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A Dream for a Community Arts Center in Door County
Third Avenue Playhouse was first conceived in the late 1990s, just as Sturgeon Bay was beginning to blossom. At the same time, a new cinema complex on the outskirts of town had resulted in the closing of the historic Donna Theater. The heart of Sturgeon Bay's downtown district had lost its major evening attraction for both locals and visitors. Meanwhile, talented youngsters and adults were acting and making music wherever kind-hearted supporters of the arts would host them. On a peninsula with a reputation for its vibrant performing arts, these local performers were homeless. |
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| People from the arts, business and civic communities quickly found themselves gathering for meetings to discuss turning the Donna into a performing arts center. An initial feasibility study showed a high degree of enthusiasm for the project, with over 70% of respondents in support. Business owners felt that TAP would fit in well with long-range development plans for Sturgeon Bay. | ![]() |
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| In addition to musical and theatrical performances, Third Avenue Playhouse also offers classes and workshops throughout the year and is also available as a venue for civic and community organizations. Community leaders welcomed the opportunity for local young people to have an artistic outlet. Respected members of the arts community like Fred Alley (American Folklore Theatre), Paul Sills (Second City & Story Theater) and Todd Schmidt and Bob Thompson (Peninsula Players Theatre) felt that TAP's unique mission would supplement the existing performing arts offerings in Door County.
In October of 2000, Third Avenue Playhouse opened its doors under the direction of two well-known and respected names in Door County theater: Amy McKenzie and James Kaplan. Now in its 10th season, TAP has grown into a valuable community resource, offering affordable quality entertainment. In addition to musical and theatrical performances, we offer classes and workshops and are available as a venue for civic and community organizations. |
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| TAP is a proud member of Arts Wisconsin, the Peninsula Arts Association, the Peninsula Arts & Humanities Alliance, the Door County Non-Profits, the American Association of Community Theatre and is a recipient of the Door County Visitor Bureau's 2005 Pride in Place award. | ||||||||||||||
| 239 North Third Avenue in downtown Sturgeon Bay | ||||||||||||||
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Phone: 920-743-1760
Box Office Hours: 10 AM 3 PM Monday - Friday or at Dancing Bear on Third Ave. & Java on Jefferson magic@thirdavenueplayhouse.com |
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