This winter, The Playhouse is hosting Stage and Savor, a three-part fundraiser designed to bring the White Lake community together for food, beverages, and live music. Inspired by the success of past events like Taste of White Lake, this series offers a cozy, indoor version of the beloved summer fundraiser while focusing on sustaining one of the area’s most iconic cultural hubs.
The Origin of Stage and Savor
The idea for Stage and Savor came to life when Kara Smith, owner of The Gnarly Heifer, approached The Playhouse after learning about its financial challenges. Having worked with The Playhouse in the past, Kara wanted to spearhead a community-wide effort to help keep its doors open.
Beth Beaman of The Playhouse said: “Kara has always been about community. “She’s been a partner with us for years, providing hospitality for our shows and performers. This event wouldn’t have been possible without her connections and passion for bringing people together.”
Kara Smith of The Gnarly Heifer said: “We don’t need another empty building in our community. The Playhouse is one of the coolest places in White Lake, but it’s still unknown to so many residents and surrounding communities. This is a way to bring people through the doors, let them experience it, and fall in love with it. Once they do, they’ll want to support it,” Kara explained.
The event is modeled on Taste of White Lake but takes place during the quieter winter months. It pairs food, beverages, and entertainment, creating a space for people to gather, support local businesses, and experience the charm of The Playhouse.
Why the Playhouse Matters
Cindy Beth Davis-Dykema of The Playhouse said: “The Playhouse is more than just a theater; it’s a vital community hub. First and foremost, the arts.”. Beth Beaman said: “How lucky are we to have such a space in our small towns? My children grew up at The Playhouse. It’s where they could truly be themselves, find like-minded peers, and flourish.”
The Playhouse also serves as a venue for weddings, anniversaries, baby showers, celebrations of life, and community celebrations. With over 100 years of history, it remains a landmark for local milestones and a space for people to connect.
“Whether you’re here for an event, a wedding, or a special program, The Playhouse is such a versatile space,” Kara added. “It’s important that we keep it alive—not just for the arts, but for everything it represents to the community.”
The Playhouse’s impact also extends to the local economy. Every year, it generates an estimated $186,000 in revenue for nearby restaurants, Airbnbs, and other businesses. Events like Stage and Savor aim to keep that positive cycle going.
What to Expect
Each Stage and Savor event highlights the best of White Lake’s local businesses:
- January 25 – Sips & Soups On Stage: Sample soups paired with beverages like beer, wine, or kombucha from restaurants including The Gnarly Heifer, Fetch Eats, Hanson Hill, and Pekadills. Live music will feature Karen and Eric Smith, as well as Regina Schlaff and Ellen Cutting Schoepf.
- February 22 – Sips & Sweets On Stage: Indulge in desserts while enjoying piano music by Steven Thielman.
- March 22 – Brews & Bowls On Stage: Hearty bowls and craft beverages will be served alongside music by The Formers, the house band from Oh Brothers.
Participating restaurants and businesses include:
- The Gnarly Heifer
- Hanson Hill
- The Book Nook
- Fetch Eats
- Pekadills
- Lipkas
- Bone Ends
- Oh Brothers
- The Homestead
- Colby’s Café, which is providing financial support.
Guests will enjoy an open-house-style event with food stations, beverages, live music, and seating both on stage and throughout the venue.
“It’s dinner and a show, all for $30,” The Playhouse team explained. “Every dollar raised goes directly to keeping the lights on and maintaining this building, which is so important for the community.”
Strengthening Community Bonds
Stage and Savor isn’t just about fundraising—it’s about collaboration. “This event is about bringing businesses and people together,” Kara shared. “We’re all giving our time and products, strengthening bonds as a business community while also supporting The Playhouse.”
Many participating restaurants are small, family-owned businesses deeply rooted in the community. “We live here, we work here, and we support each other,” said Kara. “That’s what makes White Lake so special. Events like this show how much we can accomplish together.”
Why You Should Attend
“This is a great way to beat the winter blues,” Kara said. “It’s cold, it’s quiet, but this event is a chance to get out of the house, enjoy great food, and support your community. It’s a good cause with great food, great drinks, and amazing people all coming together under the roof of The Playhouse.”
Tickets for Stage and Savor are $30 and can be purchased online at theplayhouseatwhitelake.org.
Whether you’re a longtime supporter of The Playhouse or walking through its doors for the first time, Stage and Savor offers the perfect opportunity to connect with your neighbors, support local businesses, and enjoy a memorable evening.
