Pierre Players Salutes "1776"

Pierre Players celebrates the United States’ 250th anniversary with the musical "1776." Meet members of the cast and learn more about the fight for independence at Rawlins Library on Monday, July 6, 2026, at 6 p.m. Rawlins Library is located at 1000 E. Church St. in Pierre.

Register to attend.

1776 History Trivia Night

Think you know your early American history?

Get ready for Pierre Players' production of “1776” by taking part in History Trivia Night at The Fieldhouse Sports & Spirits on Wednesday, July 1, at 7 p.m. CDT.

Bring your trivia team to The Fieldhouse, 2013 Eastgate Avenue, Pierre, to compete for a chance to win free tickets to see Pierre Players’ production of “1776.” Don't have a team? Come anyway, and we will set you up with a team.

Whether your win or lose, celebrate the USA’s 250th and see “1776” on July 17-19 and 23-26 at the Grand Opera House.

Learn more. 

Pierre Concert Series Presents South Dakota Symphony Orchestra

The Pierre Concert Series is excited to present the South Dakota Symphony Orchestra with Music Director Delta David Gier on Sunday, Feb. 8, 2026, at 3:30 p.m. at the Pierre T.F. Riggs High School Theater. A limited number of individual tickets are available to the public. (For Pierre Concert Series members, the South Dakota Symphony Orchestra concert is included in each membership. Adult ticket prices are $35, and youth tickets are free (age 21 and younger - limited to 4 per request.) Tickets can be purchased from the Pierre Players website, at the Pierre Players Box Office or directly from the Pierre Concert Series at 605-224-2301. Tickets purchased online or at the Pierre Players Box Office will be available the day of the concert at will call at the Riggs High School Theater.

Purchase tickets.

2026 Season Kickoff to be Held on October 23

The red carpet is being rolled out for YOU! Join us for our star-studded 2026 Season Kickoff—an awards show extravaganza where YOU are the VIP guest! This glamorous open house celebration on Thursday, Oct. 23, 2025, 4:30-7 p.m. at the Grand Opera House will feature all the glitz and glamour of Hollywood’s biggest night, complete with exciting reveals of our upcoming season lineup and the talented directors who will bring these productions to life. Whether you’re a longtime theater lover or curious newcomer, come dressed to impress (or come as you are!) for an evening filled with surprises, sneak peeks and maybe even a few acceptance speeches. It’s your chance to get an exclusive first look at what promises to be our most spectacular season yet, while mingling with fellow theater enthusiasts and the creative minds behind the magic. The program and entertainment begin at 5:30 p.m. on the stage. Lights, camera, kickoff!

Local Artist to Lead Mask-Making Workshop

PPCT invites the public to a creative, hands-on Mask-Making Workshop led by local artist and volunteer Blake Messegee. This unique workshop will guide participants through crafting custom masks using accessible materials.

The workshop will be held Dec. 15, 17 and 18, 2024 at 6-8 p.m., with each session exploring a different aspect of the mask-making process. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or a first-timer, this workshop is open to individuals age 14 and older.

The workshop cost is $25, with an early bird cost of $20 if you register by Dec. 10, 2024. Space is limited, so sign up early to reserve your spot! Register here

Join PPCT for an Exciting Evening as We Unveil our Lineup for the 2025 Season

Join us at the Grand Opera House on Thursday, Oct. 17, at 4:30 p.m. CDT for an exciting evening as we unveil our lineup for the 2025 season! Don’t miss this chance to purchase your 2025 Season Pass and be part of the excitement for the future of Pierre Players Community Theatre!

Kick off the night with a social hour featuring complimentary appetizers, desserts, and non-alcoholic beverages. Beer and wine will be available for purchase to keep the celebration going!

At 5:30 p.m., we’ll reveal the four handpicked plays that will grace our stage next year and the talented directors who will bring them to life. It’s a night where drama meets delight and anticipation meets applause!

After the program, enjoy our Theatre Open House until 7:15 p.m., where you can explore the space and connect with fellow theatre lovers.

Purchase your 2025 season pass online

Shaun Johnson + The Big Band Experience at the Grand Opera House on September 26

Come join us for an unforgettable night with Shaun Johnson + The Big Band Experience on Thursday, Sept. 26, 2024, 7 p.m. at the Grand Opera House in Pierre. This one-of-a-kind experience is presented by the Pierre-Fort Pierre Kiwanis Club and BankWest.

