In an industry where location often dictates cultural relevance, one venue nestled in the heart of Arizona has upended expectations, Arizona Broadway Theatre (ABT), based in Peoria, is not just surviving the challenges of regional theatre, it’s thriving and reshaping the model for how performing arts can engage audiences beyond urban cultural capitals.
Founded in 2005 by Kiel and Cassandra Klaphake, ABT was envisioned as more than a stage for musicals, it was a bold attempt to bring Broadway-level productions to the suburbs, complete with a fine-dining experience and year-round programming. Two decades later, that vision has grown into a national case study for sustainable, immersive arts business models.
More Than Just Entertainment
At first glance, Arizona Broadway Theatre appears to be a regional playhouse with a culinary twist: guests enjoy a gourmet meal before curtain call in a dinner-theatre-style setting. But under the surface, ABT is a sophisticated cultural hub and nonprofit engine, offering professional productions, youth education programs, touring shows, and community engagement all under one roof.
“We wanted to create something that didn’t compromise quality just because of geography,” co-founder Cassandra Klaphake once noted. That ambition, matched with rigorous standards in production and operations—has led ABT to host more than 1 million guests over the years, with some patrons traveling from out of state just to catch a show.
Economic Catalyst in the Desert
ABT’s presence in Peoria has done more than raise the bar for regional theater—it’s helped redefine the city’s cultural and economic landscape. As one of the anchors of the P83 Entertainment District, ABT attracts thousands of patrons annually, contributing to local tourism, small business growth, and civic pride.
What makes this impact even more significant is the theater’s nonprofit status. While it relies on ticket sales and food service for much of its revenue, donations and grants help sustain educational programming and artistic innovation. This dual model of nonprofit mission and for-profit mechanics has given ABT a unique edge in the performing arts economy.
Navigating Industry Disruption
The COVID-19 pandemic tested the entire live entertainment industry, and ABT was no exception. But instead of closing its doors permanently—as many regional theaters were forced to—ABT pivoted with agility. Outdoor performances, digital content, and donor-backed resilience helped keep the curtains open, albeit with adjustments.
The return to live shows has since seen a resurgence in audience demand, with ABT often selling out performances of Broadway staples like The Addams Family and Beauty and the Beast. Meanwhile, the theatre has continued to expand its behind-the-scenes offerings, such as costume design apprenticeships, scenic building internships, and community talkbacks with cast members.
Redefining Regional Success
There is often an assumption that artistic excellence and commercial viability are limited to metropolitan strongholds. ABT stands as a counterpoint to that belief—demonstrating that great theatre, executed with consistency and vision, can flourish anywhere.
Unlike venues that depend solely on seasonal shows or touring acts, ABT produces its own content, maintains a professional acting company, and engages in long-term strategic planning typically seen in much larger institutions. Its education-focused ABT Academy continues to mentor the next generation of performers, musicians, and technicians.
Looking to the Future
Now nearly 20 years into its journey, Arizona Broadway Theatre isn’t slowing down. Plans for expanded partnerships, touring productions, and digital media offerings are already underway. There’s also talk of licensing original productions—bringing ABT’s homegrown musicals to new markets.
What’s striking about ABT is not just the quality of its shows, but the vision it represents. In an industry often wrestling with budget cuts and shifting demographics, the theater has shown that excellence and accessibility don’t have to be mutually exclusive.
The rise of Arizona Broadway Theatre proves that with the right blend of creativity, community, and commerce, even a regional playhouse in Peoria can become a national leader in the performing arts. And as the lights dim and the overture begins, one thing is clear: this theatre’s story is far from over.
