Shows in Jacksonville, Florida

Jacksonville’s theater options are right up there with some of the best in the country. The city’s historically rich venues make seeing a show in Jacksonville a memorable experience, and excellent shows are almost always in town.

The Florida Theatre opened in the 1920s as a movie palace. For sixty cents, the first guests at the theater could see a newsreel, a comedy, a cartoon, a live orchestra performance and the feature film. Like many theaters from its time, the Florida Theatre is famous for its ornate, lavish architecture. Elvis performed at the Florida Theater in the 1950s and was famously warned by a Jacksonville judge not to move too suggestively on the stage and “impair the morals of minors” who might be watching. The theater, which had lost some of its luster over time, closed in 1980. A movement to save the Florida Theatre began, and enough money was raised to reopen the theater in 1983. The theater is on the National Register of Historic Places. Celebrities like Neil deGrasse Tyson and Bill Maher have held events at the theater, and the Florida Theatre is also frequently used as a concert venue.

The Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts is the home of Broadway in Jacksonville. Located on the bank of the St. Johns River, the building opened in 1962 and was renovated from 1995 to 1997. The renovations dramatically improved the building’s acoustics. Theater events take place in the complex’s main venue: the Moran Theater, which seats nearly 3000 guests. 

What’s the best place to see a show in Jacksonville?

If you’re looking for Broadway, the Moran Theater at the Times-Union Center is the place to go. In terms of architecture, the Florida Theatre is one of the nicest in the country, and it’s definitely worth seeing at least once.

What shows can I see in Jacksonville this weekend?

Scroll up to the “All Shows in Jacksonville” section to see what shows are happening in Jacksonville over the weekend.

Tips for attending shows in Jacksonville

The Jacksonville Center doesn’t have its own parking area, but you can park in a number of downtown locations, including the Water Street garage, on the corner of Water and Broad Streets. Downtown Jacksonville is also accessible by bus.

How much will I pay to see a show in Jacksonville?

Jacksonville is one of the top theater destinations in the country, with a wide variety of venues and performances. Fans of all types are able to find a price point they’re comfortable with. For a look at ticket prices for upcoming theater, scroll to the top of the page and see events today, this weekend, and this week.

What show should I see while I’m in Jacksonville?

You should be able to find something no matter when you’re in town. Explore the listings above to see what theater is in Jacksonville tonight, this weekend, and further in the future. You can also visit our Theater Page for all available shows.