jkle
Paul Bunyon Playhouse, now located in what was an old movie theater in downtown Bemidji, has produced some of the finest theater in the 34 years we have been viewing their productions. They are now comfortably at home in this old theater, plenty of room for lots of people, and the plays they offer range from comedy to high drama to musicals. You can check out their website for their seasonal productions, they have Sunday matinees for reduced ticket prices, and once you have attended one of their productions I would imagine you would line up for more tickets for further productions.
GwenG596
Superb acting, intimate theatre - a must do if you are in Bemidji in the summer. We really enjoyed the show - and we were there on opening night! Obviously very professional actors that are enjoying the north woods in the summer and sharing their talent. Wish we could be there to see the other offerings this summer. We ate at Bene Tutto before the show and it made for a delightful evening. Free parking right behind the theatre.
Ritav1953
5 women of the famiy went to Bemidji to celebrate 2 birthdays and were looking for things to do that were different from the usual. We happened upon the theater the first night while uptown and made plans to return the next night for the play, "Noises Off" in 3 acts. The building is amazing in it's original movie theater arrangement. The first act was an important foundation for the 2 acts to follow. In the second act, we were all laughing so hard, we were crying. A great comedy farce. Good value at $22 per ticket. This was only the 4th night for this production and it was very well done.
bjirns
This regional theater has a variety of professional summer stock plays and musicals fromJune through August, plus local and regional plays and concerts the rest of the year. Eclectic offerings that raise the bar for cultural activities in the Bemidji area. Located downtown close to a variety of pubs and restaurants so it's easy to make an evening of it!
Bernie74
The Playhouse is an unexpected jewel in the Northwoods of Minnesota. Yes, this is professional theater. Actors come from Minneapolis/St.Paul to bring us their best. Catch a meal at Tutto Bene or Brigids Pub then off to the play, all in the same block. Then cross the street to Chocolates Plus during intermission. (yes there is time)
MaryLouT446
We were visiting family in the Bemidgi area and were able to get tickets to join in on the play. It was a Sunday matinee. I have seen lots of plays at local theater and this was great. Great actors, fun play. I was really impressed! Wow! What a fun way to relax. Don't forget to go across the street and order a fun drink or get some candy at the little shop. I can't remember what it's called but the chocolate covered potato chips are awesome.
JennATl
I used to go to places like this in the mountains and the beach as a kid and just loved them! This is a summer theater and provides a great entertainment value in a historic setting. Attending a performance has become a highlight of my trips to Bemidji, which I have wound up bringing campers to and from camp for the last several summers. It is something I look forward to. Sure does beat watching pay for view and eating Dominos in a motel room!
107ritah
We've been to quite a few plays but none that ever lasted almost 3 hrs.! The acting was top notch and we were entertained the entire time! Bravo people on an excellent job! We were only in town long enough to get 1 play in (Boeing & Boeing), if we'd have had more time we' d definitely have taken in another one!
greencheeksBemidji
A local tradition, the Playhouse has entertained people for many years. Early years were in a back building at Rutger's resort, and now they are housed in the former Movie theater. The plays run the gambut of styles, but are all well directed and acted. Actors include locals and professionals from all over. Sets are often made by drama students from Bemidji State University. Kind of kitchy. Chocolates Plus across the street stays open on Thursday playnights. Talk about intermissions! Good date night.
BJI
If you are looking for evening entertainment during the summe, stop and buy tickets for this summer theater. It may be the longest running live summer theater in the mid-west. The titles vary but all the actors are pros and setting etc. is very professional. Many of the performers come for the summer from Minneapolis/St Paul area. Many plays are family friendly as well.
NorthernNan
I have enjoyed many plays in New York, London, etc. It's amazing how good these actually compare. Low budget, local and pro talent, tremendous performances. Nice intimate venue. I try to go to a few plays each summer. I often take friends and get them hooked. A great way to enjoy an evening in the lakes country.
ZiggyT
Attended the musical "Oliver" as both my wife and I were in the same musical many years prior in high school. This theatre is in a downtown Bemidji location close to other smaller shops. The building itself is older but the inside is kept in really good condition with comfortable seating. They really bring alot of entertainment to the Bemidji area.
Lily-Phoebe
Small town theater, big talent, multi-generational plays. Everyone is made to feel welcome, you can't miss. Go for the season tickets of donate to keep art in Bemidji. (Plus great chocolates across the street at intermission. Go for the milk chocolate malted milk balls and sea salt chocolate.)
dixoninn
We like the historic theatre and most of the plays are great. They tend to use the same actors all the time and I know for a fact there are plenty of actors being over looked for parts. I haven't gone since 2010 after I heard they weren't giving so many of the talented people of Bemidji a chance to perform.
JimM635
I have attended all of the plays at the Historic Chief Theater in downtown Bemidji this year. The actors are nothing short of professional and talented. I have really enjoyed "The Seussical." It is a fun play for all ages. Once again, the Paulbunyan Playhouse has had an extremely fun season. Congrats to all involved. Great job.