The Spotlight Theatre Company is midway through their second season, with Matilda: The Musical opening on August 2, 2019. Located in the iconic building that was previously the Scottish Rite Cathedral in Moline, just west of the I-74 bridge, productions are performed in a meticulously crafted auditorium built by the Masonic organization.
Matilda: The Musical runs from August 2-11 and is based on the beloved Roald Dahl novel. The remaining season performances include Billy Elliott: The Musical from Oct 18-27 and the holiday classic Miracle on 34th St.: The Musical from Dec 12-15.
The Spotlight Theatre Children’s Company also offers classes throughout the year, and Improv classes are available for adults. The Spotlight Theatre is also the new home for Comedy Sportz Quad Cities in Illinois.
Listen to our conversation here with co-owner Brent Tubbs about his background in improv and comedy, the story behind his return to the Quad Cities and opening the Spotlight Theatre Company with his wife, Sarah, and the complexity and joy inherent in running a full-scale performance theatre.
Completed in 1930, the 500-seat auditorium features a lofty timbered ceiling, stained glass windows, a large organ, and full-sized stage. The Masonic and other fraternal organizations that used this formally private building were interested in performance on a grand scale, conferring their degrees through dramatic presentation on the stage.
Tickets and additional information can be obtained here. The Spotlight Event Center is located at 1800 7th Avenue in Moline.
