The Palace Theatre

Built in 1928 and renovated in 1976, this atmospheric theatre surrounds the audience with a Moorish architectural courtyard and the feeling of being entertained under twinkling stars and circulating clouds at dusk. The effect is produced by the original (reconditioned) revolutionary cloud machine in a hidden location.

The theater was built with a water wash air-conditioning system when it opened in 1928. This operated until 1998 when it was replaced with a modern geothermal unit. The three story fly loft over the stage allows full "Broadway" play performances, with an internal ramp from street level to bring large vehicles and animals to the stage.

As the cultural home to Marion and the surrounding seven county area, the Palace is constantly undergoing many updates to enhance our patrons visits. The Palace stage showcases entertainment from local talent l to top name performers each year.

It is also the center of attention to hundreds of school-aged children as they gather to enjoy educational entertainment. Located in the balcony of the historic theatre are the Scharer Patron Lounge and the Business Office Suite. The Scharer Patron Lounge and the first floor Rotary Concession Room areas are home to the Arts Palace, a visual arts program. The Arts Palace includes classes such as Cartooning, Wee Kids Theatre, Gingerbread Houses, and Mime for the Fun of It. These quarterly classes are not only for children, but youth and adults as well.

This cultural home is diverse in its activities, and we invite you to visit the Palace Theatre. Whether for a movie, an art class, or a live performance, we're sure this is one place you will want to visit again and again.

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