Under the Dome E-News by: MCCT, Inc.

"Whether it's your first time as a tourist in Marshall or your first time back in years, Marshall is your ticket to the arts, entertainment, and fun people," states Executive Director, Kathie Boyer. If your searching for the perfect locale for your next event, one that both delivers and excites, look no further; The Franke Center for the Arts has what it takes not only to deliver great atmosphere, but one that inspires as well. The Franke Center is a centerpiece of the Historic Landmark District, and a premier location for your special event. The Franke Center has the perfect combination of elegance, and rich history. Available for benefit performances, recitals, business functions, award presentations, and all special occasions, the Franke Center offers a warm and inviting atmosphere. The Franke Center also offers some of the liveliest dinner theater and art experiences Marshall has to offer.

Celebrating their 6th season, the Franke Center’s primary goal is to promote the arts and the power for community building and enhancement, providing artistic, cultural, educational, social, and entertainment opportunities of the highest quality to enrich the lives of all within its reach.

Since it’s opening in 2001, the Franke Center has attracted more than 400,000 visitors through its performing and visual arts presentations and education programs. "The Franke Center has a three-part purpose," states Boyer, "It is a place where people can come for entertainment - to enjoy a concert or a Marshall Civic Players show, and of equal importance, The Franke Center has become a focal point for downtown Marshall and The Franke Center for the Arts, serves as a community center for our cities service groups." By combining these three elements: the performing arts, city enhancement, and a community center, citizens benefit collectively more so than if they operated separately. The Franke Center’s revitalizing the arts in Marshall and Calhoun County was one of the goals the Marshall Civic Center Trust had in mind when they undertook the bold step of creating the Franke Center for the Arts. "It's been nearly 6 years since our vision for a more vital and prosperous center to take shape, and the results have more than manifested themselves," said Kathy Tarr, President of the MCCT. The Franke Center draws thousands of patrons to Marshall’s downtown annually and we wish to thank all our supporters.

The Franke Center is a registered non-profit Organization with the State of Michigan’s Department of Charitable Organizations. Donations to the Franke Center, including memorials and donations to our endowment fund, are tax deductible. Each year these patron gifts and program-sponsor funds are used to cover the costs associated with the high-caliber shows we bring to the Franke Center. Annual donor support will continue to be important to keeping the quality of events at a high caliber and affordable ticket prices the Franke Center is known for.

The Franke Auditorium is a 260-seat theater adorned with magnificent stained glass windows and ceiling dome, rich velvety drapes, comfortable seating on both the main level and balcony and outstanding acoustics and state-of-the-art sound system. Adjacent to the theater is the Collins Fireside Room, a beautifully decorated 400 square foot room and home to our Steinway Grand Piano. The Collins Fireside Room also serves as a private-meeting space for smaller groups.

The Down-Stage Banquet and Community Room has an cozy atmosphere for small or large gatherings. A buffet serving room with a fireplace adds warmth and charm and is perfect for special lunch, dinner or business events. The Down-Stage Room can be used for standing-room receptions holding up to 250 guests or as a dinner room accommodating up to 120 at round tables with a full-service kitchen. This room includes a sound system and small stage that is perfect for your business or private needs and offers outstanding space for artist to display their art.

The Conference Room holds a large conference-style table and comfortable rolling chairs with arms and includes a kitchenette, and dressing room equipped with Hollywood style mirrors and make-up lights. Audiovisual presentation equipment is available for your business needs.

As a community art center, The Franke largely depends on the commitment and dedication of its many volunteers, who donate their time and talent on stage and behind the scenes from actors and stage crew to house ushers and members of our board. This blend of staff and community volunteers allow the Franke Center to pursue its goal of providing enjoyable, affordable entertainment. Our volunteers are the greatest assets of the Franke Center. The Franke Fans are the community volunteers that usher our many performances, serve concessions at events, help out in the office, help maintain our historical archives, and sell event tickets. They ensure that all Franke guests are taken care of from the moment they enter our doors.

We are always seeking new faces to join our ranks. Ushering gives you and your friends the opportunity to see great concerts! It's a chance to meet other people interested in the arts, and your contribution of time helps a beautiful, historic theater keep its doors open!

So, if your looking for something to do or a great show to attend, The Franke Center is the place for you. You’re sure to leave with a smile on your face.
Check us out on the web at www.frankecenterforthearts.org or call us at 269-781-0001.