From Page To Stage!

Follow the yellow brick road in this delightful stage adaptation of L. Frank Baum’s beloved tale, featuring the iconic musical score from the MGM film. The timeless tale, in which young Dorothy Gale travels from Kansas over the rainbow to the magical Land of Oz, continues to thrill audiences worldwide.

Please email info@empireartscenter.com or call 701-746-5500 with any questions.

Frankenstein (with Jonny Lee Miller as the creature)

by Nick Dear, based on the novel by Mary Shelley

Directed by Academy Award®-winner Danny Boyle (Trainspotting, Slumdog Millionaire), Frankenstein features Benedict Cumberbatch (Hamlet, BBC’s Sherlock) and Jonny Lee Miller (Elementary, Trainspotting) alternating between the roles of Victor Frankenstein and his creation.

Childlike in his innocence but grotesque in form, Frankenstein’s bewildered creature is cast out into a hostile universe by his horror-struck maker. Meeting with cruelty wherever he goes, the increasingly desperate and vengeful Creature determines to track down his creator and strike a terrifying deal.

Scientific responsibility, parental neglect, cognitive development and the nature of good and evil, are embedded within this thrilling and deeply disturbing classic tale.

Captured live on stage in 2011, this thrilling, sold-out production became an international sensation, experienced by almost half a million people in cinemas around the world.

For more information email info@empireartscenter.com or call 701.746.5500

In celebration of Indigenous Peoples’ Day, join INMED, ANAMS at UND, and the Indigenous Student Center for a free community screening of Dodging Bullets!

Filmed in Tribal communities across North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, and Montana, this award-winning documentary shares real stories of historical trauma, resilience, and healing.

📅 Wednesday, October 7th
🕠 5:30 PM
📍 Empire Arts Center (415 DeMers Ave, Grand Forks, ND)
🎟️ FREE and open to the public!

Late Nite is the hit(no really, we mean it) comedy game show and this time, we'll be going back to a classic talk show format. That's it. No other surprises this time. Featuring Micheal Marcotte, a surprise guest and MAGIC from Houdaifa Khalifa(A magician)

Call 701-746-5500 or email info@empireartscenter.com with any questions or for more information.

Empire Arts Center

415 Demers Ave

Grand Forks, ND

Empire Alive 2026

A benefit concert for the Empire Arts Center

Saturday, October 10

Event Timeline:

• 5:00pm – Doors open

  6:00pm – 7:30pm – Turtle Stacks

  7:30pm – 8:00pm – Intermission

  8:00pm – 10:00pm – The Quarterly

• What can you expect?

• Music by The Quarterly and Turtle Stacks

• A cash bar, serving your favorite drinks

• Food available for purchase

• Snacks and soft drinks for purchase at the concession stand

• A night full of community, celebration, and fundraising to ensure the Empire can continue to provide arts and culture for another 25 years!

Meet The Acts

Turtle Stacks:

Turtle Stacks is a five-piece jam band from Grand Forks, ND, blending original music with fun covers spanning rock, funk, country, blues and R&B. Formed in 2026 by veterans of local acts The Dank, Syncopation Station and High Five, the band features Joseph McCauley (keys, sax, vocals), Daniel Knight (guitar, vocals), Ryan Hill (guitar), Matt Pinkard (bass) and Brian Rydell (drums, percussion).

The Quarterly:

The Quarterly is a local all-star music collective that has been performing the music of the Grateful Dead in the upper Midwest since 2007. Featuring musicians Pat Lenertz (guitar, vocals), Travis Atwood (bass, vocals), Josh Reinhardt (guitar), Jason Will (keyboards, vocals), Trevor Pearson(drums), John Shea (drums) and Adam Cariveau (percussion). Each have been performing in various bands and continue with other current projects such as The Pat Lenertz Band, and The Dan Brekke Band.

Looking for live music and a good time?

Come to the Empire’s Music Box October 17th, 2026!

The Empire's monthly Music Box features 3 local acts, as well as an open-to-the-public jam at the start of every show. If you're interested in live, local music, the Music Box is the place to be! Come for the music, stay for the good vibes(and the free popcorn).

Doors open at 6:00 PM, open-jam starts at 7:00 PM

The Music Box is one of the only venues in Grand Forks that allows artists to play what they want, and our Music Box stage helps to give any musician a platform to perform, regardless the genre or experience.

Tickets available by donation at the door. Recommended Donation of $10. The Music Box is supported through our sponsor, Rydell GMC and through donations from our community.

Janessa Jaye Champagne and Myka host a Drag Queen Bingo Brunch. This time, we're taking it back to the 70's with a Disco theme! Play for fun prizes, and get with the groove with minigames in between! One ticket includes breakfast and 5 BINGO cards. Additional Cards available for purchase at the door. Cash bar available!

This event is Ages 18 and up.

Empire Arts Center

415 Demers Ave

Grand Forks, ND

Please email info@empireartscenter.com or call 701-746-5500 with any questions.

Welcome to the Empire’s Theatre Camp!

October Theme: Storytelling Traditions (Forktales and Fall Heritage)

The Empire's Theatre Camp is a monthly literacy and performance program for K-5th grade students. This program has 9 sessions running September 2026 through May 2027. Every session will have a unique theme to explore parts of history, specific heritages, and different storytelling traditions!

Each session runs 2PM-5PM on a Wednesday each month costing $45 per session. Each date for this program will be offered on early-out, half-day school dismissals. All sessions are held at the Empire Arts Center. Curriculum and facilitation is provided by Chatty Learners LLC. Please reach out to info@empireartscenter.com or call 701-746-5500 for more information.

