Whitehall, MI — Over the past several months, the Whitehall Playhouse Committee has been hard at work examining one of the city’s most beloved but financially strained cultural institutions: the Playhouse. With the Playhouse facing recurring deficits, limited grant access, and post-COVID recovery challenges, the committee gathered to evaluate its financial status, engage with the community, and propose actionable solutions for long-term sustainability.
The Core Problem: A Stage Without a Safety Net
Despite attracting visitors and providing valuable arts programming, the Playhouse faces a projected deficit of $44,672 for the current fiscal year. This shortfall is part of a recurring pattern, exacerbated by:
- Rising operational costs (approx. $850/day)
- A lack of full-time staff (only 1.5 employees manage operations)
- Diminishing grant access due to city ownership
- Limited awareness and engagement outside of summer programming
The Playhouse has traditionally operated as an enterprise fund, not funded by general taxpayer dollars—an often misunderstood fact that’s fueled public resistance to direct city support.
Strategic Solutions Proposed by the Playhouse Committee
To combat these challenges, the committee has proposed a three-part plan: short-term solutions, operational changes, and a long-term vision for financial independence.
Short-Term Solutions
- Raise ticket prices: Evenings from $27 to $30; matinees from $22 to $25
- Increase concessions: Wine by the glass from $6 to $9; add canned cocktails
- Launch local events: Trivia nights, game nights, concerts, and themed fundraisers
- Promote flex passes and season bundles
- Start a 50/50 raffle and add donation boxes in the lobby
Operational Changes
- Possible closure in January and February to reduce heating and staffing costs.
- Reduce operating costs by closing during low-traffic months (January–February) and automating HVAC systems and install smart thermostats.
- Raise rental rates, with flexible pricing for nonprofits and sponsors.
- Treat the Playhouse as a year-round community center, adding business events, weddings, cooking classes, and other creative uses.
- Improve digital presence: Overhaul the Playhouse website, improve social media integration, and enhance online ticket sales
- Re-engage local schools and volunteers for marketing and staffing help
- Utilize marijuana tax revenue for short-term operational support
Long-Term Vision
- Rebuild community partnerships with Whitehall businesses and sponsors
- Establish a $1M–$1.5M endowment fund, targeting 4–5% annual return
- Explore forming a nonprofit or foundation to access grant funding
- Launch a seat-naming campaign, legacy donations, and future capital fundraising efforts.
- Request a $50,000/year commitment from the City of Whitehall for 5 years, to stabilize operations while the endowment builds.
What Whitehall Residents Are Saying
Public input played a major role in shaping the committee’s proposal:
Supportive Voices:
- Many residents described the Playhouse as a “cultural gem,” vital to the city’s identity and economy.
- Comparisons were made to police, fire, and school funding—services people support, even if they don’t use them personally.
- Volunteers and business owners offered to help with fundraising, sponsorships, and creative event planning.
Concerns & Criticism:
- Some citizens and council members questioned whether city funds should support an entity not used by all taxpayers.
- Frustrations were expressed over perceived mismanagement and a lack of transparency in past budgets.
- Skepticism remained over whether new sponsorships, ticket sales, and fundraising projections are realistic.
Committee Recommendation to the Whitehall City Council
At the upcoming council meeting on April 8, 2025 at 6:00 pm, the committee will propose:
Immediate Actions:
- Accept a $50,000/year commitment from the city for five years (2025–2030)
- Adjust budget for increased ticket, rental, and concession fees
- Recognize the city’s $30,000 in-kind contributions (admin support, utilities)
Long-Term Goals:
- Launch a formal capital campaign for endowment building
- Partner with the White Lake Community Fund for endowment management
- Treat the Playhouse as a year-round community center, not just a summer theater
Final Thoughts
As Whitehall debates how best to support its community assets, the Playhouse stands at a crossroads. The committee’s proposal balances fiscal responsibility, community input, and creative vision—all with the goal of transforming the Playhouse into a thriving year-round venue and sustainable part of Whitehall’s cultural landscape.
Stay tuned for updates after the City Council’s vote and upcoming fundraising events like the May 1 “Friends of the Playhouse” celebration.
