Expert recommendations of the top dance, theater, and classical music performances.
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Academy of Music
“A gem based on La Scala in Milan with a chandelier as big as a Volkswagen, sensational wood carvings, and magnificent acoustics.”—Ron Avery, author Philadelphia: Beyond the Liberty Bell. Home of the Opera Company of Philadelphia and Pennsylvania Ballet. Tickets from $7.50. 240 Broad Street; tel. +1 215 893 1999. www.academyofmusic.org
Fillmore at the TLA (Theater of the Living Arts)
Like listening to Bob Dylan in your living room. Raw yet intimate venue selling a scant 1,000 tickets for each show, usually all standing room only. Headliners range from Dylan to such avant garde acts as Broken Social Scene. Tickets from $13. 334 South Street; tel. +1 215 922 1011. www.theateroflivingarts.net
Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts
“Handsome addition to the city’s cultural life that invites people in, with a glorious rooftop garden under a vaulted glass ceiling.”—Robert Baxter, president, Philadelphia Opera Club. Home of the acclaimed Philadelphia Orchestra, Philadanco, and Broadway series of plays. Tip: $10 tickets (one per customer) for all events go on sale at the box office on the day of the performance, 5:30 p.m. for evening events, 11:30 a.m. for matinees. 260 South Broad Street; tel. +1 215 790 5800. www.kimmelcenter.org
Mann Center for the Performing Arts
One of the largest open-air venues in America; 4,000 seats under cover with 10,000 more on the grounds, where people bring picnics and wine to free summer performances by the Philadelphia Orchestra (patrons may not bring alcohol to other events). Musical fare ranges from country-folk icon John Prine to the Gipsy Kings; concessions and restaurant on site. 5201 Parkside Avenue; tel. +1 215 893 1999. www.manncenter.org
Suzanne Roberts Theatre
“Tasteful in the old-fashioned tradition of theaters, yet absolutely up-to-date.”—Robert Baxter. The Philadelphia Theatre Company performs in this 365-seat jewel box, opened in October 2007. 480 S. Broad Street at Lombard; tel. +1 215 985 0420. www.philadelphiatheatrecompany.org
Tower Theater
“Great acoustics, quaint, and intimate.”—Jennifer Ruiz, lifestyle producer, CN-8. Just over the city line, ornate 1927 landmark has 3,000 seats and has been home to a movie theater, Vaudeville acts, and Pink Floyd. 69th and Ludlow streets, Upper Darby; tel. +1 610 352 2887. www.tower-theatre.com
World Café Live
“A place to see up-and-coming acts, as well as people who are already there.”—Jennifer Ruiz. University City showcase for indie musicians with a coffeehouse vibe and casual dining. 3025 Walnut Street; tel. +1 215 222 1400. www.worldcafelive.com
