Orpheum to showcase local talent in virtual fundraiser

The show must go on! Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, audiences are still looking for entertainment, and performers are ready and willing to share their talents. The Orpheum Theatre is hosting an event to supplement that hunger for entertainment as well as raise funds to care for Galesburg’s jewel during this time of need. The Orpheum’s “Fun Raising Follies,” a multifaceted performance event, will air live via YouTube and locally on channel 7 on Sunday, Nov. 15, at 2 p.m. The event will be a nod to the Orpheum’s vaudeville days, containing variety acts of all kinds, strung together between video testimonials, musical interludes and emcee performances.

Choral Dynamics supports Orpheum through song

The pandemic forced the cancellation of both Choral Dynamics shows for 2020, but since they are determined to continue their mission of “Helping Our Community Through Song,” the choral performance organization has since introduced their “Encore Performance” Facebook project. Since early July, Choral Dynamics has been featuring songs from previous shows on their Facebook page on a bi-weekly basis, giving all donations to the Orpheum Theatre.

‘Blackout Orpheum’ presents haunted tours

The Orpheum Theatre aims to get folks into the spirit of the spooky season this October by hosting “Blackout Orpheum: Historically Haunted Tours” on Friday evenings. Blackout Orpheum tours will be held on the half-hour from 8 to 10 p.m., with tickets costing $10 per person...

Sundays bring ‘Live from the Orpheum’ series

The “Live from The Orpheum Theatre” online livestream concert series will feature four artists through the rest of August and September. Angela Meyer, Soultru, Dexter O’Neal and the Funk Yard, and Harry Tonchev and Andy Crawford will all be taking the Orpheum stage to share their music. While patrons will not be able to take their seats in the theater itself, purchasing a ticket and tuning in to the concert will congregate an online audience that will hopefully bring the vibrancy and ambiance of the Orpheum Theatre into the comfort of home.

New Cats stream from the Orpheum Friday

“Live from The Orpheum Theatre” featuring New Cats will stream on YouTube at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 14. This will be the third live stream concert from the Orpheum stage since its closure mid-March. While patrons will not be able to take their seats in the theater itself, purchasing a ticket and tuning in to the concert will congregate an online audience that will hopefully bring the vibrancy and ambiance of the Orpheum Theatre into the comfort of home.

Choral Dynamics raising funds for Orpheum Theatre

Choral Dynamics is putting Facebook to good use by initiating an Encore Performance Project: posting song videos from previous performances on its Facebook page and asking for donations to benefit the Orpheum Theatre. Each song will be posted for two weeks. By Christmas, 14 songs will be featured from different shows. Because Choral Dynamics will match the first $2,500 donated, early donors can consider their amounts to be doubled in value.

Orpheum opens ABC Cafe

Those passing by the Orpheum Theatre recently may have noticed a commotion surrounding the building, including strange fencing enclosing the theater’s entrance, set pieces, and a French flag blowing in the breeze. The theater has been phasing into offering an outdoor patio, and after a successful first week, the Orpheum will continue welcoming guests to the ABC Cafe, a Les Miserables-themed sidewalk lounge. Patrons are invited to enjoy drinks and light snacks under the marquee with the theater as a backdrop among the bustle of downtown Kellogg Street.

Pippi & Daniel featured in ‘Live from the Orpheum’ series

“Live from the Orpheum Theatre” featuring Pippi & Daniel will stream on YouTube at 7:30 p.m. Friday, June 26.

Theaters: ‘We will be ready’ to open

The live theaters in Galesburg are coming back with a new game plan. While in-person viewing is limited, theaters have found other ways to be creative with their productions.

Orpheum to have a “Cow” Friday

In March, the Orpheum Theatre closed its doors as live performance, alongside countless other communal activities, was halted. For live musicians, it has been a strange time.

Orpheum Theatre entertains with virtual events during pandemic

Although their doors are closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the team at the Orpheum Theatre has continued to work on bringing a variety of events and activities to its patrons and followers through its online platforms. Pivoting swiftly from live event presentation to promoting online content has been a sudden shift for the theater, but they have created numerous virtual events to keep people engaged during this time of isolation...

Tap Pack brings first US tour to Galesburg

The Tap Pack, a high-energy tap comedy show, is coming to the Orpheum Theatre at 2 p.m. Sunday, March 8.

The Tap Pack is inspired by the infamous “Rat Pack,” which included the talents of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jr. With dazzling performances on stage, dressed in slick suits and equipped with sharp wit, The Tap Pack is a modern twist on the classic Rat Pack, infusing tap dance with swing music and witty banter presented by some of Australia’s finest tap dancing performers.

