The Hillsdale Community Theater (HCT) exists to bring live theater to Hillsdale County. HCT does this year after year with an entirely volunteer workforce. HCT owns and operates the Sauk Theater, located in Jonesville. The theater itself is an historic site. In 1904, the original theater was constructed, seating approximately 400 patrons. This theater hosted many of the leading touring productions of the day. By the late 1920's, films had replaced traveling troupes as the village's favorite form of entertainment. True to its theatrical roots, the site has experienced its share of

tragedy. Fires in 1932 and in 1979 have resulted in substantial reconstruction. Funding for these efforts came largely from the Hillsdale County community, from a populace commited to continuing a rich tradition of live theater. Today, HCT supports an average of four shows per year. Theater for Youth, a separate non-profit dedicated to introducing area youth to the joys of theater, produce one show per year at the historic Sauk Theater.