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    The Center for the Performing Arts

    4.4 (82 reviews)
    Closed 10:00 am - 6:00 pm

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    Alissa J.

    This was my first visit and experience at the Palladium. I came to see my friend perform in the Indianapolis Symphonic Choir for the Festival of Carols. The staff made the check in progress and seat location super easy. Our seats were comfortable and we had a great view of the stage. The choir and orchestra put on an entertaining & enjoyable performance! The audio of the performance was clear and engaging.

    Joseph D.

    We went there to see a show, which was absolutely fantastic. The acoustics were perfect. My only complaint was that there was a visual aspect to the show and seated where we were along the sides. You can only see about 40% of the video screen because of some equipment hanging from the ceiling. Even with that said, I would definitely go back here.

    Vitamin String Quartet (view from the last row)
    Christina B.

    Wow. I had no idea what to expect but I was blown away. The theater is beautiful on the inside. I thought my seat in the back row would be terrible, but I still had a great view of the stage. My ticket was only $15 so I thought it was an incredible value. Plus, self parking is free. The volunteer ushers were so nice and I loved that the President applauded the volunteers during his opening. The show (Vitamin String Quartet) was amazing and the ease of parking, getting inside, and even getting concessions during intermission made everything just that much better.

    Ashley D.

    I went to the Brian McKnight concert on Friday night September 26th in Carmel, Indiana. It was a beautiful Friday night, great location for Carmel, and very beautiful Performing Arts Center Carmel downtown. I did have a hard time finding parking so I decided to pay for valet parking instead, the valet parking price went up that day from $15 to $20. Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts had a lot of volunteers helping out, all the staff there were so helpful, took people to their seats, and the Performing Arts Center have plenty of seats especially upper level balcony levels. Brian McKnight told the crowd last time he came to Indiana was back in 1991 when he first came out. At, 56 years old he still can sing, I knew some of his songs, the lighting and sound crew did an amazing job at the concert. I didn't have food there only a bottle water and a pink Cosmo that wasn't bad, the Performing Arts Center doesn't sell food there. However, I was allowed to bring my alcohol drink inside the concert center. The women's restroom is very spacious, love the mirrors everywhere, and more importantly the women's restroom was very clean. The Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts does host a lot of performances there, and I can't wait to explore more concerts there.

    a man on stage
    Fatima G.

    I visited Tarkington which is 500-seat theater with used primarily for drama, musicals, dance, lectures and presentations. Tarkington is located in the same building as the Studio Theater, across Carter Green from the Palladium and has wonderful service. I enjoyed the show, my time and everyone who made our evening fabulous. If you appreciate art this is definitely the place for you!

    Grace Potter at the Palladium
    Richard P.

