Ridgedale Playhouse Inc

Ridgedale Playhouse Inc, operating under the name Ridgedale Players, is a nonprofit community theater organization based in Troy, Michigan. Incorporated on August 9, 1948, it stands as one of the oldest community theaters in the state of Michigan. The organization’s primary mission is to provide the local community with access to quality theatrical productions, both by offering performances to attend and opportunities for community members to participate in theater arts[1][2].

History and Development

Ridgedale Players was established to enrich its community's cultural fabric through theater. Early in its history, the group formed the Junior Actors of Ridgedale, enabling youth participation with their first play in 1950. Season tickets were introduced in 1957, along with the first fundraising efforts through a rummage sale. The company expanded its artistic offerings over the decades, including presenting musicals such as Bells Are Ringing in the 1966-67 season, despite initial debates about the practicality of musical productions on its stage[1].

Mission

The organization’s mission focuses on providing opportunities for community members to both attend and engage in theatrical works of quality. Additionally, Ridgedale Players is committed to theater education for both children and adults. It aims to fulfill its mission while maintaining fiscally responsible management to ensure sustainability in its programming and operations[1].

Programming

Ridgedale Players offers a diverse season of theatrical productions, often including comedies, musicals, and plays that appeal to a broad audience demographic. The company also maintains active Junior and Teen Actors programs to foster youth involvement in theater. For the 2024-2025 season, Ridgedale Players scheduled a slate of seven productions ranging from family-oriented shows to adult-themed performances, including Unnecessary Farce and Fun Home as part of their lineup[5][4].

Financial Overview

According to recent publicly available information, Ridgedale Playhouse Inc holds total assets of approximately $157,642. It operates as a public charity and complies with nonprofit financial reporting requirements[3].

Ridgedale Playhouse Inc continues to play a significant role in sustaining and advancing the cultural arts within its community through decades of theatrical engagement and education.