Ordway Center For The Performing Arts - Your Home For Live Shows

Have you ever walked into a building and just felt the energy, the anticipation of something truly special about to unfold? That is, quite literally, the feeling you get when you step inside the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts in downtown Saint Paul. This isn't just any building; it's a vibrant spot where stories come to life on stage, offering all sorts of performances to delight people of every age.

For decades now, this wonderful place has been a central part of Minnesota's cultural life, bringing a wide array of live entertainment right to the heart of the city. From big, splashy Broadway musicals that whisk you away to other worlds, to moving orchestral pieces that stir your soul, and even graceful dance performances that tell tales without a single word, there's always something happening here. It's really a spot where you can find something that truly speaks to you, you know?

It's a nonprofit, too, which means it’s all about sharing the joy of the arts with everyone, not just making money. Since 1985, it's been a gathering place for community members and visitors alike, a consistent source of beautiful sounds and sights. So, if you're ever looking for a memorable evening out, or perhaps a way to experience something new and exciting, this place pretty much has you covered.

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Table of Contents

• What Makes the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts So Special?
  • A Rich History at the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts
  • A Place for Every Kind of Show at the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts
• Planning Your Visit to the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts?
  • Getting There and Settling In at the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts
  • Finding Your Spot at the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts
• How Does the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts Connect with the Community?
  • Acknowledging the Land at the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts
  • The Dream of Sally Ordway Irvine and the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts
• What's New and Exciting at the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts?

What Makes the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts So Special?

You might wonder what sets this particular place apart from others, and honestly, there's quite a lot. For one thing, it's pretty much considered a top spot for performing arts, not just here in Minnesota but across the entire country. That's a big deal, you know? It means they bring in some truly amazing shows and performers, giving audiences a chance to see things they might not experience anywhere else. It’s like a magnet for artistic talent, really.

Think about it: world-class Broadway productions that have just finished their runs in New York City often make their way to the Ordway. Then there are performances from different countries, bringing unique sounds and stories. And let's not forget the beautiful opera and the refined chamber orchestra pieces that fill the space with such incredible sound. It’s a very diverse mix, offering something for almost every taste, which is really quite something.

A Rich History at the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts

The story of the Ordway goes back a bit, to 1985 when it first opened its doors. But the idea for it, that actually started even earlier, in 1980. There was a woman, Sally Ordway Irvine, who lived in Saint Paul, and she had this really big dream. She wanted to create a performing arts spot where everything from grand opera to all sorts of other shows could be presented, all under one roof. It was a pretty bold idea for its time, you know?

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Her determination and her generous spirit, combined with a lot of help from the community, made that dream come true. It’s a beautiful example of what can happen when people come together for a shared purpose. So, when you visit the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts today, you're not just seeing a show; you're also experiencing the result of years of community effort and a truly inspiring vision. It's a place built on passion, basically.

A Place for Every Kind of Show at the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts

What kind of performances can you catch here? Well, the list is pretty long and varied. Of course, there are the big Broadway musicals that everyone loves, with their catchy songs and spectacular costumes. But it's also a place for concerts of all kinds, from classical to contemporary. You might find a comedy act that will have you laughing until your sides hurt, or a stunning dance performance that leaves you breathless. It's really quite a collection of artistic expressions, you know?

The Ordway is home to different types of performing arts organizations, too. So, it's not just about touring shows; it's also a hub for local talent and groups that bring their own unique contributions to the stage. This variety means that no matter what your preference, there’s a good chance you’ll find something that sparks your interest. You can check out their official website to find all the details about upcoming events, tickets, and even how to get season passes, which is pretty convenient.

Planning Your Visit to the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts?

Thinking about catching a show at the Ordway? It's a pretty straightforward process to plan your outing. The official website is your best friend for all the practical stuff. You can find out what's playing, pick your dates, and buy your tickets right there. They also have information about subscriptions if you want to see multiple shows, which can be a nice way to experience more of what the Ordway has to offer, you know?

It's also a good idea to check the website for information about educational programs or ways you can support the Ordway. Since it's a nonprofit, community involvement helps keep the arts alive and well in Saint Paul. So, whether you're a first-time visitor or a regular attendee, there are always ways to connect with the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts beyond just watching a show. It's more than just a theater; it's a community asset, basically.

Getting There and Settling In at the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts

The Ordway is located right in the heart of downtown Saint Paul, which makes it pretty easy to get to. It's also quite scenic, overlooking Rice Park, a lovely green space that adds to the charm of the area. You can find directions on their website, and they also provide details about parking options nearby, which is helpful. Sometimes, knowing where to park can make all the difference for a stress-free evening, right?

If you're planning to pick up tickets or have any questions before the show starts, the ticket office is usually open one hour before the performance begins and stays open through intermission. So, you have a bit of time to sort things out if you need to. It's just a little detail that helps make your visit smooth and enjoyable. You want to feel relaxed before the curtain goes up, after all.

