The center is the largest facility of its kind in the Southeast, boasting over 335,000 square feet of space.
The complex was constructed on the former site of a public works building and a historic train depot.
The Carol Morsani Hall features an acoustically engineered ceiling designed specifically to prevent sound reflection.
The Straz Center runs one of the largest arts education departments in the United States, serving thousands of students annually.
The venue's glass-walled lobby was designed to reflect the river water, effectively blurring the lines between the indoor and outdoor spaces.
It is one of only a few performing arts centers in the nation to have its own resident opera company, Opera Tampa.
The center is part of the Tampa Riverwalk system, allowing direct pedestrian access from downtown.
The Jaeb Theater, one of the smaller venues, was built to offer a more intimate experience for cabaret-style shows and smaller productions.
The David A. Straz Jr. Center for the Performing Arts is the largest performing arts complex in the Southeastern United States. It encompasses five distinct theaters and spans nine acres along the Hillsborough River. The facility hosts Broadway tours, opera, ballet, and concerts across venues ranging from the 2,610-seat Carol Morsani Hall to the intimate Jaeb Theater. It functions as the permanent home of Opera Tampa and the Next Generation Ballet. The center was originally opened in 1987 as the Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center before being renamed in 2009. The architectural design features glass-enclosed lobbies that provide views of the riverfront. It operates as a non-profit organization focused on community arts education and outreach programs. The campus includes multiple dining options, including a riverfront restaurant and a cafe.
The riverfront terrace balcony, which offers a panoramic view of the downtown Tampa skyline across the water.
Check the riverfront seating areas before your show; the views of the Hillsborough River are best during sunset.
Arrive early to navigate the multi-level parking garage, which can become congested prior to major Broadway touring shows.
Review the specific venue within the complex on your ticket, as the five theaters are located in different wings of the building.
Do not wait until the last 15 minutes before showtime to arrive, as security screenings and parking logistics can cause significant delays.
Dress codes vary by performance type; business casual is standard for Broadway and symphony events, while casual is generally accepted for smaller venue shows.
