Young-AmericansWhile a lot of guests visit the Petoskey Area for the incredible views and outdoor recreation, there’s a must-see-show that beckons you indoors – it’s The Young Americans Dinner Theatre and you won’t find better entertainment in northern Michigan! The caliber of entertainment by this hand-selected ensemble will truly leave you spellbound. 

A bit of history.  Milt Anderson started the Young Americans organization way back in 1962. At that time, performers paired up with artists such as Johnny Mathis, George Burns, Judy Garland, Dean Martin and other big name acts. Eventually, the group began to tour and entertained internationally and performed at high profile events for heads of state and various influential groups.

The current mission statement of the Young Americans reads: “The Young Americans is dedicated to the promotion of understanding and goodwill among people throughout the world through music, dance, performance, academic education and cultural interaction among student members and their audiences.” And they succeed!  These kids travel all over the world now sharing their love of singing and dancing with students from a huge variety of backgrounds and lifestyles. 

While in the Petoskey Area, this awesome group of young (18 – 26) people will sing and dance their way into your heart. Based at Boyne Highlands Resort in Harbor Springs since 1978, The Young Americans Dinner Theatre is performed six evenings a week (Sundays off) during July and August. One of the many fun things about watching this talented troupe is trying to keep up with them. In one minute a performer is bringing you a drink and the next they are perched atop a piano belting out a tune. This is high-energy, try-to-catch-your-breath enjoyment and that has made this show the second-longest running dinner theater in the country.

Your evening at The Young Americans Dinner Theatre will start with complimentary appetizers and a cash bar. You don’t need to be there for the cocktail time, but I highly recommend that you don’t miss it; this fast-paced precursor to the show sets the tone for the whole evening and it’s always in tune!

Another fun thing about this dinner performance? Tables are all set for eight so you are able to share this wonderful experience and chat before performance sets. Each of the three dinner courses are served by the performers, but don’t think that slows down the entertainment! A rousing rendition of melodies such as “Time for Salad” and “Be Our Guest” will leave you hungry for the next song.

This year’s show is a tribute to artists with a full cast of characters from princesses to superheroes. All of the songs are “family friendly” and many you will know and probably sing along with – don’t worry, audience participation is encouraged!

Whether you are traveling as a couple or with your kids and/or grandchildren, The Young Americans Dinner Theatre is the perfect place to spend three hours of your precious vacation time – it’s truly worth coming inside for! Tickets go fast, so if you’re planning a trip, call and reserve your seat at 231.526.3152.  And as with all good things, The Young Americans Dinner Theatre won’t last – the last performance of the season by this incredible collective of performers is Saturday, August 22nd. Don’t miss out!

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About the author
Diane Dakins is passionate about all of the communities that comprise the Petoskey Area of Michigan: Petoskey, Harbor Springs, Bay Harbor and Boyne City. As assistant director of the Petoskey Area Visitors Bureau, she has “been there – seen that” when it comes to virtually every area attraction. She strives to create informative content that gives potential visitors the scoop on planning a northern Michigan vacation.