Grand Rapids Town Hall to Host Open House and “A Town Hallmark Christmas” Event on December 12

GRAND RAPIDS, Ohio — The holidays are getting an early start in Grand Rapids as the Town Hall Committee and the Historical Society of Grand Rapids prepare to welcome the community inside the newly refreshed Grand Rapids Town Hall. A special Open House will be held Thursday, December 12, from 6–7 p.m., leading directly into a festive performance of A Town Hallmark Christmas and Sing-Along.

The 1898 landmark has undergone several renovation projects in recent months, all completed with careful attention to historical accuracy. Committee members consulted with historic architects, theater specialists, and window-treatment experts before selecting new interior paint colors, room-darkening blinds, and decorative valances. After reviewing multiple historically appropriate palettes, the Town Hall Committee sent its recommendations to Village Council, who approved the final colors and contributed funds to repaint the entire auditorium.

Visitors touring the building on December 12 will be among the first to see the updated interior. Additional improvements are also being explored, including upgraded stage lighting, new flooring, improved sound equipment, a ticket box, and stage curtains. Committee members are actively seeking funding sources for future phases.

Full Slate of 2025 Events Revealed

Guests will also get a preview of the upcoming performance season. The 2025 Town Hall lineup includes:

• January 9–11: Just So Stories – Horizon Youth Theatre
• February 12, 7 p.m.: Modern Times starring Charlie Chaplin, accompanied by Lynne Long
• March 6–8: Little Prince – Horizon Youth Theatre
• March 21, 7 p.m.: The Jolly Gabbers (Irish music & instruments)
• March 27–29: The Importance of Being Earnest
• April 25, 7 p.m.: EZ Pickinz – Vintage Folk, Rock & Country
• May 9, 7 p.m.: Voices of Harmony, NW Ohio’s competitive barbershop chorus
• June 5–7: Be More Chill – Horizon Youth Theatre
• July 10–12: Summer musical produced by the Historical Society

The Town Hall Committee is made up of Hayley Babcock, Christi Bolton, Nate Bolton, Laura Borer, Roger Borer, Faith Carroll, Denice Huth, Tom Huth, Lynne Long, Carole Sarkan, Mark Sarkan, Peggy Seab, Chuck Thomas, Matthew Tolles, and Rick Tolles.

A Hallmark-Inspired Holiday Show

Following the open house, the Grand Rapids Players will take the stage for A Town Hallmark Christmas and Sing-Along, a parody of classic Hallmark holiday films written by Mark and Carole Sarkan. The production features two competing decorators, love-triangle twists, spirited grandparents, a meddling best friend, a mysterious director, and—true to Hallmark style—lots of heartwarming music and dance.

Cast members include Matthew Tolles, Laura Borer, Christine Borer, Hayley Babcock, Ben Hergert, Roger Borer, Faith Carroll, Carole Sarkan, Mark Sarkan, Rich Hurry, and Delilah Babcock. The evening also includes performances by Sarah Radebaugh and the Defying Gravity Dancers, piano features from Lynne Long, Josh Hergert, and several of Long’s students, plus festive decorations from Heban Field of Dreams.

Admission is free, though donations are appreciated.

A holiday raffle featuring over $350 in Grand Rapids gift cards, Downtown Dollars, and local goodies will be held that evening. Raffle tickets are $5 each or 5 for $20 and can be purchased at the Village Orchard or at the door.