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Seeking Part-Time Help at the TCA

9/4/2018

Tecumseh Center for the Arts is looking to fill the position of Facilities Maintenance Manager. This is a part-time position with flexible hours. The ideal person would oversee all cleaning at the theater, manage the inventory for the shop and supplies, as well as perform light maintenance throughout the building.

The position is 12-16 hours per week depending on the number of shows and time of the year. The starting pay is minimum wage. Some weekends required if the theater has multiple shows on the same weekend. The ideal candidate can make their own weekly schedule (once approved by the Director).

The position reports directly to the TCA Director. Candidates should have a background in cleaning, organizing, and be self-motivated. Interested candidates must be 18 years of age. The position has the possibility for additional hours if the candidate is interested in assisting in the Box Office, TCA tavern or Tech during shows.

For more information, contact TCA Director Kelly Jo Gilmore or email your resume and references to kgilmore@tecumseh.mi.us by September 21, 2018.

Seeking Volunteer Ushers

8/15/2018

Over 20,000 patrons visit Tecumseh Center for the Arts (TCA) every season. With 5 National Touring Performances and over 75 TCA Special Events and Renter Performances, the theater is busy year round. In order to continue providing high quality entertainment to the Tecumseh area as well as a home for local arts organizations, we rely on the City of Tecumseh, TCA staff, the support of individuals and businesses, and our amazing group of volunteers. These volunteers play a vital role in helping to create a relaxing environment for patrons to enjoy the amenities offered in the lobby and prepare for the exciting performance that awaits them. The TCA is currently seeking volunteers to serve as Box Office Support, Ticket Scanning Attendants, Concessions Attendants, TCA Tavern Attendants, and Ushers.

Box Office Support
Before enjoying any performance at the theater, one must first have a ticket! Volunteers in the Box Office assist TCA staff in the distribution of preordered tickets at the Will Call Window.

Ticket Scanning Attendant
Next, one must present their ticket! With new ticket scanners, checking patrons in at the door has never been easier. Ticket Scanning Attendants scan the QR code on each ticket to ensure an accurate count for our attendance. Patrons have printed tickets or mobile tickets on their phone.

Concessions Attendant
An enjoyable evening of high quality entertainment is in sight! But first, a stop at the concessions stand. Concessions Attendants are in charge of making delicious buttered popcorn and coffee, as well as assisting patrons in the purchase of these and other items, such as water, pop, and cookies. Occasionally, concessions attendants may also assist the distribution of cake, appetizers, and goodie bags.

TCA Tavern Attendant (21 and over)
One may also wish to imbibe an ice cold adult beverage. The TCA Tavern offers a variety of beer and wine, including delicious selections from the local Flying Otter Winery. Tavern Attendants are in charge of taking orders, pouring drinks, taking payments, making change, and keeping the selections stocked.

Usher
With ticket, concessions, and drinks in hand, finding one’s seat is the final step. Volunteer ushers are in charge of handing out playbills and assisting patrons to their seats. Ushers may also be called upon to run a sales table for performers’ merchandise. The Ushers are the eyes and ears of the TCA, working closely with the Head Usher and Box Office Manager, reporting any issues during the event.

Enjoy the show! If any seats are unsold, TCA Volunteers are welcome to join patrons in the theater and relish in the arts performance on the TCA stage. Volunteering at the theater is a fantastic way to be part of our great community. It is perfect for students looking for volunteer hours, young professionals, and retirees. For more information, reach out to us in person at 400 N. Maumee St. in Tecumseh, online at www.TheTCA.org, or by phone at 517.423.6617.

CONTACT THE BOX OFFICE FOR MORE INFO

Sweet Sounds and Sweet Treats!

8/9/2018

Tecumseh Center for the Arts closes out their TCA Summer Series with a performance by Ear Candy and free ice-cream social on Saturday, August 25.

