Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Community Theatre Productions in Escanaba, MI
Players de Noc is a 100% volunteer-driven community theatre organization based in Escanaba, Michigan, dedicated to creating high-quality theatrical experiences that entertain, enrich, and educate audiences of all ages. Affiliated with the William Bonifas Fine Arts Center, we have been a cornerstone of local arts since 1964, producing plays, musicals, and special events that showcase the talents of our diverse volunteer cast and crew. Our commitment to artistic excellence has been recognized through numerous awards at regional and national community theatre festivals, including AACTFest and the Community Theatre Association of Michigan. We prioritize accessibility and inclusivity, offering opportunities for individuals of all ages and experience levels to participate in every aspect of theatre production, from acting to technical roles.Our productions span classic plays, contemporary works, and family-friendly musicals, reflecting our mission to serve as a cultural hub for the Upper Peninsula community. Through educational initiatives, workshops, and collaborative projects, we foster artistic growth and community engagement, ensuring theatre remains a vibrant part of local life. Our dedicated board of directors and volunteers work tirelessly to maintain high production standards while preserving the democratization of art, ensuring everyone can participate in and enjoy the performing arts.
Services
Theatre productions
Audition workshops
Community events
Educational programs
Seasonal shows
Details
- Year established: 1964
Highlights and features
- We offer 60+ years of volunteer-driven theatrical excellence in the Upper Peninsula.
- Our productions have earned national recognition at AACTFest competitions.
- We provide hands-on theatre opportunities for all ages and experience levels.
- Our board includes multi-generational theatre professionals with decades of local expertise.
- We combine educational initiatives with professional-grade technical production standards.
Associations and certifications
- AACT
- Community Theatre Association of Michigan
What people say
Award-winning productions
Family-friendly shows
Talented volunteers
Community engagement
Historic venue
Services
Theatre productions
Players de Noc produces professional-grade theatrical performances including dramas, comedies, and musicals. Our volunteer cast and crew deliver high-quality productions at the William Bonifas Fine Arts Center. We stage six main productions annually, ranging from classic plays to contemporary works, serving audiences across Michigan's Upper Peninsula.
Audition workshops
We offer open auditions and training programs for community members seeking theatre experience. Participants gain skills in acting, stagecraft, and technical production under experienced mentors. Our workshops prepare performers of all ages for roles in mainstage productions and special events.
Community events
The organization hosts seasonal events like 'Playing Dead' cemetery walks and holiday celebrations. These programs engage local audiences through interactive theatrical experiences. Events often feature collaborations with regional artists and cultural institutions.
Educational programs
We provide theatre education through workshops, school partnerships, and hands-on production opportunities. Programs focus on acting techniques, technical theatre skills, and stagecraft fundamentals. Our initiatives aim to develop future theatre professionals and arts enthusiasts.
Seasonal shows
Special seasonal productions include holiday musicals and radio plays performed at historic venues. These shows feature family-friendly content and community participation. Productions like 'The Best Christmas Pageant Ever' have become annual traditions for local audiences.
People
Jesse Traub
President
Jesse Traub, a recent Escanaba transplant, has been active in local theatre since 2019. He teaches at Bay College and co-owns Canterbury Book Store. His belief in accessible art drives his leadership at Players de Noc.
Lynn Soderberg
Vice-President
Lynn Soderberg, a 50-year theatre veteran, taught drama at Escanaba High School for 30 years. She has directed over 50 productions and remains committed to youth theatre education and community engagement.
Katherine LeDuc
Secretary
Katherine LeDuc has been with Players de Noc for 45 years, serving in multiple roles including director and stage manager. A lifelong Escanaba resident, she combines her legal expertise with theatre passion as board secretary.
Christine Madalinski
Treasurer
Christine Madalinski brings financial expertise and stage experience to her role as treasurer. Active in both church and community theatre, she has performed in multiple productions while managing financial operations.
Jamie Peterson
Technical Supervisor
Jamie Peterson oversees technical production and set design at Players de Noc. A multi-award-winning designer, he combines technical expertise with educational outreach, mentoring local robotics teams and theatre technicians.
Questions
How can I participate in Players de Noc productions?
Auditions are open to all ages and experience levels. Check our website for upcoming audition dates and sign up for email alerts about volunteer opportunities.
What types of productions do you stage?
We produce six mainstage shows annually, including dramas, comedies, musicals, and special holiday events. Recent seasons featured 'The Producers' and 'It's a Wonderful Life' radio play.
Are your shows appropriate for all ages?
Most productions are family-friendly, with special children's events and educational programs. Check individual show descriptions for specific content advisories.
How long has Players de Noc been operating?
We've been producing theatre in Escanaba since 1964, making us one of the region's longest-running community theatre organizations.
Do you offer group ticket discounts?
Group discounts are available for select performances. Contact our box office directly at 906-553-9778 for current pricing and availability.
Can I donate to support your programs?
Yes! We accept donations through our website and offer sponsorship opportunities for businesses. Contributions support our educational initiatives and production costs.
Reviews (2)
Esky Rocks
Oct 20, 2019
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Love the amazing people and talented individuals whom I've shared my creative portfolio with, great people, great atmosphere!
Cmt
Jul 11, 2019
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Play Gypsy was awesome. One of the best I've ever seen players de noc do. Lynn as gypsy was fantastic! Can't wait for the next play.