    True story: I largely learned how to ruin a business relationship thanks to The Center for the Performing Arts, a Carmel, Indiana performing arts center comprised of the 1,600 seat Palladium, 500 seat Tarkington Proscenium Theatre, and the 200 seat black-box Studio Theatre. It happened not long after The Center had opened. I had been offered the chance to appear at a writer's event alongside other Indiana writers. I decided it was a great opportunity to review the venue (mistake #1). I did let some folks know from the facility, especially because I knew accessibility was a huge concern of mine and always a focus in reviews. I didn't think about letting the event organizer know I planned to review the facility (mistake #2) because, at my worst, I'm typically known as a kinder/gentler reviewer. I arrive early. I check out the venue. As nearly everyone notes, it's a beautiful facility with kind employees and volunteers along with excellent acoustics. I had a few accessibility concerns, though I could tell this had been a strong consideration. The event itself went incredibly well and I was honestly surprised how accessible the actual stage was within the Palladium. I write the review after the event (mistake #3). The Center seemed fine with it, though did address some of my accessibility concerns. The event organizer? Ick. Not so happy. Long story not so short. I ended up deleting the review and, of course, apologizing to the event organizer. While we made amends, it's probably not surprising we would not work together again. Ugh. Now then, I've had a couple occasions to return to The Center including a recent Grace Potter concert along with multiple events at The Tarkington (which is also home to Civic Theatre). As I've learned the rhythm of the facilities and figured out some of the puzzles that presented on that first visit, I must admit that while I still think The Center has some accessibility concerns it has, in fact, grown on me and because I've figured out how to access it I find it to be a much more pleasurable experience. So, yes, I'm finally re-writing my review of The Center. I'm actually upping my rating a star. I'm also not going to delete it. It's important to note that The Center for the Performing Arts is a non-profit organization. You can subscribe to its season, rent its facilities, and you are right next to a variety of excellent restaurants along with the top-notch Hotel Carmichael. Parking is generally free, a rarity at performance venues these days, and there are some valet parking options (not free). Accessible parking is located in the parking garages and along Carter Green. An interesting note - you can NOT back into parking spaces. This is a Carmel regulation and it is enforced. In all likelihood, you will be ticketed. Accessibility features are available on The Center's website. They are pretty solid, though I've always found them a bit weak in terms of entry and parking. Wheelchair accessible seating is located in various sections of the venues. Aisle seats with moveable armrests to accommodate transfers are also available throughout the Palladium and the Tarkington. The Center is home to Great American Songbook Foundation (Michael Feinstein), Civic Theatre, Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre, Carmel Symphony Orchestra, Central Indiana Dance Ensemble, Actors Theatre of Indiana, and Indiana Wind Symphony. While I'm still not willing to fork over that 5th star, I must admit that The Center has endeared itself to me with a devotion to accessibility, a diverse array of events and performances, and a team of employees and volunteers who consistently go out of the way to make the night special. A longtime vision of soon to be outgoing Carmel Mayor Jim Brainard, The Center has become an essential presence for performing arts in Central Indiana and one of those venues where the first time you enter it you look around and go "Wow." This is my review. This time, I'm sticking to it.

    Abilene POV Box: H
    Ayla N.

    Experienced the unconventional artistry of Abilene, for the first time; it was inspirational! The way they marry classical with modern elegance, and extend their sound beyond limits(with a looping technique)... left me at times, as previous reviews stated, spellbound and entranced. 100% Recommend

    a concert hall
    Mike F.

    Carmel has changed, and I mean really changed. Gone are the days of only cookie cutter homes and sleepy strip malls. It has become a vibrant place - a place far estranged from its philistine reputation of decades past. The Center of Performing Arts ("The Palladium") is paradise for all who enjoy live music or theater. When I first saw the Palladium, I was reminded of the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul. It's grand. The interior is equally as impressive. The attention to detail is evident in every corner, and I love the meticulously crafted woodwork. The Palladium truly embodies the grandeur of a European concert hall. I recently visited the Palladium for two entirely different performances: The Lviv National Philharmonic Orchestra of Ukraine, and Floyd Nation, a Pink Floyd cover band. One of the most impressive aspects of The Palladium is its impeccable acoustics. The moment the performances began, I was completely engrossed in the rich, vibrant sound that filled the hall. Every note, every instrument, and every voice resonated beautifully, allowing for a truly immersive and unforgettable musical experience. Whether you're attending a symphony or a rock concert, the Palladium ensures that every artist's talent is showcased to its fullest extent. Seating is comfortable, and I felt I had plenty of space. Limited concessions are available at exorbitant prices. Visiting the Palladium is a wonderful experience, and I highly recommend it!

    Niki B.

    SUCH a beautiful venue! We came to a jazz Christmas concert and the venue added to the special-holiday vibes we were already feeling. My husband is big into music production and sound, and was really impressed by the sound quality inside as well. We also came for the New Years evening party and it was a blast. We loved that it was crowded, but not packed, so you could comfortably walk around and dance in all of the rooms without being crazy sweaty or knocking anything over. Such a great time. I sometimes get confused by the different levels (bathrooms downstairs), but enjoy the venue, so I'll take the learning curve.

    Annette B.

    Very clean and lovely facility. You can tell that it's kept in excellent condition and that the presentation of the physical space is important to the staff. They have a decent lineup of shows throughout the year. My only qualm is with the box office staff. The doors to the space are usually kept locked unless you have an appointment with someone who is elsewhere in the building. When I told the box office staff that I had an appointment with an individual at the songbook gallery, they stared at me like I had three heads. Not sure if they were unaware of the gallery or just out of it that day, but what a bizarre way to deal with a guest. They need a refresher on how to handle visitors and redirecting them. Their process right now is very inefficient.

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    Ask the Community - The Center for the Performing Arts

    Review Highlights - The Center for the Performing Arts

    I have had the opportunity to go to several shows at the Palladium and every concert is always fantastic.

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    Booth Tarkington Civic Theatre

    Booth Tarkington Civic Theatre

    4.7
    (33 reviews)
    0.1 mi

    From the moment we walked in--feeling secure with visible security and welcomed by friendly…read moregreeters--this experience was fabulous. Smiles were everywhere, setting the tone right away. My son and I went on a special date to see A Christmas Story, and it did not disappoint. The cast was incredible! Their energy was contagious and drew us into the story from the very first scene all the way to the end. I truly can't say enough good things about how amazing this show was. We will absolutely be back for more plays!

    Booth Tarkington Civic Theatre is the largest of more than 70 community theatres in Indiana and one…read moreof the ten largest of over 7000 active community theatres in the U.S. It is also considered the nation's longest continuously active community theatre. In operation since 1915, Civic Theatre offers 90 performances and 500 opportunities to participate onstage or behind-the-scenes in a professional theatre setting annually. Since its beginning, Civic has had five different homes. In 1915, it started at the Herron Art Institute before moving to the 240-seat Hedback Community Theatre in 1924. In 1973, Civic moved to the 645-seat Showalter Pavilion at IMA before relocating in 2004 to a 490-seat theatre at Marian University. Finally, Civic moved into the Tarkington at the Center for the Performing Arts in 2011. The current theatre has 513 seats. Mainstage productions include everything from musicals to comedies to dramas with an average of 30,000 patrons annually. Education has also always been a strong component of Civic programming with education and outreach programs reaching over 20,000 people each year through classes, workshops, and educational performances for all age groups from toddlers through older adults. As someone who believes strongly in inclusive theatre (I was a drama minor in college myself), Civic does one of the better jobs in Central Indiana of addressing accessibility issues. They are known to offer sensory friendly performances, have offered audio-described performances (and have large print programs), and also offer accessible parking, accessible entrances, and accessible seating that can be reserved. They also offer shows with ASL and Assisted Listening. For those with disabilities, I recommend contacting Civic for more detailed information. I've seldom attended a show here without seeing other wheelchairs or individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities. I've never been on-stage at Civic, but I have worked behind the scene in years past. Most recently, I've attended as both an audience member and media member. My experience has been that Civic leans toward more well known, fairly mainstream productions. For example, the 2022-23 season includes The Diary of Anne Frank, The Cat in the Hat, The Sound of Music, and Murder on the Orient Express. Jr. Civic is an amazing opportunity for the kids to get involved. Civic Theatre is definitely one of Central Indiana's longtime stage gems. With an outstanding group of professionals and volunteers, Civic offers consistently high quality performances and a great experience for theatergoers. Located in Carmel, it's an easy drive and a great entertainment in a beautiful setting.

    Photos
    View from far left seats near front of stage
    View from far left seats near front of stage
    Booth Tarkington Civic Theatre
    2022 production of Rent

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    2022 production of Rent
    Carmel Symphony Orchestra

    Carmel Symphony Orchestra

    4.5
    (4 reviews)
    0.1 mi

    My first experience was the Festival of Carols and it was magical! Loved every song that was sung…read more Everyone did a wonderful job and I much enjoyed that they were interactive with the audience. Looking forward to coming back next year!

