Performance Network Theatre facts for kids
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| Address | 120 E Huron Ann Arbor, Michigan USA |
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| Type | black box/proscenium |
| Capacity | 140 seats |
| Opened | 1981 |
| Closed | 2015 |
| Years active | 35 |
The Performance Network Theatre was a special place for plays in Ann Arbor, Michigan. It opened in 1981 and became a top professional theatre. This means they hired experienced actors and staff who were part of a group called Actors’ Equity Association.
The theatre put on many different kinds of shows. These included serious dramas, funny comedies, and classic plays. They often showed plays that had won big awards like the Pulitzer Prize or Tony Awards. Many of their shows were also brand new, being performed for the first time ever. The theatre closed its doors in December 2015.
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About the Theatre
The Performance Network was a non-profit group. This means they used any money they made to help the theatre grow, not to make a profit for owners. They started in Ann Arbor in 1981. In 1997, they officially became a professional theatre. They built a beautiful theatre building in downtown Ann Arbor in 2000.
Their main stage was called the Shure Theater. It was a cozy space that could seat 139 people. This made every show feel very close and personal.
History of the Theatre
The Performance Network Theatre was started in 1981 by David Bernstein and Jim Moran. It began as a group of artists working together. Over time, it grew into a non-profit organization.
In the early 1990s, Johanna Broughton, along with Dan Walker, Carla Milarch, and David Wolber, helped the theatre grow a lot. They moved it to a new, bigger location in 2000. In 1997, the theatre made a deal with Actors’ Equity Association. This made them a professional theatre, which was a big step!
Becoming a professional theatre helped them in many ways:
- It made the theatre more respected across the country.
- They could perform famous plays that local community theatres could not.
- They could hire more skilled actors, directors, and designers.
- They got noticed in theatre magazines and joined important theatre groups.
- More people came to see their shows from all over Michigan.
In 2003, Carla Milarch and David Wolber took over leading the theatre. They were great at picking exciting and challenging plays. The theatre won many awards for its amazing shows. Later, in 2012, Erin Sabo joined David Wolber to help run things.
Sadly, in 2014, the theatre had money problems. They announced they would reopen under new leaders, John Manfredi and Suzi Regan. They put on some great shows, but not enough people bought tickets or gave donations. In October 2015, they tried to raise more money, but they didn't reach their goal. So, in December 2015, the theatre had to close for good.
Theatre Programs
The Performance Network Theatre offered several exciting programs.
Professional Season
The main part of the theatre's year was its professional season. This included classic plays and new plays. They always tried to have a classic play, a musical, and a brand-new play each season. The season usually started in the fall and ran for a full year.
People could buy a "subscription" to get tickets for all the shows at a lower price. They could also buy "Flex Tickets." These were like anytime tickets that could be used for any show they wanted.
Learning Opportunities
The theatre also had programs for young people interested in theatre.
Apprenticeships
The Apprenticeship program was a year-long paid job. Apprentices got hands-on training in many areas. This included managing the stage, helping people in the audience, and learning about marketing. They also learned about the technical side of theatre, like lights and sound. This program gave them a full experience in how a theatre works.
Internships
Internships gave people a good look at professional theatre. Interns learned about selling tickets, helping audience members, and office work. Unlike apprentices, interns chose one area to focus on. This allowed them to learn a lot about a specific part of theatre.
Theatre Connections
The Performance Network Theatre was part of many important groups. These included the Theatre Communications Group (TCG) and the National New Play Network (NNPN). Being part of these groups helped the theatre connect with others and share new ideas. They also received support from groups like the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs.
Awards and Recognition
The Performance Network Theatre won many awards for its great work.
National Awards
They won the Edgerton Foundation New American Play Award multiple times. This award helps new plays get started.
- 2013: For County Line by David Wells
- 2011: For Dead Man's Shoes by Joseph Zettelmaier
- 2009: For It Came From Mars by Joseph Zettelmaier
Organizational Awards
The theatre was often voted "Best Local Theatre" by readers of local magazines.
- Voted "Best Local Theatre" by Metro Times readers in 2009.
- Won the Critics Choice and Angel Award in 2006 for helping the LGBT community.
- Voted "Best Theatre" by Current Magazine readers for many years (1996–2008).
- Won "Best Overall Season" from the Oakland Press in 2005.
- Received The DeVine Award for great contributions from the Detroit Free Press in 2001 and 2005.
Other Awards
The theatre also won many other awards. These included the Wilde Awards and Rogue's Gallery Awards. They also received praise from local news groups like AnnArbor.com, Ann Arbor News, and the Detroit Free Press. These awards recognized their talented actors, directors, and designers. They also celebrated the amazing plays they brought to the stage.
Images for kids
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The Performance Network Theatre building.
