Watching a performance on stage is often a transformational experience. It’s a chance to widen your perspective, learn about a new way of seeing the world, or experience something outside of your comfort zone. In Prince George’s, where the arts have long been elevated and respected, there are plenty of places where you can grasp those powerful moments. You can easily find a show every week from a musical performing, theater troupe, or dance company — all you need to do is look.
Check out the latest schedules at these 10 performing arts centers in Prince George’s:
- The Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center at the University of Maryland is home to a performing arts library, lecture halls, seminar rooms, rehearsal spaces, and sound-isolated practice rooms. The space is one of the largest and best-equipped at a university, and you can catch performances by students and professionals all through the year.
- Centered on community, the Bowie Center for the Performing Arts brings arts, culture, and connection to the region. You can see performances that reflect the diversity of Prince George’s eclectic community, both from local organizations and high-quality touring companies. Look out for a calendar full of theater, dance, music, and film.
- Since 1989, Harmony Hall Arts Center in Fort Washington has reigned as one of the most popular arts facilities in Prince George’s — and for good reason. It’s a one-stop shop for lovers of visual and performing arts in the region, with programs on ceramics, sculpture, dance, drama, painting, voice, belly dance, and photography. You can enjoy a show in the John Addison Concert Hall or take in exceptional works of art from around the globe in its exhibition spaces.
- The Prince George’s Publick Playhouse in Hyattsville has been bringing music, modern dance, musical theater, and historical drama performances to its stages since 1947. One of two surviving Art Deco theaters in the region, the space is glorious even without its wondrous performances. You can also attend an educational program or monthly event under its ornate sky scene.
- On the grounds of the historic Montpelier Mansion, the Montpelier Arts Center hosts a continual rotation of exhibitions by local and national visual artists. In addition to its breadth of visual art offerings, however, it also brings performing arts performances to its community. Musical performers and dancers often take to its stage.
- While Brentwood Arts Exchange maintains a strong focus on visual arts, it’s also home to a performing space. Its calendar includes art exhibitions, concerts, and art classes — and its space includes an arts exchange where you can purchase artisan crafts. If you’re lucky, you can catch both a performance and an exhibit while you’re there.
- With a focus on creativity through cultural experiences, Joe’s Movement Emporium in Mount Rainier provides experiences to the community that support arts education, job training, and creative community building. You can take a class or get a ticket to one of its many performances, including those from world-touring groups.
- In Whitemarsh Park, Bowie Playhouse is home to multiple local performing arts and theater groups in Prince George’s. The 150-seat theater showcases community plays throughout the year, and visitors can buy tickets for these shows through the various production companies, including Bowie Community Theatre.
- Laurel Mill Playhouse is a small theater, making all visitors feel like they're getting a close and personal experience. The group is dedicated to supporting a vibrant and diverse community, building a creative environment, and nurturing the talent of its community members. Home to the Burtonsville Players, the theater offers shows from its 50-year-old company and guest performers.
- Greenbelt Arts Center is dedicated to belonging, equity, and expansion in the theater community. There, you’ll find performances by resident and guest productions, along with shows from The Rude Mechanics, the resident company at the center. You can also catch special events, classes, camps, and improv sessions. Check out the rotating calendar at the intimate theater.
Expand your creativity as you wander around one of these vibrant murals in Prince George’s.