Get ready to be blown away by the incredible vocals and energetic performance of Shaun Johnson and his talented Big Band. Experience the magic of live music as Shaun and his band take you on a musical journey through a variety of genres. From jazz to pop to rock, there's something for everyone to enjoy at this event.

Tickets are limited, so get yours today for $25. Proceeds raised go to youth in the Pierre/Fort Pierre communities including college scholarships!

Purchase tickets

Pierre Players to Hold Rummage Sale

We are running out of space for costumes and props at the Grand Opera House, so it is time for a rummage sale! Pierre Players is holding a rummage sale on Saturday, July 13, 2024, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the Grand Opera House.

All decades, all sizes of items. We have suits, vests, jackets, fur coats, pants, dresses, skirts, shirts, vintage pieces, and more. Find your perfect Halloween costume!

Sales will be by donation to benefit Pierre Players Community Theatre.

Pierre Players to Hold Acting Without Anxiety Workshop

Pierre Players will hold Acting Without Anxiety: A Low-Pressure Workshop for Aspiring Actors on Saturday, June 1, 2024, 10 a.m. to noon and 1-3 p.m. CDT at the Grand Opera House. 

Led by J.D. Ackman, professor and director of theatre emeritus at South Dakota State University, this workshop offers a safe and supportive environment where you can dip your toes into the world of acting without the pressure of auditions or commitments. Our aim is to provide you with low-pressure activities and immersive experiences that will help build your confidence and introduce you to the basics of acting.

Throughout the workshop, you'll engage in a variety of exercises and games designed to unlock your creativity, develop your stage presence, and sharpen your communication skills. Whether you're a complete novice or have some previous experience, there's something for everyone in this workshop.

Curious about how auditions typically work? We'll provide insights into the audition process, drawing from the practices of Pierre Players and other theater groups. While audition processes may vary from one director to another, we'll offer general guidance to help demystify the experience and ease any apprehensions you may have.

Most importantly, "Acting Without Anxiety" is a low-pressure, no-commitment event. You're free to explore, experiment, and discover the joy of acting at your own pace, without any expectation of long-term commitment. Whether you're looking to overcome stage fright, boost your self-confidence, or simply try something new, this workshop is your chance to take the first step toward unleashing your inner performer.

Don't let fear hold you back any longer. Join us for "Acting Without Anxiety" and embark on an exciting journey of self-expression and discovery!

J.D. Ackman, is professor and director of theatre at South Dakota State University. He has been on the faculty since 1993. J.D. holds an MFA in acting from the University of Montana (1984). He currently oversees SDSU’s State University Theatre program and serves as managing/artistic director for SDSU’s Prairie Repertory Theatre. J.D. has performed in or directed over 150 theatre productions. He has taught more than a dozen different courses during his tenure at SDSU. While he enjoys his administrative duties, he most enjoys working with his students in rehearsals and in the classroom/studio and interacting with theatre patrons. J.D. lives in Brookings with his wife and son.

The fee for this workshop is $25. Register for the workshop. 

Inconsequential Dreams Reception at Waterfront Gallery for the Arts

Join Pierre Players at Waterfront Gallery for the Arts on Saturday, Sept. 16, 2023, at 1 p.m., for a behind-the-scenes look at its latest production, “Inconsequential Dreams.”

Playwright Michelle Schaunaman from Aberdeen will discuss her process in writing the script, and the show’s director, Alisa Bousa, will talk about staging an original production on Pierre Players’ stage. The cast will give a glimpse into their characters and perform a scene from the show.

In addition to the discussion on “Inconsequential Dreams,” Waterfront Gallery for the Arts will host an artist reception and show by Alisha Erickson from noon to 5 p.m. on Sept. 16. Waterfront Gallery for the Arts is located at 207 E. Missouri Ave. Suite 1A in Pierre.

Alisha, who is originally from Pierre and now resides in Sioux Falls, is a nurse and self-taught abstract artist. Alisha uses both watercolors and acrylics to create colorful interpretations of nature and flowers. Art has always been her passion, and over the last few years she has perused making art a daily part of her life.

Show dates for Pierre Players’ “Inconsequential Dreams” are Sept. 15-16 and Sept. 21-23, 2023, at 7:30 p.m. and a 2 p.m. matinee on Sept. 17, 2023.