Dates

September 30th: Welcome to the Empire! (Theater Basics & Teamwork)

October 21st: Storytelling Traditions (Folktales & Fall Heritage)

November 18th: Native American Heritage Month & Gratitude

December 9th: Winter Tales & Kindness

January 27th: Heroes & Helpers

Februrary 24th: Black History & Voices That Changed the World

March 10th: Women's History Month — Legendary Women

April 21st: Imagination & Adventure

May 19th: Grand Finale: Big Stage Showcase

Late Nite Catechism is, an uproarious piece of theater that takes audience members back -sometimes nostalgically, sometimes fearfully to the children they once were. The irrepressible Sister teaches an adult catechism class to a roomful of “students” (the audience). Over the course of the play, Sister goes from benevolent instructor, rewarding the “students” for correct answers with glow-in-the-dark rosaries and laminated saint cards, to authoritative drill sergeant. These abrupt mood swings are bound to strike a resonant chord with everyone who survived the ups and downs of going to school, with an omniscient authoritarian at the helm.

Presented by Entertainment Events, Inc.

Empire Arts Center

415 Demers Ave

Grand Forks, ND

Please email info@empireartscenter.com or call 701-746-5500 with any questions.

Joe Eddie returns to the Empire's Studio E to play some more music for the masses! Doors at 6PM, with local band, The Branches opening at 7PM.  

Call 701-746-5500 or email info@empireartscenter.com with any questions or for more information.

Empire Arts Center

415 Demers Ave

Grand Forks, ND

Frankenstein (with Benedict Cumberbatch as the creature)

by Nick Dear, based on the novel by Mary Shelley

Directed by Academy Award®-winner Danny Boyle (Trainspotting, Slumdog Millionaire), Frankenstein features Benedict Cumberbatch (Hamlet, BBC’s Sherlock) and Jonny Lee Miller (Elementary, Trainspotting) alternating between the roles of Victor Frankenstein and his creation.

Childlike in his innocence but grotesque in form, Frankenstein’s bewildered creature is cast out into a hostile universe by his horror-struck maker. Meeting with cruelty wherever he goes, the increasingly desperate and vengeful Creature determines to track down his creator and strike a terrifying deal.

Scientific responsibility, parental neglect, cognitive development and the nature of good and evil, are embedded within this thrilling and deeply disturbing classic tale.

Captured live on stage in 2011, this thrilling, sold-out production became an international sensation, experienced by almost half a million people in cinemas around the world.

For more information email info@empireartscenter.com or call 701.746.5500

Frankenstein (with Benedict Comberbatch as the creature)

by Nick Dear, based on the novel by Mary Shelley

Directed by Academy Award®-winner Danny Boyle (Trainspotting, Slumdog Millionaire), Frankenstein features Benedict Cumberbatch (Hamlet, BBC’s Sherlock) and Jonny Lee Miller (Elementary, Trainspotting) alternating between the roles of Victor Frankenstein and his creation.

Childlike in his innocence but grotesque in form, Frankenstein’s bewildered creature is cast out into a hostile universe by his horror-struck maker. Meeting with cruelty wherever he goes, the increasingly desperate and vengeful Creature determines to track down his creator and strike a terrifying deal.

Scientific responsibility, parental neglect, cognitive development and the nature of good and evil, are embedded within this thrilling and deeply disturbing classic tale.

Captured live on stage in 2011, this thrilling, sold-out production became an international sensation, experienced by almost half a million people in cinemas around the world.

For more information email info@empireartscenter.com or call 701.746.5500

Rocky Horror Picture Show - LIVE is a unique blend of film, live performances, and audience participation. Prepare to be thrilled, chilled and fulfilled as a LIVE cast performs in front of the screen playing the 1975 cult classic film. This year's performances will happen on October 30 and 31, with two shows each night, at the historic Empire Arts Center, downtown Grand Forks.  The show each evening is at 7pm for general admission, followed by the legendary Midnight show for mature audiences.

Prop bags will be available for purchase in the lobby.

Ages 18 and up. No video recording of any kind allowed.

Please email info@empireartscenter.com or call 701-746-5500 with questions.

Rocky Horror Picture Show - LIVE is a unique blend of film, live performances, and audience participation. Prepare to be thrilled, chilled and fulfilled as a LIVE cast performs in front of the screen playing the 1975 cult classic film. This year's performances will happen on October 30 and 31, with two shows each night, at the historic Empire Arts Center, downtown Grand Forks.  The show each evening is at 7pm for general admission, followed by the legendary Midnight show for mature audiences.

Prop bags will be available for purchase in the lobby.

Ages 18 and up. No video recording of any kind allowed.

Please email info@empireartscenter.com or call 701-746-5500 with questions.

Misery by Stephen King - Free Book Discussion!

As a part of Empire Theatre Company’s Season 15, Page to Stage to Screen, the Empire is hosting free book discussions for each selected title on this season’s program!

Join us for a free book discussions for Misery by Stephen King on Sunday, November 1st at 2PM!

Dear Paul, I’m your #1 fan

This psychological thriller based on Stephen King’s novel Misery follows successful romance novelist Paul Sheldon, who is rescued from a car crash and wakes up captive in a secluded home owned by his self-identified “number one fan,” Annie Wilkes. While Paul is convalescing, Annie reads the manuscript of his latest book and becomes enraged when she discovers the author has killed off her favorite character, Misery Chastain. Annie forces Paul to write a new Misery novel and he quickly realizes Annie has no intention of letting him go. The irate Annie has Paul writing as if his life depends on it – and it does.

Please email info@empireartscenter.com or call 701-746-5500 with any questions.

Dear Paul, I’m your #1 fan

This psychological thriller based on Stephen King’s novel Misery follows successful romance novelist Paul Sheldon, who is rescued from a car crash and wakes up captive in a secluded home owned by his self-identified “number one fan,” Annie Wilkes. While Paul is convalescing, Annie reads the manuscript of his latest book and becomes enraged when she discovers the author has killed off her favorite character, Misery Chastain. Annie forces Paul to write a new Misery novel and he quickly realizes Annie has no intention of letting him go. The irate Annie has Paul writing as if his life depends on it – and it does.

