I checked out Herberger Theater Center for the first time for an event hosted by Fever: The Jury Experience. Located downtown, this charming theater puts on various performances (plays, musicals, and The Empire Strips Back (a Star Wars burlesque parody) to name a few. Parking is notoriously bad downtown but here's a cheat code: if you park at the Arizona Center's parking garage, the Herberger will validate your parking ticket for a deep discount off of the fee. It's not free but it's a deep discount. Just talk to the box office and they will take care of you. The theater itself is a charming, old-school theater. We enjoyed the event and the seats were relatively comfortable. We were on the upper level and didn't have any issues seeing the stage. In the lobby, you can find some concessions selling drinks and snacks. I went with a beer. You're allowed to bring it into the theater, but there are no cup holders. Upon leaving, I found out that for certain parts of the year, there are free concerts in the grassy area outside of the theater. I'll definitely have to check that out at some point, and also come back for another perfromance! read more

Not many styled shows make their way here that care to my liking, but recently I've seen an uptick and find myself looking more and more at upcoming events. I've been here recently now for 2 shows that I would call nontraditional, but man, they were great shows, and I had such a blast. The layout of the theater is great. I was on the 1st level for one show and on the 2nd level for the 2nd one. Despite being on the 2nd level, it still gave a personal feel and kept us engaged. If you don't like heights, make sure to arrive early to get in the lower level, as once you're on the upper level, it does go shallow & up. Getting cocktails from the bar downstairs typically has a long line, but if you go upstairs, there's usually another make-shift bar to help offset it. I didn't take advantage of any parking, as I used a ride service to the venue, as I just wanted to get dropped off at the door. It's hit or miss with parking, especially if there is something going on at the arena (basketball, concert, baseball game, etc...) Looking forward to the next event. read more

Herberger Theater Center - Performing Arts Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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First time here to see the Calamari sisters clam back. Beautiful new venue. In the city with plenty of garage or on street parking on a Sunday. Stage west was a more intimate venue, but not a bad seat in the house. Staff very friendly. read more

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Came by to see the interactive jury experience and really enjoyed this venue. It's small and intimate. We got lucky and found metered parking outside! Clean, great layout, nice snacks and beverages at concession. read more

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I ordered tickets online for myself and my boyfriend to see "The Empire Strips Back" on Oct. 4th, 2025 at The Herberger Theater Center. We walked to the venue, so I have no comment about parking. However, our show was supposed to start at 9:30pm, but the earlier showing was running a little late and so we were waiting outside for quite a while before we could choose our seats. We were invited to enter the lobby area of the building to order drinks, use the restroom, and buy some merch, so that helped to pass the time. Since I paid for Row A seating (the closest to the stage aside from the VIP section), I was invited to sit anywhere in those rows- so the rows themselves were reserved, but no specific seats, so you'll still have to call dibs on your preferred spot. As a 5 ft 8 in woman, the seating felt a little tight for my liking. Most people stood up for me to get passed them, aside from one lady, and when I walked past her I was worried my hips would smack her face. Other than that, I didn't have any problem watching the performance- nobody blocked my view and I think if I sat further away, I'd still have a decent view of the stage. We had a heckler in the crowd who kept yelling obscenities as the host of the show, fortunately by the second act he was removed from the event. There was a 15 minute intermission for the show, which was a good opportunity for more drinks or a bathroom break. I recommend using the restrooms on the second floor, as they are more hidden than the first floor. I'm glad I went to this event, and I would consider returning to the Herberger Theater Center when they have any other fun events in store. read more

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We had a girls get together. We saw the Calamari Sisters at the Herberger Theatre. When we went to purchase the tickets several months in advance these seats were the only seats that were available together for a party of five. I will say the show was very good and we really enjoyed it, but our seats were not. On the ticket it does state that it's an obstructive view. You could only see 50% of the stage from our seats. There were several open seats in the theater, which left us confused as to why when we went to purchase our tickets, the obstructive view tickets were the only ones available. We ask the usher if we could move to one of the empty rows. We were told no. We would've gladly paid more to sit in a seat with no obstructed view. I'm not sure why there were so many empty seats with great views, why they weren't available purchase or why we could not move. I had my elderly mother and her friend with us. It was very difficult for them to watch the show because you had to lean on the railing in front of us to see the stage. read more

