
The Santander Performing Arts Center stands as Reading's premier destination for live entertainment, presenting an impressive range of performances from classical concerts and theatrical productions to jazz ensembles and contemporary dance. This versatile venue has established itself as a cultural cornerstone, hosting everything from intimate chamber music recitals to full-scale Broadway-style musicals, along with comedy shows, family-friendly productions, and diverse musical acts spanning pop, rock, country, and Latin genres.
Attendees can expect a refined yet welcoming atmosphere that enhances every performance. The venue's design prioritizes both comfort and acoustics, ensuring that whether you're experiencing a delicate piano sonata or an energetic rock concert, the sound quality remains exceptional. The thoughtful layout provides good sightlines throughout the house, creating an intimate connection between performers and audience members that makes each show feel special and engaging.
Located in the heart of Reading, the performing arts center contributes to the city's vibrant cultural landscape. The venue sits within easy reach of local dining and entertainment options, making it convenient to enjoy dinner before a show or drinks afterward. Arriving for an evening performance, you'll find yourself part of Reading's thriving arts scene, surrounded by fellow culture enthusiasts ready to experience the magic of live performance.
With twenty upcoming events spanning multiple genres and formats, there's something for every taste and interest waiting to be discovered on CultureTicks.
Garages & helpful apps
Powered by Google Places
Stations & helpful apps
Powered by Google Places
Nearby restaurants
Powered by Google Places
Finish dinner 30+ minutes before showtime. Most restaurants offer pre-theater menus.
Highly recommended, especially for evening performances. Book ahead to avoid disappointment.
Most listed restaurants are within 5-10 minutes walk. Factor in extra time during busy hours.
Based on 1,747 Google reviews
We saw Vince Gill last night at the Performing Arts Center. One of the best concerts I've ever been to. The sound for the show was absolutely phenomenal. This is a testament both to need to worst sound engineers, as well as the acoustics of the venue. The staff of the Performing Arts Center were very courteous. My only concern at all was the seating. We were sitting in the front section of the balcony and the old seats are incredibly close together and did not provide sufficient leg room. I realize that is primarily due to the age of the theater, but it was somewhat limiting to the comfort of the guests. Otherwise, I think this is a great place to see a show, and I'm sure that there are other seats in the auditorium that may provide some better legroom.
On September 5th, we attended the Dream Theater concert at this theater. We arrived politely and respectfully, fully complying with all rules: we had a transparent bag, sealed protein shakes, and sealed protein bars — everything in line with the official requirements both posted at the entrance and sent in the venue’s email. Yet security refused us entry. The head of security behaved arrogantly, aggressively, and rudely, yelling that “these are his personal rules,” even though they directly contradicted the official venue policies. It was clear that security was more interested in forcing guests to buy beer and snacks inside (which they likely profit from) than in following their own regulations. I calmly tried to explain that I am on a strict diet and this is a health matter, but I was not even allowed to be heard. As a result, I had to sit through the entire concert without food. My blood sugar dropped, and I nearly suffered a hypoglycemic episode during the event. This was not just rudeness — it was a direct threat to my health. What should have been a great concert turned into a miserable experience. The organizers clearly allow their staff to ignore posted rules, mistreat guests, and put people’s health at risk just to push the sales of junk food and alcohol. Absolutely unacceptable — I would never recommend this venue to anyone. A photo of the man because of whom I almost ended up in the hospital - in the photo. Of course, my food was taken away and thrown away, you can see it on the table too
Got tickets to see Dwight Yoakam at Santander Arena and received an email that the venue changed to the Performing Arts Center. It said that we didn’t need to exchange our tickets. The night before I called to verify and found out that our tickets were no good and needed to be exchanged. They were changed to the 3rd row from the top in the balcony! Nothing was mentioned about starting time being changed. Was supposed to start at 7! Opening act didn’t start until 7:45! I won’t be back here anytime soon! Terrible communication!
I've seen many shows here, from Ron White, Ralphie May, Gabriel Iglesias, a vampire circus, symphonies, cover bands, etc. Its small enough to feel close to the performers and big enough where there is a good selection of seats. Great venue!
A quaint theater that was well worth the visit. Everything in the lobby felt like you walked into a theater out of the 50s, from the food venues, to the ornate wood carved trim pieces. It was nostalgic. We saw Cain, along with David Leonard, and Katy Nichole. We got the very front 2 seats on the right side, for a great price, and we felt like we were in the show. Prices for food and drinks were as expected, the service and the rest of the venue was good. Would certainly look to return.
Powered by Google Reviews
Common questions about visiting
Check the Events tab on this page for all upcoming performances at Santander Performing Arts Center. You can filter by genre and date to find shows that interest you.
Visit the "Getting There" section for directions, parking information, and public transit options for Santander Performing Arts Center. We also include nearby restaurant recommendations for a complete night out.
Most performing arts venues offer accessible seating and accommodations. Contact Santander Performing Arts Center directly for specific accessibility information, including wheelchair access, hearing assistance, and service animal policies.
Review the venue details section for important information including capacity, seating layout, and house rules. Arriving 15-30 minutes early is recommended, especially for popular performances.
We recommend arriving at least 30-45 minutes before the performance start time to allow for parking, security screening, and finding your seats. Some venues may have stricter arrival policies for late seating.
Photography and video recording are typically not permitted during performances out of respect for the artists and other patrons. Please check with the specific venue for their policy.
Ticket sales are final. However, if a performance is cancelled or significantly rescheduled, refunds will be issued. Please review our terms and conditions for complete details.
Most venues have bag size restrictions. Large bags, backpacks, and luggage are typically not permitted. Small purses and clutches are usually allowed. Check the venue's specific bag policy before attending.
Santander Performing Arts Center is committed to accessible services
Wheelchair-accessible seating is available throughout the venue. Please contact the box office when purchasing tickets to ensure appropriate accommodations.
Assistive listening devices are available for patrons who are hard of hearing. Please inquire at the venue or when purchasing tickets.
Service animals are welcome at all performances. Please notify staff upon arrival.
For specific accessibility questions, please contact the venue directly or reach out to our support team.