Providing sweet sounds for every occasion, the members of Ear Candy are local performers from Lenawee County who met while performing on stage at the Croswell Opera House. Ear Candy consists of vocalists Joyce Collins, Margaret Hyre, and Stephanie Jass from Tecumseh and accompanist Laura Morris from Adrian. The ladies sing in 3-part harmony, performing popular American music from the 1950’s and 60’s.

Enjoy sweet sounds and sweet treats with a free ice cream social at intermission.

Don’t miss your chance to celebrate the summer months with the TCA while experiencing amazing talent in a cool atmosphere. The lobby opens at 6:00 pm with a variety of refreshments including beer and wine. Tickets are $10 each.

Tickets can be purchased by phone at 517-423-6617, at the box office located at 400 N. Maumee Street, Tecumseh, Michigan, or on-line at www.thetca.org. Like the TCA on Facebook and keep up to date on the cultural entertainment and live performances scheduled this summer and beyond!

This year’s Summer Series is part of the TCA Michigan Homegrown Project and is sponsored in part by Flatlanders Sculpture Supply and Art Gallery, the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs and the National Endowment for the Arts.

BUY TICKETS HERE

Annual Business Sponsorship Campaign

7/31/2018

It's that time of year again!

Tecumseh Center for the Arts (TCA) is thrilled to be preparing for its next great season! The 2018-2019 season is just around the corner and what an amazing season it’s going to be. In addition to an exciting new line up – the TCA is also looking to update equipment including our air conditioning units and boiler system, the theater's sound and light control boards, and repairing the stained glass window in the TCA lobby just in time for the new season.

Last year’s season broke many records. We had the highest number of season ticket holders in a decade, an increased number of patrons overall and an increase in sponsorships. We also had more shows, more renters, and increased community support.

To help the theater move forward year after year, we need the support of local businesses. The TCA brought in over 20,000 people to Tecumseh last year. Our website traffic increased by 64%, compared to just one year ago! Patrons traveled from 32 Michigan counties and 13 states to attend TCA events last season. And we’re not done yet!

We want to continue highlighting business sponsors in our playbills, in our lobby, through posters and advertising and social media channels. New this yea, the TCA is giving Business Sponsors the opportunity to have their logo printed on show tickets and their logo or message included in our pre and post event emails. Just think of the possibilities to remind patrons about their upcoming show and encourage them to grab a bite to eat at one of our local restaurants before or after the event.

To say exciting things are happening would be an understatement. The TCA staff and volunteers have been hard at work to make all these things a reality. However, we cannot accomplish all our goals without the financial support of local businesses and donors. To keep the theater thriving and moving forward, we have set a couple of hefty goals this year and we’re looking for support from local businesses to help us reach our sponsorship goal of $18,000.

The money raised from Business Sponsorships help us book amazing talent through our National Touring Season. Your business sponsorship will help us reach our goals this season and in turn, we will gladly promote your business to the thousands of people that visit the theater each year. I hope you'll consider partnering with us, so we can continue to bring high caliber shows to the community.

For more information, please click on the links below or contact Director Kelly Jo Gilmore!

Sponsorship Packet

Join Our Student Tech Corps!

7/25/2018

Summertime is a wonderful opportunity for us here at the Tecumseh Center for the Arts (TCA) to regroup and prepare for the upcoming season of shows. From the local and regional performances and events we host, to the national and international touring shows passing through, audiences far and wide have only to purchase a ticket to participate.

But have you ever wondered what was involved in getting that event to the stage, what goes on behind the scenes? Well, there are several things, as it turns out, that are required to produce what you see on stage, and today, I will introduce you to one of those. It is quite likely an aspect of each presentation that you may have never noticed. (And that’s a good thing!)

For more than 30 years, the TCA has been a place of education, both onstage and behind the scenes. Our staff has taught students (and adults as well) about the craft of live performance and the various aspects of bringing a show to life. To that end, we created the Student Technical Corps.

