Tempe Center for the Arts

700 W Rio Salado Pkwy, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA

Address:	700 W Rio Salado Pkwy, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA
Phone:	+1 480-350-2822
Site:	tempe.gov
Rating:	4.6
Working:	Closed 10AM–5PM 10AM–5PM 10AM–5PM 10AM–7:30PM 11AM–5PM Closed

Location

Photos 100

Reviews 14

A Private User

First of all let me say this is a beautiful venue as many have stated in prior reviews here on Google. There are several picture-esque rooms that look out on to Tempe Town Lake. So - as a physical location its got a lot going for it. Given the expense of this building, however, I would expect more from programming. A lot more. Have you noticed how many wedding reviews are on this site? Im sorry, but if Tempe residents wanted a wedding reception venue, we would have paid to have the local VFW renovated. TCA does a good job with regular performances by Childsplay. Also, TCA does have an open mic night and artist showcase that has been successful, but it caters to the same artists week after week and there is limited opportunity for new players to get "on the list" unless you cue up exactly at 5:00 p.m. They need to fix this by either adding a second night for open mic or going to a lottery system OR giving Tempe residents priority (which should be mandatory on ANY publically-funded Tempe event or program, which this is). Now, back to the main programming issue because even though I like open mic, its really NOT for wider audiences. This venue lacks a plan in my opinion. They need to get a promoter in to program the place - a professional who understands the audience potential for alt-rock and roots music here in Tempe. There are a number of artists (other than Jazz - please, I love Jazz, but honestly, there is zero audience for it.) who would be perfect for this venue. Mesa Center for the Arts, as one example, has done a good job booking artists like Lucinda Williams and Sufjan Stevens - people on the bubble who are suited for this venue. I applaud the city for supporting local artists to the extent that the programmers feel they are, but on the whole, I think there is so much more that this venue could do for residents of Tempe and beyond. Here are just two ideas: - Southwest by SXSW - this week in Tempe tons of bands are coming from SXSW on to CA. Why not make this a second festival stop for those bands? - Pre-Coachella Fest - same thing as above - one of the largest outdoor concerts in the country is about to take place in Indio, CA in April. Take a look at those acts coming through and make a night or a weekend out of it. - Songwriter workshop - what about making a national songwriter workshop weekend at TCA? Get some big names and get people interested. - Storytelling - storytelling is huge. Why are there no storytelling opportunities at TCA? - NPR shows - get a "This American Life" or a "Wait Wait" to come to town at TCA. O.K. - cant complain if I dont provide some ideas, but this place needs HELP! Its not top of mind for Tempe residents for entertainment and that is a real shame given the amount of money spent on the building.

A Private User

The venue is beautiful. However, it is not a great place to take children. They do not cater to them even for childrens performances. We took a field trip of first, second and third graders to see Lillys Purple Plastic Purse. The staff that greeted us were like drill sergeants, giving orders to recruits. Yes, I fully understand that the theatre requires different behavior from children than what children are normally are used to. However, these expectations can be shared with the children in a welcoming and engaging manner, rather than through threats. The children were told that if they bounced on the chairs they would immediately be asked to leave. Then they let the children squirm in their for 20 minutes before the curtain. How about letting the children know that the chairs are new, so please dont bounce on them? Or how about asking someone to talk to the children in person prior to the show, as an introduction? As there are many other wonderful venues in the valley that provide the same excellent entertainment, I would suggest you take children to one of these where your children will learn to love the theatre, rather than to the Tempe Center for the Arts.

Will Bullock

Great venue and until tonight I had nothing but good to say. During the intermission we took kids to the little snack & drink bar. There were 2 little girls in front of us, first in line. They stepped up to the counter to see the choices, just past a sign that said, "line starts here" And that idiot behind the counter went full Soup Nazi. He wouldnt wait on them till the went back into the line, behind the sign. Of course they were confused and went to the end, several back. He called us to be next and in the moment my mind was processing what I saw, so we just stepped forward to be served. I should have made him wait on them first. What a dick.

Rosiland Moore

Night time view from the walk facing the lake is to die for. The waterfall, fire features....was truly wonderful. Went to see a play (Cool Like That: A Tribute To Miles Davis) and a book reading. Both activities were enhanced by the venue. Only disappointment...they didnt have my favorite spirit, Grand Marnier. Merlot is nice but with so many things clicking to make for an exquisite evening, dont slip on the spirits lol Overall, I love this place ;-)

Stephani Valdez

If youre in Tempe this place is really cool to check out. I went to see a free art exhibit. The museum Docent was so nice and very informative. She was really knowledgeable and made me feel welcome. I left with so much information and tips on when to come back for other exhibts.

Ambrose Calstrong

This place is always fabulous inside and out! The Gallery is a must see. The exhibits change frequently and it is free!! Take a nice stroll from the TCA to Tempe Town Lake and enjoy the views. Its a great date place at sunset!!

Joshua Harvey

Awesome place in Tempe Arizona. The architecture is really amazing, and the waterfront with the Bridge is beautiful at night when lit up! Check out their calendar for events & theatrical plays or musicals!

Shardul Shetye

Amazing facility, and has a nice view. If youre traveling, though, just remember the WiFi only works in the main lobby area and is weak in the theatre and other parts of the building (as of August 2016).

Adriana Cisco Sullberg

Beautiful venue for Tempe arts. Has open mic night every Wednesday. I perform there with the Arizona Wind Symphony. Every performance the bar makes a special drink to fit the theme of the performance.

Cameron Kopas

Beautiful Theater and grounds and in the theater you can see great even from the upper levels. Just remember not to put your feet on the seat ahead of you or the ushers will (politely) remind you.

Ted Zimnicki

Really great facility to see a show. Its got a beautiful patio that looks over the river. I recommend the EDGE series. Its free concerts of all types with food and drink you for purchase.

Julien Dhouti

Really quiet and relaxing. The lady watching the art gallery was very friendly and greeted us as we entered. Great place to have lunch as well since it borders the river. Would recommend.

Lauren Valencia

The show was great. The facilities are super clean and the ushers are quite helpful. The parking seems ample and Google directions worked like a charm. Cant wait to go back some day.

Brendan Butler

Beautiful. Classic but modern. Great events. Its pretty ideal for a venue of this kind. Ive never had a bad experience. Several shows, fundraisers, etc later and its all been great.