Let’s be honest—heading downtown for a show isn’t always a walk in the park, especially with the never-ending Kennedy construction. So why not keep it local? For those on the South Side, there’s a cultural gem right in your backyard: The Center for Performing Arts (The Center) at Governors State University (GovState), located at 1 University Parkway in University Park.

As The Center continues its 29th season into the new year, audiences can expect a vibrant lineup of performances inspired by nostalgia. After celebrating Governors State’s 55th anniversary last July, this season brings bold, joyful, and dynamic productions to the stage.

A Stellar 2025 Lineup

The Center is keeping the momentum going with an incredible 2025 season:

• Spotlight Series

  – Featuring national and international acts, including the return of

  DRUMLine Live!

  and a soulful celebration of Motown from Uptown.

• Family Series

  – Offering affordable tickets for children ($20) with performances like

  America’s Got Talent

  finalist The Silhouettes in

  LOVE Happens

  and the high-energy blend of live art, rock music, and magic in

  ARTRAGEOUS!

  .

• Opera Up Close & Cabaret Series

  – An intimate experience where audiences sit on stage, just feet from the performers. Highlights include

  HARANA

  , a quartet of Filipino tenors, and a special Mother’s Day Brunch featuring Opera Up Close favorites. The Cabaret Series will showcase local talent, including

  Rosie & The Rivets

  , a tribute to the early days of rock ‘n’ roll.

More Than Just a Theater

Since opening in 1995, The Center has welcomed over 1.5 million guests, introduced more than 300,000 schoolchildren to the performing arts, and hosted over 8,000 artists from around the world. Serving more than 50,000 residents across Cook, Will, and Kankakee counties in Illinois and Lake County in Indiana, The Center offers a state-of-the-art, 1,165-seat venue in a dynamic university setting.

Beyond the stage, GovState’s campus is home to an on-site Visual Arts Gallery and The Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park (theNate)—making it the perfect spot for pre- and post-show experiences.

For tickets and show details, visit CenterTickets.net. Why battle the downtown chaos when you have world-class entertainment right here?

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