Illuminate – A Spotlight on Our Future

Join us for an unforgettable evening celebrating the power of the performing arts and the future of The Grand Opera House.

YOUR TICKET INCLUDES…

The Prelude: You will enjoy gourmet passed appetizers catered by the Hotel Julien, a cash bar, and live piano music from Danny Zanger to set the mood.

The Main Event: When the curtain rises, we move inside our historic auditorium for a powerhouse benefit concert. You can expect a lineup of incredible local talent and moving stories that highlight why The Grand is such a vital piece of our community’s heart.

The Encore: We are keeping the magic going once the concert wraps! We will then gather to enjoy delicious desserts, fresh coffee, and even more live music to carry the celebration through the night.

Illuminate: A Spotlight on Our Future brings together exceptional local talent for a one-night-only concert featuring unforgettable songs, show-stopping voices, and inspiring stories that highlight the impact of The Grand in our community. From Broadway favorites to beloved classics, this special event will showcase the artistry, creativity, and passion that have made The Grand a cultural cornerstone for generations.

More than a concert, Illuminate is an opportunity to invest in the future of The Grand. Throughout the evening, guests will learn about exciting plans to preserve and strengthen our historic home, expand opportunities for artists and audiences, and ensure that future generations can continue to experience the magic of live performance.

Whether you are a longtime supporter or discovering The Grand for the first time, Illuminate promises an evening filled with music, community, and inspiration.

Unforgettable Songs. Show-Stopping Voices. A Grand Night Out.

Join us as we celebrate our legacy, shine a light on what’s ahead, and help write the next chapter of The Grand’s story.

The Living Last Supper

Who We Are

The Living Last Supper Ministry is a group of men, women, and children, that present the Gospel through the dramatization of Jesus’ last supper with his disciples. The 40 plus people participating in the ministry come from many Christian denominations in and around the Dubuque area. This includes, Catholic, Methodist, Baptist, Presbyterian, Evangelical Free, Evangelical Churches, and others. But we all have one thing in common: our love for Jesus Christ. Each event includes an introduction to each of the disciples, foot washing, the Lord’s Supper, the betrayal of Jesus by Judas, music selections, children’s presentation, and audience participation. This year’s theme is: Never Alone and is based on Matthew 28:20. The book we are using is Max Lucado’s “Never Alone” and was written during the COVID-19 years as a bible study to comfort people all over the world experiencing isolation and loneliness.

In addition to the “ministry events” (performances) the group participates in at least one outreach event. For about the last 10 years the group has provided a brunch and fellowship at the local rescue mission, downtown Dubuque.

History

A little over 25 years ago a group of men at a local church wanted to dramatize the last supper and the Gospel, to their families, friends and other church members. Over the year’s music was added, a formal script was developed and a children’s ministry was added. Each season a theme is selected based on a bible verse and a bible study that the ministry members participate in prior to the first event. The bible study books are then given away at each of performances. Generally, there are between 4 and 8 performance each year starting in March and completing on Good Friday.