Though informal at first, TCA’s Tech Corps program has always been a part of who we are. The Corps, which is well into its second decade officially, has seen more than 140 middle and high school students participate. We have also included introductory, hands-on opportunities for hundreds of Summer Elementary, Middle, and High School Drama Camp students over the last 5 years, and recently completed our second year of a stage technician only class. These first-time tech students, Grades 6-11 work with the TCA staff to provide technical support for the culminating shows at the end of each session of Drama Camp.

In addition, we employ 8-12 high school-aged students throughout the year to provide tech services for every show that is put onstage. There are ongoing workshops throughout the year to train new students on the technical aspects of theatre. They receive hands-on time with the lighting control board and lighting instruments, the sound control board and audio equipment, as well as all of the backstage crew positions. New “techies” also job-shadow the older tech students and our adult staff during live performances to gain more experience, and most are assigned to run the lighting or sound board for a basic show within a short period of time From something as “simple” as a movie or business meeting requiring one or two people, to the more complicated shows, such as The Nutcracker Ballet, which requires 10 or more people, we are there, behind the scenes, helping to bring the event to life for our patrons.

Through the TCA’s tech program, students have had not only worked with community members on local and regional productions, such as Tecumseh Youth Theatre, Tecumseh Pops and Community Chorus, TCA Big Band & VocalAires, Tecumseh Players, and Tecumseh Public Schools’ events, but have also had the opportunity to learn about the world of live professional productions, working with a wonderfully diverse group of artists including Davy Jones, Dan Seals, The Irish Rovers, Feld Ballet NY, The Acting Company, The National Theatre of the Deaf, Famous People Players, Lightwire, Gary Puckett, Second City, Capitol Steps, comedians Ben Bailey and Godfrey, Broadway and film star Franc D’Ambrosio, Meadowbrook Theatre, The Toledo Symphony, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, and the Glenn Miller, Count Basie, Tommy Dorsey, Jimmy Dorsey, Cab Calloway, and Guy Lombardo Orchestras, just to name a few.

For most of our student techs, this introduction and training into the world of live performance is the first “real” job they will have. We are honored to have been the starting point for many students who continued using their skills beyond high school, and for several that have entered careers in the industry. Former students have worked across the United States, Canada, Europe, South America, and East Asia, with such companies as Disney on Ice, ETC Lighting Controls (who provided lighting expertise for events like the Olympics in Vancouver and London), Washington, DC’s Shakespeare Theatre Company, Chicago’s Goodman Theatre, Michigan State University, The University of Michigan, Bowling Green University, Cobo Hall, Comerica Park, and many, many more. All had their start at the Tecumseh Civic Auditorium/Tecumseh Center for the Arts and are making a living in the entertainment industry today.

Regardless of their future careers, Student Tech Corps members learn teamwork, discipline, cooperation, and focus - all important qualities that will last a life-time.

Currently, Tecumseh Center for the Arts is looking to grow our Student Tech Corps program for the 2018-2019 season. We are looking for students ages 14-18 who are interested in learning about the technical side of theater. If you know of a high school student who may be interested in joining our ranks, please contact Karen Bunch and let’s talk!

EMAIL KAREN BUNCH FOR MORE INFORMATION

What a Year it was!

7/2/2018

The 2017-18 Season has come to a close and what an amazing year it was! Tecumseh Center for the Arts enjoyed sold out shows, new renters and improved processes and procedures. However, we could not have accomplished our goals if it wweren't for our loyal patrons, partner organizations/renters, business sponsors, volunteer ushers, the City of Tecumseh, and our many donors and supporters.

Thank you to everyone who helped make our 2017-18 season one to remember!

A new roof over the lobby and auditorium
An updated marquee
Baby changing tables in the restrooms
New ticketing system and scanners
The launch of the New Tech Camp
New Renters including Art Bra, Tecumseh Band Aide, Comedian Dustin Burwell, UAW Local 3000 and a wedding.
Increased collaboration with Tecumseh Public Schools with more movies, concerts, and BGSU Children’s Opera
Increased number of season tickets
Increased number of online credit card sales
An improved process for implementing online pre-sales
Online drama camp registration
National Touring Season featuring Matt Beilis, The Second City, Dueling Pianos, John King and Mike Super.
New/Returning Special Events including: WTCA Radio Show, Nutcracker Ballet, The Kentucky Derby Fundraising Gala and TCA Summer Series

We said good-bye to some of our TCA family members including:

Assistant Tech Director Ross Travis
Graduating Student Tech Corp members: Mollie Cardella, Emily Carrier, Alex Lammers, Maryssa McNamara, and Fiona Michaelson.