KGS hosts guest conductor for Feb. 22 concert

The Knox-Galesburg Symphony is preparing for its upcoming Masterworks concert, “Fate of the Furious,” a program honoring the 250th birthday of composer Ludwig Van Beethoven. Unfortunately, due to illness, Vlad Vizireanu will not be conducting this performance. Chicago-based conductor Kedrick Armstrong will be guest conducting the concert at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 22, at the Orpheum Theatre, 57 S. Kellogg St.

T. Graham Brown coming to Galesburg May 9

Award-winning country music artist T. Graham Brown will be performing Saturday, May 9, at the Orpheum Theatre, 57 S. Kellogg St. Tickets go on sale Friday, Feb. 21, and will be available at The Orpheum Theatre or online at www.galesburgorpheum.org.

Glenn Miller Orchestra to jam at Orpheum April 5

The famed Glenn Miller Orchestra will be playing at 2:30 p.m. Sunday, April 5, at the Orpheum Theatre, 57 S. Kellogg St., Galesburg.

Tap Pack swings into the Orpheum Theatre

The Tap Pack will be coming to the Orpheum Theatre, 57 S. Kellogg St., at 2 p.m. Sunday, March 8.

Documentary Film Series at the Orpheum

The Orpheum Theatre in Galesburg will host a series of documentary films during the first part of the year. Executive Director Erin Glasnovich said the theatre has shown documentaries in the past but never week-after-week as part of a series.

32nd Annual GHS Holiday Concert

The Galesburg High School A Cappella Choir, Chamber Singers and Wind Symphony performed at the 32nd Annual District 205 Music Department’s Evening of Holiday Music on Tuesday night at the Orpheum Theatre.

Galesburg Express a holiday destination

The yearly Galesburg Express continued and evolved for the fourth time Saturday as young and old alike took part in the holiday festivities in downtown Galesburg.

‘Celebrate Me Home’ this weekend with Choral Dynamics

 “There’s no place like home for the holidays,” as they say, and Choral Dynamics will be bringing that tune and more in its annual holiday variety show this weekend at the Orpheum Theatre, 57 S. Kellogg St. “Celebrate Me Home” takes the stage at 7:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and 2 p.m. on Sunday.

Glasnovich named Orpheum executive director

 Erin Glasnovich has been named executive director of the Orpheum Theatre in Galesburg, effective immediately. “Following an extensive search by the committee, chaired by board member Chris Ashby, Erin’s name was brought to the recent board meeting, where a vote was taken and it was determined that Erin is the best qualified candidate,” Mark Blackburn, chairman of the Orpheum’s board of directors, stated in a news release.

KGS presents ‘Winds of Change’

The Knox-Galesburg Symphony’s second Masterworks performance of the season, “Winds of Change,” is coming to the Orpheum Theatre at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 23.

Orpheum hosts ‘Christmas on the Air’ Dec. 21

The Orpheum Theatre Presents is pleased to announce its sixth annual holiday production. “Christmas on the Air: A Live Radio Play” will be held at 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 21, directed by Tim Holmes.

Jazz residency culminates in Orpheum concert Nov. 8

 The annual Jerome Mirza Jazz Residency, hosted by Knox College’s Jazz Studies program and funded by the Jerome Mirza Foundation, will take place Nov. 4 to 8.

This year’s residency features the Caroline Davis and Rob Clearfield Quartet, a group of professional jazz musicians made up of alto saxophonist Caroline Davis, pianist Rob Clearfield, bassist Sam Weber and drummer Jay Sawyer. As a culmination of the Mirza Residency, the quartet will be featured in a free public concert at 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 8, at the Orpheum Theatre, 57 S. Kellogg St.

KGS season opens with ‘Dance, Dance, Revolution’

The Knox Galesburg Symphony’s 68th season opens with “Dance, Dance, Revolution” at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 19, at the Orpheum Theatre, 57 S. Kellogg St., Galesburg.

Country singer Pam Tillis takes Orpheum stage Nov. 9

An official biography of country music singer/songwriter Pam Tillis describes the daughter of Mel Tillis as “a child of country music royalty.” Not surprisingly, Tillis, scheduled to appear at 7:30 p.m. Nov. 9 the Orpheum Theatre for “An Evening With Pam Tillis,” accepts the more humble description more readily.

Orpheum hosting classic horror film series

As the Halloween season draws near, the Orpheum Theatre has announced the “Orpheum After Dark: Fright Film Fest.” The theater will host classic horror films starting with “The Phantom of the Opera” (1925) on Thursday, Oct. 3 — a precursor to the ballet of the same name being presented live onstage the following Saturday, Oct. 5.

‘Phantom of the Opera Ballet’ coming to the Orpheum

The Orpheum Theatre will present “The Phantom of the Opera Ballet” at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 5, at the theater, 57 S. Kellogg St. Featuring beautiful music, costumes and dancing by Central Illinois Ballet, this performance is sure to leave you enchanted and inspired.

