
Krannert Center for the Performing Arts Urbana-Champaign
A premier performing arts venue on the UIUC campus, renowned for its world-class acoustics and diverse programming.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Most performances happen at night

Krannert Center for the Performing Arts Urbana-Champaign
Best Time
Most performances happen at night

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A premier performing arts venue on the UIUC campus, renowned for its world-class acoustics and diverse programming.
"The cacaphonies will caress your very bones!! The halls are breathtaking!!"

🎭 Check the Schedule
Visit the Krannert Center website for a full list of upcoming performances, from concerts to plays.
🅿️ Parking Perks
Street parking around the venue is free after 6 PM, a great tip for evening shows.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Foellinger Great Hall
Main Auditorium
Experience world-class acoustics, praised by conductors, for orchestral and musical performances.

Tyron Festival Theatre
Outdoor Amphitheater
Enjoy open-air performances and events during warmer months in this unique setting.

Student Productions
Various Theaters
Witness the talent of UIUC students in theater, opera, and dance, offering a vibrant glimpse into emerging artists.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Popular Shows
Explore Campus & Local Eats
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎭 Check the Schedule
Visit the Krannert Center website for a full list of upcoming performances, from concerts to plays.
🅿️ Parking Perks
Street parking around the venue is free after 6 PM, a great tip for evening shows.
🚶 Campus Exploration
Allow extra time to wander the beautiful UIUC campus before or after your show.
☕ On-site Refreshments
The center has a cafe, restaurant, and bar for pre-show dining and drinks.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎭 Check the Schedule
Visit the Krannert Center website for a full list of upcoming performances, from concerts to plays.
🅿️ Parking Perks
Street parking around the venue is free after 6 PM, a great tip for evening shows.
🚶 Campus Exploration
Allow extra time to wander the beautiful UIUC campus before or after your show.
☕ On-site Refreshments
The center has a cafe, restaurant, and bar for pre-show dining and drinks.
🎟️ Book in Advance
Popular shows sell out quickly, so secure your tickets early for the best seats.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Krannert Center for its exceptional acoustics, particularly in the Foellinger Great Hall, and its impressive architectural design. It's celebrated as a vital cultural hub offering a diverse range of high-quality performances, from student productions to world-renowned artists. Some minor drawbacks include potential delays due to security checks and the sometimes uninspiring atmosphere of nearby dining options.
"Just saw Josh Johnson live! Seeing an outstanding performer on stage vs. on YouTube is like seeing a painting in a museum vs. watching the artist create a masterpiece right before your eyes. This holds true of this young standup comic, who is well on the way of joining comedy legends Redd Foxx, Richard Pryor, Flip Wilson, and Eddie Murphy. All groundbreaking comedians in their own right, all having broken barriers for up and coming artists."
Lance Sheridan
"Huge space. The venue is pretty cool! There is free parking on the surrounding streets after 6pm. It's definitely a college town with lots of restaurants around that serve a variety of foods but don't have a lot of atmosphere.
The Krannert theater itself is really big. Lots of levels and side balcony seating. It felt clean and bright, and very accessible. There is odd seating behind the stage.
We enjoyed a good show, though it was a late start due to a security check they had everyone go through. One of the volunteers told me that they hadn't done security like that before so they had misjudged the start time. I trust they will figure that out."
Simon Levin
"The cacaphonies will caress your very bones!! The halls are breathtaking!! the director of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra once whispered that the acoustics here were superior to their hometown hall! There's always local & university orchestras doing STUNNING performances (once heard a violin rocket launch). They do beautiful dances for people with Parkinson's and also occasionally have a behemoth of their instrument show up to bedazzled! Check the website!"
Aarya Mehta
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Krannert Center is located on the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign campus. It's accessible by car, with street parking available after 6 PM. Public transportation options within Urbana-Champaign can also take you close to the venue.
Yes, free street parking is available on surrounding streets after 6 PM. For daytime events, check university parking regulations or nearby lots.
Local bus routes serve the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign campus, providing convenient access to the Krannert Center. Check the Champaign-Urbana Mass Transit District (CUMTD) for specific routes and schedules.
The Krannert Center is designed to be accessible. It offers accessible seating, restrooms, and other facilities. It's always a good idea to contact the venue directly if you have specific accessibility needs.
