26017 Circa '21: Honky Tonk Angels

Day 1

Join Windstar Travel for a delightful day out to the historic Circa ’21 Dinner Playhouse, where charm, music, and heartfelt storytelling come together for an unforgettable afternoon. Located inside the beautifully restored Fort Armstrong Theatre in downtown Rock Island, Circa ’21 has long been treasured for its intimate atmosphere, ornate architecture, and warm Midwest hospitality. From the moment you step inside, you’ll feel transported to a world where live theatre, great food, and uplifting entertainment come together under one roof.

Your visit begins with a delicious plated lunch, prepared fresh onsite and served by Circa ’21’s beloved Bootleggers®—the theatre’s talented, high-energy ensemble of singing servers. These performers set the tone for the afternoon as they greet diners, share musical numbers, and create an atmosphere that’s equal parts welcoming and entertaining. The Bootleggers are a beloved Circa ’21 tradition, and their performances before the main show are a highlight for many regular guests.

After lunch, settle in for Honky Tonk Angels, a heartwarming and wildly entertaining musical that celebrates the grit, humor, and determination of America’s favorite female country stars. The story follows three women—Angela, Sue Ellen, and Darlene—who each decide it’s time to leave the familiar behind and set their sights on Nashville. Angela, a long-suffering housewife, grows weary of “standing by her man” and finally decides her boots were made for walking. Sue Ellen steps away from the demands of her nine-to-five life to reconnect with the simplicity and spirit of her childhood home. And Darlene, a coal miner’s daughter, seeks a new beginning after tragedy strikes back home near the Tallahatchee Bridge.

Their stories intertwine through more than thirty classic country hits, creating a musical tapestry of humor, heart, and undeniable toe-tapping energy. Audiences will recognize favorites such as “Stand By Your Man,” “Harper Valley PTA,” “9 to 5,” and many more—songs that capture both the hardships and triumphs of these three determined dreamers. Critics have praised the show for its rousing musical numbers, heavenly harmonies, and uplifting message, calling it “heaven on earth” for country-music lovers and theatre fans alike.

A day at Circa ’21 is truly an experience—from the ornate details of the historic theatre to the lively charm of the Bootleggers and the outstanding professional productions onstage. Join us for a relaxing, music-filled outing that celebrates friendship, storytelling, and the timeless spirit of country music. With delicious food, comfortable seating, and a show that will have you humming all the way home, this is a trip you won’t want to miss.