Please email info@empireartscenter.com or call 701-746-5500 with any questions.

Dear Paul, I’m your #1 fan

This psychological thriller based on Stephen King’s novel Misery follows successful romance novelist Paul Sheldon, who is rescued from a car crash and wakes up captive in a secluded home owned by his self-identified “number one fan,” Annie Wilkes. While Paul is convalescing, Annie reads the manuscript of his latest book and becomes enraged when she discovers the author has killed off her favorite character, Misery Chastain. Annie forces Paul to write a new Misery novel and he quickly realizes Annie has no intention of letting him go. The irate Annie has Paul writing as if his life depends on it – and it does.

Please email info@empireartscenter.com or call 701-746-5500 with any questions.

Dear Paul, I’m your #1 fan

This psychological thriller based on Stephen King’s novel Misery follows successful romance novelist Paul Sheldon, who is rescued from a car crash and wakes up captive in a secluded home owned by his self-identified “number one fan,” Annie Wilkes. While Paul is convalescing, Annie reads the manuscript of his latest book and becomes enraged when she discovers the author has killed off her favorite character, Misery Chastain. Annie forces Paul to write a new Misery novel and he quickly realizes Annie has no intention of letting him go. The irate Annie has Paul writing as if his life depends on it – and it does.

Please email info@empireartscenter.com or call 701-746-5500 with any questions.

After a famous author is rescued from a car crash by a fan of his novels, he comes to realize that the care he is receiving is only the beginning of a nightmare of captivity and abuse.

This screening is a part of the Empire's From Page to Stage to Screen Series, presented by A Johnston Therapy.

Rated R

General Admission Seating

Empire Arts Center

415 Demers Ave

Grand Forks, ND

Dear Paul, I’m your #1 fan

This psychological thriller based on Stephen King’s novel Misery follows successful romance novelist Paul Sheldon, who is rescued from a car crash and wakes up captive in a secluded home owned by his self-identified “number one fan,” Annie Wilkes. While Paul is convalescing, Annie reads the manuscript of his latest book and becomes enraged when she discovers the author has killed off her favorite character, Misery Chastain. Annie forces Paul to write a new Misery novel and he quickly realizes Annie has no intention of letting him go. The irate Annie has Paul writing as if his life depends on it – and it does.

Please email info@empireartscenter.com or call 701-746-5500 with any questions.

Dear Paul, I’m your #1 fan

This psychological thriller based on Stephen King’s novel Misery follows successful romance novelist Paul Sheldon, who is rescued from a car crash and wakes up captive in a secluded home owned by his self-identified “number one fan,” Annie Wilkes. While Paul is convalescing, Annie reads the manuscript of his latest book and becomes enraged when she discovers the author has killed off her favorite character, Misery Chastain. Annie forces Paul to write a new Misery novel and he quickly realizes Annie has no intention of letting him go. The irate Annie has Paul writing as if his life depends on it – and it does.

Please email info@empireartscenter.com or call 701-746-5500 with any questions.

Dear Paul, I’m your #1 fan

This psychological thriller based on Stephen King’s novel Misery follows successful romance novelist Paul Sheldon, who is rescued from a car crash and wakes up captive in a secluded home owned by his self-identified “number one fan,” Annie Wilkes. While Paul is convalescing, Annie reads the manuscript of his latest book and becomes enraged when she discovers the author has killed off her favorite character, Misery Chastain. Annie forces Paul to write a new Misery novel and he quickly realizes Annie has no intention of letting him go. The irate Annie has Paul writing as if his life depends on it – and it does.

Please email info@empireartscenter.com or call 701-746-5500 with any questions.

Hamlet
by William Shakespeare
directed by Robert Hastie
Olivier Award-winner Hiran Abeysekera (Life of Pi) is Hamlet in this fearless, contemporary take on Shakespeare’s famous tragedy. Trapped between duty and doubt, surrounded by power and privilege, young Prince Hamlet dares to ask the ultimate question – you know the one. National Theatre Deputy Artistic Director, Robert Hastie (Standing at the Sky’s Edge, Operation Mincemeat) directs this sharp, stylish and darkly funny reimagining.

Online Box Office sales close 2 hours prior to show time. Any purchases within this 2-hour window need to be made in person at our box office.

Empire Arts Center

415 Demers Ave

Grand Forks, ND

Please email info@empireartscenter.com or call 701-746-5500 with any questions.

Welcome to the Empire’s Theatre Camp!

November Theme: Native American Heritage Month & Gratitude

The Empire's Theatre Camp is a monthly literacy and performance program for K-5th grade students. This program has 9 sessions running September 2026 through May 2027. Every session will have a unique theme to explore parts of history, specific heritages, and different storytelling traditions!

Each session runs 2PM-5PM on a Wednesday each month costing $45 per session. Each date for this program will be offered on early-out, half-day school dismissals. All sessions are held at the Empire Arts Center. Curriculum and facilitation is provided by Chatty Learners LLC. Please reach out to info@empireartscenter.com or call 701-746-5500 for more information.

Dates

September 30th: Welcome to the Empire! (Theater Basics & Teamwork)

October 21st: Storytelling Traditions (Folktales & Fall Heritage)

November 18th: Native American Heritage Month & Gratitude

December 9th: Winter Tales & Kindness

January 27th: Heroes & Helpers

Februrary 24th: Black History & Voices That Changed the World

March 10th: Women's History Month — Legendary Women

April 21st: Imagination & Adventure

May 19th: Grand Finale: Big Stage Showcase

Looking for live music and a good time?

Come to the Empire’s Music Box November 19, 2026!

The Empire's monthly Music Box features 3 local acts, as well as an open-to-the-public jam at the start of every show. If you're interested in live, local music, the Music Box is the place to be! Come for the music, stay for the good vibes(and the free popcorn).

Doors open at 6:00 PM, open-jam starts at 7:00 PM

The Music Box is one of the only venues in Grand Forks that allows artists to play what they want, and our Music Box stage helps to give any musician a platform to perform, regardless the genre or experience.