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Great theater in downtown Phoenix. They have 3 theaters, so they could have up to 3 events going on. The staff is fantastic. Great drinks and different snack options too. read more

Herberger Theater Center - Marshall Charloff and the Purple Experience. Amazing - Performing Arts Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

We came to see Little Shop of Horrors and loved it. Clever stage set up and nicely done. Come early, they gave maybe 5 minutes for stragglers then started. Intermission is 15 minutes. Very kind and helpful staff every step of the way. Concession stand and bar available. You can buy your tickets online. The Parking Garage just West was $30 (card only). They email you more parking options available the day of, they are just further away. read more

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I visited the Herberger Theatre for a second time this month! It was for the same the same show (The Empire Stripes Back 5/5), just a few years later! Our experience was not as great this time around. First, parking, they do not partner with any large parking structures in the area, why? On their website, they first suggest the Ace parking lots in the area, which they don't validate or work with, then follow up with the more affordable option at the Arizona Center. It had been a few years and I was driving, so asked my friend to pull up parking and this part is a slight series of miscommunications, as she pulled up the wrong one. She did try using the chat feature to verify with the theatre, which they did not confirm and just said, yes it's on the website and then we tried calling to no answer. We also asked the parking garage attendant, and they said yes we do partner with Herberger and this is the discounted parking. As you can expect they do not. It was definitely a bit our fault, but I do feel like they should be working with neighboring garages or at least answer when trying to call or use chat. Upon parking and arriving to the theatre, there was absolutely no order to the lines and they just went every which way and direction. Their merch store was literally in the middle and overall it was just a very unsmooth experience. We got some beverages at their concessions stand, about $15-20 for a cocktail and $8-10 for a beer. They also offer candy and some other snacks. Cocktails were on the sweet side, but did lean into the theme of the show which was fun! We were in the first few rows and the overall show was great. The theatre is definitely older and that is reflected in the seats (comfortable enough, no drink holders) and overall space, but for the most part they offer all the things you need for a show, just don't expend a super high-end experience. read more

Herberger Theater Center - Performing Arts Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

I want believe I've lived in AZ for o er 20 years and this was my first event at the Herberger Theater. I attended with a group of girlfriends for John the Violinist who was AMAZING. It's an intimate venue and doesn't appear to have a bad seat in the house. I'm looking forward to attending events there in the future.... read more

Herberger Theater Center - Performing Arts Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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I'm not big into theater but I had a fun time here seeing Little Shop of Horrors. It was easy to park and walk to the theater, checking in was simple and everyone was friendly. The show was very well done. There is a lot of talent here in Phoenix. And this venue is very comfortable and clean. I'd definitely come back. read more

Herberger Theater Center - Poster for the show - Performing Arts Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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We had a great experience here watching Rudolph with Grandma and the kiddos. The craft activities before the show were wonderful and the staff were so friendly. My only complaint is the cranky usher staff. When the show ended we waited in front to greet the performers and by the time we got back to our seats to collect our bags they gave us major stink eye and rushed us out of there to get our things and go. As if 2 extra minutes would hurt anybody. They should know that kiddos need a little extra time as well as grandma with her walker. They hurried us out of there as if we were breaking a law. Sheesh. That soured it for us. read more

Herberger Theater Center - Performing Arts Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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Very nice theater. I have been here twice and both were completely different experiences. My first time was during Covid so we we were seated outside. This past weekend we got to go inside and it was a good time. I had tickets to the Valentines Swan Gala and it was a good experience. We arrived about 15 minutes prior to the show starting and the lobby area was packed. We grabbed our programs from the friendly worker and we head on up to our seats. Once upstairs, the usher showed us where to sit. The chairs were very comfy, the view was great, and the show was beautiful! read more

