Grant would strengthen arts opportunities at Purple Rose Theatre in Chelsea

State Rep. Kathy Schmaltz is advocating for a $30,000 grant through the state budget process to support youth-access programs at the Purple Rose Theatre Company in Chelsea.

If approved, the funding would support two initiatives designed to make live theater more accessible to younger audiences: College Night and the 30 Under $30 program.

“Arts are incredibly important for our young people,” Schmaltz said. “I attended an event at the Purple Rose and heard from a young man who said the theater had saved his life. That really affected me. The arts are often where people can finally find a place they belong, especially if they have never found that sense of belonging anywhere else. These programs help remove financial barriers and open the door for more young people to experience live theater and all it has to offer.”

The College Night program provides subsidized tickets and an immersive educational experience for college students, including opportunities to engage directly with theater professionals. The 30 Under $30 program offers discounted tickets to young professionals, helping ensure affordability for those just entering the workforce.

Schmaltz recently welcomed Rob Caplis, director of donor engagement for the theater, to testify with her before a House budget subcommittee in support of the funding request.

“Many of our ticket buyers are senior citizens. Of the 40,000 guests we welcome each year in Chelsea, about 20,000 of them are senior citizens,” Caplis said. “So, we’re looking at ways we can cultivate younger theater-goers, but also to enrich the educational experience for college students and provide an entertaining and creative outlet for Michigan’s workforce.”

Schmaltz emphasized that the investment would not only expand access to the arts but also support the local economy.

“The Purple Rose is a major economic driver for the Chelsea community,” Schmaltz said. “Bringing in younger audiences supports local businesses, strengthens our community, and keeps more people engaged in and connected to our area.”

The proposed grant remains under consideration as part of ongoing state budget negotiations.