Straz Center for the Performing Arts

We went there to see the Lion King and it was wonderful. The staff are amazing. We were late and they were doing their best to keep us seated without disturbing other people.
It is a huge stage with many levels. The ticket is very reasonable compared to other theaters I’ve been to.

Straz Center used to call Tampa performance art center. The whole compound consists 4 to 5 concert halls. Patel Conservatory which connects to it provides the arts education opportunities for adults and children including dance, music, acting etc. This versatile venue has been used for dance, musical, concert, play, comedian, all sorts of performance arts. it located at downtown Tampa adding more activities for people to visit downtown and also good for tourism. There are one restaurant, one café, coffee shop, gift shop also concession area. Parking at downtown could be a challenge. If you arrive early, there are roadside parking or the garage parking. I have been here many times and I enjoyed the shows as well as the facility.

Such a huge variety of entertainment to be had here. We are so blessed to have a Performing Arts Center of this caliber in Tampa.
Parking is plentiful for $$ in the garage nearby. We prefer to pay a bit extra and park in the lot near the stage door tho. There are at least 4 theaters within the Straz that I know of. The smallest I have been to, the Shimberg, is an adorable space that hosts smaller productions, by mad Theatre group and Jobsite Theatre company. The Jaeb Theatre is larger, with balconies, and has some table seating, depending on the show. I saw Disenchanted at least three times here, great space. The Ferguson Hall is larger still, and a really nice space for a show. And of course, the Carol Morsani hall, the theatre you think of when you think of the Straz. This space is where you will see the Broadway on Tour shows or events that will attract larger audiences. I can’t speak for the view from the upper levels, but have been pleased with my view from the Orchestra or first balcony.
Drinks are pricey, and the lines can be long. During intermissions, restroom lines for the ladies are always long, but are deftly directed by a drill instructor-​style woman who keeps it moving as fast as possible. Concessions are fairly limited, which is understandable, since food is not allowed in the theater (wrappers, chomping, etc are distracting to other people!). The ushers are all volunteers (who get some perks from what I understand) and almost always very nice.
The prices are pretty good, I tend to get tickets through connections, contests and promotions, and have rarely paid full price, otherwise I would attend much less often. Even with ticket sales, the Straz is a non-​profit that requires millions in fundraising each year to sustain it’s operations. I appreciate all those who keep it funded so that I can enjoy some culture now and then.

If you’re checking in to see whether Straz is worth the trip & have become utterly confused, it’s because the way the reviews have been written. Please note that there are 5 theatres at Straz, ranging from Teco, a 100-​seat bleacher-​style set-​up to Morsani, a 2600-​seat, 4-​level house with continental seating (the long rows with now breaks). There is also a 1200-​seater, Ferguson, which is standard set-​up with a center row, and Jaeb, which is set up like a cabaret. There is also the Shimberg, which is a flexible space. They tend to show edgier things at Shimberg but Broadway tours (not always official tours!) at Morsani & an eclectic mix of concerts at Ferguson.
I frankly looked at the Straz listing because I used to work there & wanted to see if anything had been said either about my staff, my colleagues or me. Just for giggles. The only thing negative about my colleagues was posted by someone who was clearly very skilled at creative writing, so ok, no worries.
As a former employee, I can tell you that they really try hard to make very effort to accommodate requests and problems. At least my boss & I did, but we’re both gone now, so I’m not sure if this still holds up. I am from NY & so I think the idea that the lobby is open for an hour before the show or sooner if it rains, it’s too hot, it’s too cold, it’s too humid — i.e., almost every day — is silly. But, Straz patrons are spoiled that way. They don’t appreciate it, but they are spoiled.
I’ve read a lot of complaints about not being able to purchase online if it leaves a seat empty, but I didn’t see anyone who tried to call the Ticketing Office. The inability to make that purchase is to encourage people to make other options that allow more people to buy seats together. But, if those are the seats you want, call. The TO staff will try to accommodate. My question becomes: did you call? If you were unaware of this option & how it would help, then ok, but if you are just lazy or feeling petulant, then I can’t help you.
In fact, you can arrange a lot of things ahead of time, incl. a wheelchair if you really need it, dinner reservations & so on. Do you have a question? Call the box office before you give up & post something nasty on Unilocal.I can’t tell you how many people used to come at me with both guns smoking because they were happier being upset than allowing someone to help. I’ve done this long enough not to take it personally, though, but remember that people in customer service ARE people. Then they were nearly shocked that I wasn’t getting upset at their abuse. Really, I was there to help. That’s all.
Speaking of which, I see how many photos are posted here when you are told most specifically not to take photos during a performance. (Beforehand is different at Straz.) Then you are utterly shocked when you get told off for doing it. The ushers would MUCH rather provide assistance where needed than ask people repeatedly to put away cameras. And, yes, the one on your phone counts as a camera, as well.
I highly recommend the valet parking. I is almost 3x self-​parking at the Poe, but once you do it, you will never go back. My mother used to do it & she didn’t care how much it cost. They used to put her in a chair while they got her old wreck out for her. She thought it was because she was my mom & was a little disappointed when I told her they treated everyone that well!

