Center for the Performing Arts, San Jose

Located in the heart of Downtown San Jose, the San Jose Center for the Performing Arts has been a cornerstone of the city’s cultural life since its opening in 1972. Designed by William Wesley Peters of Taliesin Associated Architects, and constructed by the Barnhart Construction Company, the venue reflects the architectural legacy of the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation with its signature large windows that flood the lobby with natural light and offer sweeping views of the city.

The main auditorium seats 2,677 people in a continental-style arrangement, split between 1,921 orchestra and 756 balcony seats, and is known for its excellent acoustics and stage facilities. It currently serves as the home of San Jose Dance Theatre and Broadway San Jose, and previously hosted the American Musical Theatre of San Jose for over three decades, from 1975 to 2008.

In addition to the main stage, the Center includes two private event spaces: the Ridder Lounge (capacity: 150) and the President’s Club (capacity: 50), making it an ideal venue for receptions, cocktail parties, and VIP gatherings. The building is fully equipped with a full-service box office, rehearsal rooms, and comprehensive backstage and staging facilities, supporting everything from major Broadway productions to touring acts and local performances.

Today, the San Jose Center for the Performing Arts continues to be a vibrant venue where world-class entertainment meets architectural elegance.