Over 10,000 MORE people attended shows at The Historic Orpheum Theatre in Downtown Galesburg in the ’24-’25 Season over the prior year. This was the final evaluation point to determine if year one of the Board of Directors’ Strategic Vision as interpreted by Executive Director Andrew Driscoll and implemented by the Orpheum Theatre team was in fact what the community was looking for from the 108-year-old historic venue known as “The Jewel of Galesburg”.
The achievement accomplished through MORE frequency of shows and events, MORE diverse offerings including a larger interaction with live music acts, MORE movies, and MORE opportunities for local tenant partners, paves the way for The Orpheum Theatre Presents ’25-’26 Season of EVEN MORE!!
Learning from last season, The Orpheum Theatre Presents ’25-’26 Season maintains a focus on events that can be enjoyed by the whole family as well as both original and tribute live music. Additionally, large spectacle shows as well as performers who have been seen on America’s Got Talent, American Idol, PBS, and more will be part of this season to not only entertain, but to inspire and create lasting memories for those who attend shows!
Attending performances has gotten easier as well as The Orpheum Theatre will reintroduce the “Red Carpet Series” Season Subscription and add a new Flex Ticket Package which will allow patrons to choose their own slate of shows!
Season Subscriptions and Flex Packages will go on sale beginning Tuesday June 3rd at 10a online at GalesburgOrpheum.org as well as in the box office both in person or by calling 309-342-2299.
Buying multiple shows in advance this way will be the only method to purchase seats until August for the 2025 individual shows and in November for the 2026 individual shows. This is very important for patrons who both want to secure their attendance for specific shows and to choose their preferred seats.
Most importantly, it is also a vital need for The Orpheum Theatre as the venue will be closed from July 14th through September 10th for major exterior repairs to the brick foundation which if not addressed now would be an existential threat to the theatre. Without show and concessions revenue coming in during this 8 week period or a remedy to balance the closure, The Orpheum will see a severe cash flow issue.
Fortunately, those who love The Orpheum and have been part of the substantial increase in attendance over the past year can help to see the theatre through this challenging time simply by purchasing 4 or more shows in advance through a subscription or package.
The Orpheum Theatre Presents ‘25-’26 Season
*Co-Presented with Grandstand Concerts
*AARON TIPPIN – Country Legend on 9/11/25
sponsored by Dave’s Auto Body
Tippin’s nine studio albums have charted more than thirty singles on the Billboard Hot Country Songs charts, including three Number Ones: “There Ain’t Nothin’ Wrong with the Radio” (1992), “That’s as Close as I’ll Get to Loving You” (1995), and “Kiss This” (2000), as well as the top ten hits “You’ve Got to Stand for Something“, “I Wouldn’t Have It Any Other Way“, “My Blue Angel“, “Workin’ Man’s Ph.D.“, “For You I Will“, and “Where the Stars & Stripes & the Eagle Fly“.
MAMMA MANIA! – ABBA Tribute on 9/13/25
Prepare to be transported back to the vibrant 1970s with 2025’s #1 booked ABBA Tribute! Mamma Mania! brings the classic hits of one of pop music’s most iconic groups to life. With their dazzling costumes, flawless harmonies, and captivating stage presence, this tribute captures the essence of ABBA’s unforgettable sound. From “Dancing Queen” to “Mamma Mia,” fans will enjoy a night filled with nostalgia from a stellar cast of musicians!
*RESURRECTION – Journey Tribute on 10/2/2025
Considered to be ‘The Gold Standard’ by which all Journey tributes are measured, Resurrection faithfully recreates the experience of a 1980’s Journey concert. This dynamic band has featured some of Nashville’s hottest musicians, many who have performed, written, or recorded with the biggest names in the music industry – including Journey and Steve Perry. Every show is a brilliant reproduction of sights and sounds designed to captivate and transport audiences to the glorious age of arena rock when Journey reigned atop the Billboard charts and sold out arenas across the country.
*ETTA MAY – Stand Up Comedy on 10/11/25
Etta May has performed her brand of clean-comedy on Oprah, Showtime, Comic Strip Live, MTV, and as a guest commentator on “CBS Sunday Morning,” Winner of the prestigious American Comedy Awards “Comic Of The Year,” and so much more, she headlines the successful all-female comedy tour, “Etta May and the Southern Fried Chicks,” selling out theatres all over the country. Think Blue Collar Comedy Tour with better hair and a bigger attitude! In addition to television, Etta May is a regular on Sirius-XM Comedy Channels & the syndicated Bob & Tom radio show.
