Circa 21
4.5
10:00 PM - 12:00 AM
Monday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
10:00 PM - 12:00 AM
Thursday
12:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Friday
10:00 PM - 12:00 AM
Saturday
12:00 AM - 6:00 PM
10:00 PM - 12:00 AM
Sunday
12:00 AM - 6:00 PM
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
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4.5
165 reviews
Excellent
105
Very good
48
Average
8
Poor
2
Terrible
2
Bill G
Littleton, CO17 contributions
Aug 2023 • Family
We recently had reservations for Escape to Margaritaville. Unfortunately, due to the excessive heat, the performance was cancelled. However, the theater graciously offered dinner, a short musical performance by the bootleggers, and a rain check to return for a later performance. We were disappointed, but we plan to return for a later show.
During the short musical act, we were completely blown away by Micah Bernas’ rendition of Styx “Come Sail Away”. I couldn’t believe what we were hearing. We’ve been to many musical theater productions in California and Colorado, and with those pipes of his he could fit in anywhere. I’m amazed he’s not one of the headliners in the main production. We will especially look forward to hearing him next time we visit.
During the short musical act, we were completely blown away by Micah Bernas’ rendition of Styx “Come Sail Away”. I couldn’t believe what we were hearing. We’ve been to many musical theater productions in California and Colorado, and with those pipes of his he could fit in anywhere. I’m amazed he’s not one of the headliners in the main production. We will especially look forward to hearing him next time we visit.
Written August 24, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jnkol*99
Bettendorf, IA97 contributions
Sep 2023 • Friends
Visited with my parents, sister and her husband for a dinner and show of Return to Margaritaville. Dinner menu was limited by the open face burger was really good. Recommend the beer cheese and pretzels as an appetizer. Before the actual show begains part of the wait staff go on stage and perform a really good show. Good evening out!!
Written September 4, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Lil Mel
Celina, OH101 contributions
Jun 2021
Dinner was good. $75/person wasn't too bad for dinner and a show. BEEHIVE was nice show with some laughs and Oldies music from the 60's. Theater was very beautiful and a nice place to attend a show. Would go there again if in the area. Worth staying a night in Rock Island to see this show.
Written June 30, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Bjkueb
Bloomington, IL53 contributions
Jan 2020 • Couples
We enjoyed the show on New Year’s Eve, and we had great service. The buffet food overall was average but the drinks were great. The tables are on the small side so not much room between tables or at the table. It is a really cool old theater so worth the trip and being close to your dinner companions.
Written January 11, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
tanjajo1
La Moille, IL23 contributions
Feb 2020 • Friends
My adult son, his s/o and my mom and I had our first visit to Circa 21 recently. We enjoyed, the venue, the dinner and the show. We will be returning in the near future. It was entertaining, close to home and a fair price.
Written February 27, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Irina
United States10,615 contributions
Aug 2022
Circa 21 Dinner Playhouse in Rock Island, Illinois is popular with public and is famous for playing good quality shows.
We've been to this nice, historic theatre before, and saw several high-quality musicals at this venue. This time, we came to enjoy Disaster! (musical).
As always at this playhouse, lunch was traditionally served before the matinee show, but this time lunch fell short of our expectations. There were six people at our table. The main course I had -- Chicken Oscar with all the sides -- was tasteless and not up to par; several other guests at our table didn't enjoy the same main course, either. However, the dessert I had -- Strawberry Shortcake with ice cream -- turned out to be very good, and coffee -- timely refilled by a friendly, hospitable bootlegger, was just excellent -- coffee was very tasty.
The pre-show, enthusiastically performed by some talented and motivated bootleggers, was also very good. Especially memorable for me was Gillian and Nicholas -- the perspective young actors, with strong, well-projected stage voices and equally convincing stage presence.
The main show Disaster! (musical) left mixed impressions. My general impression and conclusion was that musical needs either a different script or/and a better direction. The show was exciting at times, but overall didn't live up to the expectations of a proper, solid, well-staged work of performing arts. Often the stage action lapsed, and the actors visibly forced themselves into the delivery of their scripted lines.
