In the lively heart of Austin, the Long Center for the Performing Arts is a standout destination for culture, artistry, and community engagement. With a dynamic lineup of musicians, artists, and creators, it’s a vibrant center of talent, innovation, and diversity.
History
A prominent cultural landmark, the Long Center is situated on the picturesque shores of Lady Bird Lake, offering breathtaking views of the downtown skyline. Its prime location provides a serene backdrop that enhances the overall experience of attending performances.
Originally built in 1955 as the Palmer Auditorium, the center underwent a transformative renovation and expansion, reopening its doors in 2008 as the modern and dynamic venue it is today. It stands as a testament to Austin's commitment to fostering artistic expression and enriching the community through the performing arts.
What to Expect
The Long Center boasts three exceptional performance venues:
Dell Hall
With its stunning architecture and world-class acoustics, Dell Hall is the centerpiece of the Long Center. This 2,442-seat venue hosts a wide range of performances, from symphony concerts to Broadway shows, ensuring there's something for every taste.
Rollins Studio Theatre
Intimate and versatile, the Rollins Studio Theatre offers audiences a more immersive experience. With configurable seating arrangements, this 229-seat space is ideal for experimental theater, chamber music, and intimate performances.
City Terrace
The City Terrace, an expansive outdoor space overlooking the Austin skyline, serves as a vibrant hub for community events, concerts, and festivals throughout the year. Its scenic location makes it a popular gathering spot for locals and visitors alike.
All the Long Center’s performance spaces have wheelchair and mobility-assisted seating locations. The drop-off area for mobility-impaired guests is directly in front of the Long Center in the Keller Williams Circular Drive.
Incredibly Diverse Programming
From classical music to contemporary dance, the Long Center curates a diverse lineup of performances that cater to a wide range of interests and tastes. The center is the permanent home of the Austin Symphony Orchestra, Austin Opera, and Ballet Austin but also occasionally hosts other esteemed Austin-area performing arts organizations. Audiences can enjoy symphony orchestra concerts, ballet performances, theater productions, jazz ensembles, and much more, ensuring there's always something exciting happening on stage.
Community Focused
The Long Center is a cornerstone of Austin's cultural scene, hosting annual events that attract visitors from all over. During the summer, the Drop-In concert series offers a diverse range of live performances under the Texas sky, perfect for music lovers. In the winter, the center transforms into a festive wonderland featuring the Nutcracker Ballet and an ice skating rink, creating magical experiences for families and visitors. These events reflect the Long Center's commitment to making arts and culture accessible and enjoyable for everyone in Austin.
Visitor Information and Accessibility
Purchasing tickets to performances at the Long Center is convenient and accessible. Tickets can be purchased online through the official website, by phone, or in person at their box office. With flexible seating options and various pricing tiers, patrons can find the perfect seats to suit their preferences and budget. Ample parking options, including on-site garages and nearby lots, make it easy for attendees to get to the venue. The Long Center is committed to creating accessible experiences for all guests. Learn more about mobility assistance, visual and hearing assistance services and more on their website.
Whether you're a seasoned theatergoer or experiencing the arts for the first time, a visit to the Long Center is sure to inspire, captivate, and delight! Looking to explore more of Austin's art scene? Find more things to do and ways to enjoy Austin's arts and culture.