what’s growing at the garden?

The Garden Theater is a community driven organization that strives to bring enriching cultural entertainment to Benzie County and beyond. We are so grateful for the donations that help us continue to thrive, particularly during the winter months. Because of these generous donations, we were able to complete our Performing Arts Renovation Project. The Garden Theater is now a top-tier performing arts venue in Northwest Michigan. Renovations included new state of the art lighting, sound, and rigging systems. Brand new curtains were installed. A load in door was built to assist touring artists who play on our historic stage. A bathroom/greenroom was also built backstage. The effects of this renovation project could already be seen with our robust 2023 Summer Concert Schedule. Ten live music events were put on, as well as a performance from Traverse City Dance Project, and a youth theater camp was established. All of this could not have been accomplished without the generous support from our donors.

The Garden is growing in ways like never before and we thank you for being a part of it!

what’s next?

The garden goes green

It’s been a goal of The Garden for years to make use of our extensive roof space to support a greener Garden, a greener Frankfort and a greener planet. We’re partnering with the great folks at CBS Solar, who design and assemble solar systems right here in Northern Michigan to create a "Solar Garden at The Garden" and we need your help! If you would like to learn more about the “Solar Garden at The Garden” click on the button below!

the friends of the garden theater

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In our quaint town of Frankfort, Michigan, celebration, culture and entertainment come together at The Garden Theater, a place that has become a cornerstone for our community. More than just a movie house, The Garden Theater is reaching its untapped potential for bringing new ideas, experiences and energy to our downtown. By bringing year-round, diverse entertainment, personal enrichment and community gathering space, we are enhancing the lives of people in our region.

WITH YOUR HELP, WE CAN DO EVEN MORE.

The Friends of The Garden Theater, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, was formed in 2018 to acquire the theater and enhance efforts for its restoration and longevity. We are devoted to keeping this historic movie house sustainable well into the future, preserving its iconic character while improving its facilities for patrons to enjoy today. Perhaps more important is the preservation of treasured memories—the first dates, summer matinees and shared experiences across generations.

THE GARDEN THEATER IS YOUR COMMUNITY SPACE.

Our strong sense of community drives our desire to be a multi-purpose, gathering space for locals and visitors alike. Our doors are open to new people and new ideas to make The Garden Theater a place for everyone to enjoy. We align with the growing needs of our area, partnering with local schools, businesses, residents and visitors to utilize our space for the benefit of all. We enjoy seeing our community come together and want to expand our programming to offer more.

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ENTERTAINMENT (Cultural Experiences)

  • Movies

  • Film festivals

  • Concerts

  • Performances

  • Live simulcasts

ENRICHMENT (Personal Growth and Learning)

  • Speaker series

  • Presentations

  • TEDx

  • Youth programs

  • Book & movie clubs

GATHERINGS (Social Events and Connections)

  • School-related activities

  • Community groups and forums

  • Fundraisers

  • Business meetings

  • Personal events

  • Weddings

Contact The Friends of The Garden Theater

Please contact The Friends of The Garden Theater with inquiries regarding charitable contributions, theater fundraising initiatives, and all other questions.

email Us by clicking here.

Or mail us:

Friends of the Garden Theater

PO Box 341

Frankfort, MI 49635

EIN: 83-2531689

Give to The Garden Theater Endowment directly online:


FRIENDS OF THE GARDEN THEATER BOARD

Rick Schmitt, Chair

Scott Harrison, Vice Chair

Jeff Smith, Treasurer

Becky bagnall, Secretary

elise crafts, director

David Oellerich, director

Amy Schindler, director