“They have one of the best performing arts campuses in Hamilton County that you'll see anywhere in the country ... It's one of the most beautiful theaters I've ever gotten a chance to be in.” -Trevor Meers, editor of Midwest Living
Simply put, the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel, Indiana, which includes the renowned Palladium concert hall, is a must-see for performing arts and architecture lovers in the Midwest. And the best way to experience it in all its acoustic and visual glory is to see a performance.
Learn more about this one-of-a-kind venue before you go to see a show.
About the Palladium
The Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts opened in 2011 in downtown Carmel. It’s a breathtaking, 1,600 seat concert hall designed to look like an Italian Renaissance villa designed by architect Andrea Palladio. The Center for the Performing Arts also includes the Studio Theater, an intimate space home to the Actor’s Theater of Indiana, and the Tarkington, a 500-seat proscenium. Together, these venues host theater, dance and musical performances.
The Palladium is also home to Grammy Museum Cultural Affiliate, the Great American Songbook Foundation. Visit the gallery space on the third floor of the Palladium for free to see rotating exhibits exploring history and culture of 20th century American music.
Types of Performances
The Palladium schedule features classical symphony performances like Mozart’s Requiem, but offers much more. Jazz groups and dance troupes frequently perform, like the popular Pink Martini or Postmodern Jukebox. In recent years, country singers and comedy acts have also been making tour stops at the Palladium. Just this past season, country star Sheryl Crow and comedian Joel McHale both performed. No matter your taste in music, the diverse Palladium lineup is sure to have a performance for your palette.
Click here to explore the full list of shows for the current season.
Things to Know for a Show
Valet parking is available, as well as street parking and nearby parking garages like the Booth Tarkington Civic Theatre Garage, Carmel City Center Garage and the Veterans Way Garage.
Cocktails and other drinks are available for purchase at the bars in the lobby.
There is no dress code, as concert attire varies on the performance. Wear what makes you feel comfortable or jazz it up for your night out at the Palladium.
The Palladium uses advanced sound system technology, complete with glass panels hanging from the ceiling. Thus, there is not a bad seat in the house acoustically (or visually).
Nearby Dining Options
Grab dinner before the show within walking distance at one of the restaurants in Carmel City Center, like divvy or Matt the Miller’s.
Or, head just down the street to the Carmel Arts & Design District for casual options like Bazbeaux Pizza and The Pint Room.
To get inspired for your Hamilton County getaway, be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.