Ahmanson Theatre
Ahmanson Theatre: A Los Angeles Performing Arts Gem
Mark Taper Forum: An Intimate Stage for Provocative Theater
Experience groundbreaking theater at this iconic Los Angeles venue, known for its daring productions and intimate stage.
The Mark Taper Forum, located in the heart of Los Angeles' Music Center, is a renowned theater known for its intimate setting and daring productions. As part of the Center Theatre Group, it hosts a diverse array of performances, from classic plays to contemporary works that challenge societal norms.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Mark Taper Forum
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
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Getting There
Public Transport
To reach the Mark Taper Forum via public transport, take the Metro B or D Line to Civic Center/Grand Park Station. From there, it's a short walk west across Grand Park to the Music Center. Alternatively, take the Metro A or E Line to Grand Av Arts/Bunker Hill Station, then walk along Hope Street past Walt Disney Concert Hall towards 1st Street. The Mark Taper Forum is located at The Music Center. A single fare on the Metro is $1.75, and a TAP card costs $2. This fare includes two hours of free transfers.
Walking
From Los Angeles Union Station, walking to the Mark Taper Forum takes about 30-40 minutes. Head west on Temple Street, then turn left onto N Grand Avenue. The Music Center will be on your right. The Mark Taper Forum is located at 135 N Grand Ave.
Rideshare
For a direct and convenient option, use a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft. Input 'Mark Taper Forum' or the address '135 N Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012' into the app. The official rideshare pickup location is 218 N Hope Street at the corner of W Temple Street, adjacent to the Ahmanson Theatre. Expect to pay around $8-$15 for a ride from Union Station.
Parking
Self-parking is available in The Music Center Main Garage. Enter on Grand Avenue. Starting at 4:30 pm, two hours prior to matinee performances, and all day on weekends, the cost is $10. At all other times, the non-event rate is $3.50 for every 15 minutes, with a $20 maximum. Valet parking is available for $23, or $10 for patrons displaying a disability parking placard. Several parking lots are also located near the Mark Taper Forum.
Local tips
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Arrive early to explore the Music Center Plaza and nearby Little Tokyo's restaurants and shops.
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Check the official website for special performances and ticket deals.
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Consider attending a matinee for a more relaxed experience and to avoid evening crowds.
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The Music Center Main Garage offers convenient parking, but rates can vary.
Discover more about Mark Taper Forum
The Mark Taper Forum stands as a beacon of creativity and culture in downtown Los Angeles. Opened in 1967 as part of the Los Angeles Music Center, the Mark Taper Forum was designed by architect Welton Becket and Associates. The circular building, rising from a reflecting pool, was named for S. Mark Taper, a prominent real estate developer, banker, and philanthropist.
The Taper is known for its thrust stage, which creates an intimate relationship between audience and performer. The theater's 739 seats are arranged in a semi-circle, offering a variety of perspectives. Inside, a 60-foot wall designed by Tony Duquette, called “Curved Wall”, is composed of 50,800 abalone shell tiles.
The Mark Taper Forum has been the stage for many notable plays, including world premieres of *Zoot Suit*, *Children of a Lesser God*, and *Angels in America*. The theater has received a special Tony Award for theatrical excellence. A $30 million renovation in 2007-2008 updated the theater's technical capabilities and audience amenities. The renovation also expanded the lobby area and improved accessibility.
A brief summary to Mark Taper Forum
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