CIRQUE MECHANICS: TILT – Circus Spectacle on 10/23/25 (Red Carpet Series)
Cirque Mechanics, inspired by modern circus, finds its roots in the mechanical and its heart in the stories of American industrial ingenuity. The shows, imbedded in realism, display a raw quality rarely found in modern circus. Cirque Mechanics signature style is wrapped in acrobatics, mechanical marvels and a bit of clowning around. In Tilt!, Cirque Mechanics takes you on a journey to the back-lot of their inventive theme park, where in the shadow of the rollers coaster and under the lights of the Ferris wheel, you’ll meet the carnies, characters and operators that keep the thrills coming and the rides running.
THE ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW – 50th Anniversary on 11/1/25
We hold over (by one day) our October tradition of movies with the annual Orpheum fan favorite midnight showing of The Rocky Horror Picture Show! Featuring the campy cult classic film, this Halloween extravaganza includes a costume contest, fun props, and absolutely hilarious call backs.
2025 marks the 50th anniversary of The Rocky Horror Picture Show, promising something extra special for this year’s showing!
SHARPE FAMILY SINGERS – AGT Semi-Finalist on 11/8/25 (Red Carpet Series)
The Sharpe Family Singers, a musical ensemble fueled by their deep love for music and performance. The group consists of Ron and Barb, along with their incredibly talented children: Samantha, Logan, Aidan, and Connor. 15 Million Social Media followers with 3 Million daily views on YouTube, TikTok & Instagram! Viral Videos with 6 Billion total views in the past 3 years! Stars of America’s Got Talent and American Idol! The Sharpe’s are bringing the “FAMILY” back to “FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT”!
*ELIMINATOR – ZZ Top Tribute on 11/15/2025
The Eliminator Band is the original ZZ Top Tribute Band performing in tribute since 1992! With extremely close attention to detail The Eliminator Band faithfully reproduces the tone, taste, and tenacity of “That Lil’ Ol Band from Texas” playing ALL the greatest ZZ Top hits from the radio classics “LaGrange” and “Tush” to their groundbreaking music videos, “Sharp Dressed Man” and “Legs” which helped define MTV in the 80′s.
THE GRAND OL’ CHRISTMAS SHOW – Holiday Family Fun on 12/10/2025 (Red Carpet Series)
The Grand Ol’ Christmas Show is a live, one-of-a-kind musical variety show bringing all-time favorite Christmas classics and original sketch comedy antics to theaters across the country! Based in Texas, this original family friendly holiday show features the Americana standout music group, Blue Water Highway along with a cast of the best artists and entertainers from the Lone Star State. It’s like a Grand Ol’ Opry show, mixed with old time radio, and adding a healthy helping of Texas flair!
DECADE OF DECADENCE – 80s Tribute on 1/17/2026
Decade of Decadence isn’t just a band—it’s an electrifying experience! With over 250 shows under their belts, they’ve rocked stages all across the Midwest, bringing the sights, sounds, and energy of 80s arena rock to life. From sold-out tours to unforgettable performances, Decade of Decadence is your ticket to the biggest and best anthems of the 80s hair metal era. This show was the surprise of the 24-25 season and an immediate rebook!
RIGHT IN THE EYE – International Cinema & Concert on 2/1/2026
Right in the Eye (En plein dans l’œil) is a multimedia show composed of 12 short films by Georges Méliès, a pioneer of the Cinema and a wizard of special effects. On stage, three virtuoso musicians play some fifty different instruments, including rare and unique ones, breathing fresh impetus into these cinematographic gems. The musicians transport us in an inventive production, performed both onstage and onscreen, that reflects the creative genius of Méliès.