Tickets available by donation at the door. Recommended Donation of $10. The Music Box is supported through our sponsor, Rydell GMC and through donations from our community.

Mark Masters from AWE Network, OutsideTV and ABC will perform a live stand-up comedy show at The Empire Arts Center in Grand Forks, ND on Friday November 20. Presented by Grand Forks Comedy Collective. Featuring openers Bo Brorby and Matthew Ternus

Doors at 7:00PM, Show at 7:30PM. Come early and get some drinks!

Arrive early for best seating, show will start promptly at 7:30PM.

A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens - Free Book Discussion!

As a part of Empire Theatre Company’s Season 15, Page to Stage to Screen, the Empire is hosting free book discussions for each selected title on this season’s program!

Join us for a free book discussions for A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens on Sunday, November 22nd at 2PM!

Hamlet
by William Shakespeare
directed by Robert Hastie
Olivier Award-winner Hiran Abeysekera (Life of Pi) is Hamlet in this fearless, contemporary take on Shakespeare’s famous tragedy. Trapped between duty and doubt, surrounded by power and privilege, young Prince Hamlet dares to ask the ultimate question – you know the one. National Theatre Deputy Artistic Director, Robert Hastie (Standing at the Sky’s Edge, Operation Mincemeat) directs this sharp, stylish and darkly funny reimagining.

Online Box Office sales close 2 hours prior to show time. Any purchases within this 2-hour window need to be made in person at our box office.

Empire Arts Center

415 Demers Ave

Grand Forks, ND

Please email info@empireartscenter.com or call 701-746-5500 with any questions.

The Queen of the Piano returns to the stage once again this holiday season, bringing good news and joy with her concert grand piano. Touring for 37 years, Ms. Line will share all the favorite hits of her Christmas career and tell sentimental stories that delight in the season. Most known for her "mashup medley", be ready to shout out your favorite song request as she entertains and plays off-the-cuff audience requests spontaneously. Line just released her 67th album and she plans to play a few of her favorites this year to showcase the project. 

The show is one hour, 30 minutes with no intermission. This a solo piano show and the age restriction is 10 and up.

The Muppets put their spin on the tale of an elder, Christmas-hating miser who is visited by spirits who foretell his future and share secrets from his past and present, which helps change his view on life. 

This screening is a part of the Empire's From Page to Stage to Screen Series, presented by A Johnston Therapy.

Rated G

General Admission Seating

Empire Arts Center

415 Demers Ave

Grand Forks, ND

Please email info@empireartscenter.com or call 701-746-5500 with any questions.

A radio retelling of Charles Dickens' Classic novella, written by Orson Welles, with Live Radio Ads.

All Ages

Please email info@empireartscenter.com or call 701-746-5500 with any questions.

A radio retelling of Charles Dickens' Classic novella, written by Orson Welles, with Live Radio Ads.

All Ages

Please email info@empireartscenter.com or call 701-746-5500 with any questions.

A radio retelling of Charles Dickens' Classic novella, written by Orson Welles, with Live Radio Ads.

All Ages

Please email info@empireartscenter.com or call 701-746-5500 with any questions.

A radio retelling of Charles Dickens' Classic novella, written by Orson Welles, with Live Radio Ads.

All Ages

Please email info@empireartscenter.com or call 701-746-5500 with any questions.

Welcome to the Empire’s Theatre Camp!

December Theme: Winter Tales and Kindness

The Empire's Theatre Camp is a monthly literacy and performance program for K-5th grade students. This program has 9 sessions running September 2026 through May 2027. Every session will have a unique theme to explore parts of history, specific heritages, and different storytelling traditions!

Each session runs 2PM-5PM on a Wednesday each month costing $45 per session. Each date for this program will be offered on early-out, half-day school dismissals. All sessions are held at the Empire Arts Center. Curriculum and facilitation is provided by Chatty Learners LLC. Please reach out to info@empireartscenter.com or call 701-746-5500 for more information.

Dates

September 30th: Welcome to the Empire! (Theater Basics & Teamwork)

October 21st: Storytelling Traditions (Folktales & Fall Heritage)

November 18th: Native American Heritage Month & Gratitude

December 9th: Winter Tales & Kindness

January 27th: Heroes & Helpers

Februrary 24th: Black History & Voices That Changed the World

March 10th: Women's History Month — Legendary Women

April 21st: Imagination & Adventure

May 19th: Grand Finale: Big Stage Showcase

A must see Christmas Musical experience, live on your hometown stage!

An 80s Holiday Spectacular - Music By Bon Jovi - Michael Jackson - Van Halen - and Christmas Favorites

After sold-out performances from the Sydney Opera House to Prague, Carnegie Hall to Iceland, America’s Christmas Soundtrack Returns with internationally touring violin sensation Blue Violin's 4th Annual Retro Rock & Roll Christmas Tour — an electrifying holiday spectacular blending the energy of an 80s arena rock show with the magic of Christmas.

Featuring a live rock band, soaring choir, breathtaking cathedral projection mapping, and unforgettable violin performances, this cinematic production reimagines Christmas classics alongside the music of legendary artists like Michael Jackson, Bon Jovi, Van Halen, Bruce Springsteen, Kate Bush, Wham!, Tears for Fears, and more.

The Concert That Feels Like Christmas

From emotional holiday moments to crowd-on-your-feet rock anthems, Retro Rock & Roll Christmas transports audiences through a nostalgic world of glowing cathedrals, epic rock energy, powerful singalongs, and unexpected surprises — culminating in Blue Violin’s internationally acclaimed performance of The Devil Went Down to Georgia.

Seen by over 20,000 audience members across North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia, Blue Violin’s Retro Rock & Roll Christmas has quickly become one of the most unique and unforgettable holiday concert experiences touring today.

