Entertainment in Downtown (Anchorage)

4th Avenue Theatre

Listed on the Anchorage Walking tour, and one of the oldest buildings in downtown Alaska (circa 1947), this 4th Avenue Theatre was created to be a "comfortable movie palace." Completely refurnished in 1992 to its original splendor, it is a conglomeration of floor to ceiling bronze murals and marble decor with an extensive collection of Alaskan history. The location is worth visiting for its historical properties alone, to say nothing of its theatrical and cinematic offerings. Phone for a current schedule of shows, tickets and prices.

Atwood Concert Hall

Atwood Concert Hall is constantly abuzz with events and programmes being scheduled every day. Concerts, theatre, popular performances and other events take place here. The ambience of the hall is perfect which makes the experience of being in a concert hall memorable.

Crystal Gallery of Ice

Beginning in 1989, each year dozens of international teams work feverishly for 48-hours to turn blocks of ice into a work of art. Using chainsaws, chisels and other tools, the sculptors are fascinating to watch and always draw a large crowd. Only skill and time limit the artists who produce a wide variety of pieces from life-size wildlife, angels or architectural designs. Be sure to check out the sculptures at night as they are lit up by colored lights that reflect through the ice. There is no admission charge.

Cyrano's Off Center Playhouse

This small theatre offers a constant stream of productions including cultural and classical cinema. It received the Governor's Arts Award in 1997. Recent billings include such classics as "The Young Man From Atlanta," "Woman of Will," "Down the Road," "The Delaney Sisters," and "Three Sisters". You will find amazing quality within this charming theatre. Visit the adjoining cafe, which serves gourmet snacks, beer and wine in a coffee house environment. Call for times, tickets and prices at the office.

Anchorage Symphony Orchestra

With six concerts in the classic series annually, ensemble evenings with special out of state performers, family concerts and composition contests, this Orchestra has continued its mission of artistic excellence, outreach and education. It also offers school performances and masters' classes regularly. Directed by Randall Craig Fleischer, a former New York City Opera conductor, the Orchestra continues to excel in its musical productions for the public.

Galway Days

This annual festival showcases local and international musicians like Laurence Nugent, Michael O'Hare and his step dancers and Jim Belcher. These artistes and others create a fun-loving experience for locals and guests to enjoy. Concerts and events each year are held in the West High School and the Regal Alaskan Hotel. For detailed information, please call or see the Web site. Admission prices depend on the event and tickets can disappear quickly.

Sydney Laurence Theatre

This theatre has a 350-seat capacity and is acoustically suited for a variety of events such as chamber music, plays, dance performances and films. The schedule of performances includes The Anchorage Symphony Orchestra, the Cineventures, "Alaska's Gallery of Light" and others. As part of the Performing Arts Center, it is an ideal venue for small, upscale events. Please visit the Web site or call for current prices and a schedule of performances.

Alaska Junior Theatre

Since 1981, this non-profit organization has been providing professional theatre to Alaska's youth. Offering field trip performances for 25,000 children each year, the group has produced The Jungle Book, The Velveteen Rabbit, Aladdin, A Thousand Cranes and more, often in conjunction with the classroom. With a waiting list every year, it is an in-demand, yet affordable, theatre. For more information regarding performances, costs and reservations, please call or see the Web site.

Discovery Theatre

The Discovery Theatre, one of the venues housed at the Alaska Center for the Performing Arts, is a one-of-a-kind gem. It's spectacular design, which features expansive curves, silver seats and trimming, and UFO-shaped acoustic pick-ups, gives it a modern, futuristic feel. The theater is also recognized for its layout, which provides excellent views for all 700 seats in the house. So whether you're in the orchestra or the mezzanine, you're guaranteed a good view. The theater houses a variety of wonderful shows throughout the year. See website for more information.

Anchorage Opera

The Anchorage Opera has been operating—albeit under alternative names—for almost 50 years in Alaska and is one of the oldest performing arts organizations in the state. Comprised of mostly volunteers and talented Alaskan artists, the innovative company prides itself on presenting high quality opera, professional productions, and a little class to the wild, untamed life Alaskans lead. In addition to its regular season, the company takes condensed, kid-friendly shows to area schools and villages. All performances take place accompanied by full-sized orchestra in the intimate 700 seat Discovery Theatre in the Alaska Center for the Performing Arts.check website for performance listings.

Evangeline Atwood Concert Hall

Evangeline Atwood Concert Hall is the largest venue in the Alaska Center. The acoustics are sensitive and the center is prominently created differently. Over 2,000 people can be seated at a time and the theatre consists of three levels orchestra, mezzanine and balcony. It is named after the famous historian and author Evangeline Atwood.

Alaska Experience Theatre

You can watch a film on a 180-degree wrap-around screen. View the 40-minute Omni Theater film Alaska the Greatland. The breathtaking 70mm-film-footage from all over the state. Then, experience the earth shaking from a replicated earthquake while standing in the "safequake" replication room. A gift shop is on site.