After 18 long months it's "curtains up" tonight on the Twin Cities theater scene

Both the Guthrie and the Orpheum are welcoming patrons back for shows

The Orpheum is bouncing back in a big way thanks to 9.4 million dollars in federal grant money for shuttered theaters. The Broadway touring show of Disney's “Frozen” is kicking off a three-week run.

At the other end of downtown, the Guthrie Theater opens their first show since the pandemic forced them to close, not to mention the layoffs of most of the staff.

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Artistic Director Joe Haj says it's been a long road back.

“The organization lost some $28 million dollars of what would have been earned revenue across that span,” Haj tells WCCO’s Laura Oakes.  “The community has been extraordinary helping us stay afloat during this time.”

Indeed, generous donations along with a $7 million Federal grant have helped keep the Guthrie afloat.

“What the Constitution Means to Me” kicks off the new season at the Guthrie, with a return of the classic “A Christmas Carol” which will be back in November.

For those looking to attend shows at either the Guthrie or the Orpheum, take note of their COVID Vaccination policies.

The Guthrie says all ticket holders must show proof of full vaccination against COVID-19 or a negative COVID-19 PCR test to attend a performance. They are also requiring masks whether you're vaccinated or not.

The Orpheum is following the exact same protocols on vaccinations and masks that the Guthrie is doing.

Featured Image Photo Credit: (© Mary Bergin / USA Today Images)