Good afternoon. Today I’d like to talk to you about one of Nora's, and my, favorite facets of the Fort Wayne art scene: live theater.
When Nora and I both retired in 2021, we were looking for a place to settle for the rest of our lives. We had a laundry list of "must haves", including a philharmonic orchestra, museums, and a vibrant live music culture. Way up on the list was an active live theater culture. Fort Wayne checked all the boxes and became our new home.
Fort Wayne may be known for its picturesque rivers and rich industrial history, but it boasts a thriving live-theater presence. Whether you are drawn to classic plays, contemporary dramas, or musical theater, Fort Wayne offers a variety of experiences that cater to all tastes and ages.
You can’t discuss live theater in Fort Wayne without mentioning the iconic Embassy Theatre (the subject of a previous post and the venue for the 2026 convention awards ceremony), located directly across Jefferson Blvd. from the convention center.
Opened in 1928 as a movie palace (silent movies were the order of the day) and vaudeville house, Embassy stands as a testament to the city's commitment to the arts. Restored to its former glory, the grandeur of its architecture and the intimacy of its seating make each performance a memorable experience. Audiences gather here not only for entertainment but also to appreciate a piece of Fort Wayne's heritage.
The Embassy Theatre regularly hosts national touring Broadway musicals, offering local audiences the chance to see professional productions without leaving the city. Shows like The Lion King, Hamilton, and Wicked have all graced the Embassy stage, drawing theatergoers from across northeast Indiana.
In addition to major Broadway productions, local companies such as the Fort Wayne Civic Theater and the University of Saint Francis put on musicals that range from beloved classics to contemporary favorites.
Nora's, and my, first theatrical experience in our new home was at the Fort Wayne Civic: A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, one of my long-time favorites. Nora and I both had a great time. I saw Phil Silvers in the lead role at the Pantages Theater in Los Angeles when I was in high school and loved Zero Mostel's take on Pseudolus on the big screen.
The Fort Wayne Civic Theater, located at 303 E Main St., a six-block, 12-minute walk from the convention center, has been providing high-quality stage productions since 1927. The Civic Theater offers a robust season of plays and musicals at the newly renovated Arts United Center, a modern facility that serves as a focal point for the arts in downtown Fort Wayne.
Community theater also plays a vital role in Fort Wayne’s cultural landscape. Groups such as the Arena Dinner Theater, 719 Rockhill St., a four-minute, 1.2-mile drive from the convention center, and First Presbyterian Theater, 300 W Wayne St., a two-block, four-minute walk from the convention center, provide platforms for amateur and semi-professional performers to showcase their talents.
The Arena Dinner Theater, established in 1971, is one of Nora's, and my, favorite venues and is particularly beloved for its intimate setting and dinner-and-a-show experience, making theater a social and immersive event. Ten-seat tables mean you have dinner with people you have probably never met and probably would not have met unless you attended the performance. Dinner and dessert are included in the price. Mixed drinks, wine, and beer are sold at a cash bar. It's a lot of fun, intimate, and a surprisingly gregarious experience.
I want to leave you with our strongest recommendation for a great, and uncommon, stage experience, The Wagon Wheel Theater, at 2515 E Center St., Warsaw, IN., a 41-mile, 50-minute drive from the convention center, is well worth the short trip for its unique format and intimate feel.
The Wagon Wheel is an 800-seat theater-in-the-round that is one of Nora’s, and my, go-to locations for live theater. We have seen shows from Big and Elf, to A Comedy of Errors, to Smokey Joe's Café and Brigadoon. As a bonus, The American Table restaurant is right around the corner for a pre-show dinner with great prices, outstanding service, and a tasty menu that has something for everyone. Just remember, it will probably be busy on show days, so plan accordingly.
Live theater in Fort Wayne is a dynamic and integral part of the city's identity. From historic venues to innovative performances, the city offers something for everyone. Fort Wayne's theaters invite you to experience the magic of live performance and the power of community storytelling.
In short, if you like the performing arts, check what will be offered during your visit. I can almost guarantee you will not be disappointed.
We look forward to seeing you and your families next Summer and are doing our best to keep you informed and up-to-date to ensure everyone has something, they love, to look forward to.
Here are some video links if you are interested:
Side note: this is a way more in-depth video about the Embassy than I published in my previous post. I'm sorry, but The Embassy is my "happy place" in Fort Wayne! You'll see what I mean when you attend the Convention awards ceremony.
Side note: Gloria is our neighbor, from right across the street.
Cheers,
Nora and John