Straz Center for the Performing Arts

About Us

David A. Straz, Jr. Center for the Performing Arts (formerly Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center) opened its doors in July of 1987, and since that time has welcomed nearly 20 million guests while driving nearly $130 million into the local economy during a typical year.

One of the largest performing arts complexes in the country, the 335,000 square-foot Straz Center provides an environment for a wide variety of world-class events. It boasts one of the nation’s leading Broadway series and is nationally respected for producing grand opera, as well as presenting a wide variety of concerts, performances and events. Straz is home to the resident companies Opera Tampa and Jobsite Theater. In a typical season, more than 600,000 patrons attend 1,500+ events at Straz Center.

With the 2004 addition of Patel Conservatory, Straz Center added 45,000 square feet for its extensive arts education programs that serve nearly 65,000 students annually.

In early 2025, Straz Center broke ground on a $80 million, 170,000 sq. ft. Master Plan expansion project. With completion expected in late 2027, the project ensures that Straz Center programs remain relevant and accessible for the growing Tampa Bay community.

For more information about the Straz Center, Opera Tampa or Patel Conservatory, visit www.strazcenter.org/.