WHAT IS THE UNIVERSITY THEATRE GUILD?
The University Theatre Guild is a community of people from Kalamazoo to Colorado, and Portage to New York City, who value educational theatre and choose to nurture its growth at Western Michigan University. Joining the University Theatre Guild is an excellent way to show your love for the theatre and invest in the education of talented young theatre artists. Your membership will enrich the educational experience of theatre students and help pave the way to success in their chosen field.

WHAT DOES MY MEMBERSHIP SUPPORT?
Your membership in the University Theatre Guild will support scholarships, mentorships and professional development opportunities for WMU theatre students. Membership also supports bringing world-class visiting artists from all facets of the theatre: acting; directing; stage combat; makeup and special effects; costume; lighting design; and theatre management to WMU. These artists direct, teach, design and perform with our students during their residencies, enhancing the rich educational experience offered at WMU.

WHY JOIN NOW?
Theatre students need your help. While for some the economic downturn means a loss in their 401K, for some of our students whose parents have lost a job or whose college savings have evaporated, the downturn means they may have to leave school. But you can help provide the scholarships these students so desperately need. You can be assured that your membership in the Theatre Guild will provide financial relief to some very deserving students in great need during this time of economic hardship.

WHAT ARE MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS?
As a member of the University Theatre Guild, you will receive members-only invitations to special theatre events: receptions, dinners, behind-the-scenes visits, opportunities to interact with theatre students, and conversations with directors, designers and actors.

If you are a Michigan resident, you can reduce your state income tax and support the University Theatre Guild at the same time. The state allows a portion of contributions made to Michigan universities to be credited against the state income tax. According to the law, the amount you may credit against your tax bill is equal to half of your contribution up to a maximum of $200 on a joint return, $100 on an individual return. Also, gifts to higher education are among the few deductions still allowed on federal income tax.

Guild members also receive discounted tickets to all University Theatre productions. To express our appreciation for your generosity, Guild members will be listed in all season programs and here on our website unless a member wishes to remain anonymous.