Herberger Theater Center - Performing Arts Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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Today, I attended the Herberger lunchtime theater for the first time and am hooked already! Each season is five months and five shows. They run 1-2 weeks each, Mon thru Thur, start at 12:10 in the afternoon, and are less than one hour long. You can even prepay for lunch, provided by the nextdoor neighbor, Huss Brewing, to be waiting for you as you arrive in the theater. Show tickets are only $10 each. Lunch is only $12, and you pick from a dew different sandwiches or salads, and each one includes chips and a cookie. I would suggest arriving 10 or more mounties early so that you can enjoy your lunch without feeling disruptive to the play. I saw The Moment, which is running one more time, tomorrow at 12:10. It's a play, in progress. It's only one act so far and is in the works, so it was fun to be a part of it and to hang around afterward to give feedback to the writer. The play is about how Barack Obama announces his run for president and how that affects a Washington DC black family and the trajectory of their lives. I cried and also enjoyed the group of elderly black women sitting behind me as they giggled over handsome younger photos of President Obama and how they commented on historical events that they themselves lived through. It was a moving moment to be a part of. read more

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Very classy and beautiful theater. The workers were professional and helpful. It seemed like every seat was a good view of the stage. Unfortunately, not a lot of accessible seating available and the seats they did have were tight with fixed armrests on each side. The bathrooms were also terribly designed with each stall requiring you to stand over the toilet to get the door to open or close. read more

We've seen several shows here. Set up is good, with several doors to get you to The area that your seats are. It's large enough for a nice crowd but not so huge that it loses its intimate feeling. The lobby is small So when mines form that intermission for refreshments, it can be crowded. Also, the bathrooms are relatively small - - I combat that by making a stop before the show when there are no lines. Like all downtown venues, parking can be difficult to find. We saw that by coming early, parking by the theater then walking to dinner before the show. There are some great statues out in front of the theater. read more

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From experimental plays in the Kax Black box theater to Broadway shows in Center stage, the free outdoor performances on Saturdays and First Friday, to their Art Gallery, I am always finding something my friends and I will enjoy! read more

I came to the theatre to attend The Jury Experience with a friend. The theatre is clean and beautiful. Everyone helping us check in was so nice. read more

Herberger Theater Center - Inside the theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

I love the Theater and everything Theatrical done here. It was designed for Plays with classic half-shell multi-level seating to insure intimacy with the performers. Natural Acoustics along with a great sound system make for enjoyable performances. This is in the downtown performance area not far from Phoenix Symphony and Dodge Theaters. Keep an eye on performance schedules and treat yourself to a great night. Memory Lane My favorite show was the Annual KTAR AM radio Personalities (Pat McMann) performance of "A Christmas Carol". This will always be my favorite and first of many returns to the Herberger. read more

I've been to the Herberger a couple of times and it's a nice venue to see shows, concerts, etc. It's small and cozy and from any place in the theater, you'll get good views of the stage. They have a concessions stand offering up alcohol and some non alcoholic beers and snacks, but only beverages are allowed into the theater and not snacks. Parking can be a bit challenging around here but if you come a little earlier, you can find street parking which is a few times cheaper than parking in the lot and you can get a few steps in. My most recent visit here was to see a Candlelight string quartet playing Adele's songs. I had seen ads for this and was curious about them, so when a friend invited me, I joined. It was a great show, and the string instruments work very well with Adele's songs and many of the songs brought tears to my eyes. The show is a little over an hour, so shorter than plays or musicals. Definitely, come here to catch a concert, musical, play, etc., you won't regret it. read more

It's really nice inside. Comfy chairs. Employees were nice and guided us well. Fair prices on tickets and beer. Enjoyed the show. read more

Herberger Theater Center - SAW: The Musical! - Performing Arts Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

This is such a cute little theater with so much history. I got to attend here kn a field trip, but still thoroughly enjoyed our play we saw. They have great lighting and sound effects and really took the time to incorporate the audience. It was fun. The seats are comfortable but s little worn. They do not allow any food or drinks inside the theater. Would love to bring my kids back for another show. read more

This is a formidable, well established, professionally operated, lovingly staffed and incredibly managed art space that a favorite of ours for a multitude of events. With three stages: the Center Stage; the Stage West; and the Kax Stage it are fantastic venues for almost any type and style presentation. From their guest services, impeccable ushering, delightfully appointed and spacious rooms and lobby, you are both in a multi-faceted theatre for performing arts, arts educational settings, galleries and available arts space. Our visits have included: Día de los Muertos: Celebrating a Legacy of Artistry; a First Friday Live events; and recently the Theatre production of the Mad Hatter. Every visit was an experience to remember, and we will continue to attend and support the Herberger Theatre in every way possible. You should too! read more

