TicketSmarter - Theater and Comedy Guide for Rush Fans

Theater and Comedy Guide for Rapid City Rush Fans

Whether you’re drawn to the enthralling magic of Broadway musicals or prefer a night of side-splitting laughter with top-notch comedians, there’s a wide variety of acts touring in 2025 Prepare to delve into a world of drama, dancing, and delight, courtesy of the Rapid City Rush’s latest entertainment announcements.

Local Theater Highlights near Rapid City

One of the many perks of the area is its array of local theaters. Below is a quick glimpse at a few beloved venues:

The Historic Theater offers a glimpse into Rapid City’s past with its vintage design and classic marquee, making it a beloved local landmark.

Stage Stop Playhouse stands out for nurturing emerging talent, and hosting intimate productions that spotlight both new and seasoned actors.

Prairie Lights Venue brings a distinct fusion of live music and dramatic performances to the foothills of the Black Hills, creating a vibrant cultural atmosphere.

Black Hills Auditorium welcomes touring Broadway shows and large-scale events, providing locals and visitors with top-tier entertainment in a spacious setting.

Whether you’re captivated by a grand stage set or prefer the intimacy of a smaller performance space, Rapid City’s theaters are ready to keep you entertained.

Must-See Touring Shows

Six The Musical Tickets

Let’s begin with a modern sensation that has turned heads in recent years. Six the Musical first debuted in 2017 at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. Originally a small production, it quickly caught on thanks to its catchy pop soundtrack and unique retelling of the six wives of Henry VIII. Many fans have praised the show for its “historically epic girl power,” offering a refreshing twist on Tudor history with strong vocals and vibrant costumes. 

Gabriel Iglesias Tickets

Affectionately known as “Fluffy,” Gabriel Iglesias is a stand-up comic who’s been entertaining audiences around the globe for decades. Born in California, Iglesias found humor early on in life, performing at local clubs before earning larger opportunities through televised comedy specials. His personal style is a blend of relatable storytelling and a keen eye for everyday absurdities, showcased in well-loved specials such as “I’m Not Fat… I’m Fluffy” and “Stadium Fluffy.” In addition to stand-up, he’s also lent his voice to various animated films, reflecting a dynamic range of comedic talent. 

Hairspray Tickets

Bright and bubbly, Hairspray has remained a fan favorite since its Broadway premiere in 2002. Featuring infectious tunes like “You Can’t Stop the Beat,” the show is a feel-good celebration of 1960s optimism and teenage dreams. It garnered several Tony Awards in its initial Broadway run, in part due to the standout performances of Harvey Fierstein and Marissa Jaret Winokur, who made the roles of Edna Turnblad and Tracy Turnblad iconic. The show’s underlying messages of inclusion and body positivity were groundbreaking at the time, presenting serious themes in a delightfully comedic package. Hairspray’s neon-colored sets, uplifting songs, and flamboyant costumes continue to dazzle modern audiences.

Mean Girls Tickets

If you’re longing for a witty romp that captures the mania of high school cliques, Mean Girls is a must-see. The musical premiered on Broadway in 2018 and was adapted by Tina Fey from her cult-classic 2004 film. A highlight of its opening was the dynamic stage design, employing LED screens to evoke the ever-changing landscapes of social media. Fey’s comedic genius injects the production with a fine balance of humor and heart, spotlighting how teenage relationships can be both brutal and transformative. 

Ain’t Too Proud Tickets

Ain’t Too Proud delves into the electrifying story of The Temptations, one of Motown’s most legendary vocal groups. From their Detroit beginnings in 1960, The Temptations revolutionized the sound of soul with rich harmonies and synchronized dance moves that inspired countless performers. The show’s 2018 debut broke records for the highest-grossing production at Berkeley Repertory Theatre before making its way to Broadway. Many consider it a top-tier jukebox musical, emphasizing hits such as “My Girl” and “Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone.” 

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child Tickets

Embark on a magical journey with Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, a theatrical extension of J.K. Rowling’s wizarding world. Debuting in London’s West End in 2016, the play quickly secured a record nine Olivier Awards, reflecting its powerful performances and jaw-dropping stage effects. Stunning illusions, time-travel sequences, and a multi-part story structure create a unique, immersive experience. Producers felt it was vital to honor the original source material’s depth, resulting in a script filled with themes of friendship, legacy, and redemption. 

