Tibbits Opera House has been awarded a grant of $39,785 from the State of Michigan Arts and Culture Council (MACC) and the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) to continue their mission of providing engaging opportunities in culture, education, entertainment and the arts and to preserve the historic opera house. 

The MACC grant was awarded through the MACC compliance review process and was one of 678 applications to compete for MACC fiscal year 2026 funding. Additional funding from NEA was included in the MACC grant. 

Organizations receiving a MACC grant award are required to match those funds with other public and private dollars. Local support of the project included The Philip and Sarah Rosenberg Family Trust, Smith Memorial Concert, Lyn Wernet and the Michigan Humanities Council. Tibbits Opera House is grateful for the support they receive from the community, both in donations and volunteer support. 

The MACC grant will bring funding to Tibbits Opera House for various projects, including continued school programming, updated equipment, professional development and general operations. Tibbits plans to install new LED lighting and purchase a SawStop to further the production quality of their shows. Staff at Tibbits will further their professional skills at an upcoming Leap conference. This funding will allow Tibbits to continue offering high-quality productions and entertaining experiences for all at an affordable price. 

The MACC compliance review process ensures the taxpayers, who support this project through legislative appropriations, and all other visitors or residents in Michigan will have access to the highest quality arts and cultural experiences. 

A complete list of grant awards around the state is available by contacting MACC at (517) 241-4011, or by visiting the MACC website at www.michigan.gov/arts.