Theatre of Living Arts
Some events here are sold only by the venue or the club. Theatre of Living Arts official site
Upcoming shows and schedule
There are currently no confirmed tour dates on the immediate calendar for Theatre of Living Arts. Check back regularly as newly announced tour legs and ticket allocations are added following promoter releases.
Area and accommodation
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Upcoming events at Theatre of Living Arts
No upcoming events listed
There are currently no tickets listed for this venue. Check back soon for newly announced tour dates.
What time do doors open at Theatre of Living Arts?
When planning your visit to the Theatre of Living Arts, it's advisable to check the specific event details for door opening times, as these can vary.
Door times vary by event — check your ticket or the venue's own website on the day.
About Theatre of Living Arts: Layout, History & Architecture
Originally opening as a movie palace in 1908, the building that now houses the Theatre of Living Arts underwent significant transformation to become a primary live music destination on Philadelphia's South Street. While retaining some architectural echoes of its early 20th-century cinema origins, the venue now operates with a flexible capacity of approximately 1,000 patrons. The main floor is a large, flat standing area, offering direct proximity to the stage, which can lead to dense crowds during popular events. A smaller, elevated balcony at the rear provides an alternative viewing experience with generally unobstructed sightlines, albeit at a greater distance from the performance.
Acoustically, the hall, a converted cinema space, benefits from its relatively contained dimensions. While not an acoustically engineered concert hall, the sound is generally direct and impactful, relying heavily on a robust installed PA system to deliver clarity across the main floor and balcony. The lower ceiling of the standing room area contributes to a warm, immersive sound profile, though the overall sonic experience can vary significantly based on the specific production and genre.
The Live Experience & Current Schedule
Entering the venue, patrons pass through a standard security checkpoint into a relatively compact foyer before accessing the main performance space. Bars are typically available on both the main floor and the balcony level, offering standard beverage selections. The standing pit atmosphere can be quite energetic and intimate, particularly for sold-out shows, with crowd density being a significant factor in one's personal space and sightline experience. The rear balcony offers a more relaxed viewing option, providing a clearer, elevated perspective of the stage. With 0 live performances scheduled, upcoming entry prices start from standard pricing. The next confirmed event on the calendar is upcoming live performances on soon.
How do I get to Theatre of Living Arts, Philadelphia?
Theatre of Living Arts is at 334 South St, Philadelphia, PA 19147, USA. Open in Google Maps
By train and tube
For those traveling to the Theatre of Living Arts via Amtrak or regional rail, the primary station to consider is 30th Street Station, Philadelphia's central hub for intercity rail travel. From 30th Street Station, you can easily connect to the SEPTA Market-Frankford Line (MFL) or take a short taxi or rideshare to reach the venue. The Market-Frankford Line, accessible from the station's lower level, provides frequent service eastbound towards Frankford. Alighting at the 5th Street/Independence Hall station places you within a brief walking distance of the TLA. The walk from the 5th Street station typically takes around 5-10 minutes, covering approximately 400-800 meters depending on your exact route. Amtrak offers frequent service from major US cities like New York, Boston, and Washington D.C., with journey times varying significantly based on origin. 30th Street Station is a full-service facility, offering ticket counters, restrooms, and accessible facilities.
By bus
Reaching the Theatre of Living Arts by bus is a convenient option, with several SEPTA bus routes serving the immediate vicinity. Key bus routes that stop near the venue include the 21, 42, and 57, among others. These routes connect various neighborhoods and downtown areas to the vibrant South Street corridor where the TLA is located. The 21 and 42 buses are particularly useful for travel across the city, while the 57 offers north-south service. For those coming from further afield or who prefer late-night travel, checking SEPTA's schedule for any late-night or 24-hour routes that might serve the area is recommended, although direct 24-hour service directly to the TLA's doorstep can be limited. Journey times from the city center are generally short, often under 20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. SEPTA is the primary transit authority responsible for bus services in Philadelphia and surrounding counties.
By car and parking
Driving to the Theatre of Living Arts places you in the heart of Philadelphia's entertainment district, making it accessible via major roadways. From I-95, take exit 22 for I-676 West toward Central Philadelphia, then follow signs for local streets to reach South Street. If approaching from the Schuylkill Expressway (I-76), take the exit for I-676 East and then navigate towards South Street. The nearest ZIP code for GPS navigation is typically 19147. Parking options in the vicinity include several paid parking garages and street parking, though the latter can be scarce and time-limited. Expect to pay approximately $15-$30 or more for event parking in nearby garages, with hourly rates varying. While park and ride options are available at some outlying SEPTA stations, they require combining with public transit for the final leg. Accessible parking spaces are usually available in the larger parking garages, and designated drop-off zones can be found along South Street.
Accessibility
The Theatre of Living Arts strives to be accessible to all patrons, ensuring an enjoyable experience for individuals with disabilities. The venue is equipped with accessible entrances to accommodate wheelchairs, and elevators are available to reach different levels, including seating areas. Accessible restrooms are provided and maintained to meet ADA standards. For patrons with hearing impairments, inquiries about the availability of hearing loop or induction loop systems are recommended when purchasing tickets or upon arrival. Service animals are welcome at the TLA. While companion care facilities might not be explicitly advertised, staff are generally available to provide assistance. Accessible parking spaces are located in nearby parking garages, and staff can assist with drop-off points on South Street for easier venue access. Patrons are encouraged to contact the venue in advance to discuss specific accessibility needs.
Entry and security
The main entrance is located directly on South Street. Standard security protocols, including bag checks and metal detectors, are in place upon entry. Patrons are advised to arrive 30-45 minutes before the advertised door time, especially for popular shows, to allow for efficient processing and to secure a preferred standing position on the main floor.