*DINOSAUR WORLD LIVE! – Family Show on 2/18/2026 (Red Carpet Series)
sponsored by CBI Bank & Trust and Experience Galesburg
ROARSOME FUN FOR ALL THE FAMILY! Discover a prehistoric world of astonishing (and remarkably life-like) dinosaurs. Meet a host of impressive creatures, including every child’s favourite flesh-eating giant, the Tyrannosaurus Rex, a Triceratops, Giraffatitan, Microraptor and Segnosaurus! A special meet and greet after the show offers all our brave explorers the chance to make a new dinosaur friend. Don’t miss this entertaining and mind-expanding Jurassic adventure, live on stage. Olivier Award winner for Best Family Show 2024!
*MJ THE ILLUSION – Michael Jackson Tribute on 2/27/2026
MJ The Illusion is a one-of-a-kind concert that will take you on a journey through the music and performances of the King of Pop, Michael Jackson. Through this experience, you’ll be immersed in this magical journey of re-living Michael Jackson’s Dangerous Tour. From “Jam” to “Thriller”, “Smooth Criminal” and “Billie Jean” with many more favorites that will have you singing and dancing all night long!
CHRIS RUGGIERO – Rising Star Performs on 3/6/2026 (Red Carpet Series)
PBS and social media sensation, Chris Ruggiero takes his audiences on a journey through the golden age of rock and roll, breathing new life into the timeless music of the 1950s, 60s and 70s. This rising young entertainer has created a live stage show that shares his remarkable story, while breathing new life into timeless hit songs of the last six decades, from the 60s and 70s up to today. One moment he and his spectacular band will be weaving a song by Adele into a Lionel Richie classic, and the next, marrying Bruno Mars “Just the Way You Are” with the iconic “This Magic Moment”.
ARE YOU READY FOR IT? – Taylor Swift Tribute on 3/13/2026
Paying tribute to one of the most iconic pop stars of the decade, “Are You Ready For It? A Taylor Experience,” is a nationally touring, award-nominated Taylor Swift tribute band that recreates Taylor’s record-breaking Eras Tour. This magical show is complete with a live band, performances from EVERY era, all the costume changes, and the best part? It’s completely G-rated and family friendly!
UPTOWN – Celebration of Motown & Soul on 3/20/2026 (Red Carpet Series)
Fusing Bruno-Mars-caliber stage presence with top-tier vocals and wall-to-wall choreography, the men of UPTOWN combine the smooth stylings of R&B with the fresh hits of today in a unique and modern show that gets every crowd on their feet! Featuring the hit music of classic artists like: STEVIE WONDER, THE TEMPTATIONS, BRUNO MARS, JACKIE WILSON, THE SPINNERS, MARVIN GAYE, THE FOUR TOPS, AL GREEN, EARTH WIND & FIRE, & PRINCE.
TAPESTRY UNRAVELED – Carole King Tribute on 4/11/2026
Sponsored by Action Tax & Accounting
Tina Naponelli has captured the true essence of Carole King and brings to you a unique and unforgettable tribute experience. Tina’s powerful voice and soulful dedication pay homage to the iconic Queen of Pop. Together, with her bold 5-piece band, they create impressive renditions of “Feel the Earth Move”, ”Chains”, and “You’ve Got a Friend”, from Carole King’s “Tapestry” album, as well as other favorites.
*SUZY BOGGUSS – An Evening with the Grammy Winner on 4/18/2026
Hailing from Aledo, IL, she’s a living legend of country music, having earned eight Top 10 hits throughout the 1990s before exploring new influences — including jazz, western swing, and the Bakersfield sound — during the 21st century. From Grammy Award-winning performances to platinum-selling records, Suzy has proudly called her own shots for four decades, earning her stripes as a singer-songwriter, producer, and road warrior along the way.
512: The Selena Experience – Queen of Tejano Tribute on 4/23/2026
512: The Selena Experience is a mind-blowing musical tribute show and the closest one you can get to what it was like to see a live Selena concert! These musicians came together and orchestrated an extraordinary show that will take you back to 1995 within seconds of their first song as they perform all of Selena’s hits including Como La Flor, Amor Prohibido, Si Una Vez, Bidi Bidi Bom Bom, I Could Fall In Love, and more, so get ready to sing, dance, and relive Selena!
