Orchestra seating
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Krannert Center for the Performing Arts Urbana-Champaign

4.8
·1k reviews·Urbana, United States

A premier performing arts venue on the UIUC campus, renowned for its world-class acoustics and diverse programming.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings

Most performances happen at night

CrowdMedium
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Orchestra seating

Krannert Center for the Performing Arts Urbana-Champaign

Best Time

Evenings

Most performances happen at night

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A premier performing arts venue on the UIUC campus, renowned for its world-class acoustics and diverse programming.

4.8
(1k reviews)

"The cacaphonies will caress your very bones!! The halls are breathtaking!!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎭 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Foellinger Great Hall

Foellinger Great Hall

Main Auditorium

Experience world-class acoustics, praised by conductors, for orchestral and musical performances.

Instagram
Tyron Festival Theatre

Tyron Festival Theatre

Outdoor Amphitheater

Enjoy open-air performances and events during warmer months in this unique setting.

Instagram
Student Productions

Student Productions

Various Theaters

Witness the talent of UIUC students in theater, opera, and dance, offering a vibrant glimpse into emerging artists.

Instagram+1
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Planning Your Visit

Book Ahead for Popular Shows

The Krannert Center hosts a diverse range of performances, from student productions to world-renowned artists. For major events, especially those featuring well-known musicians or theater groups, booking tickets in advance is highly recommended to secure your spot. Instagram+1

Explore Campus & Local Eats

While at the Krannert Center, take time to explore the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign campus. Nearby, you'll find a variety of restaurants, though some reviewers note they may lack atmosphere. Free street parking is available after 6 PM. Reddit

Best Times

When
Evenings
Why
Most performances happen at night
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
More diverse show schedules
Crowd
High
When
During University Semesters
Why
Peak student and professional shows
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Katie Buzard, editor of Illinois Public Media's Clef Notes🎼, shares her expert picks for each month of the 2025 - 2026 season at the Krannert Center for the Performing Arts✨ ✨ You can't go wrong with Katie's advice! 👀 And keep your eyes peeled for Illinois Classical's all-new social accounts appearing at the end of this week! #classicalmusic #classicalmusictiktok #uofi #illinois #universityofillin...
@ilpublicmedia
139 likes • 2.1K views

🎭 Check the Schedule

Visit the Krannert Center website for a full list of upcoming performances, from concerts to plays. Instagram

🅿️ Parking Perks

Street parking around the venue is free after 6 PM, a great tip for evening shows. Reddit

Samantha Fish at the Ellnora Guitar Festival in Urbana Champaign at The Krannert Center 9/5/2025 #krannertcenter #samanthafish #samanthafishmusic #livemusic #concerts
@peterdoyleloveslivemusic
571 likes • 19.5K views
The rehearsal is on! Here are two excerpts from the Respighi sonata we’re playing tonight: 1000000 notes, a fabulous piano, and great acoustics at the Krannert Center for the Performing Arts. So excited for our opening night in Champaign-Urbana!
anne_sophie_mutter
2.4K likes • 43.1K views

🚶 Campus Exploration

Allow extra time to wander the beautiful UIUC campus before or after your show. Reddit

☕ On-site Refreshments

The center has a cafe, restaurant, and bar for pre-show dining and drinks. Instagram

For this year’s World Theatre Day, get insight on the importance of the art from the students studying theatre here at Krannert Center for the Performing Arts at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. What does theatre mean to you? #worldtheatreday #worldtheatre #theatre #art #perform #performance @illinoistheatre @lyrictheatreillinois @danceatillinois @smilepolitely @illinois1867 @fa...
krannertcenter
50 likes • 2.9K views

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. Instagram

🅿️ Parking Perks

Street parking around the venue is free after 6 PM, a great tip for evening shows. Reddit

🚶 Campus Exploration

Allow extra time to wander the beautiful UIUC campus before or after your show. Reddit

☕ On-site Refreshments

The center has a cafe, restaurant, and bar for pre-show dining and drinks. Instagram

🎟️ Book in Advance

Popular shows sell out quickly, so secure your tickets early for the best seats. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.8
(1k reviews)

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

Exceptional acoustics
Impressive architecture
Diverse performances

What People Dislike

Occasional security delays
Nearby dining atmosphere

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. Reddit

Yes, free street parking is available on surrounding streets after 6 PM. For daytime events, check university parking regulations or nearby lots. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🎫 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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

The Krannert Center may implement security checks, especially for larger events. Be prepared for potential bag checks and follow the instructions of security personnel. Reddit

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. Instagram

🎫 🎭 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. Instagram+4

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. Instagram

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. Instagram+1

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. Reddit

Yes, the Krannert Center has a cafe, restaurant, and bar where you can enjoy refreshments before or during intermissions of shows. Instagram

📸 📸 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. Instagram

The architecture of the Krannert Center itself is impressive. The surrounding UIUC campus also offers many picturesque locations for photos, especially during different seasons. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Krannert Center can be a wonderful experience for families, especially if you catch a performance geared towards younger audiences or a family-friendly musical. While many shows are for mature audiences, the venue itself is spacious and engaging. Instagram Consider checking the schedule for specific family programming or student matinees that might be more suitable for children. Instagram

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. Instagram

🎶 Music Aficionados

For music lovers, the Krannert Center is a must-visit, particularly for its Foellinger Great Hall. The hall's acoustics are legendary, drawing praise from professional musicians and conductors alike for their clarity and richness. Reddit You can catch performances by the Champaign-Urbana Symphony Orchestra, visiting artists, and even student ensembles showcasing diverse genres. Instagram

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. Instagram+1 The variety ensures that whether you prefer classical, jazz, or contemporary music, you're likely to find a compelling performance. Instagram

🎭 Theater & Dance Enthusiasts

The Krannert Center is a premier destination for theater and dance. It hosts a variety of productions, from classic plays to contemporary works, often featuring talented UIUC theater students. Instagram+1 The different performance spaces, like the Colwell Playhouse and Studio Theatre, offer intimate settings for dramatic performances. Instagram

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. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Architectural Marvel of Krannert Center

The Krannert Center for the Performing Arts, built in 1968, is an architectural gem on the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign campus. Its design encompasses multiple performance spaces, each with unique characteristics. The Foellinger Great Hall is particularly renowned for its exceptional acoustics, drawing comparisons to top concert halls worldwide. InstagramReddit

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. Instagram

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. InstagramReddit

A Hub for Diverse Performances

The Krannert Center is a vibrant nexus for a wide spectrum of performing arts. It proudly showcases the talents of UIUC students in theater, opera, and dance, providing them with professional-level performance opportunities. Instagram+1 These student productions offer an exciting glimpse into the future of the arts and are often praised for their energy and creativity. Instagram

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. Instagram+2 This commitment to presenting a broad range of artistic expressions makes the Krannert Center a vital cultural asset for Champaign-Urbana. Reddit

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. Instagram

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