Jun 12, 2024

Celebrate the 80s: The Young Americans Dinner Theatre Returns This Summer

The Highlands is thrilled to welcome back to the stage, The Young Americans Dinner Theatre, for another rousing summer season from June 21 through August 17.  Performances run Tuesday through Saturday, and feature a vibrant 80s theme that promises to transport audiences back to the era of big hair, neon colors, and electrifying music.

This summer’s production is a dazzling celebration of the 1980s, complete with iconic hits from performers that defined the decade like Madonna, Cyndi Lauper, Prince, Michael Jackson, as well as songs from Phantom of the Opera, Dreamgirls, and more!

“The Young Americans Dinner Theatre offers an immersive experience featuring high-energy performances, paired with a unique culinary experience,” said Mike Chumbler, president and general manager of The Highlands.  “Each season brings a completely new show, and this summer’s 80s theme promises a lot of fun, reliving the music and energy of such a dynamic decade."

The Young Americans, renowned globally for their enthusiastic blend of singing, dancing, and acting, features an ensemble of young adults, typically between the ages of 18 and 24.   Each year, a select group of performers is invited to join The Young Americans Dinner Theatre at The Highlands.  Now a cherished tradition in northern Michigan, the theatre combines Broadway-style performances with a three-course dinner served by the talented cast. 

Leading the 46th year of The Young Americans Dinner Theatre is returning director, Bruce Sampson.  Sampson’s ties to The Young Americans run deep, initially joining as a performer at the age of 15, and later contributing in various leadership roles.  He has written, directed, and produced shows nationwide and in China, including notable productions for Disneyland and Knott’s Berry Farm.

The Young Americans Dinner Theatre Details:

Dates: June 21 through August 17     
Days: Tuesday through Saturday
Time: Check-in, 5:45 p.m.; Reception, 6 p.m.; Dinner and Performance Begins, 6:30 p.m.
Entrée Options: Adults, Roasted Prime Rib, Bourbon Maple Glazed Atlantic Salmon, Airline Chicken, or Wild Mushroom Risotto.  Kids, Chicken Tenders or Cheeseburger.

Tickets for The Young Americans Dinner Theatre are available for purchase now.  Adult tickets are $129 and youth tickets for ages 12 and under are $39.  For more information or to purchase tickets, visit highlandsharborsprings.com.

Guests who book lodging at The Highlands this summer can also receive $20 off adult tickets to The Young Americans Dinner Theatre.  To learn more or to make your lodging reservations, visit highlandsharborsprings.com or call 866.759.3530.

Media Contact: Erin Ernst, director of communications