At the same time, there were very memorable actors -- Erica Lee Bigelow (Sr. Mary), Bobby Becher (Chad), and a very young, but very talented Jack Carslake (he played two roles -- Ben and Lisa!). These actors were excellent in acting, singing, dancing, they all performed at the very high level of their artistic abilities and obvious talent.
Of course, this musical has a potential, but it also needs much work to bring it up to the high standards of a reputable theatre production.
We've been to this nice, historic theatre before, and saw several high-quality musicals at this venue. This time, we came to enjoy Disaster! (musical).
As always at this playhouse, lunch was traditionally served before the matinee show, but this time lunch fell short of our expectations. There were six people at our table. The main course I had -- Chicken Oscar with all the sides -- was tasteless and not up to par; several other guests at our table didn't enjoy the same main course, either. However, the dessert I had -- Strawberry Shortcake with ice cream -- turned out to be very good, and coffee -- timely refilled by a friendly, hospitable bootlegger, was just excellent -- coffee was very tasty.
The pre-show, enthusiastically performed by some talented and motivated bootleggers, was also very good. Especially memorable for me was Gillian and Nicholas -- the perspective young actors, with strong, well-projected stage voices and equally convincing stage presence.
The main show Disaster! (musical) left mixed impressions. My general impression and conclusion was that musical needs either a different script or/and a better direction. The show was exciting at times, but overall didn't live up to the expectations of a proper, solid, well-staged work of performing arts. Often the stage action lapsed, and the actors visibly forced themselves into the delivery of their scripted lines.
At the same time, there were very memorable actors -- Erica Lee Bigelow (Sr. Mary), Bobby Becher (Chad), and a very young, but very talented Jack Carslake (he played two roles -- Ben and Lisa!). These actors were excellent in acting, singing, dancing, they all performed at the very high level of their artistic abilities and obvious talent.
Of course, this musical has a potential, but it also needs much work to bring it up to the high standards of a reputable theatre production.
Written August 15, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Irina
United States10,615 contributions
Sep 2018 • Friends
The second visit to Circa 21 - this time, it was the timeless musical Mamma Mia!
I am amazed at how everything is well-organized at this historic venue. For a relatively large dinner theater, Circa 21 is excellently organized and very well managed . We came as a big group, and were warmly greeted by Ellen - Group Sales Director who was all courtesy , she briefly told us about the theater, its history, its producer Dennis Hitchcock and its actors. Then we were seated promptly (from my experience, the best seats are in the front rows of the Orchestra section). And we were served immediately by young, friendly 'Bootleggers' Sarah/Morgan and 'Busser' Aime; we enjoyed the meal (it was a matinee show, so it was lunch). The pre-show - Medley of the 70s - was very amusing, and the main show Mamma Mia! was wonderful.
In the intermission I talked to an amiable Ticket Office staff - Sunshine , who gladly gave me some printed materials about the theater, its past and its present, and also its future productions.
And at the very end, after the show - when we already boarded the bus we had a very unexpected greeting/good bye and a talk with one of the actors of the show. Tom Walljaster (Bill) is a true showman!
Following many of the previous movie/theater productions of this 'very Greek' story, Mamma Mia! at Circa 21 is a very solid musical. I especially enjoyed the performance by a talented leading actress Jennifer Poarch (Donna), whose unforgettable, smoothly flowing voice and supple acting were outstanding.
The acting ensemble was very memorable, and the show had its own , well-choreographed pace.The whole cast, as well as the audience, seemed to be enjoying themselves immensely.
What a show. Loud rounds of applause.
Thank you for the music, ABBA! Thank you for bringing it back so professionally and so lovingly, CIRCA 21!
