The Grove is a historical building and I came here to see the production of Disney's High school musical. I arrived about thirty-five minutes early as I wanted to make sure there was enough time to find parking, retrieve my tickets, and find my seat. It was also my first time visiting this theatre. Ive made my way to will call to pick up ticket. A lady came out with prepaid tickets; I gave her my last name and she found my ticket right away. I didn't get her name but she was personable and kind. She was also very funny as we laughed a bit before I walked away--there was a big crowd of people that formed a queue behind me. Making my way to the entrance; I handed the lady whom was collecting tickets my ticket and she was very kind. They have a concession area for snacks and beverages. The theatre doors weren't opened just yet as showtime wasn't until 7:29pm, but the doors opened promptly at 7pm. I found my seat H-16 center which was nice and close to stage. The clock struck 7:15pm and the seats starting to fill in more with bodies. The production started right away but before it did there was an announcement that cell phones and beepers (yes beepers) had to be turned off--for everyone to sit back and enjoy the show. The show began and immediately it took me back as I remember growing up when the musical was released. I somehow remembered a few of the words to some of songs and found myself lip singing along: "We're all in this together Once we know That we are We're all stars And we see that We're all in this together And it shows When we stand Hand in hand Make our dreams come true" We are all in this together so let's make the best of life! This was truly an amazing show and all the actors and actresses were phenomenal--keep in mind that this show in particular was put on by the youth. I would like to return for an adult production. Nevertheless, it was a nice trip down memory lane. As I was exiting the theatre I found myself chatting with some people including the manager who was such a darling. I do my very best to always be in good spirits and this definitely added to it by sprinkling positivity all around. I left the theatre still lip singing: "Together, together, together everyone Together, we're there for each other every time" (Disney's We're all in this together, high school musical) "Let's do what we love and do a lot of it!" -Marc Jacobs read more

The Grove Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Upland, California

It's a very small theatre and the seats are small as well. It's also a neighborhood theatre.. so you don't expect much. came to see Disney's Tarzan and I was very impressed with the cast! they were amazing and it was my first time there. I would definitely come again. The only concern would be how hot it gets in the theatre luckily most seats were not taken because it was an afternoon showing so I was able to move to a more comfortable seat and not feel claustrophobic. it was hot in the I.E today and would consider a winter show. I had a great time even with the small snack bar and cheap prices.. also they should carry more craft beer rather then just the typical bud type. read more

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I've been here twice so far to see the musicals Waist Watchers and Menopause. I liked Menopause better. I'll be seeing Newsies soon too, which I'm excited about. This is a small, old live performing arts theatre. I quite like it though because it's local to me, convenient to get to, and the parking has been good, never congested or difficult to access when entering or exiting. The only thing I don't like is the restroom. There are only two stalls and that just doesn't do when there's a mile-long line for the restroom during the intermission times. It would be nice if that part could be remodeled at the least. As long as there are productions that I will find interesting, I'll definitely keep coming here! read more

Hubby and I decided to come here last minute for NYE. We LOVE the Beatles , it was close to home and we didn't want to do something too crazy where it would be too crowded. Glad we came here! They had a nice spread of appetizers and baked goods . There was also a small bar for drinks. The place is older so, it helps put you back in time . I personally like places with history . Now, let's talk about the band! We've seen a couple of Beatles tribute bands, but I must say, this has got to be my favorite one!! We had such a great time singing along to their greatest hits. It was a fun night with no drama in sight. We loved it so much that we purchased tickets for an upcoming tribute show to Elvis. This little theater is a gem and one of the few left of its kind. read more

The Grove Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Upland, California

My wife and I absolutely LOVE seeing musicals at the Grove Theatre. We've seen Joseph, Grease, All Shook Up, Abba, Annie, Disney's Tarzan, Come Home For the Holidays, and Hairspray. Most of the actors/actresses are high school and college students with a few more seasoned, i.e., experienced, professionals thrown in for the older, adult parts. But don't let the cast age fool you. The main stars are incredible singers, actors, and dancers, for their age, as are the actors who are in the chorus (background actors). You can really see how much they enjoy being part of the cast! The theater itself looks like it used to be a movie theater. But this is a good thing. There is only one level of seats (no balcony or mezzanine) and every seat is a great seat. My wife and I always sit in the exact same seats and we have a great view of the stage from these seats. Of course, the stage is not as wide or deep as you'd see at a Broadway theater, and the sets are simplified to match the stage, but this in no way detracts from the show! Just use your imagination and you will enjoy the show! All the actors wear mikes and so the sound is very, very good! At the end of each performance, the actors line up in the lobby where we, the audience, can speak with them, take pictures with them, and shake their hand on a job well done! Try to do that at a Broadway play or at the Pantages Theater. Good luck! The ability to speak with the actors is one of my favorite reasons for going to The Grove Theater! After every show I try to speak with as many of the actors as I can, as well as all the main stars. I always enjoy telling them how much I enjoyed their performance (which is absolutely true!) and I especially like seeing how much they like receiving the compliment. They are all very approachable. Sometimes, they even have given me a hug after I've given them my heartfelt compliment! Unexpected, but truly appreciated! We saw Hairspray two Sundays ago. It was fantastic! The lead actress is only 16 years old and she can sing and act! She definitely makes Tracy Turnblad come alive. The actor who plays Corny Collins has been in many plays I've seen at The Grove, as well as being an instructor at a local college. He is extremely talented! Finally, the actors who play Link Larkin, Penny Pingleton, and Seaweed are incredible! As I spoke to these five lead actors I told them all the same thing: I liked their performance even more than the live performance that was broadcast on TV a couple of years ago, and that show had professionals whose names we all know. That is the highest compliment I could give them, and it was absolutely true and from my heart! I enjoyed Hairspray so much, that by the time I reached the parking lot to drive home (50 miles away), I told my wife I wanted to come back again the following Sunday. That was today. Once again my wife and I enjoyed a great performance. Next Sunday is the farewell (final) performance. I will once again be in the audience (in my usual seat) enjoying the performance and I am sure it will be as bittersweet for me as it will be for the cast! I've never gone to see the same play twice, much less three times! But, Hairspray, the Grove Theater, and these amazing young actors are all so good that I have no problem buying another ticket. After next Sunday, that's it. No more Hairspray by this particular cast. But, I know I'll see some of my favorite actors in future shows, and I look forward to seeing them again in their new parts! If you have never seen a musical at The Grove, I highly recommend you pick a play, buy the tickets, and go spend 2 to 3 hours enjoying yourself. It probably won't be the last time you see a show at The Grove, and you may even wonder why you did not go to see shows here sooner! Thank you for reading this review. I do not have any relationship with anyone at The Grove and I have not been given any inducement to leave this review. read more

Once again I was there to see ETA's event annual Elvispalooza and this time for a good cause. I bought tickets at the box office which they have limited hours and better to pay cash to avoid additional fees with card. Arrived around 6:30 hour before show with tickets and he wished us a good time and show went on as scheduled Not a bad seat in the house, good sound but ok crowd though loved the show once again! The place is also currently a Christian fellowship on Sunday's and has put a variety of plays, concerts etc. Hope to attend these in the future read more

My review is for the theater: This was my first and last time at The Grove Theater. I bought tickets on Goldstar to see the Nutcracker. I toke my husband, it was our first time here so we got there 1 1/2 hours early. The box office window states they open 1 hour prior to the show. It was hour before and box office was still closed. It was cold and people were walking in through side door and siting inside. We walked in and sat by the door. I kept an eye on the box office window. Tickets were paid for, I just needed to pick them up. An older lady approached us rudely and asked "do you have your tickets?" I told her I bought them but I'm waiting to pick them up. She told me to "get out" and escorted me out the door. My husband followed me in disbelief. We were shocked at how rude she was! The rude lady went 10-15 min later and opened the box office. I was the first person in line. I told her I bought tickets on Goldstar and I was picking them up. She told me "I don't care where you bought them, I just need your name". I gave her my name and she handed me the tickets and dismissed me. I was astonished at her rude behavior, had a hard time getting over it and my husband was upset. Other people waited outside with us to be let into the theater and all I was hearing was "they are so rude here". I can't believe they run this business like this. Worst experience ever. read more

The Grove Theatre - This lady at the box office is so rude. She needs some etiquette classes! - Performing Arts Near Me - Upland, California

