Philadelphia is full of incredible opportunities to experience the arts between its multitude of live music venues and theaters offering stellar performances of Broadway-quality plays. Sometimes, though, these events can get a little pricey, so all of us here at the McCann team want to offer you some alternatives that put less strain on your wallet while also providing you with the same kind of spectacular experience.
- Caplan Center for the Performing Arts and the Arts Bank – Both of these amazing venues are run by the University of the Arts, Philadelphia’s world-renowned visual and performing arts college. The dedicated students and staff put on a myriad of performances all year round, offering a selection that includes dance series, vocal performances, and traditional theater pieces such as The Hunchback of Notre Dame. These artists may still be up and coming, but their enthusiasm and talent are sure to blow your socks off! Caplan is easy to locate in the heart of the arts district just down South Broad Street, and you can’t miss the historic bank building where the Arts Bank resides as you head down South Street.
- Venice Island Performing Arts and Recreation Center – Another popular spot for local performers is this gorgeous center situated on Lock Street right by the Schuylkill River. This recently opened theater seats 250 people and puts on countless productions featuring Philly native musicians and actors. This theater is also very kid-friendly as it not only welcomes Philadelphia’s youth but also hosts youth theater showcases to display the burgeoning talent in kids across the city. If you’re looking for a fun and easy night out, this is the place you’re looking for.
- Painted Bride Art Center – Painted Bride Art Center, also known as The Bride, is a non-profit performance space and gallery that is dedicated to celebrating the artistic talent present in Philadelphia. Its building on Vine Street is hard to miss – the outside is adorned by one of the iconic mosaics that have proliferated all over Philadelphia thanks to the famous artist Isaiah Zagar, and the events inside are just as spectacular as its decorations. Between top-notch spoken word poetry, theater, dance, and visual art exhibits, you’re sure to be enthralled by these extraordinarily gifted entertainers.
- FringeArts – This venue is home to an array of awe-inspiring creative displays, known for presenting theater pieces and performances that intend to push the boundaries of your imagination and expand upon contemporary work. The 232-seat theater is located in a historic Philadelphia building on North Christopher Columbus Blvd that was formerly used as a pumping station, and these high ceiling and huge windows set the ideal stage for their incredible special events. If you’re looking to grab some grub before or after a show, you don’t have to look far – La Peg is located in the same building and features incredible French cuisine that will make your mouth water.
- First Person Arts – Philadelphia’s premier storytelling organization, located on Girard Street, is well-known throughout the city for presenting unique and personal stories in a fashion unlike any other group. This non-profit association encourages both actors and performers as well as regular people to share their real life experiences, aiming to connect people through their stories in ways they would have never expected. They host the First Person Arts Festival annually to celebrate this goal of connection and they also hold story slams across the city in various venues. Their performances are one-of-a-kind events that you won’t want to miss!
These are only just a few of the dazzling venues throughout the city that are sure to provide performances that add some spice to your weekend! We know you’ll be just as entranced as we were by their talent and mastery of the performing arts.