I am amazed at how everything is well-organized at this historic venue. For a relatively large dinner theater, Circa 21 is excellently organized and very well managed . We came as a big group, and were warmly greeted by Ellen - Group Sales Director who was all courtesy , she briefly told us about the theater, its history, its producer Dennis Hitchcock and its actors. Then we were seated promptly (from my experience, the best seats are in the front rows of the Orchestra section). And we were served immediately by young, friendly 'Bootleggers' Sarah/Morgan and 'Busser' Aime; we enjoyed the meal (it was a matinee show, so it was lunch). The pre-show - Medley of the 70s - was very amusing, and the main show Mamma Mia! was wonderful.
In the intermission I talked to an amiable Ticket Office staff - Sunshine , who gladly gave me some printed materials about the theater, its past and its present, and also its future productions.
And at the very end, after the show - when we already boarded the bus we had a very unexpected greeting/good bye and a talk with one of the actors of the show. Tom Walljaster (Bill) is a true showman!
Following many of the previous movie/theater productions of this 'very Greek' story, Mamma Mia! at Circa 21 is a very solid musical. I especially enjoyed the performance by a talented leading actress Jennifer Poarch (Donna), whose unforgettable, smoothly flowing voice and supple acting were outstanding.
The acting ensemble was very memorable, and the show had its own , well-choreographed pace.The whole cast, as well as the audience, seemed to be enjoying themselves immensely.
What a show. Loud rounds of applause.
Thank you for the music, ABBA! Thank you for bringing it back so professionally and so lovingly, CIRCA 21!
Written September 7, 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Irina
United States10,615 contributions
Sep 2017 • Friends
Built in the 1920s in the Art Deco style, Circa'21 is celebrating its forty years as a dinner playhouse. Reflecting the Native American motifs both on its facade and indoors , the decorations in red brick and terra cotta make the theater look unique and memorable.
The amphitheater design also makes it comfortable to watch the show practically from any seat, thus eliminating a potential problem of 'view blocking'. Our group sat at the front table, and that was absolutely perfect: the stage (22 feet deep) is properly recessed, so that when actors perform, the action doesn't give you the feeling that it is much too close to the front row.
The feel-good, easy-breezy show "Seven Brides for Seven Brothers" was very professionally directed, staged and performed. It's a solid production, and I enjoyed every minute of it! Especially memorable were the parts played by Kevin Korczynski (Benjamin) and Joey Boos (Gideon) - both are very talented and strong as actors, singers and dancers. I actually think, that these perspective performers deserve bigger, deeper roles in the future productions. Of any theater.
As far as dinner, it was more of a lunch, since it was a matinee show, the menu had plenty to choose from, we enjoyed the meal, the service was quite amiable, if not at times a bit slow and somewhat forgetful. Overall, the staff was very polite and friendly.
Circa'21 is going to play Mamma Mia! in 2018. As a matter of fact, the fifteen-minute cheerful pre-show of 'Seven Brides ...' played some parts of it.
Having seen several times Mamma Mia! (just gorgeous!) in the Prince Edward Theater in London UK, I look forward to seeing it again, this time in Circa'21 in Rock Island.
The amphitheater design also makes it comfortable to watch the show practically from any seat, thus eliminating a potential problem of 'view blocking'. Our group sat at the front table, and that was absolutely perfect: the stage (22 feet deep) is properly recessed, so that when actors perform, the action doesn't give you the feeling that it is much too close to the front row.
The feel-good, easy-breezy show "Seven Brides for Seven Brothers" was very professionally directed, staged and performed. It's a solid production, and I enjoyed every minute of it! Especially memorable were the parts played by Kevin Korczynski (Benjamin) and Joey Boos (Gideon) - both are very talented and strong as actors, singers and dancers. I actually think, that these perspective performers deserve bigger, deeper roles in the future productions. Of any theater.
As far as dinner, it was more of a lunch, since it was a matinee show, the menu had plenty to choose from, we enjoyed the meal, the service was quite amiable, if not at times a bit slow and somewhat forgetful. Overall, the staff was very polite and friendly.
