Historic Civic Auditorium in Jacksonville in 1969

Times Union Center For The Performing Arts

Times-Union Center for the Performing Arts Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Jacksonville Historical Sites Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

The Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts, formerly the Times-Union Center for the Performing Arts, stands as a cultural cornerstone along the scenic St. Johns River in downtown Jacksonville, Florida. Renowned for its architectural distinction, exceptional acoustics, and diverse programming, the center has evolved from a mid-20th-century civic auditorium into a state-of-the-art complex. It houses three premier venues—Moran Theater, Jacoby Symphony Hall, and Terry Theater—each offering unique artistic experiences. Whether you are seeking Broadway productions, symphonies, ballets, or community events, this guide provides essential information on visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, architectural highlights, travel tips, and local historical sites to help you plan an enriching visit.

For up-to-date details and additional insights, consult resources like Visit Jacksonville, Wikipedia, and the FSCJ Artist Series.

Introduction
Historical Overview
Architectural Design and Features
Visiting Hours and Ticketing
Travel Tips and Nearby Attractions
Special Events and Guided Tours
Legacy and Impact
Jacksonville Confederate Monument: History & Visiting Info
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
References and Further Reading

Historical Overview

Origins and Early Development (1950s–1962)

The Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts originated from the city’s mid-century ambition to revitalize its riverfront and establish a major cultural landmark. Approved in 1955, the initial civic auditorium opened on September 16, 1962, as a multipurpose venue hosting concerts, conventions, and community events. Its riverfront location quickly made it a focal point of Jacksonville’s cultural life (morantheatre.com; Wikipedia).

Expansion and Cultural Significance (1962–1990s)

Throughout the 1960s to 1980s, the venue became the city’s central arts hub, hosting everything from Broadway shows and classical concerts to ballets and community celebrations. The Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra made the auditorium its home in the early 1980s, further enhancing its prestige and drawing renowned national and international acts (morantheatre.com).

Major Renovation and Transformation (1994–1997)

By the 1990s, the need for modernization led to a comprehensive renovation. Acquiring naming rights in 1994, The Florida Times-Union helped fund the transformation. The project, led by KBJ Architects and acousticians Kirkegaard Associates, reimagined the center as a modern complex featuring the Moran Theater, Jacoby Symphony Hall, and Terry Theater. Historic elements, such as marble columns from the Barnett National Bank Building, were incorporated into the new design (Wikipedia). The grand reopening took place in 1997.

Modern Era and Name Change (1997–Present)

The center has since hosted a wide variety of performances, including major Broadway tours, symphonies, student showcases like the annual “Extravaganza,” and numerous community events. In 2022, the venue was renamed the Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts, reflecting its evolving identity and continued importance to the city (Wikipedia; logo-timeline.fandom.com).

Architectural Design and Features

Venue Composition and Capacity

Moran Theater: Seats 2,850 and is designed for large productions, including Broadway tours, concerts, operas, and ballets. Its reconfigured levels and sidewall seating enhance intimacy and sightlines (Fisher Dachs Associates).
Jacoby Symphony Hall: With 1,800 seats across three tiers, it’s modeled after classic European concert halls for outstanding acoustics and primarily hosts the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra (BroadwayWorld).
Terry Theater: Accommodates around 600 guests in a flexible setting ideal for smaller productions and community events (Studio9 Architecture).

Acoustics and Amenities

The center is lauded for its acoustical excellence, with thick, carefully shaped walls, acoustically isolated systems, and material choices that optimize sound (Studio9 Architecture). Public spaces, including the Grand Lobby with its river views and historic marble columns, provide a welcoming environment for events and gatherings.

Accessibility

The Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts is fully ADA-compliant, offering wheelchair-accessible entrances, seating, elevators, and restrooms. Assistive listening devices and interpreter services are available, and service animals are welcome (Family Destinations Guide).

Visiting Hours and Ticketing

Box Office Hours: Monday–Friday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM; opens two hours before showtimes on event days.
Event Hours: Vary by performance; check the official calendar for details.
Ticket Purchase: Buy tickets online, by phone, or in person. Prices range from $20 for smaller shows to over $100 for premium events. Discounts may be available for seniors, students, and groups.
Accessibility Booking: Contact the box office ahead for seating or special accommodations (DTJax).

Travel Tips and Nearby Attractions

Location: 300 Water Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202—easily accessible by car, public transit, or rideshare.
Parking: On-site garage and nearby lots; accessible parking spaces available.
Nearby Attractions: Explore the Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville, Friendship Fountain, St. Johns River Park, and local dining options.
Hotels: The Hampton Inn Jacksonville – I-95 Central and Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront are within walking distance (Family Destinations Guide).

Special Events and Guided Tours

Guided Tours: Periodically available, offering behind-the-scenes access and architectural insights—contact the box office for schedules.
Annual Events: Highlights include the “Extravaganza” student showcase and seasonal performances.
Private Events: The center’s venues and lobbies are available for weddings, corporate functions, and receptions.

Legacy and Impact

The Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts has shaped the city’s cultural identity for over six decades. Its venues have hosted world-class performances and fostered local talent, while educational programs and outreach have enriched the community. The center’s economic and social contributions are evident in downtown revitalization, increased tourism, and a vibrant arts scene (morantheatre.com; Tickets Jaguars).

Jacksonville Confederate Monument: History and Visitor Information

Historical Background

The Jacksonville Confederate Monument, erected in 1914 in Hemming Park, commemorates local Confederate soldiers and the city’s Civil War heritage. While emblematic of early 20th-century memorial trends, the monument today is a focal point for reflection on historical memory and civic identity.

Visiting Details

Location: Hemming Park, downtown Jacksonville.
Hours: Open daily from dawn to dusk; free admission.
Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible paths and seating.
Nearby Sites: Jacksonville Public Library, Museum of Contemporary Art, historic Main Street district.
Photography and Tours: Photography is permitted; guided walking tours are occasionally offered via local historical societies.

For more, visit Jacksonville Historical Sites, Visit Jacksonville, and Florida Civil War Monuments.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts visiting hours?
A: Monday–Friday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM; open two hours before performances on event days. Check the official website for event-specific times.

Q: How do I purchase tickets?
A: Tickets are available online, by phone, or at the box office. Early purchase is recommended for popular events.

Q: Is the center wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, ADA-compliant features include accessible entrances, seating, restrooms, elevators, and assistive listening devices.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, guided tours are periodically offered—contact the box office for current schedules.

Q: What other attractions are nearby?
A: The Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville, riverfront parks, and a variety of downtown restaurants are within walking distance.

Q: Is there an admission fee for the Jacksonville Confederate Monument?
A: No, the monument is located in a public park and is free to visit.

Visuals and Media

Exterior View: High-resolution images of the center’s riverfront façade with alt text “Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts riverfront view.”
Theater Interiors: Photos of Moran Theater, Jacoby Symphony Hall, and Terry Theater with descriptive alt tags.
Historic Features: Images of the 1913 marble columns in the lobby.
Maps: Snippet showing center location and nearby parking.
Confederate Monument: Photos of the monument in Hemming Park with appropriate alt text.

Plan Your Visit

To make the most of your Jacksonville arts experience:

Download the Audiala app for up-to-date event listings and ticket information.
Check DTJax and Studio9 Architecture for more planning resources.
Explore related articles and guides about Jacksonville’s arts scene and historic sites.
Follow the center and local historical societies on social media for the latest news and event updates.