ALPENA — Based on Governor Whitmer’s stay at home executive orders, and in an effort to minimize the risk of exposure and impede the spread of the coronavirus within our communities, Thunder Bay Theatre has modified its 2020 schedule, resulting in cancellations and postponements of several shows and events.

TBT will remain closed for April and May and will cancel its first summer season show, “She Loves Me,” which was slated to open on June 24.

​”The Wizard of Oz,” a children’s production, will run in its place, now opening on June 24. The Theatre plans to carry on with the rest of its summer season as scheduled, with “Ring of Fire,” opening July 15, a free concert in the park performance on Aug. 1, and “Chicago,” opening Aug. 5.

“At this point we have to be flexible with the season and make decisions month-to-month depending on recommendations from the state and federal government,” Thunder Bay Theatre Artistic Director Lucas Moquin explained. “The safety and well-being of our community is our number one priority right now and we are hopeful we can continue our 2020 season with the plan we have created, but of course we will make additional modifications if needed.”

Annual fundraising events, such as the Break a Leg 5K, which was originally scheduled for the first weekend in May, is being postponed until a new date can be coordinated.

More information on Thunder Bay Theatre and its 2020 season can be found online at thunderbaytheatre.com.

TBT is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation, and is the only year-round professional theatre in Northern Michigan. TBT provides a very valuable theatre opportunity to many young people who are actively pursuing a career on stage. It also creates wonderful learning experiences for local performers and volunteers who get a chance to work closely with the resident professional company. In addition to its many stage productions, TBT has drama programs for area youth and develops traveling programs for schools throughout Northeast Michigan.