We've been to the Herberger Theatre a few times now and have really been delighted by the variety of shows and coziness of the theatre itself. We recently attended Empire Strips Back (bom chicka wow wow) and that was a great performance led by a talented troupe. We were definitely one with the force that night. A few days ago we attended The Woman in Black led by the skilled cast from London and really enjoyed it as well. The food/drinks in the bar area could definitely be spiced up/improved. The wines were costly, served by the plastic cup- and were seemingly sour/old- very unpleasant tasting. We went back during intermission for the cocoa and that was a disaster- essentially scalding water with a touch of chocolate. While this doesn't impact the performances, it could certainly make it more enjoyable with better pairings. End Scene. read more

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Had a wonderful time here twice! Nice and cool inside. Great shows and drinks! It's clean and staff is friendly! Some neat local art pieces as well throughout! Today we saw the Mad Hatter. Excellent work! Will be back soon! read more

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Small theater but wonderful performance for Million Dollar Quartet! Nice to have a small restaurant to have a glass of wine and meal prior to performance. read more

I told my dad about this place and he said it really changed a lot since he used to go... and it's where he met my mom. I told him it seats 800, but he recalls just a few dozen tables and some bar stools. I told him it has 40 different performances a year, but he only recalled dances. I told him they even serve 30,000 students a year, but he could have sworn you had to be 21 to get in. Finally, I told him the Herberger drives the capital's cultural and educational development, and he stopped me, saying "ohhhhhhhh I thought you said the Furburger." He can't hear very well. read more

Herberger Theater Center - Performing Arts Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Nice theater! Clean and huge theater room. Appreciate the grab-and-pay drinks so the bar line moves faster read more

Herberger Theater Center - Performing Arts Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Just wanted to say I was VERY disappointed that the Mad Hatter showing on Friday night May 3rd 2024 was shut down after it started and we were sent home. I scheduled date night with my wife, fought traffic to get downtown to the venue. Paid $30 for parking walked about half a mile to the theater. I understand that there were technical difficulties. I'm fine stopping the show to deal with them then restarting. What I do not appreciate CANCELLING the show after all of us went to all the trouble to be there is. That is inconsiderate and very disapointing. read more

We had a great time attending a production of "My Father's Italian, My Mother's Jewish, amd Therapy Continues" tonight for our Wedding Anniversary. We purchased the tickets on line and received them electronically. The theatre is very nice with great helpful staff. NOTE: You HAVE to produce a Covid Vaccine in order to get in. There is a Security Guard at the door checking all Covid Vaccine requirements carefully. The theatre is very nice and seats are comfortable. This particular show only has one performer, and I don't know how he memorizes all of his lines for a 2 hour show. The show was very entertaining and we were happy we went. We would love to see another production at this venue in the future. Thank you for a wonderful evening read more

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I attended a sensational drama, "Nina Simone: Four Women" by Christina Ham. "Gives you a glimpse into the artistry and activism of one of the most powerful voices in American song history, Nina Simone. By looking at her life's work through the lens of three other women--a housekeeper, an activist, and a prostitute on the day of the Birmingham church bombing on September 15, 1963- we see how the Nina Simone we know came to be." Young and old and multicultural sat entranced by a strong and powerful cast. The most moving was the entire production took place in a simulated bombed church. As talented as Ms. Simone was playing piano at 3 and was taught Bach, Chopin, Brahms, Beethoven, and Schubert soon after. She studied classical piano at Juilliard and was denied admission to the Curtis Institute of Philadelphia due to racism. She was born Eunice Kathleen Waymon but changed her name to Nina Simone to avoid embarrassing her family as she began playing at clubs in NJ. It was a moving production with brilliant solos by the cast. It was definitely a game changer. There were agents at the door to scan tickets before entry. Comfortable seating, clean bathrooms, and safe surroundings. Please call to obtain parking information prior to attending event. Used GPS and there were no empty parking spaces on the busy streets surrounding the theatre. A long theatre recording included 2 available nearby paid parking garages that were not attached to theatre. I'm accustomed to theatre garage parking and regular parking lots. I chose the Arizona Center. I'm appreciative that is was a 2 p.m. performance, otherwise, I would have been very uncomfortable since I asked directions along the way even with GPS for "walking". I recommend the play, theater, and garage. Can't wait to return for another visit! read more