‘Artrageous’ brings interactive show to Orpheum

“Artrageous,” a live, interactive “all arts” show, is coming to the Orpheum Theatre at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 11.

‘Artrageous’ coming to the Orpheum Sept. 11

“Artrageous” will bring art, music, theater, singing, dancing and audience interaction all on one stage at the Orpheum Theatre, 57 S. Kellogg St., at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 11. The production is sponsored by Blick Art Materials and tickets are only $10.

High winds cause damage around Galesburg

An intense thunderstorm that brought high winds and heavy rain to Galesburg between 8:30 and 9 a.m. today has caused widespread wind damage around town.

Wind damage ripped off the facade of a wall on the north side of the Orpheum Theatre, although there appeared to be no structural damage to the historic building.

Symphony announces performances for 2019-20

The Knox-Galesburg Symphony announces its 68th season, the first with new Music Director Vlad Vizireanu. This season will offer a mix of works from many time periods and styles, many of which heavily feature KGS musicians as soloists.

Interactive Art/Music Troupe, Artrageous Coming To Orpheum

The Galesburg Orpheum Theater announced Wednesday they’ve booked the musical art troupe Artrageous to play the historic theater in September.

Jesus and Judas reunite in ‘Godspell’

Twelve years ago, a group of energetic young actors came together to tell a familiar story. At the helm of the show were Mike Axtell and Bryan Taylor, portraying one of the most infamous friend duos in history: Jesus and Judas. The production was “Godspell,” and though the supporting ensemble of actors have all but completely changed, those two actors have reunited to reprise their roles as the Orpheum Theatre Presents “Godspell” this weekend.

‘Godspell’ features guest actor, GHS grad as Jesus

The Orpheum Theatre will be presenting the musical “Godspell” this summer for a weekend of shows July 19, 20 and 21. Sponsored by Innkeeper’s Fresh Roasted Coffee, the production is produced by Moon of Hope Studio, directed by Kurt Killam and choreographed by Tim Holmes. Based on the Gospel according to St. Matthew, “Godspell” is one of the most successful musicals in history. It presents a whimsical view of Jesus as his followers and disciples re-enact parables and scenes from Jesus’ life with great energy.

Ira Glass to visit Orpheum Sept. 21

The Orpheum Theatre and TriStates Public Radio will host renowned radio personality Ira Glass onstage for his talk entitled “Seven Things I’ve Learned” at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 21.

‘Godspell’ headed to Orpheum stage in July

The Orpheum Theatre will be presenting the musical “Godspell” this summer for a weekend of shows July 19, 20 and 21. Sponsored by Innkeeper’s Fresh Roasted Coffee, this production is produced by Moon of Hope Studio, directed by Kurt Killam and choreographed by Tim Holmes. “Godspell” will feature local actors as well as a professional guest actor portraying the leading role of Jesus.

‘Sail Away’ with Choral Dynamics

Galesburg’s long-running community chorus Choral Dynamics returns to the Orpheum stage this weekend with “Sail Away,” their spring show.

Orpheum film series begins with ‘The Incredibles’

For the last six years, the Orpheum Theatre has offered a free summer movie series entitled “Throwback Thursdays,” where the theater screens nostalgic films during the summer. All the screenings, at both 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., begin in June and end in August. The kickoff event for Throwback Thursdays will be held Thursday, May 23, with a one-time screening of “The Incredibles” (2004) at 7 p.m.

‘Fiddler on the Roof’ brings message of diversity

The foot-stomping music and Russian dancing of “Fiddler on the Roof” is coming to the Orpheum Theatre this weekend.

Galesburg’s Got Talent

Area talent performed at the Orpheum Theatre Friday night during Galesburg’s Got Talent

Galesburg’s Got Talent returns Friday night

The civically minded talent show is back for its second year, inviting area performers to show off their talents this Friday, April 26, at the Orpheum Theatre, 57 S. Kellogg St.

KGS performs ‘Tragedy and Triumph’ April 13

Hear the turmoil of Russian romantics and the heroism of British bandits in “Tragedy and Triumph.” This concert program includes Tchaikovsky’s “Symphony No. 6 in B minor,” Kamen’s “Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves Suite” and Shostakovich’s “Piano Concerto No. 2″ featuring soloist Casey Dierlam.

End of the show for West Cinema

The West Cinema in Galesburg is coming down. A backhoe has already begun the work, reducing the smaller half of the building to a pile of bricks and steel.

Rootabaga Jazz Fest jams April 2-6

A world-class jazz extravaganza is taking place in Galesburg during the 39th annual Knox-Rootabaga Jazz Festival April 2 to 6, with guest artists the Xavier Breaker Coalition and the Mark Guiliana Space Heroes. Other featured performers will be the Nikki Malley Quintet, Galesburg High School Jazz Band, the Knox Alumni Big Band, Faculty and Friends Combo, and the Knox Jazz Ensemble.

