About Ohnward Fine Arts Center The Ohnward Fine Arts Center belongs to the people of Maquoketa. This 29, 800 square foot performing arts center was built entirely with private donations, a Vision Iowa grant program and with Gary Drew leading volunteer labor. More than 900 families, individuals and businesses donated financial assistance, volunteered their labor and loaned or donated equipment and materials to complete the project. In 1998 Gary Drew and his wife, Marilyn, purchased a 3 acre parcel on East Platt Street. In October of 1999 construction began with excavation for the foundation. In January of 2000 Dr. James and Harlene Kopel of Moline, Illinois made a large donation to the future fine arts center. The theatre in the Center is named in their honor. In September of 2001 a Vision Iowa grant was approved when John Fagerland and Edward Tubbs contributed matching funds. Fagerland and Tubbs acquired naming rights to the facility which became the Ohnward Fine Arts Center with the Drew Gallery and Kopel Theatre. The Ohnward Fine Arts Center of Maquoketa officially opened in December of 2004. With the help of over 95, 000 volunteer hours and $900, 000 in little and big donations, the community of Maquoketa built this state-of-the-art Ohnward Fine Arts Center without the use of a single city or school tax dollar. The amenities of the Kopel Theatre include 841 permanent seats, a 35 x 70 stage area, 4 dressing rooms, 2 backstage restrooms, a Yamaha Conservatory Grand piano, a 12, 000 watt, 40 channel sound system and computer controlled lighting spots.
Website: ohnwardfineartscenter.com
Phone: (563) 652-9815
Cross Streets: Between Ansel Briggs Hwy and Jacobsen Dr
Closed now
- Mon 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM
1215 E Platt St Maquoketa, IA 52060-2536 ·656.00 mi
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Reviews
tripadvisor
We love the Ohnward Center! The shows are great and the theater is the best, there are no bad seats. The staff is very friendly and helpful. There are side doors that make the exit easy for the disabled. Also, the popcorn is delicious! The tickets are very reasonable. I go at least once a month, twice if there are shows.
MoreWe visited with my parents. The four of us live about an hour and a half from this venue. We stayed in the local EconoLodge and found it to be very easy on the wallet, clean, and adequate. Not to mention the great staff. The Branson Show at this venue was very good. The space is good; the acoustic sound inside the building is good without any loss of the natural sounds of the instruments. My family and I live about 25 minutes from the Amana Colonies. After visiting the Ohnward Arts Center, we have decided this is well worth the drive and will continue watching for new shows, and we asked to be put on the mailing list; the shows offered are much better and easier the wallet affording is to go to more shows more often—even with drive.They were also doing a fundraiser to replace the currant roof. Yay, for donations!The staging is great with the new lighting, a great view from any seat in the house. We sat in the very furthest row from the stage and we could see without feeling we were in a ‘nosebleed section’. The building is a small enough venue, that you don’t feel like you missed something if you sit in the back.The seats aren’t assigned, so if you’re ‘a groupie’ you’ll want to arrive a little sooner than later.
MoreWe went to the Ohnward Fine Arts Center to see a performance of Four B******'n Babes, (even though it was the real name of the show, Trip Advisor won't let me 'swear') and the place was nearly packed (800 seats more or less). They told us there wasn't a bad seat in the house when we found out it wasn't assigned seating for the show, and they were right! It's a new center, well designed, and even the rest rooms are impressive! The lobby has some seating as well as a jewelry sales area, photos and other art items on display and for sale. Prior to the performance, as well as at intermission, they have a treat table with plates of cookies and bars for sale, and a little bar! The sound system was great, and we sat about 10 rows back and had a great view of the show. We plan to be back for another show, without a doubt. Only a hour away, and easy to find.
MoreWe have been to this glorious center on a number of occasions. On Jul 20th we enjoyed Guys and Dolls and was so happy that we took this in. The show was about 2 hours long and we could not believe it was over when it was over. Enthralled the entire time. The Ohnward center brings in all kinds of entertainment and before the show, you can enjoy the art work displayed on the walls. These pieces are available for purchase. Also, there are always homemade refreshments for ones enjoyment. Donations are appreciated but not necessary. Check them out, you'll be glad you did.
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