
Power Center for the Performing Arts Ann Arbor
A premier venue on the UMich campus showcasing exceptional student and professional performing arts in a striking brutalist setting.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Student performances shine bright

Power Center for the Performing Arts Ann Arbor
Best Time
Student performances shine bright
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A premier venue on the UMich campus showcasing exceptional student and professional performing arts in a striking brutalist setting.
"Every seat offers a fantastic view, truly connecting you to the performance."

🚗 Convenient Parking
Utilize the nearby parking deck, often with special event rates for a hassle-free arrival.
🪑 Comfortable Seating
Enjoy great views from almost any seat, even the back rows, thanks to thoughtful design.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
University of Michigan Musical Theatre
Main Stage
Witness the exceptional talent of UMich students in Broadway-caliber productions.
Dance Performances
Main Stage
Experience captivating choreography from UMich Dance and visiting companies.
Brutalist Architecture
Lobby and Exterior
Admire the dramatic concrete forms and unique, spacious lobby design.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Popular Shows
Embrace the Brutalist Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Convenient Parking
Utilize the nearby parking deck, often with special event rates for a hassle-free arrival.
🪑 Comfortable Seating
Enjoy great views from almost any seat, even the back rows, thanks to thoughtful design.
🎶 Check UMich Schedule
Look for performances by the University of Michigan's renowned musical theatre and dance departments.
🔊 Top-Notch Sound & Light
Expect excellent acoustics and lighting that enhance every performance.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Convenient Parking
Utilize the nearby parking deck, often with special event rates for a hassle-free arrival.
🪑 Comfortable Seating
Enjoy great views from almost any seat, even the back rows, thanks to thoughtful design.
🎶 Check UMich Schedule
Look for performances by the University of Michigan's renowned musical theatre and dance departments.
🔊 Top-Notch Sound & Light
Expect excellent acoustics and lighting that enhance every performance.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Power Center for its impressive venue and the high caliber of talent, particularly from the University of Michigan's performing arts programs. The thoughtful stadium seating ensures great views from nearly every spot, making for an immersive experience. While the brutalist architecture is noted, some feel the venue could benefit from updates.
"Great venue for live performances. The brutalist architecture makes for a dramatic lobby and sweeping concrete forms. The seating feels close to the stage from most places in the venue. Parking deck (with special event rates) make for a convenient experience if you are in a hurry."
David Stone
"Power Center for the Performing Arts: Impressive Venue, Incredible Talent!
My wife and I recently had the pleasure of seeing "Titanic: The Musical" at the Power Center, and we were thoroughly impressed! We were seated in the back row of the lower bowl, and the view was still fantastic. It really speaks to the thoughtful design of this theater that even from the back, you feel connected to the performance.
For a venue that holds so many people, it seems like every seat truly offers a great vantage point. We were completely captivated by the production and the immense talent on display, especially the performers from the University of Michigan musical theater program. Their caliber is truly exceptional!
We will absolutely be returning to the Power Center for the Performing Arts to experience more of the high-quality performances they host. It's a wonderful space to enjoy world-class talent."
Alex Hall
"We have seen Young People Theatre performances many times and professional stage play, Othello, with Patrick Stuart. Seating is good no matter where you sit. Sound and lighting are top notch! Seats are comfortable. You won’t be disappointed seeing any performance here."
Jeffrey Stott
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Power Center is located on the University of Michigan campus. It's easily accessible by car, with a convenient underground parking deck nearby. Public transportation options are also available within Ann Arbor.
Yes, there is an underground parking deck adjacent to the Power Center, which often has special event rates.
If you are on the University of Michigan campus or in downtown Ann Arbor, walking to the Power Center is a pleasant option. The campus is very walkable.
If coming from out of town, driving is common. Alternatively, you can fly into Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW) and take a shuttle or rideshare to Ann Arbor.
Ann Arbor has public transportation services, and rideshare options are readily available. The venue itself is generally accessible.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets are typically available through the official University of Michigan Performing Arts website or at the venue's box office. For specific touring shows, check their respective ticketing platforms.
It's highly recommended to purchase tickets in advance, especially for performances by the University of Michigan's musical theatre program, as they often sell out.
