Straz Center for Performing Arts

Straz Center Credit Rob Harris

Straz Center for Performing Arts

Originally known as the Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center, this premier downtown performing arts center is the second-largest center in the southeastern United States. Renamed in 2009 due to the largest philanthropic donation given in this area by David A Straz Jr., this center sits on the east bank of the Hillsborough River, comprised of 335,000 square feet and provides a dynamic environment for a variety of performing arts events and groups. The Straz Center hosts a leading Broadway Series, a Grand Opera, concerts, performances, and events that total to about 4,000 per year.

While touring the institution your group will see 5 different distinct theaters, a rehearsal hall, a retail shop, and a handful of onsite restaurants. During a tour, you will experience the Carol Morsani Hall, the Ferguson Hall, the Jaeb Center, the TECO Energy Foundation Hall, and the Shimberg Playhouse. Your group will also get a taste of the Broadway Genesis Project started in 2009, which features world premieres hopeful to move on to Broadway, a very successful Straz Center program. You will also be able to tour the Patel Conservatory, a 45,000 square foot education program facility that encompasses 20 various studios, from dance to opera, and serves over 60,000 students a year (that’s about 3,000 classes!) Your group will love the opportunity to see a Broadway rehearsal, peek in on a ballet performance, or just take in the majestic and ever-popular complex as you dine in any of the fine on-site eateries!