We’ve attended five events (opera, dance performances, concerts) at the Straz within the last several months and have really enjoyed the venue. It’s in a wonderful location on the river near the Tampa downtown and it’s easy to get to, park, and get out of. The auditoriums range from small to moderately large (seating 100 up to several thousand), have good acoustics, clear views of the stages, and adequate amenities (never enough restrooms, though).
The theater entrances are outdoors and clustered at the SW corner of the building. The will-​call window is also on the SW side (come early or there’s a long line). There are a few outdoor eating/​drinking areas also on the south side.

Staff was friendly. Lots of seating. I really can imagine watching a play or the orchestra there would be wonderful. I went for an large award ceremony.
When I arrived I was so disappointed to discover there was NO toilet paper in the bathroom stall… only to over hear the woman in the next stall also did not have toilet paper.
Ew, who wants to go to a fancy event, all gussied up, and not be able to wipe. A venue this large, should not have an issue like this. Put a bathroom attendant or have a staff member check on rotation. It wasn’t even the end of the night, but shortly before the ceremony started.

I have been to Straz Center countless time since my wife love performance art. I have been to the Carol Morsani Hall and Ferguson Hall many time. They even have a smaller hall like Jard Theater that I have not been to.
Our kid is involved in the production of the Opera Tampa in this performance art center. His production include Carmen, Tosca, La Bohime, and The Girl of the Golden West. We had driven him to practice and sit in the actual show. The show has very talented singers and actor. This production take time and they only show for two days.
Recently we have attended the Florida Orchestra with a small section of Madam Butterfly. The lead singer is the principal of St. Petersburg Opera. It is wonderful singing.
The center include a restaurant, education center and more. I glad we have somethings like this in town.

We’ve been coming to the David A. Straz Jr. Center for the Performing Arts for several years and always have a good time here. The Straz Center openned in 1987 and consists of 5 theaters, a rehearsal hall, retail shops, on-​site Maestros restaurants, and banquet facilities. The 5 individual theaters are Carol Morsani Hall with 2,600+ seats and continental seating on four levels, Ferguson Hall with 1,042 seats, the Jaeb Theater with 292 seats, the TECO Energy Foundation Theater with 250 seats, and the Shimberg Playhouse with 130 seats. There is no need to go to New York City to see Broadway Shows. The Straz Center hosts several travelling Broadway shows during the fall and spring seasons as part of their Best of Broadway Series and offers discounted pricing for purchasing the whole season all together. The Straz Center also hosts grand opera, concerts, comedians, and other performances. The Straz Center is located in downtown Tampa on a 9-​acre site on the Hillsborough River off the Riverwalk and is the second largest arts complex in the Southeast United States after the one in Miami. The Morsani Hall features excellent sight lines which combine with great acoustics. Getting to the Straz Center is relatively easy from the interstate’s Ashley exit and parking downtown is pretty quick as well with a $ 4 parking garage across the street with a covered walkway which is convenient if it’s raining. There is also a one level parking lot just across from the complex. Many restaurants are located within a 3 to 4 block radius so grabing a bite to eat before or after an event is convenient if you don’t choose to eat at one of Maestros Restaurants on-​site. There is plenty of drink and snack stations available with lines less than 6 minutes long. There is never a wait for the bathroom for the men’s room but there can be a wait for the ladies room. I’ve seen Dave Chappelle and Jerry Seinfeld at Ferguson Hall. I saw Sunset Boulevard, Grease, Nutcracker, Great Expectations, and Rent in the Morsani Hall. I saw a sweet interactive murder mystery play at the intimate Jaeb theater called Shear Madness back in the day. Tickets to shows here tend to be priced higher than average at $ 60-​$ 70 with service fees over $ 12 and wine at $ 8 per glass but that’s to be expected. I look forward to seeing musical comedy Murder for Two at the Jaeb theater playing March through May and comedian Joel McHale who’s coming on April 9^th.

