COLDWATER, MI (WTVB) – It’s another example of local service clubs coming through to help a local non-profit. Through support of the Coldwater Sunrise and Noon Rotary clubs the scene shop for the Tibbits Opera Foundation received a new roof this week.
The scene shop houses set pieces and props and provides a construction location for the many productions put on at the historic theatre. Whether it’s Tibbits Summer Theatre, Tibbits Young Audience productions, or the many community performances, including the annual Coldwater Rotary Show, the scene shop is busy throughout the year. Most set design for theatrical performances utilizes stock pieces of scenery which can be assembled and painted in whatever way is necessary for the specific show. All of those pieces—flats, doors, windows, stairs, platforms—as well as unique pieces created over the years are stored at the shop.
According to Rick Merrill, Tibbits Vice President as well as Treasurer of the Sunrise Rotary Club, “Tibbits is a great community asset and a good project for the two Rotary Clubs to collaborate on. On behalf of Tibbits we are grateful for the support.” He added, “The roof on the scene shop was in bad condition and starting to leak so it’s good to get this done before Summer Theatre begins.”
The Sunrise Rotary has used set pieces and props from the theatre for its various fundraisers including its “Raise the Roof” Roaring 20s drawdown last January. The Coldwater Rotary Club stores its risers and set pieces for its annual show at the shop. Each Club pledged $7775 to re-roof the shop. At the recommendation of several Rotarians the decision was made to upgrade to metal to increase the life of the roof. Branch County Community Theatre another huge user of the scene shop donated most of the funds needed for the upgrade.
Tibbits Summer Theatre gets underway with the arrival of the technical crew on June 7. Through the local support of the Rotary Clubs and BCCT, the shop is ready for them. For more information on Tibbits, its Summer Theatre program or how to get involved call 517-278-6029 or go to Tibbits.org.