But we also welcomed new members to our TCA family including:

Student Tech Corp member Melanie McNamara
Student Tech Corp member Megan Donovan
Student Intern Alison Carpenter

To everyone who came through our doors last season, who supported us and volunteered your time - thank you!

Ann Arbor Musician - Mike Vial

6/6/2018

Tecumseh Center for the Arts (TCA) is welcoming Ann Arbor musician Mike Vial to the stage to launch our TCA Summer Series on Saturday, June 23 at 7 pm.

Singer, songwriter, and guitarist Mike Vial kicks off the TCA Summer Series with his own brand of folk, pop, caffeine-driven music, with elements of jazz and rock. Vial hails from Ann Arbor and his music is heavily influenced by his connection to family and his passion for teaching. Vial hopes the music will inspire us to do more for those in need. After one listen to his music, the world will be bigger, and brighter. Mike Vial’s concert is sponsored by Hacker Jewelers, Designers and Goldsmiths.

Don’t miss your chance to celebrate the summer months with the TCA while experiencing amazing talent in a cool atmosphere. The lobby opens at 6:00 pm with a variety of refreshments including beer and wine. Tickets are $10 each or you can buy tickets for all three TCA Summer Series shows for just $25; a $5 savings.

Tickets can be purchased by phone at 517-423-6617, at the box office located at 400 N. Maumee Street, Tecumseh, Michigan, or on-line at www.thetca.org. Like the TCA on Facebook and keep up to date on the cultural entertainment and live performances scheduled this summer and beyond!

This year’s TCA Summer Series is part of the TCA Michigan Homegrown Project and sponsored in part by Flatlanders Sculpture Supply and Art Gallery, the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs and the National Endowment for the Arts.

Three Shows for $25

6/1/2018

Tecumseh Center for the Arts (TCA) brings Pure Michigan to its stage this summer with their recently rebranded TCA Summer Series scheduled for the fourth Saturday of June, July, and August at 7:00 PM.

On June 23 singer, songwriter, and guitarist MIKE VIAL kicks off the TCA Summer Series with his own brand of folk, pop, caffeine-driven music, with elements of jazz and rock. Vial hails from Ann Arbor and his music is heavily influenced by his connection to family and his passion for teaching. Vial hopes the music will inspire us to do more for those in need. After one listen to his music, the world will be bigger, and brighter. Mike Vial’s concert is sponsored by Hacker Jewelers, Designers and Goldsmiths.

The second performance in the TCA Summer Series features another example of Pure Michigan entertainment with MATCHLESS GRACE on July 28. Singing has always been a family affair for Matchless Grace. Comprised of vocalists Danny and Lisa Daniels and their daughter Amanda McDaniel, the trio comes from Monroe, Michigan, sharing the Matchless Grace of Jesus Christ through song. Join us for an evening of Country infused Southern Gospel music, requested by our patrons!

Closing out the TCA Summer Series on August 25 is a local favorite -- EAR CANDY. Providing sweet sounds for every occasion, the members of Ear Candy met while performing on stage at the Croswell Opera House. Ear Candy consists of vocalists Joyce Cameron, Margaret Hyre, and Stephanie Jass from Tecumseh and accompanist Laura Morris from Adrian. The ladies sing in 3-part harmony, performing popular American music from the 1950’s and 60’s. Enjoy sweet sounds and sweet treats, as the TCA will be providing a free ice cream social at intermission.

Come experience hot Pure Michigan talent in a cool atmosphere during the TCA Summer Series. The TCA lobby lounge opens at 6:00 pm with a variety of refreshments including beer and wine. Tickets are $10 each or you can buy tickets for all three shows for just $25; a $5 savings.