The Straz Center is a great asset to the Tampa Bay community. It is nice that Tampa proper has a performing arts facility to encourage, inspire, and entertain.
I have been to two performances here and I was very pleased. I think the seating is great and there isn’t really a bad seat in the house. That being said, I feel that the ticket prices are a tad high but who I am to complain; I realize that supporting the arts is important. I am not a fan of the high service fees. I have heard that you could get discounted tickets the day of the event at the ticket window but have not tested this out.
There are several theaters within the Straz so be sure to check out the schedule. There is also a restaurant open to the public and where you can also reserve private parties. The Straz Center is beautifully maintained and well-​staffed and it is nice to have this venue very nearby to where I live.

I recently was here to see the lion king on Valentine’s Day. I must say parking is very easy at this venue, and being in Tampa that makes it a huge plus. The theater as well as lobby and bathroom were all well kept and clean. I liked the candy bar they had set up, that was unique. Also they different snack options with drinks was nice. The theater was walking distance from restaurants, and right on the water which was nice for socializing outside prior to the show.

I took my mom to The Straz Center for the Patti Labelle concert as her Valentine’s Day gift from me. The concert was held in Morsani Hall and I was able to get floor seats. Mom was delighted as she is a big fan of Patti Labelle and loves her music. The venue is always very well maintained, adequately staffed and well organized. The concert was great. Patti still has every bit of her voice and is full of energy. My mom was a little disappointed she did not sing more of her personal favorites but with a collection of work as large as Patti, it’s hard to fit it all into a 90 minute show. We enjoyed ourselves and our experience at The Straz. This was an awesome way to start the week.

I have had a love affair with TBPAC/​the Straz for many, many moons now. It is like a good, good friend every time I go and this last time was no different.
Judy Lisi has done an incredible job taking care of our needs in Tampa theatrically and everyone should thank her for making the Straz one of the stars of the Southeast!
This last trip was to the Jaeb, ALWAYS a hoot and trust me «Sex tips for a straight girl from a gay man» was no different! (Well, it was different – Just still a Hoot!!!)
Of course, the two large venues are incredible, although the last 4-​ish years or so there must’ve been a lighting change and now the lights that scan the crowd during a show are absolutely blinding at times. But, I just close my eyes and keep listening until I feel it change again. I wonder how the elderly feel about that, though???
Finally, the Jobsite stage should not be missed! They have, at times, somewhat unusual plays-​but if you keep an open mind-​as one always should when it concerns art-​it will always be thought provoking! It’s okay to prefer one show over another in any venue, but behind the curtain, the actors have put their heart and soul into each performance and it deserves to be acknowledged and respected and that’s what the Straz does so
well, they have something for everyone. Tampa should be very proud!

