Blame Not the Bard - Celebrate All Things Irish
2023-03-11 19:00 - 21:00 (America/Chicago) | Coggon Opera House, 209 E Main Street, Coggon, IA, 52218, United States
Come celebrate all things Irish with Blame Not the Bard. This group is on a mission to bring the stories of Ireland alive…and to have fun doing it. Described as “Iowa Raised, Ireland Rooted,” Blame Not the Bard is a high-energy show determined to get your feet moving and hands clapping. Armed with Irish song, stories, and fiddling, Blame Not the Bard will bring you an evening of down-to-earth entertainment you won’t soon forget!”
General admission seating. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased at the door. Call (319) 435-2071 to learn more and to reserve will call tickets. Payment is by cash or check.
Blame Not the Bard was formed in 2015. Since then, they have played hundreds of shows, lighting up the stages in intimate lounges and major festivals including main stage appearances at the Iowa Irish Fest in Waterloo, IA. Boasting multiple media appearances and numerous appearances on the award-winning Irish and Celtic Music Podcast with tunes from their debut album, Soundcheck, and a 2022 full-length Greetings from Iowa PBS special, Blame Not the Bard is sharing their songs and stories nationwide.

An Afternoon with Roy & Friends
2023-06-04 14:00 - 16:00
The Coggon Opera House welcomes award winning tribute artist Jesse Aron to our stage on Sunday, June 4 at 2:00 p.m. His show, Roy and Friends is a magical tribute to some of the most legendary voices in Rock & Rock history. Seating is by general admission only. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased at the door. You may also reserve will-call tickets by leaving a message at 319-435-2071. Your call will be returned to confirm your tickets. Payment by cash or check only at the door. Doors open 30 minutes beforehand. Performing as Roy Orbison, Jesse Aron, who hails from Wisconsin, is recognized as one of the top Roy Orbison Tribute performers. With his effortless voice and uncanny resemblance to Roy, Jesse will take you back in time with such hits as ‘Crying’, ‘Pretty Woman’, ‘Only The Lonely’, ‘Running Scared’, and many more of your favorites.

The Gordy and Debbie Show - Reminiscing
2023-07-30 14:00 - 16:00
Gordy and Debbie, the highly popular husband-wife entertainment act, make their 5th return to the Coggon Opera House. Come hear a mixture of the country & pop music
that shaped this Musical Duo as they take you and go Reminiscing.
General admission seating. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased at the door or you can reserve will-call tickets by leaving a message at 319-435-2071. This will be a very popular show and we recommend calling in advance for will-call tickets. Payment is by cash or check only at the door. Doors open 30 minutes beforehand.
The Coggon Opera House is air-conditioned.

A Rock ‘n’ Roll Tribute - From Elvis to the Beatles featuring The Neverly Brothers
2023-10-15 14:00
The Neverly Brothers concerts take you on a guided musical VIRTUAL TOUR of the birth, near death and resurrection of rock n’ roll rock n roll – from 1955 to 1965. You’ll learn rock history and be thoroughly entertained with their chronological song sequence, stories behind the music and vintage wardrobe changes. Their energetic stage show consists of show-stopping renditions of early hits by Jerry Lee Lewis, Chuck Berry, Buddy Holly, The Beatles, Rolling Stones, and more!
The first half of their concert pays tribute to the music created by the 1950s American Rock n’ Roll pioneers – which by 1960 had become a distant memory but became the inspiration for the next wave of young rock bands from Britain. The second half then pays tribute to the 1964 British Invasion bands that re-recorded the forgotten 1950s American rock music – along with lesser known early 1960s rhythm & blues songs, recorded their own original songs and pulled Rock n’ Roll from the edge of extinction by re-inventing and re-energizing it for a new generation.
Their repertoire includes spirited performances of classics like Great Balls Of Fire, Johnny B. Goode, Wake Up Little Susie, Summertime Blues, That’ll Be The Day, Twist & Shout, Roll Over Beethoven, Satisfaction, You Really Got Me, Love Potion #9 and many more!
It‘s not “Moldy Oldies”- it’s “Old-School Cool!” So hop aboard our virtual tour bus and fasten your seatbelts for an exciting MAGICAL HISTORY TOUR!
WATCH THE SHOW: https://youtu.be/w5exHys9gdo
Seating is by general admission only. Tickets are $30 and can be purchased at the door. You may also reserve will-call tickets by leaving a message at 319-435-2071. Your call will be returned to confirm your tickets. This will be a popular show and we recommend calling in advance for will-call tickets. Payment by cash or check only at the door. Doors open 30 minutes beforehand.