Tickets can be purchased by phone at 517-423-6617, at the box office located at 400 N. Maumee Street, Tecumseh, Michigan, or on-line at www.thetca.org. Like the TCA on Facebook and keep up to date on the cultural entertainment and live performances scheduled this summer and beyond!

This year's TCA Summer Series is part of the TCA Michigan Homegrown Project and is sponsored in part by Flatlanders Sculpture Supply and Art Galleries, the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs (MCACA), and the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA).

PURCHASE TICKETS HERE

Drama Camp at the TCA

5/16/2018

Tecumseh Youth Theatre (TYT) and Tecumseh Center for the Arts (TCA) are partnering together to host week long drama camp sessions for elementary and middle school students as well as a three-day Tech camp for ages 12-18.

Elementary Camp is geared for students entering 2nd - 4th grades in the fall. The camp will take place July 9-13 from 9:00 am – 4:00 pm, Monday-Friday. The youngest of our performers will learn all about live theater from on stage performances to behind the scenes. This camp will provide students the opportunity to perform live on stage or work behind the scenes with a final performance on Friday evening at 7 pm. The cost is $120 per student and $100 for each additional student in the same family. Youth attending camp should bring their sack lunch each day.

Middle School Camp is set for students entering 5th-8th grades for July 16-20 from 9:00 am – 4:00 pm, Monday-Friday. As middle school students, this camp will provide more hands-on training and instruction on what it takes to put on a live performance. Attendees will learn music, dance, and acting as well as set construction and technical support. A final performance will conclude with a show on Friday evening at 7 pm. The cost is $120 per student and $100 for each additional student in the same family. Youth attending camp should bring their sack lunch each day.

Tech Camp returns this year and is available for students ages 12-18. Tech Camp will run July 11-13 from 9:00 am – 4:00 pm, Wednesday-Friday. Tech Camp will include hands-on training with lighting and sound while learning how to use the TCA Sound and Light Boards. Youth involved with Tech Camp will be responsible for running the show for the Elementary Camp on Friday night. The cost is $60 per student and $40 for each additional student in the same family.

Space is limited, so register as soon as possible! Registration forms can be printed from the website or picked up at the TCA Box Office, Tuesday-Friday from 12-5:00 pm. All camp materials will be provided by TCA/TYT. For more information, visit TCA’s website at www.thetca.org.

REGISTER ONLINE

Voices of Swing | May 20 | $10

5/11/2018

Spring is here and so is the TCA Big Band & VocalAires’ Spring Concert, “Voices of Swing.” Join us at the Tecumseh Center for the Arts on Sunday, May 20 at 4 pm when we celebrate music from the Golden Age of Big Band.

Guests will hear songs that were made famous by vocalists such as Ella Fitzgerald, Rosemary Clooney, Anita O’Day, Bobby Darrin, and others. Many of these featured artists sang with notable Big Bands, led by greats, Gene Krupa, Harry James, Woody Herman, Glenn Miller, and Stan Kenton.

The TCA Big Band & VocalAires’ lineup includes vocal tunes But Not for Me, How About You, I’ve Grown Accustomed to Her Face, You Got a Friend in Me, A Little Bit South of North Carolina, Accentuate the Positive, Falling in Love with Love, Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea, Stormy Weather, Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe, and Lullaby of Broadway, as well as instrumentals including Along Came Betty, Moten Swing, and After You’ve Gone. The music dates from 1930’s through the present, and includes tunes from big bands, Broadway, and film.

“Voices of Swing” will take place on Sunday, May 20 at 4 p.m. Tickets are $10 each and can be purchased online at www.TheTCA.org, by phone at 517.423.6617, or at the Box Office located at 400 N. Maumee Street in Tecumseh.

This event is part of the TCA Michigan Homegrown Project. The project is sponsored in part by the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs and the National Endowment for the Arts.

BUY TICKETS HERE