New Theatre
Since 1985, the Barn Swallow Theatre has offered quality plays, musicals, and children’s performances in a rural setting to southwestern Michigan and northern Indiana. The tragic loss of the theatre by fire in 2004, brought the realization of the theatre’s value to the community, by making it a better place to live, raise a family, learn, work, and develop artistic and commercial enterprises. The resolve that the “show must go on” was accomplished in borrowed summer venues, but we have longed for a place to call our own.
After numerous plans for different sites failed to come to fruition, despite the generosity of many in the community, in November of 2010, BST was approached with an opportunity to purchase a building in Edwardsburg. The structure -- belonging to Hope United Methodist Church and at one time one of their former homes -- was reviewed by BST's building committee and it quickly became apparent that it was the best option to come the theatre's way since the loss of the barn.
With a tight deadline to close on the sale approaching, a furious fundraising effort was undertaken that culminated with the purchase of the building on February 28, 2011.
The new location having been acquired, BST now begins to look towards the future...which starts with converting the former sanctuary into a performance space. In addition, one of the first projects being undertaken is to add a handicap accessible bathroom to the building's upper floor.
With these projects -- besides the need to add a lighting and sound system, as well as dealing with the additional expenses of higher monthly utilities than the organization has ever had -- the need for volunteers and donors has never been higher. BST is looking for help in a variety of ways, whether that's helping with a performance, helping with the landscaping of the new building, helping with a fundraiser, helping to construct the staging or seating areas, helping to aquire materials for the various needs or helping with a monetary donation. The buidling was only purchased through the efforts of a wide variety of individuals throughout the community and the conversion into a live theatre venue will only take place with the same level of committment and generosity.
We are applying for grants and making personal contacts with individuals, businesses and agencies in our communities. We are a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt entity and will provide receipts when requested. 
Donations of any amount will be gratefully accepted and are tax exempt. Perhaps you may wish to provide funds or services for specific items, for example, plumbing, heating, electrical, sound, lights, etc.BST has a new home...please help us turn that into a community theatre venue that we can all be proud of!
Barn Swallow Theatre completes the sale for it's new home with members of Hope United Methodist Church of Edwardsburg.
Cassopolis Fifth Third Bank's Debbie Marshall (left) assists the representatives for Hope United and BST complete the sale of the former Adamsville church.
