In this episode of Life in Michigan, we sit down with Tony DeRosa, owner of Hear.Say Brewing + Theater in Ann Arbor, Michigan, to explore how he’s blending the art of brewing with live performance.
Tony shares his journey from growing up in New Jersey to living in Michigan, his career transition from working at Google to focusing on the local community, and how he got into brewing. We discuss the unique aspects of Hear.Say Brewing + Theatre, including their small-scale brewing process, dedication to craft beer, and how Tony has integrated his love for improv comedy into the brewery, creating a one-of-a-kind space where patrons can enjoy both great beer and live entertainment.
Our conversation touches on:
* The challenges of running a brewery and a theater under one roof
* The importance of community engagement and collaboration
* Creative partnerships with other breweries, local businesses, and nonprofits
* Beer releases, special events, and future plans for Hear.Say
Whether you’re a craft beer enthusiast, a comedy lover, or just curious about the magic of community-driven businesses, this episode is a must-listen!
Links: Hear.Say
Other Michigan Breweries Mentioned: Kuhnhenn, HOMES, Mothfire, Someday Brewing, Jolly Pumpkin, Blue Tractor, Grizzly Peak, Arbor Brewing
Other Businesses Mentioned: North Star Lounge, Casey’s Tavern, Pilar’s Tamales, Hello Faz Pizza, Lume, Hop Alliance, Tagabrew
Michigan Brewers Guild Summer Beer Festival Links:
* Michigan 2015 Summer Beer Festival (2015)
* Drink-e-Mon Go: Michigan Summer Beer Festival (2016)
* Michigan Summer Beer Festival 2017 Review (2017)
* The Summer Beer Festival was Picture Perfect – Life In Michigan (2018)
* The 2019 Michigan Summer Beer Festival (2019)
* A Deliciously Sour Michigan Summer Beer Festival (2022)
* All-Star Cast at the Summer Beer Festival 2023 – Life In Michigan (2023)
* Summer Beer Festival 2024 - 25 Years of Michigan Beer (2024)
