While sitting in the red seats of the Tennessee Performing Arts Center as the lights dim, it’s hard not to have a feeling of excitement. The center, familiarly known as TPAC, is one of the most popular venues in Nashville and the whole state of Tennessee for stage shows of all kinds, from traveling Broadway performances to local theater and dance. The creative energy of the Music City fills everyone who visits the Tennessee Performing Arts Center, making for unforgettable nights. Pick up tickets to a show to be transported to another world.
Join the crowds as they stream in through the doors of the venue, which has been operating since 1980. Check the ticket to see which auditorium to go to. The halls are named after the United States’ three Tennessee-born presidents: Andrew Jackson, James K. Polk and Andrew Johnson. For the very biggest shows, settle into Andrew Jackson Hall alongside 2,470 other theatergoers.
Alternatively, watch smaller performances by the in-house Nashville Ballet, Nashville Opera or Tennessee Repertory Theatre in the James K. Polk Theater, which has 1,075 seats. Sample avant-garde Nashville performance art in the intimate Andrew Johnson Theater, with 264 seats that are often arranged rather unconventionally. In any of the rooms, relax between acts at the bars and concession stands that provide refreshments to the buzzing crowd.
TPAC is in downtown Nashville, immediately adjacent to the War Memorial Auditorium and a block away from the Tennessee State Capitol. Drive from the Country Music Hall of Fame or Riverfront train station in 5 minutes or walk in 15 minutes. Valet parking is offered during events and parking vouchers are available for pre-purchase.
The box office is open during the week from midmorning to evening and does not charge a handling fee. During large events, seating may take some time, so arrive early.