top of page
Two women talking on a detailed theatrical living room stage set.
DunesARTS-75thAnniversaryBadge-forweb.png

Live Theatre Rooted in History. Inspiring the Next Generation.

CELEBRATING 75 YEARS OF PERFORMANCES, EDUCATION AND COMMUNITY IMPACT

Support the Future of dunesARTS
Help secure the next 75 years of theatre, education and community impact  >

Six actors in period costumes smiling on a garland-decorated stage.

ABOUT

dunesARTS

LEARN MORE ABOUT dunesARTS >

Established in 1951, the Dunes Arts Foundation (dunesARTS) is a nonprofit dedicated to entertaining and inspiring our community through live theatre and arts education. We operate Dunes Summer Theatre and youth programs that bring professional performances and creative experiences to the Harbor Country region.

Three girls on stage wearing DUNES ARTS FOUNDATION t-shirts holding hands.
Ensemble cast in vibrant vintage clothing poses on a warmly lit stage.

Located on a scenic wooded campus in Michiana Shores, just steps from Lake Michigan and the Indiana Dunes, our historic theatre continues a legacy of storytelling, creativity, and community connection—honoring our past while building the future of the arts.

Smiling man and woman posing outdoors on green grass with lights.

UPCOMING

PERFORMANCES

From classic theatre to new works, discover performances that captivate audiences of all ages.

Children in pirate hats and t-shirts perform on a dimly lit stage.

YOUTH THEATRE & EDUCATION

EMPOWERING YOUNG PEOPLE TO EXPLORE, CREATE & SHINE ON STAGE

Led by our professional company, our youth programs help young people explore the joy of theatre and discover their own creative voice.

75 years of youth programming

A legacy of consistent, trusted arts education for generations of young artists.

Expert instruction tailored to each student

Classes are led by professional theatre educators with advanced training and real-world experience.

Friendships that last well beyond the stage

Students build confidence, collaboration skills, and meaningful connections that carry into life.

HELP US KEEP THE ARTS ALIVE

Every creative opportunity at dunesARTS is made possible through the generosity of our supporters. Donations help sustain professional productions, youth education and access to live arts for our community.

​

Whether you give once or become a sustaining donor, your support has a lasting impact.

Actors converse at kitchen table during a theatrical stage performance.

NEVER MISS A MOMENT

Be the first to hear about new shows, events and opportunities to get involved.

Two actors on stage: woman in red, man pulling garland from counter.
Cast holding hands on stage for "25th ANNUAL PUTNAM CO. SPELLING BEE"

THANK YOU

FOR AN UNFORGETTABLE 2025

Your support made every performance possible. Enjoy a look back at the moments that lit up our stage.

2026 PLAYBILL COMING SOON
DunesARTS-75thAnniversaryBadge-forweb_edited.png
Diverse group of eight young adults posing, smiling warmly at an event.

A LEGACY 75 YEARS IN THE MAKING

CELEBRATING WHERE WE’VE BEEN AND CREATING WHAT’S NEXT

dunesARTS grew from founder Nora Tully MacAlvay’s dream of bringing meaningful theatre to this region.

Our campus near Lake Michigan, which includes the historic theatre and eight artist cabins, has been shaped and restored through decades of community support.

Today, Nora’s commitment to young artists and accessible theatre still guides our work, and donor generosity ensures her vision lives on.

Woman in red costume with a dramatic expression on a stage set.
bottom of page