Les Liaisons Dangereuses
by Christopher Hampton
based on the novel by Pierre Choderlos de Laclos
directed by Marianne Elliott
Olivier and Tony® Award winner Lesley Manville (Phantom Thread) joins Aidan Turner(Rivals) in a striking new staging of Christopher Hampton’s celebrated adaptation of the classic novel, where among the glittering salons of the super-rich, one misstep can mean ruin. Marquise de Merteuil is a master in the art of survival. Alongside the magnetic Vicomte de Valmont, they turn seduction into strategy and weaponise desire. But when their alliance collapses into rivalry, the battle between them threatens to destroy everyone in their path. Filmed live on stage at the National Theatre, Marianne Elliott (Angels in America) directs this thrilling game of love, lies, and social warfare.

Online Box Office sales close 2 hours prior to show time. Any purchases within this 2-hour window need to be made in person at our box office.

Empire Arts Center

415 Demers Ave

Grand Forks, ND

Please email info@empireartscenter.com or call 701-746-5500 with any questions.

Looking for live music and a good time?

Come to the Empire’s Music Box December 19th, 2026!

The Empire's monthly Music Box features 3 local acts, as well as an open-to-the-public jam at the start of every show. If you're interested in live, local music, the Music Box is the place to be! Come for the music, stay for the good vibes(and the free popcorn).

Doors open at 6:00 PM, open-jam starts at 7:00 PM

The Music Box is one of the only venues in Grand Forks that allows artists to play what they want, and our Music Box stage helps to give any musician a platform to perform, regardless the genre or experience.

Tickets available by donation at the door. Recommended Donation of $10. The Music Box is supported through our sponsor, Rydell GMC and through donations from our community.

Les Liaisons Dangereuses
by Christopher Hampton
based on the novel by Pierre Choderlos de Laclos
directed by Marianne Elliott
Olivier and Tony® Award winner Lesley Manville (Phantom Thread) joins Aidan Turner(Rivals) in a striking new staging of Christopher Hampton’s celebrated adaptation of the classic novel, where among the glittering salons of the super-rich, one misstep can mean ruin. Marquise de Merteuil is a master in the art of survival. Alongside the magnetic Vicomte de Valmont, they turn seduction into strategy and weaponise desire. But when their alliance collapses into rivalry, the battle between them threatens to destroy everyone in their path. Filmed live on stage at the National Theatre, Marianne Elliott (Angels in America) directs this thrilling game of love, lies, and social warfare.

Online Box Office sales close 1 hour prior to show time. Any purchases within this 1-hour window need to be made in person at our box office.

Empire Arts Center

415 Demers Ave

Grand Forks, ND

Please email info@empireartscenter.com or call 701-746-5500 with any questions.

The Importance of being Earnest
by Oscar Wilde
directed by Max Webster
Three-time Olivier Award-winner Sharon D Clarke is joined by Ncuti Gatwa (Doctor Who; Sex Education) in this joyful reimagining of Oscar Wilde’s most celebrated comedy. While assuming the role of a dutiful guardian in the country, Jack lets loose in town under a false identity. Meanwhile, his friend Algy adopts a similar facade. Hoping to impress two eligible ladies, the gentlemen find themselves caught in a web of lies they must carefully
navigate. Max Webster (Life of Pi) directs this hilarious story of identity, impersonation and romance, filmed live from the National Theatre in London.

Online Box Office sales close 1 hour prior to show time. Any purchases within this 1-hour window need to be made in person at our box office.

Empire Arts Center

415 Demers Ave

Grand Forks, ND

Please email info@empireartscenter.com or call 701-746-5500 with any questions.

Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen - Free Book Discussion!

As a part of Empire Theatre Company’s Season 15, Page to Stage to Screen, the Empire is hosting free book discussions for each selected title on this season’s program!

Join us for a free book discussions for Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen on Sunday, January 24th at 2PM!

The Importance of being Earnest
by Oscar Wilde
directed by Max Webster
Three-time Olivier Award-winner Sharon D Clarke is joined by Ncuti Gatwa (Doctor Who; Sex Education) in this joyful reimagining of Oscar Wilde’s most celebrated comedy. While assuming the role of a dutiful guardian in the country, Jack lets loose in town under a false identity. Meanwhile, his friend Algy adopts a similar facade. Hoping to impress two eligible ladies, the gentlemen find themselves caught in a web of lies they must carefully
navigate. Max Webster (Life of Pi) directs this hilarious story of identity, impersonation and romance, filmed live from the National Theatre in London. 

Online Box Office sales close 1 hour prior to show time. Any purchases within this 1-hour window need to be made in person at our box office.

Empire Arts Center

415 Demers Ave

Grand Forks, ND

Please email info@empireartscenter.com or call 701-746-5500 with any questions.

Welcome to the Empire’s Theatre Camp!

January Theme: Heroes and Helpers

The Empire's Theatre Camp is a monthly literacy and performance program for K-5th grade students. This program has 9 sessions running September 2026 through May 2027. Every session will have a unique theme to explore parts of history, specific heritages, and different storytelling traditions!

Each session runs 2PM-5PM on a Wednesday each month costing $45 per session. Each date for this program will be offered on early-out, half-day school dismissals. All sessions are held at the Empire Arts Center. Curriculum and facilitation is provided by Chatty Learners LLC. Please reach out to info@empireartscenter.com or call 701-746-5500 for more information.

Dates

September 30th: Welcome to the Empire! (Theater Basics & Teamwork)

October 21st: Storytelling Traditions (Folktales & Fall Heritage)

November 18th: Native American Heritage Month & Gratitude

December 9th: Winter Tales & Kindness

January 27th: Heroes & Helpers

Februrary 24th: Black History & Voices That Changed the World

March 10th: Women's History Month — Legendary Women

April 21st: Imagination & Adventure

May 19th: Grand Finale: Big Stage Showcase

When Elizabeth Bennet meets the handsome Mr. Darcy, she believes he is the last man she could ever marry, but as their lives become intertwined, she finds herself captivated by the man she has sworn to hate forever.

