This historic, adobe playhouse lays claim to being the oldest theater west of the Mississippi. The Santa Fe Playhouse is an attractive and intimate venue in a central location: Barrio de Analco, home to some of the oldest urban buildings in the United States. Ticket prices vary: Thursday shows are "pay what you wish", while evening shows may cost up to $25. Discounts are available for students, seniors, and groups of 10 or more, and flex or season passes may be a good option for regular attendees. Shows frequently sell out and the theater has specific requirements regarding methods of payment, so be sure to call ahead.
Since the early 1930s, the Lensic Performing Arts Center has hosted a number of live performances and film showings. In its heyday, it was billed as the best theater in the Southwest. With a colorful history, the stage has seen the presence of performers like Judy Garland and Roy Rogers. The theater has been renovated to include modern sound, lighting and stage features, but maintains its original beauty. Aside from public performances, the theater is available for private gatherings. Seating for 821 people is available.
Since 1957, the Santa Fe Opera has been a summer oasis for internationally-acclaimed operatic talents and opera enthusiasts. The Opera's magnificent mountain backdrop and amazing construction have always been major draws. Santa Fe Opera's performance offerings encompass dance, theater, opera, choral and chamber music, all performed under its iconic open roof. The opera house has seen performances of all the most famous operas, beginning with Puccini's Madame Butterfly on the opera house's opening night, and also including La Traviata, Carmen and The Marriage of Figaro, among many others. The Santa Fe Opera has even commissioned 10 original operas since its inception. Catching a performance at the Santa Fe Opera should be on every opera lover's bucket list.