The Krannert Center is a prominent landmark on the UIUC campus. Using a campus map or GPS will help you find it easily. Many campus tours also include a stop or pass by the center.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets can be purchased online through the official Krannert Center for the Performing Arts website, by phone, or in person at the Krannert Center Box Office.
The Krannert Center itself is generally open for performances and events. The Box Office hours typically vary, so it's best to check their website for the most up-to-date information on operating hours.
Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and groups. Check the Krannert Center website or contact the box office for details on any available promotions or special pricing.
The Krannert Center may implement security checks, especially for larger events. Be prepared for potential bag checks and follow the instructions of security personnel.
For popular performances, it's highly recommended to purchase tickets in advance. However, if tickets are still available, you may be able to purchase them at the box office on the day of the show.
🎫 🎭 Onsite Experience
The Krannert Center hosts a wide array of performances, including music concerts, theater productions, dance performances, opera, and special events featuring both university talent and world-renowned artists.
The Krannert Center features multiple venues, including the Foellinger Great Hall, Tyron Festival Theatre, Colwell Playhouse, Studio Theatre, and Ampitheatre, each offering a unique performance environment.
Yes, the Krannert Center often offers behind-the-scenes tours of its facilities, including rehearsal spaces and backstage areas. Check their schedule for tour availability.
The Krannert Center is described as a cultural oasis with breathtaking halls and a vibrant atmosphere, especially during performances. It's a hub for arts and culture on campus.
Yes, the Krannert Center has a cafe, restaurant, and bar where you can enjoy refreshments before or during intermissions of shows.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, photography and videography are prohibited during performances to avoid disturbing the artists and audience. Check with venue staff or signage for specific policies.
The architecture of the Krannert Center itself is impressive. The surrounding UIUC campus also offers many picturesque locations for photos, especially during different seasons.
Access to backstage and rehearsal areas is typically restricted to authorized personnel or during specific tours. Respect these restrictions to ensure the privacy and security of performers.
Keep an eye out for special events or tours that might offer unique photo opportunities. The grandeur of the main halls can make for striking images.
If photography is permitted during certain events (like rehearsals or special open houses), a camera with good low-light performance and a versatile lens would be beneficial. However, always prioritize respecting the performance environment.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Allowing extra time to explore the campus before a show can also add to the family adventure. The sheer scale of the Krannert Center might impress younger visitors, and the on-site cafe offers convenient options for snacks.
🎶 Music Aficionados
Keep an eye out for performances by renowned musicians like Pablo Ziegler or jazz artists such as Terence Blanchard, who have graced the Krannert Center stage. The variety ensures that whether you prefer classical, jazz, or contemporary music, you're likely to find a compelling performance.
🎭 Theater & Dance Enthusiasts
Dance performances, including those by visiting companies or university dance departments, are also a staple. The Krannert Center's commitment to showcasing diverse artistic expressions means you can expect high-quality productions that are both thought-provoking and visually stunning.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Marvel of Krannert Center
Beyond the main hall, the center includes the Tyron Festival Theatre, an outdoor amphitheater perfect for summer performances, and several other intimate spaces like the Colwell Playhouse and Studio Theatre. The building's design facilitates a seamless flow between these venues, creating a dynamic environment for artists and audiences alike.
Visitors often remark on the 'breathtaking halls' and the overall impressive scale of the Krannert Center. Taking a behind-the-scenes tour can offer a deeper appreciation for the intricate design and functionality of this significant cultural landmark.
A Hub for Diverse Performances
Beyond university showcases, the Krannert Center attracts acclaimed national and international artists. From Grammy-winning musicians like Terence Blanchard and Pablo Ziegler to renowned theater companies and dance troupes, the programming is consistently diverse and high-caliber. This commitment to presenting a broad range of artistic expressions makes the Krannert Center a vital cultural asset for Champaign-Urbana.
Whether you're interested in classical music, contemporary theater, jazz, or ballet, the Krannert Center's schedule is likely to have something to captivate you. Checking their website regularly is key to discovering the full breadth of performances on offer.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit