The State Theatre

Investing in the Bay Area since 1975.

1000 Adams St. Suite 200, Bay City, MI 48708 (989) 213-1225 Email

You are here: Home About Project Gallery The State Theatre

The State Theatre organization is committed to providing performing arts and films to enhance the cultural opportunities of all people throughout the Great Lakes Bay region and beyond. The theatre has undergone an extensive renovation to restore the building to its historic design.

Renovations began in 2000 and included the restoration of the Mayan based relief detail, replacement of the roof, stage and curtains and seating and refinishing o hardwood floors. In 2008, the theater became the first single screen theatre with a state of the art digital projection system in the United State. In that same year, the new international award winning marquee was unveiled and the Kantzler Foundation provided them with a grant to help make that happen.

They came to the Kantzler Foundation in 2014 seeking funds to upgrade their sound system. They believed that the upgrade would allow them to seek stronger performers for the community’s entertainment and enjoyment. The Kantzler Trustees provided them with a grant that helped them reach their sound system enhancement goal, and the State Theatre has been able to bring top name performers and musicians to Bay City for the town’s enrichment.

Community Impact

Elizabeth C. Martin - Bay City Garden Club

"It is with deep gratitude and appreciation the Bay City Garden Club thanks the Kantzler Foundation for its generous support over many years. In 1975, the Bay City Garden Club visualized an arboretum along the Saginaw River as a gift to the city of Bay City for environmental, educational and ornamental purposes. The initial Kantzler donation in 1977 helped fund the arboretum's master design plan and to later install sidewalks and extensive landscape plantings. Further donations from the Kantzler Foundation helped create the Kantzler Memorial Arboretum and it was proudly dedicated to the community in 1981. A substantial Kantzler grant in 2011 helped complete the southwest section, and the 2014 dedication of the Kantzler Memorial Arboretum's Interpretive Center was made possible by another remarkable Kantzler grant. This Kantzler legacy is appreciated by Bay City residents and visitors now and will be there for future generations.

The Kantzler Memorial Arboretum is a beautiful contribution to all ages in our community, giving us a place to explore nature and spend time outside, helping create a necessary balance in our lives. This 21 acre jewel along the west bank of Bay City's Saginaw River has improved the quality of life in Bay County and the Arboretum will benefit the public for many years to come."

Do you have questions about our Grant Application Process? Contact Us

KANTZLERFoundationInvesting in the Bay Area since 1975.

The Kantzler Foundation provides financial support for charitable projects and programs that directly benefit the residents of Bay County in areas such as: education, science, arts, culture, human services, conservation, beautification and recreation.

Office Location

Pere Marquette Depot

1000 Adams St., Suite 200
Bay City, MI 48708
Phone: (989) 213-1225
Email: kathy@kantzler.org