Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
Wagon Wheel Center for the Arts is inviting the community to step inside the magic of professional theatre like never before with its inaugural Summer Launch Party Fundraiser, an immersive event designed to celebrate the start of the 2026 summer season while raising critical support for its productions.
As a nonprofit organization, Wagon Wheel relies on community generosity to bring high-quality theatre to life, according to a provided news release. Ticket sales cover less than half of the actual cost of production, making fundraising efforts essential to sustaining the organization’s artistic mission, the release states. The Summer Launch Party offers patrons a chance to not only support that work, but to experience it up close.
General Admission Experience (7–8:30 p.m.)
Guests attending the main event will enjoy an evening, including:
● Live performances from professional company members in the lobby
● Opportunities to meet the full cast and crew
● Exclusive sneak peeks at the 2026 season, including costume reveals
● Behind-the-scenes access to the theatre
● A fireside chat and Q&A with Artistic Director Scott Michaels
● Early access to collectible actor trading cards, with autograph opportunities
VIP Pre-Party Experience (6–7 p.m.)
For those seeking an elevated evening, a limited number of VIP tickets offer:
● A limited-edition swag bag for the first 25 guests to arrive
● Early entry to an intimate pre-party with the cast
● Complimentary pizza from Rocksteady Pizza Parlour
● An exclusive champagne toast with the company
VIP access is limited to just 50 guests, creating a more personal and memorable experience ahead of the main event, according to the release.
Official After Party in Downtown Warsaw (8:30–10 p.m.)
The celebration continues beyond Wagon Wheel with an official After Party hosted at Atelier in downtown Warsaw. Guests can enjoy specialty cocktails and mocktails crafted by Falling Rabbit, along with live DJ entertainment and Broadway-themed karaoke featuring special appearances.
After Party tickets must be purchased online in advance. No physical tickets will be issued through the box office; attendees will present their digital code upon arrival at Atelier.
The Summer Launch Party Fundraiser marks a new tradition for Wagon Wheel Center for the Arts, blending celebration, storytelling and community impact into one evening. Proceeds directly support the 2026 summer season and ensure the continuation of professional theatre in the region.
Tickets to Wagon Wheel’s Summer Launch Party and After Party can be purchased at wagonwheelcenter.org or by calling the box office at 574-267-8041.
