Destination Dowagiac 2026

BECKWITH THEATRE COMPANY

Nestled in the heart of downtown Dowagiac at 100 New York Avenue, Beckwith Theatre Co has been a vibrant cultural anchor for Southwest Michigan for more than three decades. A volunteer-driven, nonprofit community theatre, Beckwith brings the transformative power of live performance to audiences of all ages with an engaging mix of dramas, comedies, musicals, mysteries, improv, and original works. The company draws its name and inspiration from the historic Beckwith Theatre legacy that dates to the late 19th century. The original Beckwith Memorial Theatre, funded by the Round Oak Furnace Company, welcomed nationally renowned performers and ensembles to Dowagiac. In January 1990, local arts enthusiasts revived this theatrical tradition by forming the Beckwith Theatre Company as a not-for-profit organization. From its modest beginnings, when rehearsals were on the third floor of a local saloon with coffee-can floodlights, the company has since grown into a beloved community institution. Over the years, the Beckwith Theatre Company has produced over 200 productions spanning every genre from classic comedies to thought-provoking dramas. While most well known for its mainstage season, Beckwith’s offerings extend beyond traditional plays. The theatre hosts improv shows, a Local Playwright Festival, and a free Summer Youth Theatre program that welcomes students entering 6th through 12th grade from across the region, giving young performers and crew hands-on learning opportunities in acting, design, and production. Beckwith thrives on community support. Volunteers are essential to everything from box office and ushering to set construction, costumes, and artistic leadership. Audiences enjoy the intimate atmosphere and local talent showcased on Beckwith’s stage, and many return season after season to enjoy high quality live theatre just minutes from home. Tickets are affordably priced, with season and individual show options available, making Beckwith an accessible cultural destination for families, theatre lovers, and visitors exploring the creative heartbeat of Dowagiac.

2026 SEASON

LOCAL PLAYWRIGHT FESTIVAL OF 10 MINUTE PLAYS February 6 & 7 at 7:30pm February 8 at 2:00pm IMPROV February 27 & 28 Family Friendly 6:00pm Adults Only 9:00pm THE UNEXPECTED GUEST April 17 & 18 at 7:30pm April 19 at 2:00pm April 24 & 25 at 7:30pm April 26 at 2:00pm 1776 June 26 & 27 at 7:30pm June 28 at 2:00pm July 3 & 4 at 7:30pm July 5 at 2:00pm

THE SUNSHINE BOYS August 21 & 22 at 7:30pm August 23 at 2:00pm August 28 & 29 at 7:30pm August 30 at 2:00pm WAIT UNTIL DARK October 9 & 10 at 7:30pm October 11 at 2:00pm October 16 & 17 at 7:30pm October 18 at 2:00pm A CHRISTMAS CAROL December 3 & 5 at 7:30pm December 6 at 2:00pm December 11 & 12 at 7:30pm December 13 at 2:00pm

16 – BECKWITH THEATRE COMPANY