If you are a fan of the stage, you are in luck! Cedar Rapids has historically had a thriving theater community, and today it is growing and more vibrant than ever.
Theatre Cedar Rapids (TCR) has been a steady and enthralling force in the community’s theatre scene for generations. From musicals and plays to small blackbox theatre productions, TCR is one of the country's largest run volunteer-run theater organizations. It’s safe to say you’ll be blown away by the local talent pulling off each show. Plus, they offer a wide variety of classes, workshops and classes for kids.
The historic Paramount Theatre (seriously, you won’t be able to stop yourself from snapping pics in the Hall of Mirrors and of the gorgeous architecture) features a large variety of performances, from live music to traveling Broadway productions and show to entertain even the youngest fans. Beautifully restored after the 2008 floods, the theatre boasts an amazing 1907 Wurlitzer Pipe Organ and is home to Orchestra Iowa and the Cedar Rapids Opera, which both offer an arson full of incredible musical performances each year.
Mirrorbox Theatre is newer to the scene in Cedar Rapids and has a fantastic new venue on the cities near northwest side. The small production company focuses on contemporary works that seek to inspire and challenge patrons in an intimate setting. They focus on Iowa premiere plays making it a great spot for those who wish to say “I saw it when…”
CSPS, in the heart of The District: Czech Village & New Bohemia neighborhood, started decades ago as an avant garde arts presenting organization, showcasing the talents of artists in a variety of media–visual, performing, and musical–from around Eastern Iowa, the nation, and the world. The historic venue offers a unique audience experience. It is also a tremendous partner organization, serving as the stage–literally–for a number of performance arts groups including Revival Theatre Company (which focuses on musical theatricality) and SPT Theatre (think Cedar Rapids’ version of Saturday Night Live).
In Marion, stop by Giving Tree Theatre where you’ll find everything from game nights to murder mysteries, live music, plays, and comedy sets. Another intimate venue (trust us, you’ll figure out which vintage couch is your favorite), it makes for a great night on the town.
All that to say, you’ve come to the right place if you need the magic of theater in your life. Whether you are ready to hop on stage yourself (seriously, check out the call for auditions at several of these organizations) or you’re ready to offer the standing ovation at the end of the night, the theater scene in and around Cedar Rapids is ready for the show to go on.