This screening is a part of the Empire's From Page to Stage to Screen Series, presented by A Johnston Therapy.

Rated PG

General Admission

Empire Arts Center

415 Demers Ave

Grand Forks, ND

Please email info@empireartscenter.com or call 701-746-5500 with any questions.

This isn’t your grandmother’s Austen! Bold, surprising, boisterous and timely, this Pride and Prejudice for a new era explores the absurdities and thrills of finding your perfect (or imperfect) match in life. The outspoken Lizzy Bennet is determined to never marry, despite mounting pressure from society. But can she resist love, especially when that vaguely handsome, mildly amusing and impossibly aggravating Mr. Darcy keeps popping up at every turn?! Literature’s greatest tale of latent love has never felt so theatrical or so full of life as it does in this effervescent adaptation. Because what turns us into greater fools than the high-stakes game of love?

Ages 16 and Up 

Please email info@empireartscenter.com or call 701-746-5500 with any questions.

This isn’t your grandmother’s Austen! Bold, surprising, boisterous and timely, this Pride and Prejudice for a new era explores the absurdities and thrills of finding your perfect (or imperfect) match in life. The outspoken Lizzy Bennet is determined to never marry, despite mounting pressure from society. But can she resist love, especially when that vaguely handsome, mildly amusing and impossibly aggravating Mr. Darcy keeps popping up at every turn?! Literature’s greatest tale of latent love has never felt so theatrical or so full of life as it does in this effervescent adaptation. Because what turns us into greater fools than the high-stakes game of love?

Ages 16 and Up 

Please email info@empireartscenter.com or call 701-746-5500 with any questions.

This isn’t your grandmother’s Austen! Bold, surprising, boisterous and timely, this Pride and Prejudice for a new era explores the absurdities and thrills of finding your perfect (or imperfect) match in life. The outspoken Lizzy Bennet is determined to never marry, despite mounting pressure from society. But can she resist love, especially when that vaguely handsome, mildly amusing and impossibly aggravating Mr. Darcy keeps popping up at every turn?! Literature’s greatest tale of latent love has never felt so theatrical or so full of life as it does in this effervescent adaptation. Because what turns us into greater fools than the high-stakes game of love?

Ages 16 and Up 

Please email info@empireartscenter.com or call 701-746-5500 with any questions.

The Audience
by Peter Morgan
directed by Stephen Daldry
Returning to cinemas for the first time in over a decade, Helen Mirren plays Queen Elizabeth II in the Olivier and Tony Award® -winning hit production, directed by Stephen Daldry. For 60 years, Queen Elizabeth II met with each of her 12 prime ministers in a private weekly meeting. This meeting is known as The Audience. From Winston Churchill to Margaret Thatcher and David Cameron, the Queen advised her prime ministers on matters both public and personal. Through these private audiences, we see glimpses of the woman behind the crown and witness the moments that shaped a monarch. Peter Morgan’s Netflix phenomenon The Crown was based on this hit play that was captured live from London’s West End in 2013 and went on to become one of the most-watched NT Live productions.

Online Box Office sales close 1 hour prior to show time. Any purchases within this 1-hour window need to be made in person at our box office.

Empire Arts Center

415 Demers Ave

Grand Forks, ND

Please email info@empireartscenter.com or call 701-746-5500 with any questions.

This isn’t your grandmother’s Austen! Bold, surprising, boisterous and timely, this Pride and Prejudice for a new era explores the absurdities and thrills of finding your perfect (or imperfect) match in life. The outspoken Lizzy Bennet is determined to never marry, despite mounting pressure from society. But can she resist love, especially when that vaguely handsome, mildly amusing and impossibly aggravating Mr. Darcy keeps popping up at every turn?! Literature’s greatest tale of latent love has never felt so theatrical or so full of life as it does in this effervescent adaptation. Because what turns us into greater fools than the high-stakes game of love?

Ages 16 and Up 

Please email info@empireartscenter.com or call 701-746-5500 with any questions.

This isn’t your grandmother’s Austen! Bold, surprising, boisterous and timely, this Pride and Prejudice for a new era explores the absurdities and thrills of finding your perfect (or imperfect) match in life. The outspoken Lizzy Bennet is determined to never marry, despite mounting pressure from society. But can she resist love, especially when that vaguely handsome, mildly amusing and impossibly aggravating Mr. Darcy keeps popping up at every turn?! Literature’s greatest tale of latent love has never felt so theatrical or so full of life as it does in this effervescent adaptation. Because what turns us into greater fools than the high-stakes game of love?

Ages 16 and Up 

Please email info@empireartscenter.com or call 701-746-5500 with any questions.

This isn’t your grandmother’s Austen! Bold, surprising, boisterous and timely, this Pride and Prejudice for a new era explores the absurdities and thrills of finding your perfect (or imperfect) match in life. The outspoken Lizzy Bennet is determined to never marry, despite mounting pressure from society. But can she resist love, especially when that vaguely handsome, mildly amusing and impossibly aggravating Mr. Darcy keeps popping up at every turn?! Literature’s greatest tale of latent love has never felt so theatrical or so full of life as it does in this effervescent adaptation. Because what turns us into greater fools than the high-stakes game of love?

Ages 16 and Up 

Please email info@empireartscenter.com or call 701-746-5500 with any questions.

This isn’t your grandmother’s Austen! Bold, surprising, boisterous and timely, this Pride and Prejudice for a new era explores the absurdities and thrills of finding your perfect (or imperfect) match in life. The outspoken Lizzy Bennet is determined to never marry, despite mounting pressure from society. But can she resist love, especially when that vaguely handsome, mildly amusing and impossibly aggravating Mr. Darcy keeps popping up at every turn?! Literature’s greatest tale of latent love has never felt so theatrical or so full of life as it does in this effervescent adaptation. Because what turns us into greater fools than the high-stakes game of love?

