Take in a Show at the Frauenthal Center
Say "theater" and many people think "Broadway." But you don't have to travel to the Big Apple to take in stellar theatrical and musical performances by talented artists. Great theater can happen anywhere, including here in West Michigan. Plan a date night when you stay with us at The Pidge Inn, with dinner at one of our fabulous downtown restaurants and an entertaining show at The Frauenthal Center for the Performing Arts.
The Frauenthal Center is Muskegon's premier center for performing and visual arts and entertainment. Built in 1929 by Muskegon’s own movie mogul, Paul Shlossman, it was originally intended as a movie house for all "talkies," or talking motion pictures. Its elaborate architectural design embraces the Spanish Renaissance style, with gleaming with gold accents, cherubs and griffins, ornate carvings and arches, and ornamental light figures. After falling into disrepair and threatened by demolition, community members rallied to save it. Formerly the Michigan Theater, it's now named after A. Harold Frauenthal, whose substantial financial gift helped to give new life to the theatre in the mid-1970s. Today, the Frauenthal Center is owned and operated by the Community Foundation for Muskegon County.
The Frauenthal Center is a place that nurtures local and regional talent and showcases national touring acts. It's home to the Muskegon Civic Theatre and the West Michigan Symphony. As you enter Frauenthal Center, the Reception Gallery showcases the talents of area artists with rotating exhibits. To close out 2022, the gallery will feature the colorful and textured surfaces of photography by Wayne Pierce in November and the abstract people and landscapes in oil by artist Mary Jane Pories in December.
Performers will take the stage in a variety of music, dance, drama and comedy productions in the final months of 2022. Shows take place in either the historic Frauenthal Theater or the intimate Beardsley Theater. Enjoy a night of laughter with comedian Joe Gatto on November 17, the Michigan Civic Theatre's laugh-out-loud production of "Inspecting Carol" November 18-December 4, or the hilarious play "Ain't Nothing Like Family: Ms. Wilkins Goes To The Club" on November 19. In December, get into the holiday spirit with the Michigan Civic Theatre's "A Holiday Cabaret" on December 11, the joyful music of the West Michigan Symphony for "Home for the Holidays" on December 16, and "The Nutcracker" performed by the West Michigan Youth Ballet on December 17.
Need help reserving your tickets for an upcoming show at the Frauenthal Center or selecting the perfect restaurant to dine beforehand? We're happy to help with all the details of your fabulous night out when you book your stay at The Pidge Inn. After the show, return to your luxurious accommodations at our charming boutique hotel where you can relax in comfort and style.