Finding Your Spot at the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts

Once you're inside, finding your seat is simple enough. The website has seating charts available, so you can get a good idea of the layout before you even arrive. This is especially useful if you're particular about where you like to sit, or if you're attending a Minnesota Opera performance and want to be sure of your view. It's pretty thoughtful, actually, to provide that kind of detail beforehand.

The whole experience, from arriving to finding your seat, is designed to be pleasant. The building itself is quite grand, and the atmosphere inside is always buzzing with excitement just before a show. You can feel the energy in the air, a sense of shared anticipation with everyone else around you. It's a very special kind of feeling, that, when you're all waiting for the lights to dim and the performance to start.

How Does the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts Connect with the Community?

Beyond the amazing shows, the Ordway is deeply rooted in its community. It’s not just a place that hosts events; it’s an active participant in the cultural life of Saint Paul. They have a mission, a vision, and a history that speak to their commitment to the people around them. You can learn more about these aspects on their official website, which offers a peek into what drives them and how they engage with the local area. It’s pretty clear they care a lot about their role, you know?

They also offer various ways for people to get involved, whether through educational programs for young people or opportunities to support their work. This connection to the community is a big part of what makes the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts so much more than just a theater. It’s a place where art and community come together, supporting each other in a really meaningful way. That's, in some respects, what makes it so special.

Acknowledging the Land at the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts

One very important aspect of the Ordway's community connection is their respectful acknowledgment that they gather on Dakota land. This is a significant gesture, recognizing the original inhabitants of this place. They even share the Dakota name for this area, Imniżaska Otunwe, which is also known as "De nakuŋ imniżaska otuŋwe eyapi otaŋiŋ." It’s a way of honoring the history and the people who have been here long before the building stood. It shows a deep respect, you know?

This acknowledgment is a quiet but powerful statement about their commitment to being a thoughtful and responsible part of the Saint Paul community. It reflects a broader understanding of the history of the place where they stand, and it helps to set a tone of respect and inclusion for everyone who visits. It's a very meaningful part of their identity, actually.

The Dream of Sally Ordway Irvine and the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts

The very existence of the Ordway is a testament to the power of a single person's dream and the community's willingness to help make it real. Sally Ordway Irvine’s vision in 1980 was truly ambitious. She wanted a place that could host everything from grand opera to popular shows, a spot where all types of performing arts could find a home. Her persistence and generosity, coupled with strong community backing, brought this remarkable idea to life. It’s pretty inspiring, when you think about it.

This spirit of collaboration and shared purpose still feels present today. The Ordway Center for the Performing Arts continues to be a place where big ideas are celebrated and where the community plays a part in keeping the arts thriving. It's a living legacy of that initial dream, constantly evolving but always staying true to its roots as a place for everyone to experience the magic of live performance. That's a pretty strong foundation, basically.

What's New and Exciting at the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts?

There's always something new on the horizon at the Ordway, keeping things fresh and interesting. For instance, they recently announced the return of their popular "Ordway Presents" series, which is always a treat for audiences. This series brings unique and engaging performances to the stage, often showcasing different artistic styles and voices. It's a good way to discover something you might not have seen before, you know?

And speaking of celebrations, the festival that takes place in Rice Park and the Landmark Center is celebrating its 25th anniversary. To mark this special occasion, they've added some extra headliner performances, like "Nooma," which is an opera created especially for babies. How cool is that? It just goes to show that the Ordway is always thinking about new ways to bring art to everyone, even the very youngest audience members. It’s a pretty innovative approach, honestly.

The Ordway also makes it easy to plan a longer visit to Saint Paul. They have "Play & Stay" hotel savings, which means you can get special rates at downtown hotel partners if you're coming to see a show. This is a nice perk, allowing you to make a whole experience out of your visit, perhaps enjoying a meal in the area before or after the performance. It just adds a little something extra to your outing, doesn't it?

You can always find the latest information about upcoming performances and even audition details on their website. They list contact information, historical tidbits, and even details about associated actors and staff. It’s a really comprehensive resource for anyone interested in the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts, whether you're an audience member or someone looking to be involved in the productions. So, it's pretty much a one-stop shop for all things Ordway.

The Ordway, which sits overlooking beautiful Rice Park, just north of the Mississippi River, and near the historic Landmark Center and the elegant Saint Paul Hotel, truly feels like a central point in the city's cultural landscape. It’s a place where the finest in Broadway, world music, and dance all come together. The Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra also holds concerts here, adding to the rich variety of offerings. It's a spot where you can really feel the pulse of the arts, you know?

In short, the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts is a cherished cultural landmark in Saint Paul, offering a wide array of live performances from Broadway to opera, concerts, and dance. It’s a nonprofit organization with a rich history, built on a community vision, and it continues to connect with its audience through diverse programming, educational opportunities, and a deep respect for its location. Planning a visit is simple, with all the necessary information readily available online, making it easy to enjoy the world-class entertainment and community spirit that the Ordway consistently brings to the stage.