Bringing You Live Theatre Since 1936!

Meet our Stages

At Topeka Civic Theatre, “We strive to engage, inspire, and transform volunteers, audiences and our community through theatre with high artistic standards while keeping it affordable and accessible to everyone. We are committed to embodying the mission of Topeka Civic Theatre: …to share the joy of live theatre.”

Topeka Civic Theatre

Topeka Civic Theatre is the oldest continuously running community dinner theatre in the country. Since its founding in 1936, TCT has served as an ever-evolving cultural hub for and by the community.

In July of 1999, the former Gage Elementary School became the new home of TCT. The current construction now proudly displays the merging of contemporary design and the school’s original 1920’s architecture.

The Sheffel Theatre, or what many have come to know it as “The Mainstage”, is named after benefactor and Topeka philanthropist Irv Sheffel. Sheffel is a 282 seat dinner theatre that offers the perfect intimate feeling for relaxing evening out. The Sheffel Theatre has curated lineup that includes five plays, three musicals, and a dozen Laugh Lines performances. TCT’s annual BRAVO! giving event, Volunteer Awards and other special events also take place in the theatre.

OLDFATHER THEATRE
The Oldfather Theatre is the namesake of Charley Oldfather. The stage is home to our Academy, Theatre for Young Audiences (TYA) and Studio productions.
HELEN HOCKER THEATER IN GAGE PARK

In 2013 TCT began a partnership with Shawnee County Parks & Recreation to manage Helen Hocker Theater. Through that partnership, TCT continues to develop enriching programming for the theatre while meeting and exceeding HHT’s organizational goals.

INTERESTED IN PRODUCTION HISTORY? 

Download a list of every show performed since 1936!