Encore Musical Theatre Plans Two-Night Concert Fundraiser in Dexter

As if the needed another reason to draw patrons to Dexter, members of the company's cast and crew are putting together an intimate two-night concert showcasing some of Broadway's greatest shows.

The concert will be led by Dan Cooney, the theater's co-founder, along with his wife Jessica Grove, and takes place May 5-6.

"Jessica and I have been talking about doing a concert together since we opened the Encore in 2009," Cooney explained. "It's very challenging for both of us to have a free weekend together, so we're looking forward to putting all of our energy into this concert."

Cooney and Grove are both veteran Broadway actors and will perform selections from Les Miserables, Thoroughly Modern Millie, A Little Night Music, Bonnie and Clyde: The Musical, 9 to 5: The Musical, The Wizard of Oz, as well as other shows.

"We're bringing some of the Encore's resident actors and friends on stage with us, including director Barb Cullen, who will be performing at the Encore for the first time," Cooney said.

The event will be accompanied by a silent auction, which will include a “Taste of Dexter” package, featuring specials from local Dexter restaurants; a weekend in New York and Broadway tickets; and a private performance by the Encore’s actors. The winner will also get to choose the music and have creative input into the show, which will be put on for the winner and their friends.

Proceeds from the fundraiser will be used for ongoing upgrades to the theater's interior.

"We continue to do mini projects to improve the theater exeprience for our guests," Cooney said. "One of our previous events helped raise money for a sound system and stage lights."

The concert takes place at 8 p.m. May 5 and 6 p.m. May 6.

For more information contact the Encore Musical Theatre at 734-268-6200 or visit www.theenctoretheatre.org. Tickets are $25 per person.