Livingston County, Brighton is Home to Michigan’s Newest Professional Theatre Company

Livingston County residents Steve DeBruyne and Matt Tomich have a plan to bring Michigan's newest live theatre company to the City of Brighton. The Dionysus Theatre will open in Brighton on March 1, 2012 with a two show pre-season which will be followed by their first full season of shows. The 370 seat theatre will be located in the existing building at 301 Appian Way, just off Grand River Avenue between Main Street and Old US 23. This location offers convenient access to both US 23 and I-96 freeways, as well as shopping and restaurants in downtown Brighton.

The name Dionysus comes from the Greek god of the same name. Dionysus was considered the god of many things, including theatre. A patron of the theatre, Greek myths say that when Dionysus went abroad he was accompanied by Muses who, with their songs and dancing, delighted the heart of the god. Dionysus was honored with a festival called the City Dionysia in which tribes competed with each other in performances, and the best show would have the honor of winning the contest.

DeBruyne and Tomich plan to bring 6 professional productions a year to the Brighton area, including musicals and plays. The Dionysus Theatre or "The Dio" as it's affectionately being called by the founders, will feature actors from Michigan, joined by other professionals from New York and Chicago to ensure unmatched quality in the Livingston County area.

The pair is well suited to the theatre business. DeBruyne is a graduate of The American Musical and Dramatic Academy in New York City and has been a working actor for over 10 years, performing regionally as well as travelling with a tour of a Broadway production. In addition, he has directed and served as artistic director for another theatre in Michigan, and has been nominated as Best Actor in a Musical twice in the State. Tomich received his Master's Degree in Business from Michigan State University in addition to working in the local theatre scene as an actor, stage manager and designer.

In addition to providing stellar live theatre entertainment, The Dio will also offer educational opportunities for youths as well as employment opportunities for actors, production team and office staff.

For up to date information on upcoming shows, auditions, job opportunities and more, visit www.diotheatre.com or "Like" Dionysus Theatre on Facebook.

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