The Mesa Arts Center covers more than 212,000 square feet and offers opportunities for performing arts, arts education and visual arts within a single, convenient complex. It is known to be the most comprehensive and largest arts center within the state. Situated in downtown Mesa, the Mesa Arts Center was designed to reflect Mesa’s strong tradition of community and family.

The Mesa Arts Center offers world-class performances and exhibitions, many of which are inspired by the gorgeous Sonoran Desert that surrounds Mesa. There are four theaters within the complex as well as galleries, exhibition space, classrooms, informal performance areas, an administrative area and a shadow walk on the exterior.

A number of live theater productions have taken place in the theater since it opened; covering a broad range of theater styles including Broadway theater, family entertainment and even free concert series. Some of the local performing arts companies that are featured in the Mesa Arts Center include Ballet Etudes, East Valley Children’s Theatre, Composers Foundry Institute, Mesa Encore Theatre, Metropolitan Youth Symphony, Mesa Symphony Orchestra, Southwest Shakespeare Company and Sonoran Desert Chorale.

The Mesa Contemporary Arts section is comprised of four galleries that feature changing exhibitions throughout the year of prominent as well as emerging artists in painting, sculpture, ceramics, furniture and much more. There is also a permanent collection and a community gallery that showcases the work of local Mesa artists.

In addition, Mesa residents are able to benefit from more than 700 visual and performing arts classes for adults as well as youth in the Art Studios.