We saw the Elvis Tribute Artist (ETA) competition here last weekend. It was a lot of fun, and the ETAs were very entertaining so the review is not about them but the venue. I really want to like this place but it leaves a lot to be desired. Old theaters are wonderful when they are refurbished and done up right. This one is neat and tidy, but same old seats, poor ventilation, and the acoustics were awful -- we could barely hear the band that opened up the show, then when some of the singers picked up the microphones, they had no power. Sound check people were probably not on top of their game, but I think the stage/building had a lot to do with it. Later when the ETAs came on to do their first song to a pre-recorded track, similar problems. Things improved when the ETAs did their second song with the live band, but when the emcee was on stage, back to those problems. I might be persuaded to come back here to see an upcoming cover band but definitely not a play because I suspect it would be very difficult to hear the dialogue. It's so nice to have small, local venues for live entertainment, and I really hope this place can generate enough revenue to pour into improvements. P.S. Box wine at concession stand--nice try, but no bueno :-p read more

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The Grove Theatre has been quite an experience from the start! To begin I couldn't get a response by messenger on Facebook nor by phone. After weeks of miscommunication, I finally got a response informing me that indeed, the event I had been inquiring about, was to be and information would be on the website! Again, sit and wait! After weeks of calling, messenging etc for information on the event, it appeared on the website! Finally, I was able to purchase tickets and received a confirmation via email to pick up my tickets at the box office/will call on the evening of the event! David J. Sherry and his "Diamond Is Forever" Band, was finally on our Calendar! After a wonderful dinner at Caffè Allegro we were anticipating a fun evening of entertainment! Upon arriving at the theater we were coldly "greeted" at the box office by a grumpy frump who gave us our tickets! The Lobby of the was stifling and hot! After a visit to the hot and inadequate Ladies Room, two stalls including one designated for the handicapped, we were looking forward to the show, in the comfort of a more cooler theater! Granted, it was a "Hot August Night" but the air conditioning was not adequate and I cannot imagine the discomfort of the band members under the hot stage lights! I must add that the performance of David J. Sherry and his "DIAMOND IS FOREVER" Band were "troopers" and put on a FANTASTIC SHOW, even withstanding the obstacles in place! In ending the CONCERT was SPECTACULAR but I don't think I will be visiting THE GROVE THEATRE again! What should have been a great experience was NOT due to the Venue and sub-adequate management! read more

The Grove Theatre - Check out the website at: www.DavidJ.SherryProductions.com - Performing Arts Near Me - Upland, California

Great historic venue, large and spacious. Biggest issue I had was the parking is horrible in that part of Downtown. Ended up parking five blocks away. Once inside and got past the purse Natzies outside. (Had to run my girlfriend's purse back to the car because it was to big for their piece of toast size purse requirement. Once inside enjoyed the show we had came to see, and was a very pleasant venue. read more

First time watching a play at this theatre. It's a small, old community theatre that has it own charm. I'm sure it used to be a popular place in the 1980s. Plenty of car park around the area. We came for the play Cinderella with a modern twist to the original Cinderella story. It is a local production play, no fancy props, simple costumes and it's more like a high school show for kids. A fun and cute play. read more

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Bill Kinison wrote and starred in,"The Gospel According to Kinison." It was Phenomenal! Outstanding! True wholesome entertainment at its best. A testament to the Fine Arts and Fine Culture. A learning experience for the whole family. Through this highly entertaining autobiographical play, Bill and Sherry Kinison, (The Grove Theater's proprietors) gave us what we've always wanted know, but were afraid to ask - We wanted to know 'their story", especially, any tidbits on the late, great comedic genius; Sam Kinison; Bill's younger brother. Throughout the course of the evening we smiled, we laughed, we clapped, we raised our hands, we danced in the isles, like Pentecostal Christians, on fire! - with the Holy Spirit. (Heck some patrons secretly wished the Reverend Bill Kinison would "Lay hands" on them and "GET SAVED!"... OK it was me. :-) Best of all, we cried tears of joy as we learned of the the miraculous story of Richard Kinison; the "True Star" of the Kinison family; according to Bill. Bill Kinison's younger brother, Richard Kinison, had an innate unwavering faith and a true devotion to Christ. Which has inspired me to drop my proverbial "ball and chain" of self-pity, doubt and fear. And reach for the sky with an awareness of life anew. I now realize what it means to be "Born Again!!" As I watched my friend Mr. Bill Kinison tell his life's story with such a fervent veracity; I came to believe..., there is a God. The Kinison's, (Bill, Sherry, Ginger & Scarlet Rose) Judith; the Grove's manager, Janette the wardrobe director, Tamminen & Jack the stage managers, the actors/singers, the musicians, the directors, the back stage managers, all the volunteers, and especially the benefactors have made me want to be a better man. They will inspire you too; I guarantee it. Thank you all, at The Grove Theater, for your hard work, sacrifice and commitment to excellence. Upland is blessed to have it's very own community theater..., The Grove Theater. Respectfully, Tom Aleman PS. Break a leg. :-) read more

