Alaska Center for the Performing Arts - Image 1
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Alaska Center for the Performing Arts

4.7
·664 reviews·Anchorage, United States

Anchorage's premier venue for Broadway tours, local theater, dance, and music, offering diverse performances year-round.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings

Prime time for most shows

CrowdHigh
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Alaska Center for the Performing Arts - Image 1

Alaska Center for the Performing Arts

Best Time

Evenings

Prime time for most shows

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Anchorage's premier venue for Broadway tours, local theater, dance, and music, offering diverse performances year-round.

4.7
(664 reviews)

"A treasure for all Alaskans, central to culture, entertainment, and the arts in Alaska."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Secure Your Seats Early

Popular shows, especially Broadway tours, sell out fast. Book tickets well in advance!

🚗 Arrive Early for Access

Elevators can get crowded. Arrive early and consider the 5th Ave entrance for easier lobby access.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Broadway Alaska Series

Broadway Alaska Series

Experience world-class touring Broadway productions right in Anchorage. A must-see for musical theater fans!

Alaska Native Dance

Alaska Native Dance

Alaska Native Heritage Center (often featured or partnered)

Immerse yourself in vibrant cultural performances showcasing traditional songs and dances.

TikTok
Local & Touring Performances

Local & Touring Performances

From symphonies and ballets to plays and comedy, discover a diverse range of artistic expressions.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Book Tickets in Advance

Popular shows, especially Broadway tours and major performances, sell out quickly. Booking ahead ensures you get the best seats and avoid disappointment. Check the official website for schedules and ticketing information. Instagram

Plan Your Arrival

Arriving early is recommended, especially for shows with large audiences, as elevators can get busy. Consider using the street-level entrance on 5th Avenue for easier access to the lower lobby. Reddit

Best Times

When
Evenings
Why
Prime time for most shows
Crowd
High
When
Weekend Afternoons
Why
Matinee performances available
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Visit the Alaska Native Heritage Center to experience our Alaska Native Dance: Heart & Celebration performances. During each performance, dancers explain the meaning behind the songs, the symbolism of the dance movements, and the regalia worn. Plan your visit at www.AlaskaNative.net/visit. #Alaskanativeheritagecenter #Anchorage #Alaska
@akheritagecenter
6.2K likes • 49.7K views

🎟️ Secure Your Seats Early

Popular shows, especially Broadway tours, sell out fast. Book tickets well in advance! Instagram

🚗 Arrive Early for Access

Elevators can get crowded. Arrive early and consider the 5th Ave entrance for easier lobby access. Reddit

When we visited @Alaska Native Heritage Center for our first-ever stop in Anchorage, we had the opportunity to meet Peter "Pilak" Griggs, Cultural Tourism Apprentice and world record-holder in traditional Alaska Native games. Hear about the history behind & cultural significance of these activities and see a games demonstration! Peter "Pilak" Griggs, of the Sugpiaq and Yup'ik peoples, is from Afo...
@roadshowpbs
3.5K likes • 84K views
Last Nutcracker stage warm up. #anchorageballet #anchorageclassicalballetacademy #anchoragenutcracker #idanceatacba #pacak #alaskacenterfortheperformingarts
anchorageballet
103 likes • 3.4K views

💰 Budget for Tickets

Ticket prices can be high, especially for major productions. Look for package deals if available. Reddit

🎭 Check Performance Schedules

A wide variety of events, from local talent to touring acts, are hosted year-round. Instagram

Alaska Center for the Performing Arts 🎭 See you all tonight!🔥 Daniel The Supremo Daniel Ford Ian Veneracion
honeybunch10
15 likes • 488 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Secure Your Seats Early

Popular shows, especially Broadway tours, sell out fast. Book tickets well in advance! Instagram

🚗 Arrive Early for Access

Elevators can get crowded. Arrive early and consider the 5th Ave entrance for easier lobby access. Reddit

💰 Budget for Tickets

Ticket prices can be high, especially for major productions. Look for package deals if available. Reddit

🎭 Check Performance Schedules

A wide variety of events, from local talent to touring acts, are hosted year-round. Instagram

💧 Avoid Overpriced Drinks

Some visitors found bar drinks to be expensive and not as advertised. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(664 reviews)

Reviews Summary

The Alaska Center for the Performing Arts is cherished for its diverse programming, from Broadway hits to local talent, and for providing memorable experiences like first concerts and childhood performances. While generally praised for comfortable seating and good views, some visitors note high ticket and refreshment prices, and potential hazards with stairs and elevators.

