Phil interviews Craig and Jolene Howard the co-owners of Upstage Theatre Company is a brand new professional theatre company located in Peoria, Illinois.

Peoria, Illinois began it’s theatrical tradition over a century ago with a style of theatre known as Vaudeville. Vaudeville featured a variety of acts which included comedians, singers, dancers, magicians, and more. It was also known for being family friendly which helped it gain in popularity, as opposed to its predecessors (rowdy saloons and burlesque halls). Many of the most famous entertainers of the 20th century got their start in Vaudeville.

Upstage Theatre is proud to honor the Vaudeville tradition here in Peoria!