Who knew Upland had a theatre for the performing arts! ;) Cute community theatre in downtown Upland that kind of reminds me of a high school auditorium, most likely because of the nature of the play we saw. We came to watch the Grimm's fairy tale "The Elves and the Shoemaker" last month during the holidays and really enjoyed it. The little kiddie elves were so adorable, especially the little boy that the others repeatedly scoffed at for suggesting they make running shoes for the shoemaker. "Running shoes! Who wants RUNNING shoes?" lol. I'd never seen a musical rendition of this story and since it was geared for families, at times the humor/singing was so campy I almost cried but overall I found it to be very cute and clever. We noticed, however, that the ending was changed to be more "Disney" friendly for the little ones, which to be honest, I preferred over the elves' permanent departure in the real ending. I would not mind the drive to come here again for a good production. There are some interesting shops to browse in the downtown area that houses the theatre and some really good hole in the walls nearby. Go Upland. read more

This is the first time that I have ever been to such smaller theatre, compared to The Pantages and the OCPA. I do have to say that I love the area surrounding the theatre and the downtown feel of the stores around. The theatre is just the right size and the people who run the theatre are so kind! The venue most definitely makes you feel at home and the seating is wonderful! I think no matter where your seats are, you will have a great view of the stage. No need for binoculars unless you really want to see all the fine details of their costumes and the stage. Went to watch "Godspell" yesterday with a few of my friends and I did love the feel of the theatre and also love the fact that the cast stood in the lobby after the performance to meet the audience and such. The cast was great but it was hard to hear the first scene, not sure if it was due to the cast singing or the sound. I would love to come watch another production here. Due to the theatre size, I do have to say that the wait for the women's restroom during intermission was a bit long because there are only 2 stalls. read more

I didn't expect to enjoy "Father of the Bride" as much as I did. I usually attend (and have a toe-tapping time) at the musicals at The Grove. However, the semi-Comtemporary production of this play keeps all the campy elements of 1940s. Eric Dunn and Misti Soper were perfect as Mr. and Mrs. Banks as were all of the cast member, down to newbie--Devin Tiedmann. Being an introvert, and a novelist, I still can't interact with the cast members after the show, but I enjoyed the show and had a front (center) seat--the perfect place to enjoy live 'cozy' theater! If you aren't a IE resident the productions here at The Grove are worth the commute! read more

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No air conditioning and the play was done by high school students. I was very disappointed with my purchase. It was 100+ degrees out, and the AC broke. No water was offered and no apologies for the miserable hot theater. The play I purchased tickets for did not say it was going to be performed by high school students, I am so disappointed and will not come back to this theater. I recommend the Fox Theater in Riverside, much better shows and air conditioning. It was entertaining for an amateur performance, but definitely not worth $30 a ticket. read more

Took my 5yr daughters to see the show. It was super entertaining and we loved every minute of it! read more

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We went with my sister and her hubby to go see Scrooge on Sunday. We were very disappointed. My sister thought it was not worth the ticket price. It was so cheesy and poorly done. We did enjoy the carolers. The Fezziwig party was the only part of the play I liked. I guess we've been spoiled by the awesome Scrooge movies we've seen on TV. This play needs a lot of work. One hour was not enough time to make this play as entertaining as it could've been. It was definitely over priced. read more

