Riverside Theatre
An intimate 118-seat black box theatre in Iowa City, staging classics and new works with innovative flair.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Catch popular shows
Riverside Theatre
Best Time
Catch popular shows
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An intimate 118-seat black box theatre in Iowa City, staging classics and new works with innovative flair.
"Phenomenal performances in a cozy setting, keeping the arts alive and well."
🎟️ Book Ahead for Popular Shows
Limited seating means shows sell out! Secure your tickets online early to guarantee a spot.
⬆️ Elevator Access Available
The theatre is on the third floor. Use the large elevator for easy access to the lobby and stage.
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.8 · 57 reviews
Type
Performing Arts Theater
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Intimate Black Box Performances
Main Stage
Experience powerful drama and new works in a cozy, intimate setting. Every seat offers a great view.
Innovative Staging
Main Stage
Witness creative use of space, including rotating stages, that brings stories to life in unique ways.
New Works Premieres
Main Stage
Be among the first to see groundbreaking plays and fresh perspectives debut on stage.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Arrive Early for the Best Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Ideas for fun things to do this upcoming weekend (Friday sept. 12th - Monday sept. 15th)
I (M 26) am from Oregon and I was fortunate enough to be accepted into a competitive graduate program at the university of Iowa starting next summer (August 2026) and am looking forward to it. My long time girlfriend (F 22) is finishing up her degree this year and is thinking…
🎟️ Book Ahead for Popular Shows
Limited seating means shows sell out! Secure your tickets online early to guarantee a spot.
⬆️ Elevator Access Available
The theatre is on the third floor. Use the large elevator for easy access to the lobby and stage.
Is downtown IC dying?
Did anyone mention that Riverside Theatre has a presence in the middle of downtown, right on the Ped Mall? That seems like exactly the sort of creative, intellectual organization that many people are lamenting a lack of in downtown Iowa City. (Yes, it used to be in the North…
🎭 Diverse Play Selection
From classics to new works, expect a variety of thought-provoking productions.
☕ Lobby Bar & Snacks
Enjoy a drink or snack in the comfortable lobby before the show.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Ahead for Popular Shows
Limited seating means shows sell out! Secure your tickets online early to guarantee a spot.
⬆️ Elevator Access Available
The theatre is on the third floor. Use the large elevator for easy access to the lobby and stage.
🎭 Diverse Play Selection
From classics to new works, expect a variety of thought-provoking productions.
☕ Lobby Bar & Snacks
Enjoy a drink or snack in the comfortable lobby before the show.
✨ Improv Classes Fun!
Step out of your comfort zone and try an improv class for a unique experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Riverside Theatre for its intimate black box setting, comfortable seating, and excellent views. The venue is lauded for staging phenomenal performances, from classics to new works, and for its innovative staging. The new location on the Ped Mall has also been well-received for its improved lobby and accessibility.
"Simply appreciate and love the performances at Riverside. I look forward to everyone. Last night we saw Who’s Afraid Of Virginia Wolf. Phenomenal! I might have to go again. Thanks Riverside for keeping the arts alive and well during these times."
Lynn Partridge
"We saw a great play "The Agitators". A story revolving around the friendship of Frederick Douglass and Susan B. Anthony. It's a very dynamic two actor performance. Go see it if you can. The small theater has comfortable seating with a very good view of the stage, even in the second from the top row. A special rotating stage was built and used for this production."
Dave Suyama
"New beautiful space on the Pedmall of downtown Iowa City. Enter on ground floor. Take stairs or large elevator to third floor. The seating was comfortable and the centered stage viewable from every seat. Open bar and snack area with seating for about 50 and bathrooms just outside the stage area. Vaccination protocol followed.
We thoroughly enjoyed the night out. A group of us went to see The Niceties by Eleanor Burgess...phenomenal job! With a cabaret to follow. So nice to get out."
Shonda Monette
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Riverside Theatre is located on the Ped Mall in downtown Iowa City. It's on the third floor of the building. You can enter on the ground floor and take the stairs or a large elevator to reach the venue. Parking is available in nearby garages and on the street.
Yes, there are several parking garages and street parking options available in the downtown Iowa City area near the Ped Mall. It's advisable to check parking availability and rates beforehand.
Iowa City has a public bus system that serves the downtown area. Check the local transit schedules for routes that stop near the Ped Mall for convenient public transport access.
Absolutely! The theatre is equipped with a large elevator for easy access to the third floor, making it accessible for wheelchair users and those with mobility challenges.
The entrance is on the ground floor of the building on the Ped Mall. Look for signage directing you to the stairs or elevator for the Riverside Theatre.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets can typically be purchased online through the Riverside Theatre's official website. It's recommended to book in advance, especially for popular shows, as seating is limited.
Showtimes vary depending on the production. Most shows run on evenings during the week and weekends. Check the theatre's schedule on their website for specific dates and times.
While not explicitly mentioned in all reviews, smaller theaters often have season packages or membership options. It's best to check their website or contact them directly for information on subscriptions.
The theatre is a 118-seat black box venue. Reviews consistently mention comfortable seating with excellent views of the stage from every seat, even from the back rows.
Age restrictions can vary by production. It's advisable to check the specific show's information on the Riverside Theatre's website for any age recommendations or restrictions.
🎫 🎭 Onsite Experience
The atmosphere is intimate and engaging, characteristic of a black box theatre. Audiences often praise the close proximity to the performers and the immersive experience.
Yes, there is an open bar and snack area in the lobby, offering drinks and light refreshments for patrons to enjoy before the show or during intermission.
Riverside Theatre stages a diverse range of productions, including classics, new works, and contemporary plays. They are known for premiering many new plays.
The new location features a comfortable lobby with seating where you can relax, grab a drink, and socialize before the performance begins.
Past reviews indicate that vaccination protocols were followed, suggesting a commitment to audience safety. It's always a good idea to check their current policies on their website.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, photography is not permitted during live theatre performances to avoid distracting the actors and audience. Check for specific policies regarding photography during curtain calls or events.
The intimate setting and unique staging can offer interesting visual elements. While live performance photography is restricted, the lobby and exterior might offer some opportunities.
Focus on the architectural details of the new space, the lobby, or capture the energy of the audience before the show. Consider the unique staging elements if they are visible before the performance begins.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit