Dave Coulier Returns to St. Clair Shores

St. Clair Shores native Dave Coulier may have grown up to become a well-known comedian, producer and voice actor, but he always keeps his hometown close to his heart.

Over the years he has been known to be a promoter and supporter of the Shores and Detroit. On Full House he could often be seen wearing a Red Wings jersey. When the show was on a break, he would bring his co-stars back to the area to enjoy Lake St. Clair and local favorites such as .

That commitment to community continues as he returns to the Shores to play what organizers call a "a good, clean, family" show on April 2 to raise funds for the annual Memorial Day parade. 

Coulier took time recently to speak to Patch about playing hockey outdoors, the unique qualities of St. Clair Shores and the need to work hard to be successful in show business.

Why did you decide to return to the Shores for a benefit concert?

As soon I heard about it, it was no-brainer. I grew up walking to the end of my street and going to the parade every year. I know what (the parade) means to people. I know the history and tradition and what it means to people. There is no way I could say no.

What are your fondest memories of the Shores, and what keeps you so connected to the city?

I grew up on the lake. We used to fish, we used to play hockey, go fishing and boating.  It was an amazing place to grow up. So when I brought the Full House cast back here, and they went out on the lake, they all said the same thing: "It is absolutely stunning back here and it is not what you think it is going to be."

There are also all of my fond memories of hanging out, growing up and all the wonderful things you can do in the area.

What it boils down to is the people. I am a Midwesterner and Detroiter at heart. Even though there are all these great assets in the area, the people make it the place that it is.

Have you done other benefit shows, and have you ever thought about coming back to Michigan?

I have quietly done charity events and things, nothing that makes headlines. I have my charity, the Coulier Foundation. We did golf tournaments and a hockey game at Joe Louis.

I am even entertaining the thought of moving back to Michigan. With the Internet, I can do my voice (work) from anywhere ... I have been giving a lot of thought of possibly building a home on the lake. I have always dreamed about moving back. 

What can people expect when they attend your show?

It is not an episode of Full House. It is my slant on the world ... I never know (the topics) until before the show what I am going to do.

What do you do when you come back to the Shores?

I always hit Travis. I have brought more famous people to Travis in the wee hours of the morning than people would think. I hit all the places. I love going to , and .

What are your tips for someone who wants to get into show business?

I have always said everyone is on a different road ... there is no cookie-cutter way. You have to explore what your own strengths and interests are. If you want to do cartoons, you have to come to Los Angeles. If you want to do television, you have to come to Los Angeles. If you want to do theater, go to New York. My route was curious. I did stand-up, hosted television. ... I was interested in all of it. ... I wanted to do all of it.

One thing people don't realize is that when they do see someone who has made it, they get to see the successful point. There is so much work that goes into getting to that point. You really have to learn how to handle rejection really well. You have to be willing to work sometimes for nothing. You have to have a very thick skin and a will to be successful.

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Upcoming fundraisers for the Memorial Day parade

• A fundraiser will be held from 4-9 p.m. Thursday at the , 21800 Marter Rd. Donation is $5 per person. For more information call 586-504-0493 or 586-296-1348.

• Dave Coulier will perform a benefit concert Saturday, April 2, at the Auditorium.
• The Swing Shift Orchestra will open the show at 5:30 p.m. with Coulier taking the stage at 7 p.m.
• General admission is $20 for adults, $10 for students with a school identification, $10 for seniors and children under 6 get in free. Special VIP tickets are available for $50 per person and includes a "meet and greet" with  Coulier and photos.
• Tickets are available at , , Dockside Cafe and by phone by calling 586-445-5350.