I saw Hair last night and it was amazing. If this musical was any indication of the quality in choosing a director and ensemble for shows, then I'll probably come back here instead of trudging down to OC theaters. I really liked it - I was a little skeptical because the other reviewers talked about how performances here tend to be G rated, but this one was definitely R, for rad... ok, and for drug use, language, and nudity ;-) As far as the performances: The leading men were amazing - their acting coupled with their singing abilities, as well as the dynamic between them, made the story intriguing. The female lead was vulnerable, but powerful. The second female lead was an afroed powerhouse and really moved the audience, the director describing her as "a true talent" after the show. And the rest of the ensemble effectively captured the era and carried the story forward with unabashed courage to go places that made the audience alternate between blushing and laughing. As far as the theater itself: Old style movie theater seating, seats are a little snug for overweight people such as myself haha, but nothing sitting next to a thin person wont fix ;-) They had a little merchant selling shawls in the lobby for $5 that were pretty cute, and a snack bar serving candy, but also coffee and tea for $1, which was a nice change from the popcorn and soda you usually get from community theaters. Nice little place overall, definitely a retro cinerama kind of feel to it in the nice part of Upland. Seemed to be somewhere between casual dress and business casual btw... read more

The Grove Theatre itself has been a long-time fixture in downtown Upland. My earliest memories of this place back in the 70's recall that it used to screen old Disney flicks (the crappy ones, like the Ghost and Mr. Chicken) for kids during summer. At the time, the theater seemed kind of run down, but as a kid, you are willing to over look that kind of stuff when you have a chance go someplace without your parents' supervision. A few years back, it came under new ownership, and they totally revamped the place. Now, it's a nice intimate venue that produces musicals and plays. I had the chance to check out a play last month, and I was pleasantly surprised with the transformation that this place has undergone, as well as the play itself. Even though you would never describe me as a patron of the performing arts, I like the fact that there is a local venue providing something cultural out here in Thunderdome, without having to venture west of the 605 freeway. read more

Great live theatre! Just getting ready to open Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat August 12 at 7:30. It runs 8/12 - 28, Fridays & Saturdays at 7:29 and Sundays at 2. Children's workshops available (under the direction of Elizabeth Thomas, if asked specifically) read more

Approaching the theatre it was amazing, the scenery from the outside being in the downtown area brought so much life too the area. I brought my mother here to see Mary Poppins on Mother's Day of course, a treat indeed. The woman at the front window was not a delight as previous reviews will reference she has a bad attitude when handing you your tickets like she hates her job or life ?!? The usher taking the tickets was a hoot though and brought back the life from the ticket window lady downing the day: The play was great!! Minus a few small details I will say. The worst character review of the play was Michael Skrzek portrayal of Bert from Mary Poppins his over emphasize on a British accent was the beginning to the end basically being a long time avid fan of that character he attempts to overshadow The woman playing Poppins at many points in the play especially while singing. Overall my experience at this theatre was well I do enjoy the plays they put on here in at The Grove, I would however hire a new ticket window person. read more

I saw Willie Wonka here with my 3 yr old, husband and friends and we all loved it, it's small and intimate but the best part is that it's close to home and theres always a good lineup with pretty decent performers. The price is right to! That's place is great for any and everyone who enjoys live art. read more

The Grove Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Upland, California

I recently went to a show here, Oklahoma. I was so surprised by how well put it was. The theater is very quaint, the whole building reminds me of a movie set, like a suspense scene haha. But it definitely is very well taken care of. read more

The Grove Theater in Upland is a little bit of time travel right off the 10 freeway and Euclid Street. I just saw Peter Pan there and it was a well acted, well sung play with characters that fly and the kids had a wide-eyed wonderful time. The place started as a move theater and now it is live community theater at a high quality, not as large as the Lewis in Rancho Cucamonga and not a dinner playhouse like the Candlelight in Montclair. It is in the middle, and for me, Just Right ! read more

The Grove Theatre - The Grove Theatre, Upland, Calfornia at night. Operated by the Kinisons. - Performing Arts Near Me - Upland, California

Saw their production of the Little Mermaid a few weeks ago and had so much fun! The music was excellent and the way they had Ariel "swimming" through the scenes was very cool. We loved that they sell popcorn and snacks that you can take into the theater with you- definitely a treat! Be warned, the bathroom line at intermission is even crazier than other places because there are only 2 stalls! After the show the cast members are out in the foyer for you to meet or take photos with, which is a nice touch. Especially for the kiddos who want to meet their favorite characters. read more

