Open Eye Theatre Cancels Musical After Fire
A nearby blaze caused smoke damage to the venue's ventilation system, forcing the early end of a production.
Updated on Oct. 23, 2026 in Children’s Theater
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The 90-seat Open Eye Theatre in Minneapolis has canceled all remaining performances of 'Lizzie: The Rock Musical' through Nov. 1. The decision follows a fire at a nearby storefront, Resource MPLS, which sent soot and smoke into the theater's HVAC system.
Why it matters
Management elected to cancel the production to prioritize the safety of artists and the community while the facility undergoes necessary professional remediation. The move impacts all ticket holders, who are currently being offered options to donate their costs, receive credit, or obtain refunds.
The theater has a 90-seat capacity and requires professional cleaning to address soot contamination in its HVAC system. Previous historical context for the musical's subject involves the 1892 murders and 1893 acquittal of Lizzie Borden.
The players
Open Eye Theatre
This Minneapolis-based performing arts venue hosts a variety of theater, music, and puppet shows.
Resource MPLS
This storefront is located two doors down from the theater and was the site of the recent fire.
The details
Soot and smoke were drawn into the theater's air handling system after a fire broke out two storefronts away at Resource MPLS. The venue is now working to address the environmental damage before its next scheduled performances.
Timeline
The cancellation of the musical was officially announced on Oct. 23, 2026.
The production run was originally scheduled to end on Nov. 1, 2026.
The 'Full Moon Puppet Show' is scheduled to run Nov. 12-14, 2026.
The musical 'The Wunderbar' is scheduled to open on Dec. 3, 2026.
Industry Dynamics
Small arts venues often face significant operational risks when external building infrastructure, such as HVAC systems, is damaged by neighboring accidents. This incident highlights the fragility of independent theater operations when sudden environmental remediation is required.
Ticket holders for the remaining dates of the musical can choose to donate their ticket costs, receive credit for future productions, or obtain a full refund. The theater aims to resume operations with its next scheduled show in mid-November.
The takeaway
When fire damage impacts shared infrastructure like ventilation systems, arts organizations must prioritize facility remediation to maintain public safety. Patrons are encouraged to check their email or the theater website for specific instructions regarding their ticket options.
Further reading
Learn more about local productions at the Children’s Theater section.
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