"I will always have the fondest memories of this place. Saw my first concert here as a kid with my mom (Jackson Brown), The Nutcracker, Phantom of the Opera and more in the 90s, and most recently some really great touring comedy shows (Second City and Who's Line). Also love the community accessibility, as a kid in ballet our troupe performed here and I got to dance on the stage. Comfortable seating and a good view from any level. I will always come back!"

Sarah Roberts

"Always a wonderful experience! So glad we bought the Broadway package for the 2023-2024 season. It's a great date night and we look forward to every show."

Amy Thomas

"Some hazards to negotiate in walking or avoiding risky stairs. Found street level entrance on 5th ave. side safe and goes right into lower lobby. Good idea to arrive early as elevator gets jammed up and very busy. The refreshment service is over priced. Tickets can get way too costly for seniors on a budget. A nice venue but be careful."

Gerald Taft

What People Like

Memorable experiences
Diverse performances
Comfortable seating

What People Dislike

High ticket prices
Overpriced refreshments
Stair/elevator hazards

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Alaska Center for the Performing Arts is located in downtown Anchorage. It's accessible by car, taxi, or rideshare. Parking is available nearby, though it can be busy during popular showtimes. Reddit

Yes, there are parking garages and street parking options near the venue. It's advisable to arrive early to secure a spot, especially for evening performances. Reddit

Anchorage's public bus system may have routes that stop near the performing arts center. Check the local transit authority's website for the most up-to-date route information.

For easier access to the lower lobby, consider using the street-level entrance on the 5th Avenue side. Reddit

The venue generally offers accessibility features. It's recommended to contact the box office in advance to discuss specific needs and seating arrangements.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets can be purchased online through the official Alaska Center for the Performing Arts website or Centertix.com. You can also buy them in person at the box office. Instagram

It's highly recommended to purchase tickets as soon as they go on sale for popular shows, especially Broadway tours, as they tend to sell out quickly. Instagram

Discounts may vary by performance. It's best to check the specific event details on the ticketing website or contact the box office directly for information on senior, student, or other potential discounts. Reddit

Refund and exchange policies are typically set by the promoter or presenter of the event. Check the terms and conditions at the time of purchase or contact the box office for clarification.

Tickets may be available on the day of the show, but it's not guaranteed, especially for sold-out performances. Purchasing in advance is the safest option. Instagram

🎫 🎭 Onsite Experience

The venue hosts a wide array of performances, including Broadway musicals, operas, ballets, concerts, plays, and events featuring local Alaskan talent. Instagram

The seating is generally comfortable with good views from all levels. Different theaters within the complex may have varying seating configurations. Reddit

Yes, there are refreshment services available, though some visitors have noted they can be overpriced. Reddit

The dress code is typically 'smart casual' for most performances. For formal events like opera or ballet, some patrons may dress up, but it's not strictly required. Check the specific event for any recommendations.

Generally, photography and videography are prohibited during performances to avoid distracting performers and other audience members. Check the venue's policy for specific events.

🎫 🎤 Cultural Performances

The Alaska Native Heritage Center, often partnering with the PAC, features authentic Alaska Native Dance performances where dancers explain the meaning behind songs and movements. TikTok+1

These performances offer a deep dive into Alaska Native culture, with dancers explaining the symbolism of their movements and the significance of their regalia. TikTok

Yes, you might encounter cultural tourism apprentices who share the history and significance of traditional Alaska Native games, sometimes with demonstrations. TikTok

Performances at the Alaska Native Heritage Center often run through the summer season, with specific end dates announced. TikTok

While the Alaska Native Heritage Center is a separate entity, it often collaborates with or is a featured cultural experience for visitors to Anchorage, sometimes performing at or in conjunction with the Performing Arts Center. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Alaska Center for the Performing Arts can be a fantastic outing for families. Look for family-friendly musicals like 'Matilda the Musical' Instagram or ballet performances such as 'The Nutcracker'.Instagram These shows are often designed to captivate younger audiences with engaging stories and vibrant performances. Remember to check the age recommendations for each show. Arriving early can help manage any pre-show excitement and ensure a smooth entry. Reddit

For a more hands-on cultural experience, consider visiting the nearby Alaska Native Heritage Center, which offers performances that are both entertaining and educational for children, explaining the meaning behind traditional dances and songs. TikTok This provides a wonderful opportunity for kids to learn about Alaska's rich cultural tapestry in an accessible and engaging way.

