Farmers Alley Theatre: Out-sized acting in a small space
The Farmers Alley Theatre may be the new kid on the theatrical block, but the nonprofit professional ensemble delivers thought-provoking dramas, quirky comedies, children’s theater and even evenings of cabaret music. The theater in downtown Kalamazoo also strives to persuade actors from Western Michigan to visit home and share their talent.
The ensemble kicked off its first season in 2008 and reached an astounding 81 percent capacity at the end of its very first season. The Farmers Alley Theatre assembles a balanced season with such offerings as August Wilson’s Pulitzer Prize-winning drama Fences, the dark comedy Speech & Debate, the musicals She Loves Me and Forever Plaid: Plaid Tidings, the comedy Escabana in Love and the collection of six humorous short plays, All in the Timing by David Ives. Add in the cabaret performances and the adult-acting plays for children, and you’ll see that Farmers Alley Theatre has something for everyone. The Farmers Alley’s 100-seat theater provides an intimate feel to productions.
Performances certainly aren’t for adults only. The Children’s Series at Farmers Alley Theatre provides sprightly works that may be acted by adults but which stimulate and entertain children. Families can introduce their children to the magic of live theater with delightful shows such as the summer 2009 production of Blue’s Clues Live!
Tickets for musicals cost $23 for students and senior citizens and $25 for other adults; other plays are $3 less. Cabarets cost $29, which includes coffee and dessert. You can buy tickets online, by calling call the Box Office at (269) 343–2727 or by visiting the Box Office weekdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. or 90 minutes before any show. Student rush tickets, priced at $15, are released five minutes before curtain; you can put your name on the waiting list starting an hour before curtain.
The Farmers Alley Theatre also provides lessons, workshops and seminars in singing, acting, dance and speech.
Love what you see? As a start-up nonprofit theater, Farmers Alley Theatre always appreciates donations. Learn more here.
HelloMetro Tip: You can download a map to convenient parking areas near the Farmers Alley Theatre here.
Posted by Ivonne Rovira