A Bluegrass Night at the Opera House
2023-10-28 19:00 - 21:00
It’s another great night of BLUEGRASS MUSIC at the Opera House! This year’s evening of bluegrass music features Banjoy with Bob & Kristie Black, Straightback Chair, and the Great Bluegrass Herons.
Banjoy headlines the show with Bob Black playing a wicked banjo. Banjoy performs everything from classic bluegrass and gospel songs to originals and lively instrumentals. The Great Bluegrass Herons are a couple of couples from the rural Sharon Center, Iowa area who have played and sung bluegrass music together since 1991. Straightback Chair has been together for over 10 years playing bluegrass, Americana and “songs we like.” They love to perform in Opera Houses and the Coggon Opera House one of their favorites.
General admission seating. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased at the door. Call (319) 435-2071 to learn more and to reserve will call tickets. Payment is by cash or check only at the door. Doors open 30 minutes beforehand.

17th Annual Marion Big Band "Sounds of the Season" Concert
2023-12-03 14:00 - 16:00
It’s the 17th Annual Marion Big Band Sounds of the Season Concert and the Coggon Opera House’s holiday gift to the community! The afternoon will be a combination of Sounds of the Season “Big Band Style” and traditional big band tunes. Admission is free, but donations to support the Coggon Opera House are welcome. Doors open 30 minutes beforehand.
Holiday Dessert Bar. Following the concert, the Coggon Historical Society is hosting a Holiday Desserts Bar in the Opera House Annex across the street. Donations will support their building projects.

Blame Not the Bard - Celebrate All Things Irish - with Storyteller Darrin Crow
2024-03-10 14:00 - 16:00
It’s time to celebrate all things Irish with Blame Not the Bard. This group is on a mission to bring alive the songs and stories of Ireland. Expertly blending their historical knowledge with fiery instrumentals and musical prowess, Blame Not the Bard’s high-energy show will get your hands clapping and feet tapping through an afternoon of down-to-earth entertainment you won’t soon forget! This year storyteller Darrin Crow joins them sharing his captivating Irish tales.
General admission seating. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased at the door. Call (319) 435-2071 to learn more and to reserve will call tickets. Payment is by cash or check.
Blame Not the Bard was formed in 2015. Since then, they have played hundreds of shows, lighting up the stages in intimate lounges and major festivals including main stage appearances at the annual Iowa Irish Fest. Boasting multiple media appearances and numerous appearances on the award-winning Irish and Celtic Music Podcast with tunes from their debut album, Soundcheck, and a 2022 full-length Greetings from Iowa PBS special, Blame Not the Bard is sharing their songs and stories nationwide.
In August of 2023, Blame Not the Bard released their sophomore album “Now and Again,” which features their current lineup of Andrew Philbrick, Corey Baker, Nicole Philbrick, along with their newest member, Dan Vaughn.
Darrin Crow is a storyteller from Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Storytelling has been a part of his life for as long as he can remember, whether it was listening to his aunts, uncles and grandparents talking about farming and coal mining in Iowa or immersing himself in Jules Verne and Tolkien up in his tree house. He studied interpretive speech in college, and then worked as an actor and itinerant storyteller in Pennsylvania and Florida. In 1999 he returned to Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and has been telling stories ever since.

Coggon House of Blues
2024-06-02 19:00 - 21:30
On Sunday, June 2, the Coggon Opera House becomes the Coggon House of Blues featuring BillyLee and Bryce Janey, along with KAT Blue & The True Believers.
At 7:00 p.m. it will be a House of Rockin’ Blues. The doors open at 6:30 p.m. General admission seating. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased at the door. You can also call 319-435-2071 to reserve will call tickets. Payment through the Coggon Opera House is by cash or check.
BillyLee and Bryce Janey are well known, locally based blues rock singers, guitarists and songwriters. Through the years they have achieved success as solo artists, as collaborators in various bands and together as father and son. Both have been inducted into the Iowa Rock n Roll Association’s Hall of Fame.
“KAT Blue & The True Believers” is Powerhouse Rockin’ Blues! Led by song stylist KAT Blue, this group brings the heat and does not let up. KAT’s voice will catch your attention while her powerful interpretations steal your heart and rock your soul. Each musician joining the team brings a high level, passionate talent to the performances that always leave you wanting to hear more.

Johnny Rogers - The History of Rock N Roll
2024-07-21 14:00 - 16:00
The Coggon Opera House welcomes Johnny Rogers back to the opera house stage on Sunday, July 21, at 2 p.m. with his ‘History of Rock & Roll – Buddy and Beyond Show.”
From Branson to Las Vegas, Rock ‘n’ Roll showman Johnny Rogers is in the business of bringing yesteryear’s music and history of Rock ‘n’ Roll to life. This show is a crowd-favorite and appeals to just about everyone. His show is a tribute to the music of the legends of Rock n’ Roll. Johnny opens with his uncanny portrayal of the late Buddy Holly and goes on with a tribute to the legendary Roy Orbison, Jerry Lee Lewis, Ricky Nelson, Chuck Berry, Elvis and many more.
Johnny is an outstanding musician and can pull off guitar licks that would make Jimi Hendrix proud! He was inducted into the Iowa Rock ‘n Roll Music Association Hall of Fame in 2016 and into the Midwest All Music Association Hall of Fame in 2019. Whether this will be your first time to hear him, or you’ve heard him before, you will be amazed at Johnny’s versatility and talent. A great way to spend a summer afternoon in the air-conditioned Coggon Opera House.
Seating at the Coggon Opera House is by general admission only. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased at the door or reserved for will-call by leaving a message at (319) 435-2071. Payment by cash or check only. Doors open 30 minutes beforehand.