Love, love, love the Straz! Growing up in NY I’m used to the classic Broadway theaters, which I cherish, but it’s very nice to see touring companies and other events at the very beautiful Straz.
Unlike NY this newer facility is designed with comfort and perfect acoustics. Saw the Lion King and had amazing orchestra seats. Due to the show, they reconfigured their seating so that there were two aisles for the «animals «to enter the stage from the audience. One thing was very disappointing tonight, and while her intention was probably good, not her method. This woman attendant could be heard yelling at the patrons from outside the rest room. She sounded like a Gestapo drill sergeant yelling at patrons to hurry up. Definitely inappropriate. We all knew what to do and the timeframe of a show.

This place is absolutely gorgeous. It is well maintained, the area is nice and spacious. I came here to see the Lion King and the sound and view were impeccable from our mezzanine seats. The parking situation was easy, just park at Poe Garage for $ 6 and it’s a hop and skip away from the venue. I can’t wait to attend another event here.

While in town I saw «Silence! The Musical» at the Jaeb Theatre at the Straz. I was most impressed with the facility.
We saw the matinée. Because of that, I suppose, parking was wide open. We found a spot about two blocks away for free along the Hillsborough River. Our conversation noted that with the development going on, it was quite likely the block we parked on will not be free much longer. :)
The Jaeb was on the opposite side of the complex from whence we parked. That permitted us to see all the other theatres on our journey. This is really a nice facility.
The Jaeb itself is more like a dinner theatre/​club. Each table seemed to have four seats. We were center a few tables back. A good view. A single gentleman (boy) sat down at our empty chair right before the show began. There were plenty of seats left for this showing. Cocktails were available, but I was surprised no one came to take drink orders.
We were informed that photography was encouraged during the musical numbers as long as no flash was used. I liked that. They even announced a hashtag to use for social media.
There was room for live musicians to accompany the show. The set was fine. The actors were good. The show? Well, let’s just say it isn’t for everyone. :)
When I return to town, I will gladly see another show here.

Straz generally has enough of a variety of events and performances that keep me coming back at least once or twice a year.
While they don’t book nearly as many good headliners as Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater, they offer multiple venues and the main theater is much larger with three balcony levels above orchestra seating.
As Sara S. so accurately pointed out in her review, Straz does not allow a person to buy a seat or multiple seats online if it leaves a single seat open. This often forces potential customers to purchase inferior seats instead… and those better seats are often left unsold. I get the concept, but it should not apply after the tickets have been onsale for a reasonable time frame.
Also, I personally don’t understand why Straz employees selling beer, wine and alcohol are in such a hurry to wrap things up. Last night, I attended the Mel Brooks screening of the classic movie Blazing Saddles that began promptly at 7:30pm and I could not purchase a second drink at 8:05pm when walking out into the lobby. Considering the entire show ended at 10:25pm, that’s way too early to shut down beverage sales even though there was no intermission.
For this particular show last night, I found the audio to be inconsistent. At times, it was tough to clearly understand Mr. Brooks tell his phenomenal stories about the making of the film, his family and Hollywood legends because of the sound quality. This was also an issue for some with the actual movie, however I know every line in Blazing Saddles by heart… so I was fine for the film itself.
Just because you’re a comfortable venue and the only one of its kind in downtown Tampa, doesn’t mean you cannot make upgrades and do some things better to enhance the customer experience. A prime example is what Mr. Vinik has done with the arena a few blocks away.
Oh, and Straz really needs to come down off the insanely high «service fees» when buying tickets on their website. If it wasn’t simply because of my appreciation for Mel Brooks and the opportunity to hear him speak, I would have been turned away by the additional fees and chosen not to attend because the upcharge is such a high percentage of the actual ticket price.

I have seen Book of Mormon, Amy Schumer, and last night, Patton Oswalt here. All great experiences, nice view of the river that connects to River Walk, outdoor seating to relax at prior to your show. Alcohol stands inside and out (which is a plus for a comedy show!).
The only thing I dislike about this venue is the seats are awfully uncomfortable. If this venue updated their chairs they would get 5 stars!

