Great Lakes Center for the Arts — Attraction in Petoskey

Went to recent screening for Fellowship of the Ring, and had planned to come back for rest of trilogy. The building is beautiful, and the staff super friendly and helpful. Programs are diverse and I think wonderfully balanced--there's a lot to be excited about on that front. At the same time, certain things might need to round out more as they settle in. Run-time advertised for Fellowship was three hours, but audience was not apprised beforehand this was extended edition, meaning total in-seat time was much more like 3.5 hrs. Not a big deal if there is as an intermission, or if folks can bring in concessions (or if we are just told in advance and can plan accordingly). But I was told no concessions in theater, and with no break, that was a mighty long stretch to sit. More so given that seating is not particularly comfortable (hard wood with seat cushions; no ability to lean them back). My friend and I had to shake out stiff knees and hips after. Finally, I totally appreciate the scale and grandeur of the building, and that those investments need to be recouped, but $10, more than the cost of first run night show at the local theater, for a movie almost 20 years old seemed a bit steep. I might go back for another event, but didn't end up returning this time--not even...

The concert hall looks like it was designed by the same architect that designed DeVos Hall in Grand Rapids. Very splashy appearance. There is good flow from the audience perspective but there was absolutely no consideration given to the performers back-stage. Inadequate dressing rooms for an orchestra of any size. The hall itself lacks a shell, making it a poor choice for any acoustic musical performance. It looks like a theater that was made for high school plays and musicals. In other words, this is not a professional venue for music, which is too bad because it occupies some beautiful real-estate. Missed...

I have been cautious about attending any indoor events but I couldn't have felt safer when I went to the Great Lakes Center for the Arts. They have tried to make it a safe experience and I think they have accomplished that. You are checked in at the door (mask on and temperature checked) and proceed directly to your seat which is far away from any other person. They are only using 130 out of 500 seats and are not selling out all the time. It was so nice to listen to such talented artists and feel safe. I have gone three times in the last month and plan to go...