Hennepin Theater District
Radisson Plaza Minneapolis Hotel near Orpheum, State and Pantages TheatersIf you're looking for a hotel in downtown Minneapolis that places you near all of the best things to do, the Radisson Plaza is an ideal choice. Only three blocks from the Hennepin Theater District, this hotel offers access to a rich combination of history and culture. The theater district is home to three of the most historic playhouses in America, each of which is revered for its Renaissance-style architecture and expansive history.
These three theaters: the Pantages, State, and Orpheum, were originally erected in the early 20th century. Within the last three decades, they have undergone restoration processes that have returned them to their former stature and elegance, and as of 2005, the venues have been allocated into the care of the Hennepin Theater Trust by the city of Minneapolis. The Hennepin Theater Trust's mission to "operate, preserve and program" these theaters has come along gracefully as all three theaters are fully operational with attractive programs and significant relationships with Broadway Across America.
The Pantages Theater
Known for its beautiful, stained-glass dome, the Pantages Theater is one of the city's premier venues. The Pantages originally boasted a vaudeville cast and performance that was composed of comedians, singers and a banjo player. The entertainment style featured here has not changes much, though the banjo is no longer a hallmark. Each year, the Pantages features top headline shows, including Jekyll and Hyde and The Book of Mormon.
The Pantages has always been the smallest of the three theaters, seating 1,014 guests, but what it lacks in size it surely makes up for in style. Seating options range from ground floor viewing to balcony positioning and the auditorium's harvest gold columns provide a touch of sophistication that distinguishes the Pantages and makes it unique.
The State Theater
"The middle sister," the esteemed State Theatre, is also located on Hennepin Avenue. Like the Orpheum, the State was erected in the early 1920's. Since it's re-opening in the 1990s, over 8.8 million dollars have been invested into restoring this wonderful auditorium. The State Theater is admired for its Italian Renaissance-style architecture and the original six chandeliers that now continue to decorate the showroom's ceiling. Seating 2,181 guests, the State Theater is slightly smaller than the Orpheum, but it hosts just as many Broadway touring productions.
The Orpheum Theater
Originally founded as the Hennepin Theater in 1921, the Orpheum playhouse seats 2,579 guests and is the largest of the three playhouses. The chandelier within the main auditorium is sensational, demanding the attention of all who have viewed it. The chandelier is approximately 15 feet long and weighs close to 2,000 pounds! Filled from floor to balcony with red velvet seats, the Orpheum Theater is famed for its big headline shows like Elton John and many more. After all, this theater did present the pre-Broadway world premiere of Disney's The Lion King.
Theater Rentals
The Orpheum, Pantages, and State Theaters are all available to be rented for your interests and happenings. For all of our business-minded guests who seek an unforgettable event venue, please apply through the Hennepin Theater Trust's Theater Rental Page.
Further Information
All three of these historic theaters are in very close in proximity to the Radisson Plaza. Directions to each venue may be obtained at the concierge desk, and our hotel staff will be glad to point you in the right direction.