Circa'21 is going to play Mamma Mia! in 2018. As a matter of fact, the fifteen-minute cheerful pre-show of 'Seven Brides ...' played some parts of it.
Having seen several times Mamma Mia! (just gorgeous!) in the Prince Edward Theater in London UK, I look forward to seeing it again, this time in Circa'21 in Rock Island.
Written September 25, 2017
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Rhonda R
Rock Island, IL1 contribution
Mar 2014 • Couples
Went to Circa for a Sunday evening show. Same price as usual $98 for two. No Bootlegger show, the worst service ever received, and the food was horrid. The show may have been acceptable, but because of the lack of service and the food, we left early, utterly disgusted. A letter was sent to Circa about the experience and they have not even taken the time to contact us.
Written March 21, 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jeanie176
Illinois8 contributions
Dec 2014 • Friends
We were there Dec. 4th for a Thurs. Matinee. We saw White Christmas and it was excellent. I was with a group of senior citizens and several of us are diabetics. Couldn't you have had one meal choice that would have been easier for a diabetic? Sugary carrots was the only vegetable. Then, there was choice of turkey with a sugary glaze, or ham with a sugary glaze. Or pasta, full of carbs, and with each serving was stuffing. except for the pasta. And then there was a sickening sweet some kind of cranberry with peaches. Surely, your chef is aware of how to fix a meal that wouldn't take much effort and have lots less sugar. For instance, a garden salad, plain baked sweet potato and then a meat without sugary coverings. Please think about this for next time.
Written December 5, 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mel D
Moline, IL64 contributions
Where is the menu? Want to know what they are offering to eat.
Richard V
Naples, FL10 contributions
The menu is usually the same each evening. My wife and I were there last to see “The Bridges of Madison County “, Food choices were fried chicken, salmon, pork loin and a pasta along with several veggies. Salad or soup served at the table ahead of the self serve buffet. Food was very good Better than one expects at a dinner playhouse.
Wood recommend catching a show and enjoying the evening.
Is tip included
GetCrafty
Rock Island, IL159 contributions
I’m assuming your younger? Idk. You always leave a tip regardless. Doesn’t matter.
If your not able to leave at least 20% you should get it to go. Not fair to the hard working waiter/waitress. Just my opinion. Well no it’s a fact.
what is playing on Sept. 27th?
Ron T
Belvidere, IL106 contributions
Yep, we are going September 17th. Love Circa21 and the Million Dollar Quartet is supposed to be Avery good show.
What are dessert and drinks prices at circa 21?
Carol B
Aledo82 contributions
If memory serves me correctly, dessert was about $5 each. Drinks were $3 to $8, roughly, depending on alcohol vs. non-alcohol. Wine by the bottle also is available.
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Claim your listingCirca 21 - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)
Frequently Asked Questions about Circa 21
- Circa 21 is open:
- Mon - Tue 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Wed - Wed 10:00 PM - 12:00 AM
- Thu - Thu 12:00 AM - 6:00 PM
- Fri - Sat 10:00 PM - 12:00 AM
- Sat - Sun 12:00 AM - 6:00 PM
- Hotels near Circa 21:
- (0.15 mi) Holiday Inn Rock Island - Quad Cities An IHG Hotel
- (0.35 mi) Victorian Inn Bed and Breakfast
- (0.89 mi) Hotel Blackhawk, Autograph Collection
- (0.82 mi) The Current Iowa, Autograph Collection
- (0.78 mi) DoubleTree by Hilton Davenport
- Restaurants near Circa 21:
- (0.01 mi) QC Coffee and Pancake House
- (0.05 mi) Huckleberry's pizza & calzones
- (0.10 mi) Soi 2 Thai Street Food
- (0.07 mi) El Patron
- (0.09 mi) Rock Island Brewing Co.
Circa 21 Information
Excellent Reviews | 105 |
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Very Good Reviews | 48 |
Circa 21 Photos | 51 |