Grosse Pointe Theatre

Grosse Pointe Theatre, founded in 1947 by Russel Werneken, has been a cornerstone of community theater in Southeast Michigan. Initially started with 30 members and holding its first meeting at the Alger House, the organization has grown to over 300 members today. The theater's inaugural production, "Clarence," was performed in 1948. Over the years, GPT has produced 336 main stage shows, including virtual performances during the COVID-19 pandemic. The theater group has a longstanding tradition of community engagement, including its Youth on Stage program, which began in 2000 to educate children and teens in theater arts. GPT also offers scholarships to high school students pursuing performing arts education. The organization has performed at various venues, most notably the Fries Auditorium at the Grosse Pointe War Memorial for nearly 55 years. GPT's new home will be the A. Paul and Carol C. Schaap Center for the Performing Arts, set to open in 2024. The theater remains dedicated to its mission of connecting, creating, and inspiring communities through theater.