Ages 16 and Up 

Please email info@empireartscenter.com or call 701-746-5500 with any questions.

The Audience
by Peter Morgan
directed by Stephen Daldry
Returning to cinemas for the first time in over a decade, Helen Mirren plays Queen Elizabeth II in the Olivier and Tony Award® -winning hit production, directed by Stephen Daldry. For 60 years, Queen Elizabeth II met with each of her 12 prime ministers in a private weekly meeting. This meeting is known as The Audience. From Winston Churchill to Margaret Thatcher and David Cameron, the Queen advised her prime ministers on matters both public and personal. Through these private audiences, we see glimpses of the woman behind the crown and witness the moments that shaped a monarch. Peter Morgan’s Netflix phenomenon The Crown was based on this hit play that was captured live from London’s West End in 2013 and went on to become one of the most-watched NT Live productions.

Online Box Office sales close 1 hour prior to show time. Any purchases within this 1-hour window need to be made in person at our box office.

Empire Arts Center

415 Demers Ave

Grand Forks, ND

Please email info@empireartscenter.com or call 701-746-5500 with any questions.

Welcome to the Empire’s Theatre Camp!

Februrary Theme: Black History & Voices That Changed the World

The Empire's Theatre Camp is a monthly literacy and performance program for K-5th grade students. This program has 9 sessions running September 2026 through May 2027. Every session will have a unique theme to explore parts of history, specific heritages, and different storytelling traditions!

Each session runs 2PM-5PM on a Wednesday each month costing $45 per session. Each date for this program will be offered on early-out, half-day school dismissals. All sessions are held at the Empire Arts Center. Curriculum and facilitation is provided by Chatty Learners LLC. Please reach out to info@empireartscenter.com or call 701-746-5500 for more information.

Dates

September 30th: Welcome to the Empire! (Theater Basics & Teamwork)

October 21st: Storytelling Traditions (Folktales & Fall Heritage)

November 18th: Native American Heritage Month & Gratitude

December 9th: Winter Tales & Kindness

January 27th: Heroes & Helpers

Februrary 24th: Black History & Voices That Changed the World

March 10th: Women's History Month — Legendary Women

April 21st: Imagination & Adventure

May 19th: Grand Finale: Big Stage Showcase

All My Sons
by Arthur Miller
directed by Ivo Van Hove
design by Jan Versweyveld
Bryan Cranston (Breaking Bad) and Marianne Jean-Baptiste (Hard Truths) feature in a five-star, triumphantly acclaimed new production of Arthur Miller’s classic play, from visionary director Ivo Van Hove (A View from the Bridge). One family, the heart of the American dream. When wartime delivers profits for Joe, it comes at a price when his partner is charged with criminal manufacturing deals, and his eldest son goes missing in action. Will peacetime bring peace of mind, or will he be confronted by the
consequence of his actions? Filmed live from the West End, Paapa Essiedu (I May Destroy You), Tom Glynn-Carney (House of the Dragon), and Hayley Squires (I, Daniel Blake) also feature in this disturbingly prescient play.

Online Box Office sales close 1 hour prior to show time. Any purchases within this 1-hour window need to be made in person at our box office.

Empire Arts Center

415 Demers Ave

Grand Forks, ND

Please email info@empireartscenter.com or call 701-746-5500 with any questions.

Welcome to the Empire’s Theatre Camp!

March Theme: Women’s History Month - Legendary Women

The Empire's Theatre Camp is a monthly literacy and performance program for K-5th grade students. This program has 9 sessions running September 2026 through May 2027. Every session will have a unique theme to explore parts of history, specific heritages, and different storytelling traditions!

Each session runs 2PM-5PM on a Wednesday each month costing $45 per session. Each date for this program will be offered on early-out, half-day school dismissals. All sessions are held at the Empire Arts Center. Curriculum and facilitation is provided by Chatty Learners LLC. Please reach out to info@empireartscenter.com or call 701-746-5500 for more information.

Dates

September 30th: Welcome to the Empire! (Theater Basics & Teamwork)

October 21st: Storytelling Traditions (Folktales & Fall Heritage)

November 18th: Native American Heritage Month & Gratitude

December 9th: Winter Tales & Kindness

January 27th: Heroes & Helpers

Februrary 24th: Black History & Voices That Changed the World

March 10th: Women's History Month — Legendary Women

April 21st: Imagination & Adventure

May 19th: Grand Finale: Big Stage Showcase

All My Sons
by Arthur Miller
directed by Ivo Van Hove
design by Jan Versweyveld
Bryan Cranston (Breaking Bad) and Marianne Jean-Baptiste (Hard Truths) feature in a five-star, triumphantly acclaimed new production of Arthur Miller’s classic play, from visionary director Ivo Van Hove (A View from the Bridge). One family, the heart of the American dream. When wartime delivers profits for Joe, it comes at a price when his partner is charged with criminal manufacturing deals, and his eldest son goes missing in action. Will peacetime bring peace of mind, or will he be confronted by the
consequence of his actions? Filmed live from the West End, Paapa Essiedu (I May Destroy You), Tom Glynn-Carney (House of the Dragon), and Hayley Squires (I, Daniel Blake) also feature in this disturbingly prescient play.

Online Box Office sales close 1 hour prior to show time. Any purchases within this 1-hour window need to be made in person at our box office.

Empire Arts Center

415 Demers Ave

Grand Forks, ND

Please email info@empireartscenter.com or call 701-746-5500 with any questions.

The Playboy of the Western World
by John Millington Synge
directed by Caitríona McLaughlin
Nicola Coughlan (Bridgerton) joins Éanna Hardwicke (The Sixth Commandment) and Siobhán McSweeney (Derry Girls) in John Millington Synge’s riveting play of youth and self-discovery. Pegeen Flaherty’s life is turned upside down when a young man walks into her pub claiming that he’s killed his father. Instead of being shunned, the killer becomes a local hero and begins to win hearts, that is until a second man unexpectedly arrives on the scene… Filmed live on stage at the National Theatre, Caitríona McLaughlin directs this darkly funny tale full to the brim with secrets.