    I recently had the chance to check out the Carmel Symphony Orchestra during their annual holiday…read moreextravaganza that included special performances, the Indianapolis Ballet Conservatory, and a choir from Second Presbyterian Church in Indianapolis. The Carmel Symphony Orchestra is an 80-member fully professional Resident Orchestra of The Palladium at The Center for the Performing Arts. It was started in 1976 and Maestro David Commanday was just this week named their new conductor. It's scheduled to go through the 2024-2025 season minimally. The orchestra also holds the Young Artists Competition. The concert itself was exceptional. The orchestra sounded amazing and, of course, the Palladium is an excellent venue with tremendous acoustics and sound quality. The guest performances were beautifully coordinated, as well. The Carmel Symphony Orchestra is a non-profit organization and their various concerts reach about 50,000 people annually. In 2010, the symphony performed on Michael Feinstein's release "We Dreamed These Days" and has performed with quite a few greats throughout its existence and especially since establishing its relationship with the Center for the Performing Arts.

    Photos
    Carmel Symphony Orchestra
    Carmel Symphony Orchestra performance
    Carmel Symphony Orchestra performance
    Carmel Symphony Orchestra

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    Carmel Symphony Orchestra
    Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre

    Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre

    4.1
    (170 reviews)
    6.0 mi
    $$

    My husband & I have been attending for years, but last Saturday was the first time the food was not…read more100%. The well done roast beef was very tender this time, but the Medium one was undercooked. My husband never complains about anything, but this time he did. The carrots & chicken tenders were cold as well. Maybe the temperature of the food needs to be checked more often?

    Absolutely something you should add to your list! My mom got tickets for my birthday. I love this…read morekind of thing so even though I've never been I was pretty sure I'd like it. It definitely exceeded my expectations. Instead of digital tickets, you just give your name to the host at the door at they'll lead you to your seats. Your server will then bring your drinks. Unsweetened tea, lemonade, and coffee are all complimentary but they have sodas and alcoholic drinks for sale. They also have dessert available for $7 as well. They can deliver the dessert during intermission which was perfect. Our server Maria was super friendly and on top of things. But all the servers and bussers were on top of it. We saw Cinderella and it was awesome. It was close to the original but a little modernized in the best way. There was plenty of crowd interaction and the actors were all fantastic. The props were cool but the costumes were even better. They also had a live band playing the music. Our seats were on the side of the stage and I wasn't sure we'd have a good view but the actors moved around the floor a lot and there was a tv on the side as well showing what was happening as well. I already bought tickets to another show and my family is looking forward to it.

    Photos
    Stage from Cinderella
    Stage from Cinderella
    Cheez and crackers
    Cheez and crackers
    Stage from Cinderella

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    Stage from Cinderella
    Performer's Edge Dance & Theatre

    Performer's Edge Dance & Theatre

    3.3
    (3 reviews)
    0.9 mi

    We had a horrible experience at performers edge dance studio…read more My 3 year old daughter was tearing up in class due to the teacher being insanely strict about standing on a dot and not looking at herself in the mirror. The teacher then proceeded to say "NOPE. no we are not crying about this NO" when my daughters eyes started to well. I was uncomfortable with her being spoken to this way and I called for my daughter to come out into the lobby. There is no door on the studio and the entire space is very outdated so I could hear and see everything that happened. My daughter listened to me and safely and slowly started walking to me waiting in the lobby outside of the studio room. The teacher then said "no" to my daughter and grabbed her arm to drag her back to her dot which resulted in her falling. I repeatedly asked the teacher to stop and said "please give her to me". I had to pull my daughter from her. The studio condoned this behavior by saying it was appropriate for the situation. If you want your child to feel safe and develop a love of dance I would not recommend this studio. I have video footage of this situation that they sent me and would very much like to share with anyone curious and wanting to see as it will not allow me to attach videos to my review. I did not feel this was a safe or nurturing environment for my child and she was deeply disturbed by this teachers lack of respect towards children.

    The entire staff are absolutely amazing!! Everyone goes above and beyond. My daughters have had the…read morebest experience !

    The Center for the Performing Arts - theater - Updated August 2026

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