Summer in Alexandria means many things to many people: a return to the lakes for fishing and other water recreation, planting gardens and doing other outdoor projects, vacationing lakeside with family and friends, biking or walking on the Central Lakes Trail, relaxing on a favorite local patio… the list goes on and on. Something you may not immediately associate with summer is watching a production at Theatre L’Homme Dieu (TLHD); however, if you haven’t attended a production before, you are missing out on one of Alexandria’s greatest summer traditions.
Founded in 1961, Theatre L’Homme Dieu is Minnesota’s oldest operating summer stock theatre. Each summer, from June to August, they present an eclectic variety of professional theatre productions and concerts. This summer, productions range from the regional premiere of the play “I’m Proud of You” which tells the true story of a friendship between journalist (and Minnesota native) Tim Madigan and Fred Rogers (of Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood fame), to AJ Bisto’s “The Key of G Live!” (a tribute to Garth Brooks), to the autobiographical rock musical “Tick, Tick… Boom!” written by Jonathan Larson, creator of RENT. I wasn’t kidding when I said the season was eclectic.
TLHD is situated on a wooded 22-acre campus across the street from Lake Le Homme Dieu. Stretching in front of the theatre is a beautiful patio with ample seating where many audience members gather prior to the show, mingling with friends and enjoying a glass of wine. A large tent is available on the lawn to host private parties and groups, offering an enjoyable option for a company-sponsored night out or evening activity for conference groups.
The theater itself is fairly small with approximately 270 seats, so the experience is intimate and there is no bad seat in the house. (I know, everyone says that, but it is actually true here!) The architecture of the theater is fascinating and reminiscent of an upside-down ship, something you must experience to really understand and appreciate.
Live theatre has an incredible ability to bring people together. Every performance is one-of-a-kind and experienced only by the people in the room. Whether you are seeing your first live production or are a long-time theatregoer, I think you will find Theatre L’Homme Dieu’s atmosphere welcoming and its shows worthy of an evening’s investment. Visit tlhd.org to explore their upcoming shows and purchase your tickets.
