IVRT Named Best Performing Arts Company by Inland Empire Magazine

Inland Valley Repertory Theatre Company (IVRT) is excited to announce that it has been awarded Inland Empire Magazine’s 2025 Best of The Inland Empire award for Best Performing Arts Company. The prestigious award was presented by Children’s Foundation of America’s CEO Cher Ofstedahl to Inland Valley Repertory Theatre Founders Frank and Donna Marie Minano during a gala celebration at the Riverside Convention Center on February 7, 2025.

The Best of the Inland Empire awards are based on nominations and votes from readers of Inland Empire Magazine. “Our readers have recognized Inland Valley Repertory Theatre as a vital source of entertainment and artistic enrichment in our region,” said Inland Empire Magazine Publisher Samantha Smith.

Founded in 1990 by Frank and Donna Marie Minano, IVRT has consistently strived to present high-quality local theatrical productions that highlight the talents of actors of all ages. The company has remained dedicated to its vision by producing critically acclaimed and award-winning theatrical works. As a non-profit regional theatre company, IVRT has performed throughout the Inland Valley at various venues. IVRT previously made its home at the Candlelight Pavilion until the Pavilion closed in 2022.

"This award belongs to every member of IVRT, including the artists, board members, staff, teachers, students, donors, and audience members," stated Donna Marie Minano during her acceptance speech. “We are delighted to share the arts and give back to the community alongside many other fine organizations. Support live performing arts!”

Following the excitement of the evening, IVRT's production team held auditions on February 9, welcoming over 180 actors who submitted for the 2025 season musicals. The season opens with The Fantasticks on March 29, which will mark IVRT’s 100th production since its founding in 1990, followed by Disney’s Newsies, running from July 19 through August 3.

Additionally, the season will feature SCRIPTFEST, showcasing compelling stories performed by IVRT company members. This year, two plays will be presented in a readers' theatre format: Ken Ludwig’s new play Dear Jack, Dear Louise on July 25 and David Mamet’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play Glengarry Glen Ross on August 1. To conclude the season, Kim Eberhardt will star in Holly Dolly Christmas, celebrating some of Dolly Parton’s most beloved songs while sharing inspiring stories about her life and career. Performances are scheduled for November 29 and 30.

All performances will take place on the beautiful campus of the University of La Verne at Morgan Auditorium.
To purchase season or single tickets, please visit ivrt.org or call 909-859-4878.

** Pictured, from left to right: Matt and Darcy Weis, Gabriel Raphael, Claremont city councilmember Ed Reece, Bridget Healy, Donna Marie and Frank Minano, Hope Kaufman, Norma Flores, Kristi Papailler. Photo credit: Inland Empire Magazine