The Prime Event Center becomes Bay City’s comeback kid

By Jordan Green

BAY CITY— If the recent construction in Uptown wasn’t enough, the Prime Event Center has reopened their doors and is ready to become a staple for the city. 

The venue, located at 1201 Washington Avenue, was built in 1948. It hosted theatre, music, comedy, parties, weddings and other events, with the capacity to hold 1,045 people. 

Dore and Associates purchased the event center in 2006 and closed it in 2014. The reopening was led by Art Dore with interest to restore the Prime Event Center back to its former glory. 

The Prime Event Center offers a full circle bar that’s lit and ready to serve
when you walk in the doors. Jan. 30, 2020. (Jordan Green/Reporter)

Manager Michael Gonzalez says he wants to bring events and concerts to the community that people would normally travel to Detroit or Lansing for.

“We want to use the space for performances and music, which music is huge in Bay City in general with not only local talent, but Michigan talent,” Gonzalez says. “The city is set up for it; we have the space.” 

General manager Charles Williams said the restoration is going step-by-step. They recently added acoustic treatments and the next project is updating lights and sound. 

Both managers recognize the different demographics within Bay City and hope to appeal to all community members. The pair also wants to expand on the various cultures within the city. 

“There’s been a growing culture in Bay City for quite some time,” Williams adds. “It’s had its slumps and it’s had its peaks. We’re hoping this will be a new addition to the new rise of arts and community.” 

Upcoming Events:

  • Saturday, Feb. 8 @ 7:00 p.m. Super Far Out Music Showcase
  • Saturday, Feb. 15 @ 7:30 p.m. Pro Wrestling Live with Sarge Slaughter
  • Thursday, Feb. 20 @ 8:00 p.m. 3rd Thursday Sync Sessions
  • Friday, Feb. 21 @ 8:00 p.m. Jazz the Funk 
  • Thursday, Feb. 27 @ 6:00 p.m. – Thursday Night Trilogy (TNT) “Killer Shades Trilogy”
  • Friday, March 13 @ 8:00 p.m. Nonsense Night in Bay City