The Vibrant Theatre Scene in Columbia, MO: An Expert's Perspective

As a performing arts expert, I am often asked about the theatre options in different cities. Today, I will be sharing my insights on the vibrant theatre scene in Columbia, MO, a city known for its rich arts and culture history. Columbia, MO has a long-standing theatre history. The first recorded performance in the city dates back to 1821, when a group of traveling actors put on a play at the Boone County Courthouse. Since then, the theatre scene has flourished with the emergence of various venues and companies over the years.

Main Theatre Venues in Columbia, MO

One of the most popular theatre venues in Columbia, MO is the Missouri Theatre.

This historic venue was built in 1928 and has been a hub for performing arts for almost a century. It has hosted a diverse range of shows including plays, musicals, concerts, and film screenings. The Missouri Theatre is also home to several local theatre companies such as the Maplewood Barn Community Theatre and the Talking Horse Productions. Another notable venue is the Rhynsburger Theatre, located on the University of Missouri campus. This state-of-the-art facility hosts a variety of performances by students and faculty of the university's Department of Theatre.

It also serves as a venue for touring productions and community events.

Theatre Companies in Columbia, MO

Columbia, MO is home to several theatre companies that offer diverse and high-quality productions throughout the year. One of the oldest companies is the Columbia Entertainment Company (CEC), which has been producing plays and musicals since 1979. CEC is known for its community involvement and has a strong focus on promoting local talent. Another prominent company is the TRYPS Children's Theatre, which specializes in productions for young audiences. Founded in 1995, TRYPS has become a beloved institution in the city, with its annual productions of popular children's stories and musicals.

Dinner Theatre Options in Columbia, MO

Now, let's get to the main question - are there any dinner theatre options in Columbia, MO? The answer is yes! While there may not be a dedicated dinner theatre venue in the city, several companies offer dinner theatre experiences at various locations. The Maplewood Barn Community Theatre hosts an annual "Dinner on Broadway" event, where guests can enjoy a delicious meal while watching a Broadway-style show. This event has become a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The Columbia Entertainment Company also offers dinner theatre experiences for select productions.

Guests can enjoy a pre-show dinner at a nearby restaurant before heading to the theatre for the performance.

Upcoming Shows in Columbia, MO

If you're planning to catch a show in Columbia, MO, here are some upcoming productions that you should keep an eye out for:

• The Addams Family - Presented by the Maplewood Barn Community Theatre, this musical comedy will be running from July 8-11 and 15-18, 2021.
• The Wizard of Oz - The TRYPS Children's Theatre will be bringing this beloved classic to life from July 16-18 and 23-25, 2021.
• The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time - The Columbia Entertainment Company will be staging this Tony Award-winning play from August 5-8 and 12-15, 2021.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Columbia, MO may not be known as a major theatre destination, but it certainly has a lot to offer for theatre enthusiasts. From historic venues to diverse productions, this city has something for everyone. And if you're looking for a unique dining experience, the dinner theatre options in Columbia, MO will not disappoint. So the next time you're in town, make sure to catch a show and support the local theatre scene.