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THE ENCORE MUSICAL THEATRE COMPANY

7714 Ann Arbor Street
Dexter, MI 48130
734-268-6200

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About the Theatre

The Encore Musical Theatre Company is Southeast Michigan’s premier professional musical theatre, committed to producing high-quality musicals and live music performances that entertain, inspire, and bring communities together. Recognized by the performers’ union, Actors’ Equity Association, The Encore is a not-for-profit professional musical theatre company located in historic Dexter, Michigan. Our mission is to create the highest quality theatrical productions with an emphasis on musical theatre, utilizing both nationally and locally sourced professional artists to bring stories to life in our uniquely intimate space.

The Encore was founded in 2008 by Broadway actor Dan Cooney and local residents Anne and Paul Koch. All three shared a love for the charming “Village of Dexter” and a belief that what would make it even more vibrant was a theater. Over the past 15 years, the Encore has produced over 190 productions, concerts and other special events, including many Golden Age classics, powerful contemporary musicals, new works, and diverse concert offerings.

In our 15-year history, we have played host to many Broadway and award-winning artists including Tony Walton (Tony, Emmy and Oscar winner), Jeremy Jordan (Newsies, Smash, Supergirl), Kahil El’Zabar (legendary modern jazz multi-instrumentalist), Kathie Lee Gifford (Live! With Regis and Kathie Lee, Daytime Emmy winner), Alice Ripley (Tony Award-winning Broadway actor), John McDaniel (The Rosie O’Donnell Show, Emmy and Grammy winner), Telly Leung (Aladdin, Glee), Jessica Grové (The Wizard of Oz, Thoroughly Modern Millie), Erika Henningsen (Mean Girls), Gary Adler (Avenue Q, Alter Boyz), Aaron LaVigne (Jesus Christ Superstar), Janet Allard (Playwright, Fulbright Fellow), Niko Tsakalakos (Composer/Lyricist), Larry Gatlin (The Gatlin Brothers), Conor Ryan (Moulin Rouge), Ali Ewoldt (The Phantom of the Opera), Hugh Panaro (The Phantom of the Opera) and many others.

The Encore is home to a successful Summer Theatre Program that began in 2010, educating children ages 5-18 each summer. The popular program has grown to over 150 students yearly, and provides a nurturing and safe space for children to create, explore, make lasting friendships and build their confidence.

Thanks to a great deal of community support, The Encore continues to thrive and contribute significantly to the economic and cultural richness of Dexter and Southeast Michigan.

Upcoming Shows

Tribute: QUEEN

Tribute: QUEEN

Sep 11 – Sep 13, 2026

Get ready to rock as The Encore celebrates the legendary sound of Queen. With electrifying vocals, a powerhouse band, and all the theatrical flair you’d expect, this tribute brings iconic hits like “Bohemian Rhapsody,” “Somebody to Love,” and “We Will Rock You” to life. Bold...

SISTER ACT

SISTER ACT

Oct 8 – Oct 17, 2026

The University of Michigan at The Encore presents a feel-good musical comedy… bursting with energy, Sister Act follows a nightclub singer who unexpectedly finds herself hiding out in a convent—only to turn the choir into a powerhouse of soul and spirit. Packed with infectious...

Tribute: CROSBY, STILLS, NASH & YOUNG

Tribute: CROSBY, STILLS, NASH & YOUNG

Oct 23 – Oct 25, 2026

Rich harmonies and timeless songwriting take center stage in this tribute to Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young. Featuring songs like “Suite: Judy Blue Eyes,” “Helplessly Hoping,” and “Teach Your Children,” this concert captures the spirit of a generation with warmth, authenticity...

HOLIDAY INN

HOLIDAY INN

Nov 27 – Jan 3, 2027

Celebrate the magic of the season with Holiday Inn , a charming musical filled with timeless songs from Irving Berlin. Centered around a farmhouse that transforms with each holiday, this joyful story features romance, laughter, and classics like “White Christmas.” It’s a warm...

Tribute: MICHAEL JACKSON

Tribute: MICHAEL JACKSON

Jan 15 – Jan 17, 2027

Step into the world of the King of Pop with a high-octane tribute to Michael Jackson. From “Thriller” to “Billie Jean,” this concert delivers the moves, the music, and the magic that made him a global icon. With dynamic choreography and a live band, it’s a thrilling celebration...

THE PIRATES OF PENZANCE

THE PIRATES OF PENZANCE

Feb 18 – Mar 14, 2027

Witty, whimsical, and delightfully over-the-top, The Pirates of Penzance is a comic operetta brimming with clever wordplay and unforgettable melodies. Featuring bumbling pirates, star-crossed lovers, and a hilariously peculiar sense of duty, this Gilbert and Sullivan favorite is...

