Illusion Theater

I didn't realize it until I went again last night, but I've actually been to this theater a couple of times before... it just wasn't under the auspices of Illusion Theater at the time.The Illusion Theater is housed on the 8th floor of the Hennepin Center for the Arts, which is also home to Zenon Dance Company, Minneapolis Musical Theatre, and many other performing art companies. The building itself was constructed in 1888 and originally housed a Masonic Temple; it now appears on the National Register of Historic Places and is a beautiful example of preserving architectural gems for functional use.The stage at the Illusion is an "end-on" or proscenium space with audience members facing the performance straight on. Seats are ample and comfortable; the area for those using a wheelchair is convenient and easy to access.There's plenty of parking around the theater, but if there's an event going on in the area, look for parking east of Hennepin--you'll save a bundle. On our recent visit, the surface parking lots around the theater were charging $14; just a block away we scored enclosed parking at the 50 South Sixth Street ramp for only five bucks.

I've been here twice to see Miss Richfield perform. Based on the interview with the production manager, I'm intrigued to catch other shows here, as well. Unassuming location on the 8th floor of the Hennepin Center for the Arts/Cowles Dance building. The space is perfect - small enough to feel intimate and personal, but large enough to be able to score tickets. The interior is quite understated (read: a bit outdated) but charmingly quaint. A couple of cons: Audiovisual work is quite sub-par. The projection for the show was blurry and dark. Also the drinks are over priced for the service size. All in all, it's a cute hometown theater that deserves patronage for their commitment to local talent. I'll be back.

I have been here twice and both times, I thought the same thing when attending. I really like the venue space but I do not like the slow elevator, nor the parking situation. The lighting and sound is above average for this size of Theater. I absolutely love the waiting space. Nicely decorated bistro tables allow you to get cozy while enjoying a view of Minneapolis and sipping a glass of wine or concession of your choice. ( I had a diet coke and hot Cheetos)On that note, on my last visit, I got scolded for going into the house early but the sign on the door said "Now seating rows x-xx, seats 1-10 which I was". The girl was pleasant enough when she came to remove me but they did open the house about ten minutes late. The show was due to start at 7:30 and the doors did not open until 7:40. The staff seems a little snooty and unwelcoming. The ladies that gave us our programs were not friendly at all. Maybe I am just not used to DWTN Minneapolis attitude.Like others say, get the hell out of there when the play is ending. Be the first group on the elevator or else you could be waiting forever unless you want to hoof it down 8 flights of stairs. The elevator is crazy slow!!!!! Although I appreciate the beauty of this Theater and both productions I have seen were excellent, its not my first choice and it will take a very enticing production for me to come here again.

Illusion Theater advertises itself with the succinct slogan "small stage. giant impact". I attended the world premiere of "Only One Sophie" and was absolutely mesmerized for 2 hours as I became enmeshed in the lives of an immigrant Jewish family maneuvering the delicate balance of maintaining historical cultural traditions from Poland while discovering and incorporating the cultural traditions in America. The venue is conveniently located in downtown Minneapolis on the 8th floor of the Hennepin Center for the Arts; street parking can be limited however there are ample parking ramps within a few blocks of the venue.

Last night, we saw the holiday redux of Always and Forever. Really great fun in a small, intimate setting. The lighting and set design were open and bright, and the performers were funny and engaging; they had the whole crowd clapping and singing along! The location was no problem for us, and it was right next to the bus line for easy access. Leg room was a bit of a premium, particularly for someone tall like myself, but it was a small issue. Check out a show!I also know that they are actively involved with theater education in local schools, and they work hard to help make the arts accessible to children. That's enough to earn it a big thumbs up in my book!

Love it!Great location, cute lobby area, and the view from the lobby is truly amazing. The productions are wonderful; they are well acted, well directed, and well produced. I never regret seeing a show here! Dinner and a show make for a perfect evening in downtown Minneapolis.

This theater produces original works with great range. Great value in a nice setting, and a worthwhile cause, helping artists bring ideas to life.

A nice, small, intimate venue. Good sight lines and acoustics. The only downside to the theater's location on the top floor of HCA is the wait for an elevator at the end of a show. If you don't mind the walk, take the stairs down instead.

An intimate setting to enjoy a great performance of Red Resurrected. No props, no costume changes, just animated performances that didn't require them. My first visit, thoroughly enjoyed!

An evening of theater at Illusion is always an event of transformation and magic. Make certain you check out the upcoming production of Jeffrey Hatcher's "What's the Word For."