Matt Rife Tickets 

Matt Rife is a rising star who has taken the comedy circuit by storm. Known for his playful banter and on-the-spot crowd work, Rife introduced his comedic chops on platforms like MTV’s Wild ‘N Out. Biographically, he started stand-up in his teens, honing his craft through open-mic nights and small club gigs before catching mainstream attention. His recent special highlighted a knack for observational humor, mixing current events with personal anecdotes in a way that keeps audiences guessing. 

Hamilton Tickets

Hamilton is one of Broadway’s most influential shows, reshaping the landscape of musical theater. Written by Lin-Manuel Miranda, Hamilton premiered off-Broadway in 2015 before transferring to the Richard Rodgers Theatre that same year. The hip-hop-infused score, combined with a diverse cast portraying America’s Founding Fathers, skyrocketed Hamilton to international fame and countless accolades, including the 2016 Pulitzer Prize for Drama.

Hadestown Tickets

Hadestown entwines the ancient Greek myths of Orpheus and Eurydice with a New Orleans-influenced, folk-jazz style. Written by singer-songwriter Anaïs Mitchell, the musical first materialized as a concept album in 2010, showcasing Mitchell’s haunting vocals and storytelling. After a series of workshops, Hadestown opened on Broadway in 2019 and swept that year’s Tony Awards, including Best Musical. It’s revered for its evocative set design, conjuring the industrial underworld of Hades in sharp contrast to the lush realm of Persephone. 

The Lion King Tickets

First roaring onto Broadway in 1997, The Lion King became a landmark adaptation of Disney’s 1994 animated film. The stage musical, directed by Julie Taymor, gained immediate acclaim for its elaborate puppetry and innovative costuming, which redefined how audiences experienced a live Disney production. Songs like “Circle of Life” and “Can You Feel the Love Tonight” brought Elton John and Tim Rice’s compositions to life in a breathtaking theatrical format. Since its inception, The Lion King has played in over 20 countries, introducing global audiences to the awe of the African savanna recreated on stage. 

Taylor Tomlinson Tickets

Taylor Tomlinson’s star has been rising rapidly in the world of comedy. Born in California, she started performing stand-up at a young age, turning heads with her witty observations and relatable takes on millennial life. Tomlinson’s special “Look At You” became a streaming sensation, lauded for its candid discussion of mental health and dating misadventures. Her style is both introspective and sharply comedic, often diving into personal anecdotes that resonate strongly with her audience. 

Moulin Rouge Tickets 

Dazzling with sequins, romance, and the spirit of bohemian Paris, Moulin Rouge had its stage debut in 2018. The show resurrects Baz Luhrmann’s visually sumptuous 2001 film, weaving together classic tunes alongside more modern pop hits. Upon opening on Broadway at the Al Hirschfeld Theatre in 2019, it quickly earned multiple awards, including a Tony Award® for Best Musical. Some of the iconic set pieces replicate the famed Moulin Rouge nightclub’s grandeur, immersing audiences in a world of cabaret glamour. 

Nate Bargatze Tickets

Nate Bargatze is renowned for his laid-back, deadpan delivery. Raised in Tennessee, he draws comedic inspiration from everyday Southern life and family anecdotes, making his humor both personal and universally appealing. Bargatze’s Netflix specials “The Tennessee Kid” and “The Greatest Average American” showcased his knack for clean comedy, proving that you don’t need profanity to leave audiences in stitches. Reflecting on his career, he often credits early performances in small clubs for shaping his understated style. 

Wicked Tickets

Wicked has been enchanting audiences since its Broadway debut in 2003, offering a backstory to the fabled witches of Oz. Adapted from Gregory Maguire’s novel, the musical spotlights Elphaba (the so-called Wicked Witch of the West) and Glinda in their formative years. It initially soared with the powerhouse performances of Idina Menzel and Kristin Chenoweth, who originated the lead roles, earning major accolades.

The Phantom of the Opera Tickets

No list of iconic musicals would be complete without The Phantom of the Opera, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s classic tale of passion and mystery. Premiering in London’s West End in 1986, it quickly transferred to Broadway in 1988, where it set the record as the longest-running Broadway musical for many years. The show’s lavish chandelier crash became legendary, epitomizing the grand theatrical spectacle that enthralls audiences. With soaring melodies like “Music of the Night,” The Phantom of the Opera remains a musical masterpiece that transcends generations.

Exclusive Discount From TicketSmarter

In partnership with TicketSmarter, be sure to take advantage of a special promo code—use “RUSH5” for an exclusive discount on select tickets. With so many extraordinary performances coming to town, it’s a great time to plan your next outing.