Ordway Center for the Performing Arts | Saint Paul

Here is a detailed overview of the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts, a major cultural institution in Saint Paul, Minnesota:

Ordway Center for the Performing Arts – Saint Paul, Minnesota

I. Overview

The Ordway Center for the Performing Arts is a premier performing arts venue located in the heart of downtown Saint Paul, adjacent to Rice Park and surrounded by notable landmarks like the Landmark Center, the Saint Paul Hotel, and the James J. Hill Library. Opened in 1985, it serves as a central stage for world-class music, dance, theater, and opera. It is a hub for both local talent and international touring companies, making it one of Minnesota’s most significant cultural institutions.

II. Historical Background

Founded by Sally Ordway Irvine, a philanthropist and arts advocate, who envisioned a world-class performing arts center for the Twin Cities.

Funded initially by $7.5 million in private donations, matched by contributions from local businesses, foundations, and government.

Designed to unite multiple art forms under one roof while also supporting Minnesota’s rich tradition of arts education and accessibility.

Opened in January 1985 with a gala event that set the tone for decades of artistic excellence.

III. Architecture and Facilities

1. Two Main Performance Spaces:

Music Theater:

Originally the primary space, this theater seats approximately 1,900 people.

Designed with exceptional acoustics and a classical proscenium stage, perfect for opera, Broadway musicals, symphonies, and large-scale productions.

Features elegant decor, plush seating, and sophisticated sound and lighting systems.

Concert Hall:

Added in 2015 as part of a $42 million expansion.

Seats around 1,100 patrons.

Designed with intimate, acoustically advanced architecture, the hall is used for chamber music, vocal performances, jazz, spoken word, and smaller theater productions.

Emphasizes flexibility and clarity of sound, ideal for nuanced musical experiences.

2. Public Spaces:

Grand Lobby with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooks Rice Park and provides pre-show and intermission gathering space.

Skyway and street-level entrances allow convenient access from nearby parking and downtown locations.

Interior design reflects both elegance and warmth, using wood, glass, and modern lighting.

IV. Resident Arts Organizations

The Ordway is home to several of the Twin Cities’ leading performing arts institutions:

Minnesota Opera

The Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra (SPCO)

Schubert Club

Ordway Presents, its in-house series, which produces Broadway shows, global dance troupes, international music ensembles, and family-friendly performances.

This unique collaboration model supports artistic diversity and fosters shared access to state-of-the-art production facilities.

V. Programming and Events

The Ordway hosts a wide range of programming that spans genres, cultures, and generations:

1. Broadway Series:

Touring and locally produced musicals such as Hamilton, Les Misérables, The Lion King, and Chicago.

Strong emphasis on high production values and casting equity.

2. Dance and Music:

International dance companies, including flamenco, ballet, and contemporary troupes.

Jazz, world music, classical recitals, and experimental sound projects.

3. Opera and Chamber Music:

Minnesota Opera’s full season is staged here, often including world premieres and American debuts.

SPCO performances showcase intimate and refined classical presentations.

4. Family and Community Series:

Multicultural children’s performances and youth programming.

Community concerts, school matinees, and talk-back sessions with artists.

VI. Education and Outreach

Ordway Education and Engagement Programs serve thousands of students annually through workshops, in-school residencies, field trips, and performance access.

Offers “Project SUCCESS”, an initiative to help underserved youth build confidence through theater arts.

Open rehearsal programs, artist talks, and behind-the-scenes tours connect the community with the creative process.

VII. Accessibility and Sustainability

Fully ADA-compliant with accessible seating, elevators, assistive listening devices, and sensory-friendly programming.

Emphasizes equity and inclusion, partnering with local organizations to broaden access to performances.

Operates under green building principles, using energy-efficient lighting, HVAC systems, and waste reduction strategies.

Located on public transit routes and adjacent to structured parking and bike-friendly areas.

VIII. Community and Cultural Impact

A cornerstone of Saint Paul’s cultural scene, the Ordway anchors a district filled with museums, galleries, public art, and culinary destinations.

It fuels downtown economic activity through tourism, hospitality, and education partnerships.

Acts as a symbol of civic pride, bringing together diverse audiences for shared artistic experiences.

IX. Visitor Tips

Dress Code: Business casual or upscale casual is typical, though not strictly enforced.

Arrive Early: At least 30 minutes before showtime to enjoy the ambiance, grab a drink, or explore Rice Park.

Dining Options: Pre-theater dining is available nearby at several fine restaurants, with many offering valet or timed dining packages.

Tickets: Available online or at the on-site box office. Rush tickets and student discounts are often offered.

Parking: Connected to nearby ramps and validated in some cases; also accessible via light rail and bus.

Summary

The Ordway Center for the Performing Arts is not only a performance venue-it’s a cultural anchor for Saint Paul and the Twin Cities. With its elegant architecture, commitment to artistic excellence, and robust community engagement, it embodies the transformative power of the performing arts. Whether you attend a world-class opera, a Broadway hit, or a youth chorus concert, the Ordway offers an inspiring and memorable experience for every visitor.