The Music of SIMON & GARFUNKEL - performed by Swearingen & Kelli
2024-09-08 14:00 - 16:00
Swearingen & Kelli recreate the music, memories and magic of the most famous folk-rock duo of our time, Simon & Garfunkel. Their show is a nostalgic journey back in time to the unique sound of Simon & Garfunkel’s late 60’s folk club performances.
AJ Swearingen has been performing this music for over twenty years with mastery of Paul Simon’s intricate guitar playing. His deep baritone blends perfectly with Kelli’s angelic vocals delivering a true tribute to the sound of the 1960’s Greenwich Village, NY coffeehouse performances. The duo is on a mission to share this iconic music to new audiences around the country with their unique ability to channel the sounds of Simon & Garfunkel.
Both artists were heavily inspired by the great 70s singer-songwriters, but their unique ability to channel the sounds of Simon & Garfunkel is immediately apparent when you hear them perform these classics songs live.
Seating at the Coggon Opera House is by general admission only. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased at the door or reserved for will-call by leaving a message at (319) 435-2071. (It may take several days to respond, but we will return your call!) Payment by cash or check only. Doors open 30 minutes beforehand.
Looking for a place to eat before or after the show? Coggon’s new Mexican restaurant, Tequila Jalisco Bar & Grill, would love to have you come and eat there. They open at 11 a.m. If your group is larger than 6 persons, please give them a call at (319) 435-2856 so they can be ready for you.

Marion Big Band 18th Annual "Sounds of the Season" Concert
2024-12-15 14:00 - 16:00
It’s the 18th Annual Marion Big Band “Sounds of the Season” Concert and the Coggon Opera House’s holiday gift to the community! The afternoon will be a combination of Sounds of the Season “Big Band Style” and traditional big band tunes. Admission is free, but donations to support the Coggon Opera House are welcome. Doors open 30 minutes beforehand.

Holiday Dessert BarFollowing the concert, the Coggon Historical Society is hosting a Holiday Desserts Bar in the Opera House Annex across the street. Donations will support their work .

Blame Not the Bard – Irish Songs & Stories
2025-03-09 14:00 - 16:00
Blame Not the Bard is bringing their Irish Songs and Stories back to the Coggon Opera House on Sunday, March 9 at 2 p.m. This band brings a genuine authenticity to the Irish music they play. It’s as if they were from the Emerald Isle itself. With strong vocals, some fancy fiddling and even a dance step or two, Blame Not the Bard never fails to entertain and will leave you with an Irish smile on your face and in your heart.
General admission seating. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased at the door. Call (319) 721-1350 to learn more and to reserve will call tickets. Payment is by cash or check.
Blame Not the Bard began in 2015 as a side project among friends. They were soon delighted to see that their love for fiery instrumentals, unearthing captivating stories, and getting the whole crowd involved was catching on, leading them to some of the most iconic stages in Iowa. Since then BNTB has played hundreds of shows and regional festivals across the Midwest.

Conway Twitty Tribute Starring Bobby Simkins
2025-04-27 14:00 - 16:00
The Coggon Opera House is hosting a Conway Twitty Tribute Show on Sunday, April 27 at 2 p.m. featuring tribute artist Bobby Simkins. He will perform popular Conway Twitty songs such as “Hello, Darlin’,” “You’ve Never Been This Far Before,” “Don’t Take It Away” and many more. Bobby has been performing country music since the early 1980s. He was a regular at the KC-Opry Show throughout the 80s, where he was an opening act for Ronnie McDowell, Conway Twitty and Loretta Lynn.
Tickets are $20. Seating is by general admission only. Tickets can be purchased at the door or you can reserve will-call tickets by leaving a message at 319-435-2071. Payment by cash or check only. Doors open 30 minutes beforehand.

