Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Experience Live Performances at Sheldon Theatre
Sheldon Theatre has been a cornerstone of performing arts in Red Wing, Minnesota since its opening in 1904. As one of the oldest operating theaters in Minnesota, we maintain a commitment to live performance while preserving our historic ornate gilded interior. Our venue hosts over 30,000 attendees annually through diverse programming that includes national touring acts, local performances, and community productions. We serve as both a cultural hub and educational resource, offering outreach programs and volunteer opportunities that engage regional artists and audiences. Our 2018 capital improvement project revitalized this regional treasure while maintaining its historical integrity.The theater operates through a unique public/private partnership model established by founder Theodore B. Sheldon. We provide flexible event spaces accommodating groups from 50 to 468 attendees, with subsidized rates available for educational and nonprofit organizations. Our technical capabilities include state-of-the-art lighting and sound equipment across multiple performance areas. Community engagement remains central to our mission through initiatives like the Phoenix Community Theatre and school matinee programs. Our dedicated staff and volunteer team ensure exceptional experiences for both performers and audiences.
Services
Live Theater Performances
Event Space Rentals
Community Outreach Programs
Educational Matinees
Technical Production Services
Historical Tours
Season Ticket Packages
Corporate Event Hosting
Local Artist Development
Stage Production Rentals
Details
- Year established: 1904
Highlights and features
- We offer access to Minnesota's second-oldest operating theater with modern technical capabilities
- Our venue accommodates events from intimate gatherings to 468-seat productions
- We maintain historical integrity while providing contemporary performance amenities
- Our community programs support local artists and educational initiatives
- We provide flexible pricing options including subsidized nonprofit rates
What people say
Beautifully restored theater
Excellent acoustics
Dedicated volunteers
Diverse programming
Historical charm
Services
Live Theater Performances
Sheldon Theatre presents over 45 annual performances featuring national touring acts, local productions, and educational matinees. Our programming includes Broadway-style shows, classical plays, and contemporary performances across multiple genres. The venue hosts both established artists and emerging talent through partnerships with regional theater groups.
Event Space Rentals
Our historic theater accommodates events from weddings to corporate meetings with flexible seating options. The main venue seats 468, while smaller spaces include the 3rd floor studio (50 capacity) and theater mezzanine (60 capacity). Technical support and equipment rentals are available for all events.
Community Outreach Programs
We offer volunteer opportunities, youth theater programs, and partnerships with local schools to develop artistic talent. Initiatives include the Phoenix Community Theatre and Missoula Children's Theatre collaborations that engage regional artists and students in performance opportunities.
Historical Preservation
The theater maintains its 1904 architectural integrity through ongoing preservation efforts. Self-guided tour booklets and special programs showcase the venue's unique history as Minnesota's second municipally-owned theater with guided insights into its ornate design features.
Technical Production Services
Our professional-grade lighting and sound systems support complex productions. The venue features state-of-the-art technical capabilities including full inventory lighting plots, front-of-house mixing, and adaptable stage configurations for diverse performance requirements.
People
Shantel Dow
Executive and Artistic Director
Shantel Dow leads Sheldon Theatre's artistic vision and operational strategy with extensive experience in performing arts management. She oversees programming decisions and community engagement initiatives while maintaining the venue's historical legacy.
Russell Johnson
Director of Production
Russell Johnson manages all technical aspects of theater operations including event rentals and production support. With deep expertise in stage engineering, he ensures optimal technical execution for every performance and rental event at the venue.
Leah Adams
Audience Services Manager
Leah Adams oversees customer experience and box office operations while serving as a key historical resource. She leads the audience services team and frequently shares the theater's history through media appearances and educational programs.
Questions
What types of performances does Sheldon Theatre host?
We present diverse programming including theater productions, musical acts, dance performances, and film festivals across multiple genres and styles.
Are there group ticket discounts available?
Yes, we offer group pricing options for parties of 10 or more through our dedicated group sales program.
Can I rent the theater for private events?
Our venue accommodates weddings, corporate events, and special occasions with multiple space options and technical support available.
How accessible is the theater for patrons with disabilities?
We provide ADA-compliant seating, assistive listening devices, and accessible restrooms to ensure all patrons enjoy comfortable access.
What educational programs do you offer?
Our school matinees, youth theater partnerships, and community workshops provide arts education opportunities for students and aspiring performers.
How can I support the theater's mission?
You can contribute through donations, volunteer opportunities, or by joining our Annie Sheldon Legacy Society for planned giving.
Reviews (5)
Mel Branco Bowman
Nov 30, 2021
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Charming theatre with an excellent lineup this season. Free street parking is easy to find, and the Playbills always list local restaurants and pubs that will be open after the show, which I really appreciate. I love the Twin Cities theatre scene, but at 1/5 the cost, Red Wing and the Sheldon Theatre really deliver something special.
Tribebass
Nov 27, 2021
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Great little theater with (usually) outstanding acts. Easy access, beautiful town, you need to go there soon!
Rick Plumer Cisco
Oct 05, 2021
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Intimate- comfortable capacity, all seats have good views of the stage, beautiful design reflects " days gone by"
Joline E.
Feb 24, 2019
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We saw Gaelyn Lea and then Dessa here during the Big Turn Music Fest and it was our first time at the Sheldon. We thought it was a great little theater and actually had quite nice sound acoustics! It's restored and painted beautifully. The first show we sat in the middle of the main floor and then the next show we moved up to the balcony and were lucky enough to get two seats closest to the left front along the rail. That was the way to go, amazing view!
Pettynerd
Sep 25, 2018
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Beautiful theater with great sound, friendly staff and super clean. I would return here for a show anytime, plus the beer is reasonably priced!!!
