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Circa '21 Dinner Playhouse: A Quad Cities Treasure

4.7 (1247)

Experience Broadway-caliber shows and delicious dining in a historic vaudeville theater. A unique Quad Cities entertainment destination!

Circa '21 Dinner Playhouse in Rock Island, Illinois, is the Quad Cities' only professional dinner theatre, offering a unique blend of Broadway-style musicals and comedies alongside a delicious buffet-style meal. Housed in the beautifully restored Fort Armstrong Theatre, a historic vaudeville and silent movie house dating back to 1921, Circa '21 provides an unforgettable evening of dining and entertainment.

A brief summary to Circa '21 Dinner Playhouse

Local tips

  • Arrive early to enjoy the full buffet and pre-show entertainment by the Bootleggers.
  • Check the website for the current show schedule and special events.
  • Consider purchasing tickets in advance, especially for popular shows and weekend performances.
  • Take advantage of the full bar service and dessert options available at an additional cost.
  • Be prepared for some audience participation and good-natured fun during the show.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Circa '21 Dinner Playhouse is located in the heart of downtown Rock Island. If you are within the downtown area, walking is a convenient option. From the District, head east on 3rd Avenue. The playhouse will be on your right between 18th and 19th Streets.

  • Public Transport

    The Rock Island County Metropolitan Mass Transit District (Metro) provides bus service to the downtown area. Check the Metro website for routes and schedules. From the Metro bus station, Circa '21 is a short walk east on 3rd Avenue. A single ride fare is $1.00 [https://www.qcmetro.org/fares/].

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxi and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in the Quad Cities. Request a ride to 1828 3rd Avenue, Rock Island. Expect to pay around $8-$15 for a short trip within Rock Island.

  • Driving

    Circa '21 is located at 1828 3rd Avenue in Rock Island. From Interstate 280, take the IL-92 exit and head east. Continue on IL-92 (3rd Avenue) into downtown Rock Island. The playhouse will be on your right. Parking is available on the street and in nearby lots. Parking costs vary, but metered street parking is generally $0.25 per hour. Please note that parking may be limited during peak hours.

Discover more about Circa '21 Dinner Playhouse

Since 1977, Circa '21 Dinner Playhouse has been a cornerstone of the Quad Cities entertainment scene. Founded by Denny Hitchcock, the playhouse stages professional productions of Broadway musicals and comedies, drawing talent from across the country. Many actors and designers who have graced the Circa '21 stage have gone on to work on Broadway, in television, and in movies.The experience at Circa '21 is unique, beginning with a delicious buffet-style dinner featuring multiple entrées. The theatre's wait staff, known as the "Bootleggers," provide attentive service and also perform a pre-show entertainment. This combination of dining and live performance creates a memorable and immersive experience for guests.The Fort Armstrong Theatre, which houses Circa '21, adds to the venue's charm and historical significance. Originally opened in 1921 as a vaudeville and silent movie house, the theatre was meticulously restored in 1977 to become the Circa '21 Dinner Playhouse. The beautifully maintained architecture and warm ambiance provide a welcoming setting for couples and groups alike. The theater is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.Circa '21 offers a diverse array of shows throughout the year, including Broadway hits, holiday classics, and original productions. With its combination of professional theater, delicious food, and historic setting, Circa '21 Dinner Playhouse continues to be a beloved destination for entertainment in the Quad Cities.

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