Avenue of the Arts

If you’re looking for theatre, culture, music, enrichment and socialization in Philadelphia, check out the Avenue of the Arts. Located on South Broad Street (heading south from City Hall), the avenue represents overt artistic expression in the city. Philadelphia prides itself on this freedom of expression; it complements the nearby Old City area and its revolutionary origins.

The overall aura of the Avenue of the Arts is reflective of a glamorous diversity in arts and culture. In close proximity to City Hall, the Avenue of the Arts fosters a community of acceptance and celebration often supporting causes of equality and justice via the arts.

Managed by the Avenue of the Arts, Inc., the Avenue of the Arts features a walk of fame for famous Philadelphian musicians, signature “A” lights attached to street fixtures and potted plants along South Broad Street. The organization and development of the avenue were accomplished in the early 1990s. According to the Avenue of the Arts, Inc. Web site, the area stretches from “Broad Street, one block east and west, from Washington Avenue on the south to Glenwood Avenue on the north.”
 

Visitors attend shows at multiple venues along the avenue, encompassing theatre, music, dance, fine arts, film and shopping. Garnering much attention is the open architecture of the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts. A versatile and contemporary building, this venue can host multiple events simultaneously.

The Avenue of the Arts also hosts many of the city’s independently-owned and chain restaurants. If you’re heading out to a show, consider dinner before or after the event. Students of the University of the Arts (centralized at Merriam Theater) have reported sightings of local music and film celebrities and sports stars from the Sixers and the Eagles. Local politicians also take public outings and attend fundraisers and events in this area. When local sports teams achieve victories, impromptu and scheduled celebrations are often held in this area.

Avenue of the Arts venues are constantly current. If you’re looking for a general night out during your visit or a holiday-themed celebration, multiple venues will likely offer specials relevant to your tastes. From Mozart to modern to African theatre, you can find daring and risqué performances or family-friendly performances.

 

- by Tara M. Clapper, Philadelphia Reporter for HelloMetro  (Click to leave a message)

Tara M. Clapper

Tara M. Clapper is a full-time freelance writer residing just outside of Philadelphia. Tara enjoys exploring traditional and historical locations in the city as well as quirky and innovative restaurants and attractions. Tara utilizes her background in academic, service-based and traditional publishing to create insider-perspective articles. Her topics of interest include travel, weddings, Irish American culture, and geek subculture.