returning to Idlewild's rich cultural heritage

History

The Idlewild Theatre Company was founded in October 2003 through an agreement between Wallace Bridges, theatre professor at Eastern Michigan University and Freddie Mitchell, president of the Lake County Merry Makers, to produce quality diverse theatre in historic Idlewild, Michigan. On one hand, the company set out to rekindle interest in Idlewild's great musical and entertainment history. On the other hand, the company set out to advance cultural appreciation for future generations. The company's first production was Samm-Art Williams' play, Home. Home opened on June 4, 2004 and ran for two weekends at the Yates Adult Education Building in Idlewild.

The Idlewild Theatre Company currently produces one production during the summer, and intend to expand to more productions per year. The company also reaches out to Baldwin High School by accepting a few students as theatre interns who work backstage and onstage during the run of each show. These interns are chosen by Wallace Bridges, the artistic director, and Linda Atwell, the high school drama teacher. The theatre interns gain firsthand on-the-job experience in a variety of theatre production jobs. The Idlewild Theatre Company plans to include a student showcase with each traditional production, and plans are being made to include adult acting workshops and community-based productions..

Key Supporters:

Idlewild Merry Makers, Eastern Michigan University Theatre, Baldwin High School