Auditions set for Galesburg’s Got Talent

The Galesburg Public Art Commission is hosting a local talent competition, Galesburg’s Got Talent, and is looking for talented people to participate. All talents will be considered: singers, bands, gymnastics, comedy, dance or other appropriate family entertainment. All ages are welcome. Contestants must compete in preliminary auditions; winners of the auditions will move on to the final event on April 26 at the Orpheum Theatre. The winner of the final event will win $500.

Big Read kicks off with Japanese drumming

The Galesburg Public Library will kick off the 2019 NEA Big Read of “When the Emperor Was Divine” by Julie Otsuka with a performance by Ho Etsu Taiko of Chicago. The free performance is at 2 p.m. Saturday, March 30, at the Orpheum Theatre, 57 S. Kellogg St. The doors open at 1:30 p.m.

Old Dogs-New Tricks show benefits the Orpheum

Some familiar faces will be playing familiar music in a new band at the Orpheum Theatre at 2 p.m. Sunday, March 31. Old Dogs-New Tricks, a band made up of longtime members of the area music scene, will make their Galesburg premiere to benefit restoration efforts at the Orpheum, 57 S. Kellogg St. in Galesburg.

Miss Coco Peru brings ‘a new kind of drag’ to Galesburg March 29

Activist, storyteller and legendary drag performer Miss Coco Peru is coming to the Orpheum Theatre at 7:30 p.m. Friday, March 29.

KGS presents ‘Heroic Beauty’ March 23

The Knox-Galesburg Symphony  return to the Orpheum Theatre at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, March 23, for “Heroic Beauty,” the third Masterworks concert of the season. Brendan Townsend will conduct the performance.

Havana Cuba All Stars Dance to the Orpheum March 8

The Orpheum Theatre host the Havana Cuba All Stars’ “Asere!”, a fiesta Cubana featuring music and dance, at 7:30 p.m. Friday, March 8.

"My Funny Valentine" Comedians come to Galesburg

Comedians Pat Hazel and Dena Blizzard performed their show "My Funny Valentine"

"Getting Grace" aims to change views on death

Watson-Thomas Funeral Home and Cremetory brought the movie "Getting Grace"  along with the film's creator and star Daniel Roebuck and actor Madelyn Dundon to The Orpheum Theatre.

British Theatre comes to The Orphuem in 2019

The Orpheum Theatre presents National Theatre Live shows.

Kevin Smith among top art stories of 2018

Kevin Smith came to The Orpheum April 2018

Orpheum Named Beneficiary at Knox County Brewing

The new brewery's Return the Favor program announced its very first beneficiary in The Orpheum!

Orpheum Makeover Nearly Done

Improvements are wrapping up soon at The Orpheum Theatre.

Humorist David Sedaris Returns

The renowned author comes back to Galesburg!

Providing Support in a Safe Space

The documentary Suicide: The Ripple Effect screens to open a dialogue about suicide.

Symphony Season Kicks Off in October

Coming this fall!

Travel Back in Time with The Ghost Army

A documentary followed by a Q&A with the film's director

Hotel California brings at triblue to beloved band The Eagles

Coming up at The Orpheum...

No Business like Show Business

Register-Mail contributor Tom Wilson reflects on the legacy of The Orpheum Theatre.

Orpheum Theatre Nears Completion of Capital Campaign Projects

 Improvements on Galesburg’s Orpheum Theatre funded by donations received in the theater’s capital campaign are expected to wrap up by August.

Dinner & a Show at The Orpheum!

Enjoy a four-course meal at The Garden Room adjacent to the theatre.  Get your dinner plans all set now!

BIG news coming to The Orpheum

Highly anticipated and widely favored, The Orpheum’s Throwback Thursdays movie series will once again host free showings of popular films during the summer months this season.  The theatre will be hosting a screening of Big (1988) on Thursday, May 25 at 7pm; it is at this event that the theatre will announce its very special lineup of movie titles planned for the season.

Say 'Bye Bye Birdie' This Weekend at The Orpheum

 Pull out those poodle skirts and pedal pushers and play your favorite record — “Bye Bye Birdie” is coming to the Orpheum Theatre this weekend.

AUDITIONS for OKLAHOMA!

Click on the image to learn more about auditioning for this summer's musical, Oklahoma!

The PRO will act as a living time capsule, filling the theatre with the sights and sounds of 1916 & 1917.

A state-of-the-art sound system and a new backflow device are just a few of the improvements already made thanks to the Centennial Capital Campaign.  

Iron Spike Brewing Company concocts The Orpheum CentenniALE in celebration of its 100th Year!