Last night was not the perfect night to wear my black velvet-​bow in the front very high platform shoes. But they insisted to be taken to the Straz to watch «Mamma Mia!» despite the rain and the thunder. My accessories speak to me as if I was a Doctor Doolittle of a different kind… something like Doctor Do-​occesories? Doctor DooFrills. We argued while I did my make-​up. They won… only to complain much later about the water puddles and the lack of visibility once I sat down and the lights went off.
The Valet parking guys ran back and forth even in the rain. Solicitous. Friendly. Helpful. They had placed plastic chairs around for those who might need to sit down a bit when waiting for their car. Thoughtful. There were five different bars to buy from. No lines anywhere. I preordered my drink for the intermission. (Isn’t this service amazing?)
Double-​whiskey neat ($ 14 dollars worth) in hand (yes, you got me. I did mention in another review I am only drinking on weekends. I pretended it was a Saturday… it kind of sounds like Tuesday and can be confusing.) I began to enjoy the fabulous night. My velvet shoes walked those stairs like it was a perilous runaway toward the front row of the Mezzanine. I felt like Cinderella walking down to the ball, but in reverse and away. Fierce. That is until I met my unsuspected match.
An attendant insisted cell phones needed to be put away even when my green-​eyed one-​person clique was using it to appease the awaited beginning of the play. (The show began a tad late, but it was the first show of the five-​day season at the Straz. The ensemble must tweak and adjust accordingly.) The attendant, a woman who had taken a bit too much caffeine or was in need of a drink like mine, might have had her priorities wrong. She was inebriated with power. Fierce.
Interestingly enough… I was sitting in front of a pair of girlfriends who were mothers of? Let’s just round up the number of kids to… let’s say eight? They ranged between the ages of five to twelve. Was the play and the theme of three-​possible dads age appropriate? Perhaps… Might the mothers have thought of the possibility of not seating together in the corner chairs ignoring their kids feasible? Maybe. Could they have not loaded them with cocoa puffs? Perchance. But… they did not. All of these valid questions my shoes kept asking about. Needless to say, the attendant, who had had an issue with the glow of the cell phones bothering the other guests, was not bothered about the decibels of conversation among the kids. My shoes volunteered to help out with the problem. I ignored them.
The beginning of the musical experienced sound difficulty. Sophie began singing and one could barely hear her. The same happened with other cast members. Eventually it all got sorted out and fixed. The Morsani Hall never fails to provide with crisp and consistent sound. I have enjoyed many of the musicals they have presented in that particular hall or one of the smaller venues. The Straz is not limited to huge productions. It nests a restaurant, a coffee shop, a patio area, the fountain, the Riverwalk front. They work hard on the flow of patrons walking in and walking out. The staff aims to please, even if once in a while, one of them might be wired on too much caffeine.

Have been here multiple times and never disappointed. Got balcony seats which are definitely worth the few extra dollars. Went to see Mama Mia. I have been before but anxious to see again with different cast. Cindy Williams had small cameo part in this production.
Theater well managed with plenty of very cordial staff all around to assist as needed. Balcony seating was great. The whole ambiance of the theater is very pleasant and they have great shows offered all the time. We constantly watch what is coming up as this makes for a great afternoon or evening out.

A beautiful theater for smaller, more intimate concerts and shows. There’s really not a bad seat in the house. You’ll have plenty of leg room and a nice view from any seat. The mezzanine level is especially nice if you prefer an elevated view and can’t get a seat in the first few rows.
The theater showcases an impressive exterior with Mr. Straz’s name in lights and a beautiful walkway to the front door and plenty of seating outdoors by the water for enjoying cocktails before the show or during intermission. The rich red interior and massive staircase to the upper level with a stunning statue really complete the grandiose feel of a nice theater.
My only grievance with the theater is they don’t allow you to reserve seats together in a row if it leaves one seat empty. I understand they want to fill the theater as much as possible, but I’d also like to not have to sit several rows back when I know there are better seats available.
Tip: Make sure to leave extra time for parking and walking to the theater. I’d suggest arriving at least 30 minutes prior to the show starting. The line just to get into the parking lots get long and then you have to walk back through the lot and down the sidewalk to the front to stand in line to enter the building.