Tibbits Opera House has received new lights and a SawStop table as part of a project funded by Michigan Arts and Culture Council with matching funds from Coldwater Township Sunrise Rotary and Coldwater Noon Club. In April, the theatre was 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 theatre has received new LED stage lighting to further the production quality of their shows. The theatre was also able to order a new SawStop table saw for the scene shop, a critical piece for the safety of summer staff as they build the sets and scenery for the season.
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.
The MACC grant will bring funding to Tibbits Opera House for various projects, including continued school programming, updated equipment, professional development and general operations. Staff at Tibbits were able to further their professional skills at a recent PatronManager 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.
