"I believe that in a great city, or even in a small city or a village, a great theater is the outward and visible sign of an inward and probable culture." --- Sir Laurence Olivier
Born of countless endowments and preserved through many, many more, this tiny beacon of culture and the finer arts has born witness over the years to the rise of many generations of aspiring, amateur, and professional actors. I, myself, once took to the stage before a full house, and let me be the first (but hopefully not the last!) to say that beneath the lights and under the gaze of your audience, there is no greater thrill than to present your learned story with all of the passion and excitement that you have been saving up to that point!
I've also sat in the seats of this wonderful ninety-three year old theater and taken in several shows - the seating, stage, balcony, music pit...all of it is lovingly preserved by amazing volunteers and donors, giving it an antiquated feel that you simply cannot replicate with modern materials. This is the genuine theater experience, and White Lake has it right under their noses.
Sadly, there exists no more under-appreciated landmark in all of the White Lake area than the Howmet Playhouse. Donations are constantly being collected, but it seems as though repairs are slow in coming on some occassions. While the money coming in to the Playhouse have been enough to keep it going, it is nothing short of a crime that there exists no established subsidies for its continual maintenance and care.
I'm not sure if the White Lake Chamber of Commerce realizes this or not, but looking at the area from the outside, there is VERY little to keep people's attention in regard to tourism. Treasures like the Howmet are the lifeblood of the tourism trade, and more effort should be made in utilizing the playhouse in promoting unique performances that tell the story of the White Lake area. Someone in an official capacity really needs to stand up and take this wonderful building more seriously, realizing its importance in White Lake's existence.
If you're in the area, I urge you to take in a show! It's more than just a nostalgic glimpse into the past for long-time residents - it's a piece of it's very history, and that history deserves respect. The Howmet is a truly entertaining venue that will transport you not only into the worlds presented on stage, but also into the past of this beautiful Michigan community. read more