
City Opera House presents:
Cinema Society TC - Sampler Event
Sunday, September 27, 2026
New to Traverse City is the Cinema Society TC dedicated to films, conversations, and travel. In partnership with the City Opera House, community advocate Tom Menzel has brought one of his passions to Traverse City – the love of cinema. “The Cinema Society’s mission is to introduce area residents to exceptional and thought-provoking films that rarely reach mainstream theaters. We believe great films are more than entertainment, they open doors to new cultures, ideas and perspectives. Through our partnership with the City Opera House, we are building a community of people who share a passion for cinema and want to connect with filmmakers, engage in meaningful conversations and discover films that inspire, challenge and bring us together,” said Tom Menzel.
The Cinema Society of TC is proud to present an afternoon on Sunday, September 27th at 2 p.m. with Andy Friedenberg, an industry insider with decades of film experience, each gathering will explore Independent International Art House and overlooked films that rarely find their way to mainstream audiences.
The Cinema Society TC “sampler” event on September 27th gives residents the opportunity to meet and mingle with Andy, who brings with him a showcase of the Finnish film ELINA: AS IF I WASN’T THERE, directed by one of Andy’s favorite filmmakers on the planet--Klaus Haro. Andy will also highlight plans for the upcoming Cinema Society of Traverse City, and how you and your friends can become involved with this cinematic cultural arts organization, an organization that will blend in beautifully with the rich array of arts offerings in the city.


