Crystal Theatre is digging into the rich deposits of local talent and bringing talented artists from our neighborhoods to a new audience in a full concert format in the series Third Thursday Locals.  The third Thursday of the month at 7pm will feature one or more artists of similar styles and musical genres. Tickets for Third Thursdays are available at the box office, only – $10 adults / $5 students.

Second Time Around 

CRYSTAL FALLS – Crystal Theatre renews its focus on regional talent with the return of Third Thursday Local performances.  On Thursday, February 17, at 7 pm, a trio of retired educators – including former Forest Park band director Norm Vanaman – will bring an eclectic blend of bluegrass, classic rock, folk, and country to the stage.   

“Second Time Around” are three long-time friends who 10 years ago started playing music and sharing it with others.  Norm Vanaman, Helen Schmid, and Andy Schmid enjoy a growing list of performances, venues, and fans.

Recently retired after 25 years directing the Forest Park Concert and Trojan Marching Bands, Vanaman has chosen to remain in his adopted hometown.  Raised in the downstate community of Otisville, Vanaman attended Michigan State, graduating in 1991.  He spent five years on the road as a member of the band “Groove Spoon” before coming to Crystal Falls in 1995.  A talented trumpet player, Vanaman discovered a new groove, learning banjo and guitar and becoming comfortable playing all types of music.

Helen Schmid taught at Kingston High School in the thumb of Michigan for 32 years.  Originally from Montrose, Schmid attended Central Michigan University and went right from college to the classroom. She taught math and physical education, and coached  several sports.  In 1983, she coached the Michigan State cross country team to a championship title. With Second Time Around, Schmid plays guitar and sings.

Andy Schmid was the band director at LakeVille High School, retiring in 2007.  Schmid actually started Vanaman on the trumpet in the seventh grade.   A friendship formed and the two band leaders kept in touch over the years.  Schmid currently is an active judge for the Michigan School Band and Orchestra Association,  is a busy tuba player in the Flint area, and plays bass and sings with the trio.

Vanaman says, “over the course of many years of camping and snowmobiling adventures, we turned to performing familiar and friendly music together.”

Second Time Around shows are relaxing, enjoyable experiences.  Crystal Theatre is pleased to welcome these retired Michigan educators to Third Thursday Local.