ALPENA—Thunder Bay Theatre has become a member of Theatre Communications Group (TGC) , a non-profit service organization dedicated to nurturing, strengthening and promoting professional non-profit theater in the United States. TCG is also the parent organization for American Theatre Magazine, the nation’s only general-circulation magazine devoted to theater. Published ten times a year, the magazine now has an estimated readership of 50,000, mostly within the theater profession.

“This is something that we hope will continue to put what we do and how we do it on the map,” says artistic director Jeffrey Mindock. “People are no longer just coming to the only professional year-round theater in Northeast Michigan, but also one of just four TCG theatres in the entire state.” Thunder Bay Theater joins Detroit Repertory Theatre, Meadow Brook Theatre, and Williamston Theatre in representing Michigan with TCG.

Thunder Bay Theatre had to complete an application process that showed its commitment to the organizations community and employees. The benefits are many, but most notably include national recognition, increased funding opportunities, and exclusive accreditation for the organization. Thunder Bay Theatre is already in the preliminary process of becoming a Blue Star Theatre. ‘Blue Star Theatres’ is a collaboration between Theatre Communications Group and Blue Star Families. Thunder Bay Theatre already has exclusive discounts for active military members, but now has the opportunity to develop more incentives for veterans and their families to enjoy live theater in Alpena.

Thunder Bay Theatre’s mission states: Thunder Bay Theatre, Inc. is a year-round non-profit theater committed to providing consistent, high-quality productions and educational opportunities utilizing a professional core company, augmented with community talent. Thunder Bay Theatre is in the heart of downtown Alpena.