So I saw Tiger Army here last weekend as part of a vacation. Coming from Arizona, this venue is phenomenal. There is only 1 good smaller/mid sized venue in the Phoenix AZ area. This venue just blows away that one! It was a great show! Love the set up, the sound was amazing (coming from someone who works in the music industry, this was a welcome thing). Not only was the venue amazing, but the community there was amazing as well. It was a sold out show full of people who all wanted to get along with each other. Everyone in AZ is always trying to be better than each other and fight all the time. I definitely recommend this venue! Security was nice, the drinks were pricey as always, but well made! Overall a great great time! read more

What was nice about the theater was the small intimate setting with comfortable seats. I had the rare occasion to have a free Sunday afternoon with no plans or obligations so decided to take my daughter out for a mother daughter day and we stumbled upon the musical "Hair Spray" playing at the theater and we were so happy to have found great seats. However, what seemed to be the beginning of a great day ended soon after the curtain came up. Despite the announcement that there was no video or photography during the show, a woman in front of me decided that she would not only break that rule, she would break the rule repeatedly despite the fact that at least one patron reminded her that there was not photography. I tolerated this throughout out the entire first act and then at intermission went to the manager. While I cannot fault the theater for the bad behavior of patrons, what I do hold the theater responsible for is allowing it to continue. Apparently several individuals complained about the photography during the show (it was so disruptive) and while the manager agreed that it was disruptive, she stated that there was nothing she could do about it because the woman taking the photos was the mother of the "star of the show". I informed the manager that I did not care who she was and that she should be treated as any other person who paid for their ticket. When it was clear that nothing was going to be done I informed the manager that I was going to find her and talk to her. When I finally did find her she was with the manager and I did proceed to tell her that she was being disruptive with all the photo taking during the show. She did not take anymore photos during the remainder of the show but the manager should have kicked her out of there the moment she said she was not going to stop taking photos and it should have not have been the patrons who had to deal with this situation. Honestly, if it had been one or two photos I would not have minded but it was a photo about every five minutes and video as well as having to hear other patrons whisper about how disruptive her behavior was during the show, but the worst part was management not intervening. read more

I like going the Grove Theatre whenever possible. But last Saturday I was very disappointed with the play Waistwatchers. It was in poor taste, actually vulgar. I feel they took it too far. we don't need a demonstraction. read more

When I went to buy the tickets for The Pettybreakers the woman was so friendly and helpful I was immediately impressed! I stood for quite awhile talking with her. Now for the show! The Pettybreakers were absolutely outstanding! They went way beyond my expectations! Fabulous show I would highly recommend to anyone who is a Tom Petty fan and even to those that aren't. I was quite impressed with the sound quality inside the building as well. The place is worn, but it's old. I remember as a kid, The Grove was every parents Saturday afternoon babysitter. I hope at some point they will be able to do some remodeling, but please don't let that stop you from seeing some fabulous shows there! If you missed The Pettybreakers they will be at the LA County fair. I highly recommend them. read more

The Grove Theater is a wonderful Historic Theater. I attend every year for their Elvis entertainers performances. The ETA's are awesome!!! We always have a good time. I also loved Sam Kinison and this Theater belongs to Sam's brother and sister in law. I can't wait for the next Elvis show. read more

Wifey and I LOVE this place! We drove 70 minutes to get here. Location is cool in a little neighborhood that takes you back in time. The theater is run by the Kinison family, relatives of the late Sam Kinison. Its just the right size, the production was great with little personal touches it's hard to get theater of this quality without the venue being stuck up, but they did it! We saw Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat for the zillionth time (first time here). The 'little' Pharoah with the Huge voice was the best! Plenty of free parking.....Go try some theater! read more

Saw the Music Man on July 24, 2015. What a GREAT performance. I used to do musical theater, so I've heard my share of bad singers. There was not one note out of place. Great job! The reason I didn't give five stars is because we were sweating our B@llZ off because there was NO A/C. I know, it's an old building and fans would have interfered with the performance, so it is what it is. I will see shows there again, but dress for the weather. read more

