Celebrating 25 Years of TADA Theatre Excellence: Cris and Robert Rook Lead the Way

When Cris Rook and Robert D. Rook first began dreaming about building a theatre company, they envisioned creating meaningful artistic outreach in their community.

Twenty-five years later, their vision has grown into one of Lincoln’s most celebrated cultural institutions: TADA Productions.

This season, TADA Productions celebrates its 25th anniversary, a milestone that reflects not only longevity but deep community impact, artistic excellence, and the enduring influence of two passionate NWU graduates.

What began as a small outreach theatre company quickly evolved into a major artistic collaborator across Lincoln. TADA Productions partnered with the Lied Center for Performing Arts, Lincoln Symphony Orchestra, International Quilt Museum, the Nebraska Symphony Chamber Orchestra, and Lincoln Parks and Recreation.

The company also gained national attention through collaborations with Broadway creators, producing regional premieres such as Jekyll & Hyde, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, and Gilligan’s Island: The Musical just to name a few. 

"We had offers to leave Lincoln and run theatres elsewhere, but TADA has become essential to surrounding businesses in the Haymarket and Downtown overall," Robert D. Rook said.  "We love this city and have always been Lincoln native. I am still a bit surprised how many Broadway creators have trusted us with their work and brought so many of them to Nebraska. I don’t take that trust lightly."

These high-caliber productions helped place Lincoln, Nebraska, in the national spotlight, reinforcing the city’s reputation as a vibrant arts destination.

In 2008, TADA’s impact deepened with the construction of the TADA Theatre in Lincoln’s Haymarket District. The theatre quickly became a cornerstone of downtown development and was honored with an Impact Award from the Downtown Lincoln Association.

Featuring a diverse group of theatrical artists, a dedicated production team, a growing patron base, and a distinguished Board of Directors, TADA has engaged hundreds of volunteers, students, educators, actors, designers, and regional guest artists. The mission remains consistent: connecting the community with the positive power of theatre in a safe, welcoming, and creative environment.

"I strongly feel that theatre is more important now than it ever has been," Rook said. "TADA means The Arts Deserve Attention and in a world that seems so divisive, patrons can leave politics in the lobby and all come in to see a show and connect as one for a couple hours. That is a pretty good job perk and why there is nothing better than seeing a live show over streaming or a movie. It allows an escape for a diverse patron base and unity, that is the real magic of TADA!" 

Now, as TADA marks its 25th anniversary, the celebration continues. On March 6 and 7, the TADA Board of Directors and the City of Lincoln will honor this milestone with a live concert celebration featuring many returning performers from across the country.

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