Iowa may be known for its rolling farmlands, but the state also boasts a vibrant theatre scene. From historic gems to modern marvels, there’s a stage waiting to captivate every audience. So, grab your popcorn (or tickets to a live show!), and let’s explore some of our favorite theatres in Iowa!
Historic Gems:
Hoyt Sherman Place (Polk County): Take a step back in time at Des Moines’ Hoyt Sherman Place. This beautifully-restored historic theater offers a wide variety of events, ensuring there’s something for everyone from concerts and plays to comedy shows and family-friendly productions.
The Brown’s Century Theater (Plymouth County): Quaint theater and live music lovers, rejoice! Brown’s Theater in Le Mars is a historic landmark offering a live music experience, complete with a vintage popcorn machine and the charm of yesteryear.
Donna Reed Theater (Crawford County): Celebrate the legacy of Hollywood legend Donna Reed at the Donna Reed Theater in Denison. This historic venue not only showcases classic films, but also hosts local productions that keep the community spirit alive.
Pella Opera House (Marion County): Opera lovers won’t want to miss the grand Pella Opera House. This historic venue offers a stunning backdrop for beautiful performances with acoustics that will leave you awestruck. Check out our Off the Beaten Path adventure in Pella here!
Corning Opera House (Adams County): Travel back in time at the Corning Opera House. This beautifully preserved theatre offers a glimpse into the past while hosting a variety of events, ensuring the grand stage remains a vibrant part of the community.
Surf Ballroom (Cerro Gordo County): Step into music history at Clear Lake’s Surf Ballroom. Known as the final performance venue of Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and The Big Bopper, this legendary ballroom continues to host live concerts, special events, and tours. With its vintage charm and deep roots in rock ‘n’ roll, the Surf Ballroom is a must-visit for music lovers and history buffs alike. Check out our Clear Lake Off the Beaten Path adventure here!
Val Air Ballroom (Polk County):Experience the energy of live entertainment at West Des Moines’ Val Air Ballroom. A longtime staple in Iowa’s music scene, this historic venue has hosted countless concerts and events spanning multiple genres. Whether you’re dancing to rock, country, or pop, the Val Air Ballroom remains a vibrant destination for unforgettable performances.
Modern Marvels & Unique Experiences:
Voy 61 Drive-In (Clinton County): Catch a flick under the stars at Voy 61 Drive-In near Delmar, an experience both nostalgic and thrilling. Pack your pajamas, load up the car with snacks and enjoy a night at the movies beneath the Iowa sky. You can also find drive-in theaters in Blue Grass, Newton, and Spirit Lake, Iowa.
Englert Theatre (Johnson County): The Englert Theatre in Iowa City is a historic gem that showcases a diverse array of live performances from music to theatre, ensuring there’s always something new to discover on this iconic stage.
Adler Theatre (Scott County): Experience the magic of Broadway and other live performances at the modern Adler Theatre in Davenport, a cultural hub for the Quad Cities. This state-of-the-art venue boasts excellent acoustics and comfortable seating, making every performance a delight.
Sondheim Center for the Performing Arts (Jefferson County): Immerse yourself in the arts at the Sondheim Center for the Performing Arts in Fairfield. This regional center offers a variety of theatre, music and dance performances, providing a platform for local artists and a space for the community to appreciate a diverse range of artistic expressions.
Clinton Area Showboat Theatre (Clinton County): Enjoy live theater with a view at the Clinton Area Showboat Theatre. Docked along the scenic Mississippi River, this unique floating venue offers a season of professional performances, ranging from classic musicals to contemporary plays. With its intimate setting and picturesque location, the Showboat Theatre provides a one-of-a-kind entertainment experience for visitors of all ages.
This is just a taste of the theatrical delights Iowa has to offer. So, get ready for an unforgettable performance – the curtain is waiting to rise!
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