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Great venue for live entertainment m. It has good seating and a fine sound system. Try to get center seats as duds may be vision limited - unsure read more

The seats are not accommodating for average to above average sized adults. You are cramped. No elbow room or leg room whatsoever. I'm telling you, this place rivals coach seats on Spirit Airlines. The A/C could definitely be cranked up a smidge bit higher. Also, for hosting such an anticipated event (Empire Strips Back), they had 2 bartenders working for the prime 7:30 show. Line didn't move as fast as one would've hoped. However, despite all of this, I enjoyed how intimate the theatre felt. Even the further seats away from the stage had a very good view. Lighting was great, sound/audio was decent, and everything was clean and well maintained. read more

My friend and I came here on a Wednesday night to watch "My Mother's Italian, My Father's Jewish". We have never been to this theater. Tickets were easy to purchase on line, you can even purchase your parking ticket, which we did at a very reasonable price. All the people working at the theater were very friendly. The theater is very small, glad we went on a Wednesday, not crowded at all. Masks are a MUST whether vaccinated or not. Vaccination Cards must be shown to enter. I had used the restrooms, very clean. All in all a great experience! read more

I brought my 4 year old son to Herberger to see Rudolph by Childsplay, along with a few of his friends and their mamas to celebrate his birthday. I had 10 tickets at will call, and they were ready and waiting as soon as I arrived! We had an incredible experience at the show! I loved that the Childsplay theatre was small and intimate, so wherever you were sitting, you were sure to have a great view! They even provide booster seats for the littles if they need them. Everyone working at the venue was smiling and helpful. There were also festive photo ops outside of the theater. I am so excited to come back to Herberger for more Childsplay performances with our kiddos! read more

2nd time being here and so far so good. Last night saw "Nina Simone" - very nicely done - such a heavy subject but well done. The theatre lifted mask/ and vaccine requirements too which made for a smooth check in. Love that attendee's dress up too. read more

Overall, a solid venue. As a theatre professional originally hailing from Chicago, and being spoiled with the beautiful theatres of the Windy City until moving to AZ in 2010, I'm picky about theatres. And we DON'T care much for Gammage at all. I love their free preview tickets for teachers, and we take advantage of these as often as we can. The facility itself is great - well-designed, great sightlines and acoustics. This goes for both of the main performance spaces. Concessions available prior to the show and at intermission, helpful service, clean restrooms. The companies that are housed here - ATC and Childsplay are both solid organizations that produce quality productions. Always a fun night or afternoon out when we're headed to see a show at the Herberger. read more

Arizona Theatre company is not at this location. Maps took us to Phoenix. The play was in Tempe. Also the building still had ATC sign on it. read more

Saw a my first opera at this theater this weekend. I really like this theater. Parking is just across the way. The theater has so much going on. It was very nice to visit. Staff was friendly and the volunteers were as well. Applauds to ushers who were from another company. Acoustics are great, even for hubby who usually has issues with hearing aids in certain venues. The subtitle are nice as well. Huss brewing across the street. This was a quiet night, no convention going on, but perfect night to be out. Will be keeping this theater in mind for upcoming shows. Highly recommend catching a show here. read more

We saw "Man of La Mancha" here last evening, and found it to be very special. The play is based in part on Cervantes' Don Quixote. I grew up listening to Robert Goulet sing "The Impossible Dream" (The Quest) song from the play, as well as hearing it during Robert Kennedy's campaign for President in 1968. It was always magical for me: "... Willing to March into Hell for a Heavenly cause..." is one of the more dramatic lines. This revival changes the venue from the 1600 Spanish Inquisition, to the 1960s. They use instead Generalissimo Franco's re-election, the violent surrounding it and the roundup of many Spanish citizens for little to no reason as the central backdrop. It's a play, inside a play btw. The cast was great and the salsa dancing during the play was incredible. The play started this past Friday 1/12 night and runs for several weeks. We bought our row 6 seats online at Goldstar for a discount. Another Herberger winner! read more

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