Friends of Theatre "Friend of the Year" and Gala Wednesday
3 views
Skip to first unread message
Jane Zussman
May 8, 2026, 2:30:11 PMMay 8
to Jane Zussman
Williamston Theatre Named 2026 Friend of the Year by Friends of Theatre at MSU
“As Williamston Theatre approaches its 20th season, this recognition honors a partnership that has helped shape and strengthen our department over many years,” said Kirk Domer, Interim Chairperson of the MSU Department of Theatre. “Through this collaboration, our department was accepted into the University Resident Theatre Association (URTA), expanding opportunities for our students through national exposure, professional training connections, and clearer career pathways. Most recently, Williamston Theatre played a key role in our 10-year URTA renewal, reaffirming the strength of our program on a national level.”
Williamston Theatre has served as a vital professional partner to the department, contributing to its growth through artistic collaboration and educational engagement. Founders and artists from the theatre have worked as instructors, directors, and performers within both the department and Summer Circle Theatre, bringing professional practice directly into the classroom and production environments.
“We are excited to be receiving this award and grateful for the special relationship we have with the MSU Department of Theatre,” said Emily Sutton Smith, Executive Director of Williamston Theatre.
In addition to its institutional contributions, Williamston Theatre has created meaningful opportunities for students through internships, mentorship, shadowing, and professional employment. These experiences have helped bridge the gap between academic training and the professional theatre world, shaping the careers of numerous MSU graduates.
“Having such a committed partner has been truly transformative for our program,” Domer added. “Williamston Theatre exemplifies what it means to be a true Friend of Theatre.”
The Friends of Theatre at MSU Board of Directors has named Williamston Theatre as its 2026 Friend of the Year, marking the first time the honor has been awarded to an organization rather than an individual. The award recognizes Williamston Theatre’s longstanding partnership with the MSU Department of Theatre and its sustained impact on faculty and students.
The announcement will be made at the Friends of Theatre Annual Gala on Wednesday, May 13. — and YOU can attend!
 | |
“As Williamston Theatre approaches its 20th season, this recognition honors a partnership that has helped shape and strengthen our department over many years,” said Kirk Domer, Interim Chairperson of the MSU Department of Theatre. “Through this collaboration, our department was accepted into the University Resident Theatre Association (URTA), expanding opportunities for our students through national exposure, professional training connections, and clearer career pathways. Most recently, Williamston Theatre played a key role in our 10-year URTA renewal, reaffirming the strength of our program on a national level.”
Williamston Theatre has served as a vital professional partner to the department, contributing to its growth through artistic collaboration and educational engagement. Founders and artists from the theatre have worked as instructors, directors, and performers within both the department and Summer Circle Theatre, bringing professional practice directly into the classroom and production environments.
“We are excited to be receiving this award and grateful for the special relationship we have with the MSU Department of Theatre,” said Emily Sutton Smith, Executive Director of Williamston Theatre.
In addition to its institutional contributions, Williamston Theatre has created meaningful opportunities for students through internships, mentorship, shadowing, and professional employment. These experiences have helped bridge the gap between academic training and the professional theatre world, shaping the careers of numerous MSU graduates.
“Having such a committed partner has been truly transformative for our program,” Domer added. “Williamston Theatre exemplifies what it means to be a true Friend of Theatre.”
Also, don’t miss Williamston’s current compelling and fun show Bad Books!
Jane Zussman
G.L.U.T. List
(Greater Lansing Ubiquitous Theatre)
cell 517-930-0932
http://www.greaterlansingtheatre.net To review past emails as they were sent, click “About the G.L.U.T.” and choose “email list” from the drop-down menu — also check out the all-theatres calendar.
“Like” us on Facebook!
Reply all
Reply to author
Forward
0 new messages