COME FROM AWAY

COME FROM AWAY

Apr 15 – May 9, 2027

Based on an extraordinary true story, Come From Away tells of 7,000 stranded passengers and the small town in Newfoundland that welcomed them in the wake of 9/11. With a soaring score and a deeply human story, this moving musical celebrates kindness, resilience, and the power of...

Tribute: SARA BAREILLES

Tribute: SARA BAREILLES

May 20 – May 23, 2027

Up close and deeply personal, this Sara Bareilles tribute transforms the Lobby Stage into an intimate evening of storytelling through song. Featuring hits like “Love Song,” “Brave,” and selections from Waitress, this concert highlights her signature blend of heartfelt lyrics...

A CHORUS LINE

A CHORUS LINE

Jun 17 – Jul 18, 2027

An intimate look behind the curtain, A Chorus Line follows a group of dancers auditioning for a Broadway show as they share their personal stories, struggles, and dreams. Featuring iconic songs and groundbreaking storytelling, this Pulitzer Prize–winning musical is a powerful...

Tribute: JIMMY BUFFETT

Tribute: JIMMY BUFFETT

Jul 23 – Jul 25, 2027

Escape to paradise with this high-spirited tribute to Jimmy Buffett. Featuring favorites like “Margaritaville” and “Cheeseburger in Paradise,” this beachy concert is all about good vibes, great music, and a little island escapism. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the ultimate summer...

Review: LINDSEY STIRLING’S DUALITY TOUR at Acrisure Amphitheater

Review: LINDSEY STIRLING’S DUALITY TOUR at Acrisure Amphitheater

by Brian Hilbrand · August 22, 2026

We were fortunate to attend the second-to-last stop on Lindsey Stirling’s Duality Tour, after her most recent album of the same name. This concert came at the right time for me personally, as I had gotten some rough news earlier in the day, that was very unexpected, and had debated attending the s…

Photos: Lindsey Stirling’s Duality Tour

Photos: Lindsey Stirling’s Duality Tour

by Brian Hilbrand · August 23, 2026

We were fortunate to attend the second-to-last stop on Lindsey Stirling’s Duality Tour, after her most recent album of the same name. The show was eye-catching and inspiring, and one of my favorite things is the theatricality. She seamlessly integrates intricate choreography, breathtaking aerial a…

Photo Review: Hank Williams, Jr. @Acrisure Amphitheater, Friday, August 14th, 2026

Photo Review: Hank Williams, Jr. @Acrisure Amphitheater, Friday, August 14th, 2026

by Brian Hilbrand · August 16, 2026

Hank Williams, Jr.'s rescheduled tour stop this past Friday at the Acrisure Amphitheater was nothing short of impressive and worth the wait from the original date, which was moved due to wildfire smoke from Canada reducing the Air quality in Michigan, and making it not good to be outside for extend…

Review: ESCAPE TO MARGARETAVILLE at Cornwell’s Turkeyville

Review: ESCAPE TO MARGARETAVILLE at Cornwell’s Turkeyville

by Brian Hilbrand · July 29, 2026

Escape to Margaretaville has been one of my bucket list shows as long as I have known they made it a musical.   I was supposed to originally see it back in 2020, when it was part of a season ticket I had to the Broadway Grand Rapids season, but ultimately it was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemi…

Review: “WEIRD AL” YANKOVIC BIGGER & WEIRDER TOUR at Acrisure Amphitheater

Review: “WEIRD AL” YANKOVIC BIGGER & WEIRDER TOUR at Acrisure Amphitheater

by Brian Hilbrand · July 9, 2026

“Weird Al” in true fashion sang a variety of spoofs from his original catalog, including hits like: “Tacky,” “Polkamania!,” 'It’s My World (and We’re All Living in It),” 'One More Minute,”“Another One Rides the Bus,” 'Amish Paradise,” 'Smells Like Nirvana,' and “Dare to B…

Review: DARIUS RUCKER'S SONGS OF SUMMER TOUR at Acrisure Amphitheater

Review: DARIUS RUCKER'S SONGS OF SUMMER TOUR at Acrisure Amphitheater

by Brian Hilbrand · June 29, 2026

I was fortunate enough to see and work a show when Darius first reintroduced himself as a Country artist at a small acoustic concert. Darius Rucker played the 107 MUS The Moose (WMUS) concert in Muskegon, Michigan, in 2013 shortly after he transitioned to country music, acting as a headliner for the…

Review: A GENTLEMAN’S GUIDE TO LOVE AND MURDER at Avon Players

Review: A GENTLEMAN’S GUIDE TO LOVE AND MURDER at Avon Players

by Emily Schenk · June 2, 2026

A production of A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder is only as strong as its many moving parts, and this cast delivered them with delicious precision. The women of the show were far more than romantic interests orbiting Monty’s schemes—they were a dazzling constellation all their own. Hosan…