This theater is rich in history as well as hospitality. A local staple in the community of Upland, the Grove has top notch shows, and delivers every time in entertainment. I am a regular here and have been going for many years. The Grove is owned by the Kinison family who are nothing short of hardworking and dedicated individuals to keeping it alive and thriving. I am looking forward to coming back to see Mary Poppins. read more

Having been a patron of the Grove Theater for years, most recently to take in Dracula, I figured it was time to finally write a review. The theater itself is a classic and traditional theater. It's cozy without being too small, every seat in the house has a good view, without feeling like you're crowded in at a school assembly. It's clean, has an open and welcoming lobby, and has years of history in photos on the walls. The family that owns it is amazing, they seem to be fully involved in every production that takes place, from the auditions to the shows, and are extremely friendly and welcoming to all patrons. (This goes for all employees as well - in all my years of going here I have never experienced any rude or dismissive treatment. In my opinion, anyone claiming otherwise triggered the response, rather than received it spontaneously.) There is a small snack bar. Sure, it's somewhat limited on choices, but you can bring those items into the theater, unlike most stage theaters. And you're there for a show, not dinner. Water, soft drinks, maybe a beer, grab some popcorn, and you're totally good to go. The shows are always well cast, well produced, well directed, and well performed. From Grease to Jesus Christ Superstar to Peter Pan to Hair, and of course to the recent Dracula, I have fully enjoyed every production. It's more than worth the price of admission. Whether it's a date night or a family night, I highly recommend taking in a show! Update: I recently took in the Grove's production of Mary Poppins. Amazing! In fact, it was so amazing that I went a second time. Perfectly cast, perfectly presented. Ginger Kinison was delightful as Mary, with a pure and beautiful voice, adorable perkiness, and wonderful range of emotion. She brought me into the story so completely that when she said goodbye to the children, I cried along with her. Michael Skrzek was phenomenal as Bert, so completely talented in all areas - voice, dance, acting- and brought an innocence to Bert that was thoroughly entertaining. Together these two had wonderful chemistry, and led a cast that was beyond talented all around. The young actors who played Jane and Michael were adorable and perfectly mischievous (there were two Janes, but both times I saw it were the same actress). And when it comes to memorable, nothing at this theater has ever compared to "Step In Time" in this production. I sat in absolute awe as what appeared to be the entire cast came on stage and energetically tap danced their way through this number, perfectly in sync. Skrzek was particularly impressive in this number, and I wish they had offered a DVD sale so I could bring it home to enjoy again. Perhaps this will become a longer running show? read more

This great little theater has been around since I was a small boy, I remember seeing movies here as a child. It's now a live performance theater, with well done community theater. Dale Kristen has been known to star in productions here, some other well known names can also be caught here as well. This theater is owned and operated by Sam Kinisons, (R.I.P.) widow Sherry Kinison. Every seat in the house is a good seat, this is a very intimate theater. Get out and enjoy some good local IE theater! read more

I've seen two plays here now, "The Elves and the Shoemaker", and "Urinetown". The acting has been solid, and the stories are charming. However, the material has been hardly risque. It's clear that the offerings cater to a more conservative crowd, but at least there is a viable performing arts culture in the IE. Tickets run from $20-$25, which is typical for community theater. Considering that movie tickets now approach these prices (I'm looking at you, IMAX), combined with the charm of seeing a live performance, I can't complain. The atmosphere has the charm of the small town that the theater is in. The recommendation is to show up at least an hour early in order to take in the historic old-town feel of the area. read more

Wonderful! Great acting, but the seats can be hard to see especially if a taller person who likes to talk sits in front of you. However the acting is lovely! read more

Great venue. I don't think there could be a bad seat in the house as it is not a huge place. Downtown and quaint. East parking. We will definitely watch for other shows here! read more

Fun, Fun, Fun evening... This past Saturday we were thoroughly entertained by The Addams Family, musical comedy. What a terrific surprise to have this very cool, very affordable play house in our own backyard. The theatre itself is not much to see inside, but once the lights go out and the players come in,,, none of that matters. Great group of actors and actresses that performed this musical and you can tell they truly enjoyed doing it. Wonderful opportunity to introduce children to the theatre. Loved being 5 minutes from home, easy access, easy parking, can't wait to go to the next presentation. read more