💰 Budget Travelers

While some of the headline shows can be pricey, budget-conscious travelers can still enjoy the arts. Keep an eye out for performances by local theater groups or community ensembles, which often have more affordable ticket prices. Reddit Sometimes, the PAC hosts free events or lectures, so check their calendar for such opportunities. Instagram+1

Consider purchasing tickets for less popular showtimes or seats further from the stage if available. Also, look into any available discounts for seniors, students, or military personnel. Bringing your own snacks or water (if permitted) can help save money on overpriced concessions. Reddit

💑 Couples & Date Nights

The Alaska Center for the Performing Arts is an ideal spot for a memorable date night. Catching a touring Broadway musical or a captivating opera like 'Carmen' offers a sophisticated and entertaining evening out. Instagram The shared experience of live performance can be a wonderful way to connect. Reddit

Consider booking a dinner reservation at a nearby restaurant before or after the show to complete the evening. Many visitors find the Broadway season packages to be a great way to plan multiple date nights throughout the year. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Hub for Alaskan Arts

The Alaska Center for the Performing Arts (PAC) is more than just a venue; it's a cornerstone of Anchorage's cultural landscape. It houses multiple theaters, including the main Atwood Concert Hall, the Sydney Laurence Theater, and the McLeod/Benson Theater, each catering to different types of performances. This multi-venue setup allows the PAC to host an incredibly diverse range of events, from grand Broadway productions to intimate local theater. Instagram+1

The center plays a crucial role in bringing world-class entertainment to Alaska, featuring touring Broadway shows, renowned musicians, and acclaimed dance companies. Simultaneously, it champions local talent, providing a vital platform for Alaskan artists, theater groups, and cultural organizations to showcase their work. This dual focus makes the PAC a truly unique and essential cultural hub for the entire state. Reddit

Visitors can expect a dynamic schedule that changes throughout the year, offering something for every taste. Whether you're interested in a spectacular musical, a thought-provoking play, or a captivating dance performance, the Alaska Center for the Performing Arts is the place to experience the vibrant arts scene of Anchorage. Instagram

Experiencing Broadway in the Last Frontier

For many, the highlight of visiting the Alaska Center for the Performing Arts is the opportunity to catch a Broadway Alaska production. These are touring versions of popular Broadway shows, bringing the magic of New York theater directly to Anchorage. The center has been known to offer season packages for these shows, which can be a great way to experience multiple productions at a potentially reduced cost. Reddit

Shows like 'Roald Dahl's Matilda the Musical' have graced the stage, drawing enthusiastic crowds. Instagram The anticipation for major touring musicals, including highly anticipated shows like 'Hamilton,' is palpable among locals and visitors alike. Instagram These productions are often a significant draw, attracting audiences from across Alaska and beyond.

Securing tickets for these popular shows is paramount. Due to high demand, it's advisable to book well in advance, as seats can be limited and sell out quickly. Checking the official website for show announcements and ticket release dates is key to not missing out on these premier theatrical events. Instagram

Cultural Immersion Beyond the Stage

While the Alaska Center for the Performing Arts hosts a multitude of performances, the Alaska Native Heritage Center offers a distinct and enriching cultural experience that often complements a visit to the PAC. This center is dedicated to the preservation and celebration of Alaska's diverse Indigenous cultures. TikTok

Visitors can witness captivating Alaska Native Dance performances, where dancers share traditional songs and movements, explaining their cultural significance and the stories behind them. TikTok+1 These performances are not just entertainment; they are educational opportunities to learn about the history, traditions, and artistry of Alaska's First Peoples. You might also have the chance to learn about traditional Alaska Native games and their cultural importance. TikTok

These cultural experiences provide a deeper understanding of Alaska's heritage and are highly recommended for anyone looking to connect with the local culture beyond the typical tourist attractions. TikTok

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