Box office hours can vary, but they are generally open during business hours on weekdays and may have extended hours on performance days. It's best to check the official website for the most current information.
Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or groups. Check the specific performance details or contact the box office for information on potential discounts.
Latecomers may be seated at an appropriate break in the performance to minimize disruption. It's always best to arrive at least 15-30 minutes before showtime.
🎫 📍 Onsite Experience
The Power Center offers stadium-style seating, ensuring good sightlines from most locations. Even seats in the back provide a connected view of the stage.
The venue is generally accessible, with designated seating areas. However, some older facilities like lower-level restrooms might have stair access. Inquire directly about specific needs.
The Power Center is known for its striking brutalist architecture, featuring poured concrete walls and a dramatic, spacious lobby.
Restrooms are available, though some on the lower level may require navigating stairs. Check for elevator access if needed.
Photography and videography are typically prohibited during performances to avoid distracting the performers and audience. Check venue policies for specific events.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Concessions are usually available for purchase, offering snacks and beverages. For a full meal, explore the many dining options in downtown Ann Arbor before or after the show.
Downtown Ann Arbor, a short walk away, offers a diverse range of restaurants, from casual eateries to upscale dining. Consider exploring options for various cuisines.
Generally, outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the theater. It's best to consume them before entering.
Many visitors enjoy dining in downtown Ann Arbor before a performance. The area offers a vibrant culinary scene with options to suit every taste.
Concessions usually offer a selection of soft drinks, water, coffee, and sometimes alcoholic beverages like beer and wine, depending on venue policy.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography and videography are generally not permitted during performances to ensure the best experience for everyone.
The brutalist architecture itself offers unique angles for photos. The surrounding University of Michigan campus also provides scenic backdrops.
The spacious and architecturally interesting lobby is usually a great place for photos before or after a show, provided it doesn't interfere with other patrons.
Professional photography without prior authorization is typically not allowed, especially during performances. Always check the venue's specific policy.
Focus on the bold lines of the brutalist design, the scale of the lobby, and the energy of the crowd before a show.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Opt for weekend matinee performances for more kid-friendly timing. The venue's stadium seating ensures that even shorter viewers have a good vantage point, making the experience enjoyable for everyone. Consider checking the schedule for specific youth-oriented programming or performances by the Young People's Theatre.
🎭 Theatre & Dance Enthusiasts
Keep an eye on the schedule for both student-led performances and touring professional companies. The venue's excellent acoustics and sightlines mean you'll have a superb viewing experience regardless of your seat location.
🏛️ Architecture Aficionados
Take time to appreciate the building's scale and geometric forms. While the focus is on the performances, the venue itself is a notable piece of mid-century modern architecture worth exploring.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Power Center's Architectural Identity
This architectural style, popular in the mid-20th century, emphasizes raw concrete, geometric forms, and a monumental scale. The Power Center’s design is a significant example of this movement on the University of Michigan campus, offering a stark contrast to more traditional campus buildings. It’s a space that commands attention and provides a dramatic backdrop for the artistic events held within.
Visitors often comment on how the seating arrangements, even in the back rows, offer excellent views, a testament to the thoughtful design that prioritizes the audience's experience alongside the striking architecture.
University of Michigan's Performing Arts Prowess
Audiences can expect to see high-caliber productions, from full-scale musical theatre spectacles to innovative contemporary dance performances. The talent on display is consistently praised, with many reviewers highlighting the exceptional skill and professionalism of the student performers. Seeing these emerging artists is a major draw for many visitors.
Beyond SMTD productions, the Power Center also hosts touring professional companies, bringing world-class theatre, music, and dance to Ann Arbor. This dual role makes it a vital hub for both academic artistic development and broader cultural enrichment in the region.
Navigating Ann Arbor for Your Visit
For those driving, the underground parking deck is a significant convenience, especially on busy performance nights. It helps alleviate the stress of finding parking and allows you to get to your seat with ease.
If you're looking to immerse yourself in the local scene, Ann Arbor also boasts a lively music venue circuit, including places like The Ark and The Blind Pig, which are worth exploring if you have extra time.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit