Sheldon Theatre of Performing Arts

Specialties

Our Mission:

Red Wing’s historic Sheldon Theatre of Performing Arts is committed to showcasing the best arts and entertainment for the enjoyment, education, and enlightenment of the community and its visitors.

History

Established in 1904.

Built in 1904 with funds from local businessman T.B. Sheldon, The Sheldon is the country’s first city-​owned theatre. In 1986 it was gloriously restored to its original grandeur. Described as a «glittering jewel box,» it charms performers and audiences alike.

The public/​private partnership that created the Sheldon Theatre began at the start of the twentieth century when Theodore B. Sheldon, a successful businessman and Red Wing City Council member, bestowed $ 83,000 in trust to the City of Red Wing. Along with the funds, he stipulated that the money was to be used to develop a public institution for «some public benefit but nonsectarian purpose in the said City of Red Wing.»

The trust directors, including Sheldon’s second wife Annie, decided upon a theater — the first municipally owned theater in the United States. In 1904, four years after Sheldon’s passing, construction was complete on the T. B. Sheldon Memorial Auditorium.

For more information: shel​donthe​atre​.org/​p​a​g​e​/​h​i​story

Meet the Manager

Natalie O.

Manager

Hello, My name is Natalie and I am the Marketing Director of the Sheldon Theatre. Thank you for your interest in our theatre.