Online Box Office sales close 1 hour prior to show time. Any purchases within this 1-hour window need to be made in person at our box office.

Empire Arts Center

415 Demers Ave

Grand Forks, ND

Please email info@empireartscenter.com or call 701-746-5500 with any questions.

Welcome to the Empire’s Theatre Camp!

April Theme: Imagination & Adventure

The Empire's Theatre Camp is a monthly literacy and performance program for K-5th grade students. This program has 9 sessions running September 2026 through May 2027. Every session will have a unique theme to explore parts of history, specific heritages, and different storytelling traditions!

Each session runs 2PM-5PM on a Wednesday each month costing $45 per session. Each date for this program will be offered on early-out, half-day school dismissals. All sessions are held at the Empire Arts Center. Curriculum and facilitation is provided by Chatty Learners LLC. Please reach out to info@empireartscenter.com or call 701-746-5500 for more information.

Dates

September 30th: Welcome to the Empire! (Theater Basics & Teamwork)

October 21st: Storytelling Traditions (Folktales & Fall Heritage)

November 18th: Native American Heritage Month & Gratitude

December 9th: Winter Tales & Kindness

January 27th: Heroes & Helpers

Februrary 24th: Black History & Voices That Changed the World

March 10th: Women's History Month — Legendary Women

April 21st: Imagination & Adventure

May 19th: Grand Finale: Big Stage Showcase

The Playboy of the Western World
by John Millington Synge
directed by Caitríona McLaughlin
Nicola Coughlan (Bridgerton) joins Éanna Hardwicke (The Sixth Commandment) and Siobhán McSweeney (Derry Girls) in John Millington Synge’s riveting play of youth and self-discovery. Pegeen Flaherty’s life is turned upside down when a young man walks into her pub claiming that he’s killed his father. Instead of being shunned, the killer becomes a local hero and begins to win hearts, that is until a second man unexpectedly arrives on the scene… Filmed live on stage at the National Theatre, Caitríona McLaughlin directs this darkly funny tale full to the brim with secrets.

Online Box Office sales close 1 hour prior to show time. Any purchases within this 1-hour window need to be made in person at our box office.

Empire Arts Center

415 Demers Ave

Grand Forks, ND

Please email info@empireartscenter.com or call 701-746-5500 with any questions.

Fleabag
Written and performed by Phoebe Waller-Bridge
Directed by Vicky Jones

★★★★★
'Witty, filthy and supreme.' Guardian

Written and performed by Phoebe Waller-Bridge (Fleabag, Killing Eve) and directed by Vicky Jones, Fleabag is a rip-roaring look at some sort of woman living her sort of life. Following a box-office record-breaking run in cinemas in 2019, the one-woman show returns to cinemas to the big screen this summer. Fleabag may seem oversexed, emotionally unfiltered and self-obsessed, but that's just the tip of the iceberg. With family and friendships under strain and a guinea pig café struggling to keep afloat, Fleabag suddenly finds herself with nothing to lose. The hilarious, award-winning play that inspired the BBC’s hit TV series Fleabag, was filmed live on stage in London’s West End in 2019. Presented by DryWrite, Soho Theatre and Annapurna Theatre.

Online Box Office sales close 1 hour prior to show time. Any purchases within this 1-hour window need to be made in person at our box office.

Empire Arts Center

415 Demers Ave

Grand Forks, ND

Please email info@empireartscenter.com or call 701-746-5500 with any questions.

Welcome to the Empire’s Theatre Camp!

May Theme: Grand Finale - Big Stage Showcase

The Empire's Theatre Camp is a monthly literacy and performance program for K-5th grade students. This program has 9 sessions running September 2026 through May 2027. Every session will have a unique theme to explore parts of history, specific heritages, and different storytelling traditions!

Each session runs 2PM-5PM on a Wednesday each month costing $45 per session. Each date for this program will be offered on early-out, half-day school dismissals. All sessions are held at the Empire Arts Center. Curriculum and facilitation is provided by Chatty Learners LLC. Please reach out to info@empireartscenter.com or call 701-746-5500 for more information.

Dates

September 30th: Welcome to the Empire! (Theater Basics & Teamwork)

October 21st: Storytelling Traditions (Folktales & Fall Heritage)

November 18th: Native American Heritage Month & Gratitude

December 9th: Winter Tales & Kindness

January 27th: Heroes & Helpers

Februrary 24th: Black History & Voices That Changed the World

March 10th: Women's History Month — Legendary Women

April 21st: Imagination & Adventure

May 19th: Grand Finale: Big Stage Showcase

Fleabag
Written and performed by Phoebe Waller-Bridge
Directed by Vicky Jones

★★★★★
'Witty, filthy and supreme.' Guardian

Written and performed by Phoebe Waller-Bridge (Fleabag, Killing Eve) and directed by Vicky Jones, Fleabag is a rip-roaring look at some sort of woman living her sort of life. Following a box-office record-breaking run in cinemas in 2019, the one-woman show returns to cinemas to the big screen this summer. Fleabag may seem oversexed, emotionally unfiltered and self-obsessed, but that's just the tip of the iceberg. With family and friendships under strain and a guinea pig café struggling to keep afloat, Fleabag suddenly finds herself with nothing to lose. The hilarious, award-winning play that inspired the BBC’s hit TV series Fleabag, was filmed live on stage in London’s West End in 2019. Presented by DryWrite, Soho Theatre and Annapurna Theatre.

Online Box Office sales close 1 hour prior to show time. Any purchases within this 1-hour window need to be made in person at our box office.

Empire Arts Center

415 Demers Ave

Grand Forks, ND

Please email info@empireartscenter.com or call 701-746-5500 with any questions.