BN Life

BN the Music

Through its many forms, music gives people an opportunity to express themselves and brings people of different cultures and backgrounds together. If you look deeper into BN’s culture scene you’ll find a vibrant performing arts community. Whatever your favorite genre or style, Bloomington-Normal has a performance outlet for you.

The Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts is the centerpiece of the city’s Cultural District. It features a 1,200-seat auditorium and a multipurpose ballroom. The BCPA plays host to an annual season of nationally acclaimed touring artists, comedians and Broadway shows. Get your tickets to see Elf, The Sound of Music or Rock of Ages, and the Russian National Ballet will perform one of the most popular ballets ever created, Swan Lake.

Well-loved and highly respected, the Illinois Symphony Orchestra continues to provide residents of Central Illinois with beautiful music and stirring concerts. The ISO performs at the Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts. Their 2018-2019 season includes performances celebrating the Bicentennial, Holiday Pops and Disney in Concert.

Braden Auditorium at Illinois State University will host numerous entertainment events throughout the year, including Newsboys and The Magic of Adam Trent. Their Center for the Performing Arts and Illinois Wesleyan University’s McPherson Theatre showcases the talent of their students.

In downtown Bloomington, Grossinger Motors Arena offers plenty of entertainment options, including concerts, comedians and ice shows. In December, electronic violinist Lindsey Stirling will put a modern twist on Christmas classics.

Community Players Theatre, Heartland Theatre and Prairie Fire Theatre all have a long tradition of providing the residents of McLean County a chance to show off their theatrical talents. With their mixed season of plays and musicals, these community theaters have something for everyone. Upcoming productions include Little Women, A Doll’s House, and The Wedding Singer.

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