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San Jose Center for the Performing Arts: A Cultural Hub

A premier performing arts venue in downtown San Jose, hosting Broadway shows, concerts, and diverse cultural events since 1972.

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The San Jose Center for the Performing Arts, designed by the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation, has been a cornerstone of San Jose's cultural scene since 1972. Hosting Broadway shows, ballets, and various events, it enriches downtown San Jose with diverse performances.

A brief summary to San Jose Center for the Performing Arts

Local tips

  • Arrive early to find parking, as it can be limited, especially during popular events.
  • Consider taking public transportation; the Convention Center light rail stop is just a block away.
  • Check the seating chart beforehand to choose the best seats for your viewing preference.
  • Explore nearby restaurants and bars in downtown San Jose before or after the show.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The San Jose Center for the Performing Arts is easily accessible via public transportation. From San Jose Diridon Station, take the VTA light rail to the Convention Center Station, which is one block away from the theater. A single ride on VTA costs $2.50. Alternatively, several bus lines serve the area, including the 23, 522, 201, and 202. A day pass, allowing unlimited rides, costs $7.50.

  • Walking

    From the San Jose Convention Center, walk one block west on West San Carlos Street to reach the San Jose Center for the Performing Arts. The walk is short and straightforward, taking approximately 2-3 minutes. This is a free and convenient option if you are already in the immediate vicinity.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in San Jose. A short taxi ride from San Jose Diridon Station to the Center for the Performing Arts typically costs between $15 and $20, depending on traffic. Keep in mind that prices may surge during peak hours or special events. Yellow Cab and Checker Cab are two taxi services in San Jose.

  • Parking

    Several parking garages are located near the San Jose Center for the Performing Arts. The closest options include the Convention Center Garage and the San Jose Hilton, both within a short walking distance. Parking rates typically range from $4 to $10 per hour, with daily maximums between $25 and $50. Street parking is also available, but it can be limited, especially during events.

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Discover more about San Jose Center for the Performing Arts

The San Jose Center for the Performing Arts, located in the heart of downtown San Jose, has been a vibrant hub for arts and culture since its establishment in 1972. Designed by William Wesley Peters of Taliesin Associated Architects under the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation, the building itself is an architectural gem, featuring large windows that flood the lobby with natural light and offer stunning views of the city. The auditorium boasts a continental-style seating arrangement, providing an intimate viewing experience for up to 2,608 patrons. The Center is home to Broadway San Jose and San Jose Dance Theatre, and it also hosts a wide array of touring productions, concerts, and corporate events. From Broadway musicals like Moulin Rouge and MJ The Musical to comedy shows and ballets, the Center's calendar is packed with diverse offerings. The venue also features smaller spaces like the Ridder Lounge and the President's Club, which are ideal for VIP events and receptions. For over three decades, the American Musical Theatre of San Jose (formerly San Jose Civic Light Opera) called the Center home, contributing significantly to the city's artistic landscape. Today, the San Jose Center for the Performing Arts continues to enrich the community by providing a stage for both local and international talent, solidifying its place as a premier destination for performing arts in the South Bay.

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