Complete listing ALL currently booked events from September 2025 – May 2026
*Co-Presented with Grandstand Concerts
2025
9/11 – *Aaron Tippin – Original Country (Music – Country) – sponsored by Dave’s Auto Body
9/13 – Mamma Mania! – ABBA Tribute (Music – 70s)
9/19 & 20 – Film Series – Movies TBA (Movie)
9/27 – TENANT PARTNER SERIES: Knox-Galesburg Symphony (Music – Orchestral/Symphonic)
10/2 – *Resurrection – Journey Tribute (Music – Classic 80s)
10/3 – Fright Film Festival – Movie TBA (Movie)
10/4 – Fright Film Festival – Hocus Pocus (1993) (Movie) – sponsored by Blick Art Materials
10/7 – Knox College – Rights For A Robot? featuring Professor David Gunkel (Speaker/Panel)
10/10 – Fright Film Festival – Movie TBA (Movie)
10/11 – *Etta May (Comedy)
10/17 – Fright Film Festival – Movie TBA (Movie)
10/23 – Cirque Mechanics: Tilt (Circus/Variety) RED CARPET SERIES
10/24 – Fright Film Festival – Movie TBA (Movie)
10/31 – Fright Film Festival – Halloween (1978) (Movie)
11/1 – The Rocky Horror Picture Show – 50th Anniversary (1975) (Movie)
11/8 – Sharpe Family Singers – AGT Semi-Finalist (Music – Broadway/Pop) RED CARPET SERIES
11/15 – *Eliminator – ZZ Top Tribute (Music – Classic Rock)
11/22 – TENANT PARTNER SERIES: Knox-Galesburg Symphony (Orchestral/Symphonic)
12/5, 6, & 7 – TENANT PARTNER SERIES – Choral Dynamics (Music – Choral)
12/10 – The Grand Ol’ Christmas Show (Variety/Music – Holiday) RED CARPET SERIES
12/12 – United High School Holiday Spectacular (Music – Band/Choral Concert)
12/13 – Galesburg Express feat. Polar Express & TBA (Movie) – sponsored by Blick Art Materials
12/19 & 20 – TENANT PARTNER SERIES: Dancers’ Studio of Monmouth – Nutcracker (Dance)
2026
1/17 – Decade of Decadence – Hair Metal Tribute (Music – 80s Rock)
1/23 – TENANT PARTNER SERIES – Knox College – Mirza Jazz Festival (Music – Jazz)
1/30 & 31 – International Film Festival – Movies TBA (Movie)
2/1 – Right In The Eye – International Cinema & Concert (Silent Film/Music – French)
2/14 – TENANT PARTNER SERIES – Knox-Galesburg Symphony (Orchestral/Symphonic)
2/18 – *Dinosaur World Live! – Roarsome Entertainment (Family Spectacle) RED CARPET SERIES sponsored by CBI Bank & Trust and Experience Galesburg
2/27 – *MJ The Illusion – Michael Jackson Tribute (Music – Pop)
2/28 – Film Series – Movie TBA (Movie)
3/6 – Chris Ruggiero – Golden Age Tribute (Music – 60s-70s) RED CARPET SERIES
3/7 – Film Series – Movie TBA (Movie)
3/13 – Are You Ready For It? – Taylor Swift Tribute (Music – Pop) sponsored by Blick Art Materials
3/14 – Film Series – Movie TBA (Movie)
3/20 – Uptown – Celebration of Motown & Soul (Music – Motown/Soul) RED CARPET SERIES
3/21 – Film Series – Movie TBA (Movie)
3/28 – Film Series – Movie TBA (Movie)
4/11 – Tapestry Unraveled – Carole King Tribute (Music – 70s Pop) sponsored by Action Tax
4/18 – *An Evening With Suzy Bogguss – Original Country (Music – Country)
4/23 – 512: The Selena Experience – Selena Tribute (Music – Tejano)
5/1, 2, 3 – TENANT PARTNER SERIES – Performing Arts Academy of Galesburg (Musical)
5/9 – TENANT PARTNER SERIES – Knox College – Rootabaga (Music – Jazz)
5/29, 30, 31 – TENANT PARTNER SERIES – Choral Dynamics (Music – Choral)
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The Orpheum Theatre in Galesburg, Illinois exists as a beacon for performing arts and humanities in Central Illinois. By offering engaging programming and preserving its original splendor, the Orpheum serves as a community gathering space and tourist destination, hosting movies, music, dance, comedy and theatre as well as private event bookings.
***Courtesy of The Orpheum Theatre***
