The Capitol Theatre is working to entice Quad Citians to take a new look at this historic, refurbished gem in the heart of downtown Davenport with an upcoming slate of events that kicks off with a pair of Halloween treats.
An “E.T.” and “Beetlejuice” double feature will kick off the fun on Sunday, Oct. 29, at 4 p.m. and 7:15 p.m., respectively, at the new-old theater at 330 W. 3rd St. Tickets for the family-friendly event are $5 each.
Then on All Hallows Eve, Tuesday, Oct. 31, the QC Music Mash will help Quad Citians get into the Halloween spirit via live performances by Quad Cities favorites: Logan Springer & the Wonderfully Wild, Running Man, and the Avey Grouws Band.
Guests are encouraged to wear their best costume for a chance to win a pair of tickets to an upcoming concert of their choice. Tickets are $10 and the doors open at 7 p.m. with the performance from 8 to 11 p.m.
The Halloween-themed events are just the beginning of a growing roster of entertainment being created by Jason Gilliland, Kate Dale, and Alisha Espey at Hive Event Consulting. They also are partnering with Sam Summers, owner of First Fleet Concerts, to manage and activate the restored and upgraded space, ensuring that it once again becomes a thriving hub of culture and entertainment, the Capitol Theatre said in a news release.
“We couldn’t be more thrilled to be a part of the team that is bringing the Capitol Theatre back to life,” said Jason Gilliland, Capitol Theatre managing partner. “This historic gem in the heart of downtown Davenport is ready to shine and welcome in the community once again.”
The Capitol Theatre’s history is intertwined with the story of entertainment in Davenport, the group said in the release. It opened on Christmas Day in 1920, when the theater began its journey as a mixed-use venue, featuring vaudeville acts and movies. Over the years, it evolved into a state-of-the-art movie palace, and today can accommodate up to 1,600 guests.
One of the most significant moments in the Capitol Theatre’s history, according to the release, was that it was one of the final stops on Buddy Holly’s Winter Dance Party Tour on Jan. 29, 1959.
That iconic tour featured Buddy Holly, the Big Bopper, Ritchie Valens and other renowned musicians of the era. Tragically, the tour concluded five days later with a plane crash in Clear Lake, Iowa, claiming the lives of Buddy Holly, the Big Bopper, Ritchie Valens and the pilot.
The Capitol Theatre is remembered for hosting this historic performance shortly before the tragic incident, forever linking it to the world of music and legend.
Today, after an extensive and meticulous $24 million renovation project, the Capitol Theatre has been restored. And the venue reopened to rave reviews at a July 12 ribbon-cutting and public unveiling at the historic theater. With its history and architectural grandeur, the release said.
The Capitol still stands as a testament to the city’s cultural heritage. Organizers said they are thrilled to welcome the QC community to rediscover the magnificent venue at upcoming events.
In addition to the Halloween parties next week, the following events also have been announced:
- Thursday, Nov. 2: EMO Orchestra featuring Hawthorne Heights.
- Friday, Nov. 3: Rocky Horror Picture Show featuring the original ‘Brad Majors’ (Barry Bostwick), with a live shadow cast and audience participation.
- Sunday, Nov. 12: The Head and the Heart with Yoke Lore.
- Tuesday, Nov. 14: Dark Star Orchestra.
- Friday, Nov. 17: Blackstone Cherry & Giovannie & the Hired Gun.
- Saturday, Dec. 9: Meateater Lived.
- Tuesday, Jan. 16: Big Head Todd and the Monsters.
- Saturday, March 23: Pink Floyd Laser Spectacular featuring the Music of Pink Floyd.
For event details, tickets, and more information, visit capitoltheatreqc.com
