We’re kicking off our new spotlight series with Bob and Sheryl Lane, longtime supporters whose story captures how the arts can become a cornerstone of family and community life. We caught up with them ahead of a long-standing tradition — spending an evening at the Center.
Bob and Sheryl didn’t plan for the Center to become a central part of their lives,it just happened that way. When they moved to Midland in 1991 with their young daughter, they were looking for a night out. And then one show led to another. And another. Sheryl laughed as she remembers the early years of parenthood and shares their motto: “Get your babysitters early, pay them well, and use them often.”
From the start, the Center was their favorite place for a night out. Both lifelong theatre lovers, they quickly discovered a vibrant arts community comparable to the college towns where they previously lived. “We felt like we hit the lottery,” Sheryl said. “We couldn’t believe a small town offered this kind of quality.” She fondly recalls standout performances from Center Stage Theatre through the years.
The Lanes' appreciation for the arts have defined their time in Midland. Bob, a retired professor, explained, "The arts make us feel alive. They've expanded our world." To them, the Center has been more than a venue; it's a community cornerstone for fostering creativity and connection. "Michigan is home for us now," Bob added. "Midland Center played a huge role in making us feel that way."
Over time, the Lanes grew from subscribers to dedicated donors. “Supporting something you love is a privilege,” Sheryl shares. “And if we want that opportunity to continue and grow, being good stewards of it just makes sense.” Bob agreed, adding, “When we were young parents, buying tickets meant making sacrifices. We want others to experience the arts without barriers.”
For Bob and Sheryl, becoming donors was a natural next step driven by gratitude and passion. Sheryl shared, “We’re fortunate that we can support the Center now, and we should. We want to ensure it remains strong for future generations.” Bob added, “It’s about giving back. The Center has given us so much joy and connection through the years, and it’s our turn to help sustain that.”
The night we spoke with them, they attended the Center’s Rising Stars production of Disney’s Freaky Friday. Seeing local talent grow has become a source of joy for the Lanes. “Watching kids from Midland start their journey here and then perform professionally… that’s special,” Sheryl said proudly. Bob smiled, “These events make the community feel alive.”
As they joined the sold-out crowd, it’s clear to Bob and Sheryl Lane that the Center isn’t just a date-night destination; it’s a lifelong tradition.
About the author
Alex Woody
Alex Woody is the Communications & Public Relations Manager at Midland Center for the Arts, where he leads storytelling and strategic messaging. He’s passionate about accessibility in the arts, and connecting audiences to the incredible programs (and people) that make the Center a hub for creativity in the Great Lakes Bay Region.
For more information or high-resolution photos, contact Alex at woody@midlandcenter.org.