Will It Play in Peoria?

Opportunities Galore!

Peoria was a big part of the Vaudeville circuit where it got its reputation for being representative of American taste. The quote, “Will it play in Peoria?” is a well-known metaphor for something appealing to the mainstream American public. “If an act could succeed in Peoria, it could work anywhere” was a famous adage among Vaudevillians. In fact, Peoria is still often used to test market products and services before being released to the American public.

Peoria has an active theater community. The Peoria Players is the fourth oldest community theater in the nation and the oldest in Illinois. They produce six shows per season – running from September through May – (with a Summer Youth Theatre in August) and seek to appeal to a wide variety of tastes.

Peoria is also home to the Cornstock Theatre, Eastlight Theatre, Prairie Folklore Theatre and the Apollo.

A night at the Apollo

The Apollo first opened in 1914 and is decorated in Art Nouveau style. Restored to its former grandeur, it now houses the Apollo International Film Group screening foreign, classic and independent movies.

If you’re looking for something to do, visit our theater productions for an entertaining evening. For more information about entertainment options here in Peoria, visit our Arts in Peoria page and Peoria Museums.

Relocating to Peoria? Request your free Peoria Relocation GuideTM now.