Review: HAMILTON at The Fisher Theatre

Review: HAMILTON at The Fisher Theatre

by Emily Schenk · May 5, 2026

Hamilton is the room where it happens—a history remix that’s not throwing away its shot at dazzling you with rhyme, rhythm, and revolution. Founding fathers trade powdered wigs for mic drops as ambition rises faster than the tempo, and duels come with both pistols and punchlines. This production…

Review: THE LION KING at Broadway Grand Rapids

Review: THE LION KING at Broadway Grand Rapids

by Brian Hilbrand · April 21, 2026

The Lion King has been touring North America for more than 23 years, and during that time has welcomed over 25 million theatergoers, making it North America’s longest-running and most-attended Broadway tour. Having already played more than 10,000 performances in over 90 cities across North America…

Past Shows

71 total · showing 31–40

Tribute: The Mamas and the Papas

FeaturedTribute: The Mamas and the Papas

Mar 14 – Mar 17, 2024

This tribute concert will showcase an incredible lineup of talented musicians paying homage to the timeless music and harmonies that defined The Mamas & the Papas' legacy.

Tribute: Women in Jazz Starring Tammy McCann

Tribute: Women in Jazz Starring Tammy McCann

Mar 8 – Mar 9, 2024

Star jazz vocalist, Tammy McCann takes us on an unforgettable musical journey in celebration of the indelible mark left by female jazz musicians throughout history.

Into the Woods

FeaturedInto the Woods

Feb 15 – Mar 3, 2024

“Into the Woods, each time you go there’s more to learn of what you know"

Alice Ripley and John McDaniel

FeaturedAlice Ripley and John McDaniel

Jan 18

Tony Award winner, Alice Ripley, joins The Rosie O’Donnell Show’s John McDaniel for a “Cabaret at The Encore” special event.

Tribute: Paul Simon & Garfunkel

Tribute: Paul Simon & Garfunkel

Jan 11 – Jan 14, 2024

Join us for an evening filled with the greatest hits of Paul Simon, showcasing his remarkable solo career as well as the beloved classics from his time with Simon and Garfunkel.

Irving Berlin's White Christmas

Irving Berlin's White Christmas

Nov 30 – Dec 17, 2023

This holiday season discover the perfect gift for everyone on your list! With a dazzling score by Irving Berlin, featuring well-known standards including “Blue Skies,” “I Love a Piano,” “How Deep is the Ocean” and the perennial title song.

25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee

Featured25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee

Oct 19 – Oct 29, 2023

The Encore proudly welcomes the internationally acclaimed Musical Theatre Department from The University of Michigan’s School of Music, Theatre and Dance. Winner of the Tony and the Drama Desk Awards for Best Book, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee has charmed audiences...

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Tribute: Frankie Vallie and the Four Seasons

FeaturedTribute: Frankie Vallie and the Four Seasons

Sep 28 – Oct 1, 2023

Join us as we kick off our Season 15 Tribute Concert Series with the ultimate homage to Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons at The Encore Musical Theatre Company. Sponsored by Dexter's Pub

Little Shop of Horrors

FeaturedLittle Shop of Horrors

Sep 7 – Sep 24, 2023

THE ENCORE: Southeast Michigan's Premier Professional Musical Theatre Company proudly presents LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS. Little Shop of Horrors is a deviously delicious Broadway and Hollywood sci-fi smash musical that has devoured the hearts of theatre goers for over 30 years...

John McDaniel and Jessica Grové

John McDaniel and Jessica Grové

Jun 30

renowned artists John McDaniel and Jessica Grové take the stage for a mesmerizing one-night-only cabaret performance. Audiences can expect an enchanting evening of music, showcasing the immense talent and artistry of these two extraordinary performers. John McDaniel, an...

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Flint Institute of Music (8/31-9/02)
Les Miserables in Michigan Les Miserables
Grosse Pointe Theatre (9/18-10/11)
COME FROM AWAY in Michigan COME FROM AWAY
THE ENCORE MUSICAL THEATRE COMPANY (4/15-5/09)
My Chemical Romance & Iggy Pop in Michigan My Chemical Romance & Iggy Pop
Comerica Park (10/21-10/21)
The Wiz in Michigan The Wiz
Flint Institute of Music (6/06-6/06)
Cabaret in Michigan Cabaret
Gilmore Theatre Complex (3/19-4/04)
Men's Glee Club Spring Concert in Michigan Men's Glee Club Spring Concert
Hill Auditorium (4/17-4/17)
SIX in Michigan SIX
DeVos Performance Hall (1/12-1/17)
December Dance Concert in Michigan December Dance Concert
The Hilberry Gateway (12/10-12/13)
August Wilson's Ma Rainey's Black Bottom  in Michigan August Wilson's Ma Rainey's Black Bottom
FIM Flint Repertory Theatre (9/18-10/04)