Season Ticket holders also must make their reservations as early as possible. especially for the "Single" night events. (Box Office opens May 15). Remember, seating is limited. A Sunday matinee is also available for the three main productions during the first week's run.

We thank you in advance for your support of the Buchanan Fine Arts Council/Tin Shop Theatre. Theatre attendance has more than doubled since 1995, thanks to you, our patrons. Please help us in our efforts so we may continue to entertain you. See you at curtain time!

Sincerely yours,
Buchanan Fine Arts Council Members