The Gordy & Debbie Show - Country Roads
2025-06-08 14:00 - 16:00
The Gordy & Debbie Show is headed back to the Coggon Opera House with “Country Roads.” This popular couple will perform their special mixture of country and pop on Sunday, June 8, at 2 P.M. They are Branson’s Multi-Award Winning Duo and the stars of the former popular Branson Show, “A Tribute to George Strait Dinner Show” at Jackie B. Goode’s Uptown Cafe and Dinner Theater. In December of 2021 Gordy and Debbie chose to end their Tribute to George Strait in Branson after 12 1/2 years of success. They have now taken their talents to Mesa, Arizona where they perform regularly. In May through September, Gordy and Debbie take to the road and play throughout the mid-western United States.
Gordy was born and raised in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Debbie hails from Kimball, South Dakota and with their mid-west charm shining through their personalities, they have been in the business of entertaining people for over 25 years with their talent!
Seating is by general admission only. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased at the door. Or you can reserve will-call tickets by leaving a message at 319-435-2071. Your call will be returned to confirm your tickets. Payment is by cash or check only at the door. Doors open 30 minutes beforehand.

Coggon House of Blues
2025-06-14 18:00 - 20:00
Join KAT Blue & The True Believers, along with Iowa Hall of Fame Legends Skeeter Louis, BillyLee Janey, Dan Johnson and Butchie O’Connell, for a night of fun, friends & amazing music! A toe-tappin’, hand-clappin’ roller coaster ride of fun for all!

Seating is by general admission only. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased at the door. Or you can reserve will-call tickets by leaving a message at 319-435-2071. Your call will be returned to confirm your tickets. Payment is by cash or check only at the door. The doors open at 5:30 p.m.

KAT Blue & The True Believers – Powerhouse Rockin’ Blues! Formerly from Boston, professional song stylist KAT Blue has been entertaining on Midwest stages since 2016. KAT is joined by five amazing musicians who bring years of professional experience, incredible talent, & unique sound to the group: *Drummer: Doug Allemang *Lead Guitar: Robert Sulzer *Harmonica: Bob Gleason *Keyboards: Paul Abodeely *Bass Guitar: Bill Kiesel.

Rick Lindy and the Jukebox Legends
2025-10-05 14:00 - 16:00
Rick Lindy & the Wild Ones are an international touring show band that has toured all over USA, Europe and Canada for over 20 years. Rick Lindy & The Jukebox Legends Show is a salute to the stars of 50s and 60s Rock and Roll – Johnny Cash, Elvis, Roy Orbison, Chuck Berry, Jerry Lee Lewis, Dion and The Belmonts, Buddy Holly, The Beatles and many, many more. The Band has a great theater act that tells historical back stories of the songs and artists and performs all the hits.
Rick Lindy is a dynamic, versatile vocalist, and along with the Wild Ones offer up a high energy performance of Rock and Roll hits of the 1950’s, 60’s and 70’s as well as Surf, Rock-a-billy, and original songs.
Seating is by general admission only. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased at the door. Or you can reserve will-call tickets by leaving a message at 319-435-2071. Your call will be returned to confirm your tickets. Payment is by cash or check only at the door. Doors open 30 minutes beforehand.

CANCELED - Marion Big Band Christmas Concert
2025-12-13 19:00 - 20:30
Due to the forecasted ultra-cold temps and snow, the Marion Big Band and the Coggon Opera House have canceled the Christmas Concert set for Saturday, December 13 at 7 p.m. It will not be rescheduled. Hope to see you at a future event at the Opera House.

The Dan Ladd Comedy Hypnosis Show
2026-03-07 19:00 - 21:00
Come for a night of hypnotic fun! Thanks to the Coggon Lions Club, Dan Ladd is bringing his Comedy Hypnosis Show to the Coggon Opera House. It’s guaranteed to bring down the house as laughs pile on laughs when everyone gets into the act and audience members are transformed into stars. Ladd’s show is a clean, safe, fast-paced laugh riot, and the only type of entertainment where audience participation reigns!
Admission is a free-will donation and all proceeds will be given to the Coggon Opera House to cover the costs for their lobby renovation project. Seating is by general admission only (no will-call tickets for this show). Doors open 30 minutes beforehand.

Eric Diamond - A Tribute to Neil Diamond
2026-04-19 14:00 - 16:00
Get ready for an afternoon of timeless hits and pure nostalgia when Eric Diamond brings his acclaimed Neil Diamond Tribute Show to the Coggon Opera House. Eric Diamond has been performing as Neil Diamond for more than 20 years and has been recognized as Wisconsin’s Favorite Neil Diamond Tribute Artist since 2009. Fans routinely tell him that he “sounds more like Neil than Neil Diamond does,” and one listen makes it easy to understand why. His “spot-on” vocals, charismatic stage presence, and deep respect for the music create an authentic and unforgettable concert experience.
Seating is by general admission only. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased at the door, or you can reserve will-call tickets by leaving a message at 319-435-2071. Payment is by cash or check only at the door. Doors open 30 minutes beforehand.
Whether you’re a lifelong Neil Diamond fan or just love great live music, this is a feel-good, sing-along show you won’t want to miss.
