The Music Center

I had the great joy of seeing Come From Away at the Ahmanson last night. An intrinsic part of the seamlessly perfect evening was the grounds of the Music Center. Clean and fresh, it looks and feels like someone took advantage of the pandemic for a makeover. After the show, my friend and I sat and chatted next to this beautiful view. Just lovely!

Overall, here’s a great combo of separate buildings of performing arts related entertainment! From West Temple Street, the Ahmanson Theatre is known for stage shows, including visiting Broadway Productions. The smaller, rounded Taper Forum is used for shows of a more intimate setting. The Dorothy Chandler Pavilion is used for large events and music shows. The Academy Awards were held here several years ago! The Walt Disney Concert Hall Addition to the LA Music Center, further combines the performing arts with the visual arts, as the Frank Gehry sculpted building is nestled between the preexisting Music Center, and The Broad Contemporary Art Museum. Street metered parking may be ok for short stops to check out the facilities and purchase tickets at the box office. I’d park in the parking garages for longer term stays.

Loved the free dance class. Cumbia with Fransini was so much fun !

When we were teens, our group of friends spent so much time at the Music Center. It’s been almost 30 years since we’ve been to L.A. so our group of friends carpooled to the Music Center were amazed of the changes! All beautiful changes!! We’ll be back again in maybe 10 years. Love it!!

I generally love the musicals at the Ahmanson. The shows at the mark taper forum can be a hit or miss. I didn’t enjoy Clydes

Beautiful place with amazing views of down town Los Angeles. Great artists took the stage there. Wonderful music! Unfortunately it is closed due to corona virus and all performances are canceled. That building looks great at night time and during the day. Highly recommended to visit it at least once. Hope one day it will open its doors again and welcome artists and spectators.

Want to the Ahmanson to see Ain't too Proud. First time there and not being familiar with downtown the drive was confusing but the theater was nice, the people friendly. Getting out there was a backlog at the narrow escalator but exiting the parking was pretty quick. Lots of personnel directing folks and that helped.

Seats are good for everyone.they might be a bit nArrow for some but the views are all good. It was decorated for Christmas and felt extra festive. Parking is close and accessible with stairs escalator or elevator. It looked liked everyone was super happy!

Love the outdoor summers at the music center! Come out and dance!!! #summertime #themusiccenter #thingstodoinla

Night Games 2024 at the Music Center was an experience to live. Parking garage was just below a few staircases, well lit, clean and only $10! That is a steal and appreciated given the unscrupulous charges imposed by other venues!!! Biggest line encountered was for "Back off me Booty" but we definitely enjoyed it! Wished we could have gone for a 2nd round but the line was overwhelmingly long. Event was organized very well and although it was a chilly night, they set up heaters through out the layout so that helped one to warm up a bit. The seat cushions were so comfortable and they even had throws to help one warm up a bit. A couple of food booths were set up that also served spirits and pastries. Nearby 2 food trucks were also available adjacent to the venue. The Thai food was affordable and very tasty. Overall, the setup, ambiance, and execution were well planned and I would love to return and follow this event no matter where it takes place but it sure was amazing at the Music Center!

"If you give to the world, the best you have. The best will come back to you".That is exactly what the Music Center does. Gives back to the community. Dance DTLA is a free event that's has a $5.00 service fee. Which include a complementary drink, (wine, beer or soft drinks) one taco and a cupcake. There's a beautiful photo wall and a 360 video for your take home memories. The services is superb and the entertainment is delightful. The crowd is very diverse,. The experience is like dancing on a cruise ship at night. Instead of dancing on a deck. Your on a open beautiful courtyard. I hate to see it end. they say Disneyland is expensive but when you walk into the park, you see where yourdollar go. Like Disneyland, at the Music Center you see your donations being used to benefit all.

Gorgeous venue with a lot of ballet and dance programs. Highly recommend seeing a show here!

Great service reps outdoors today & free dance lessons from the greatest dancer. Always here during the summer time

Great community event. I've been coming since it started! Always family friendly. Great for learning how to dance or if you're already a pro

Per their website, The Music Center campus includes 4 iconic theatres, Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, Ahmanson Theatre, Mark Taper Forum, and the Walt Disney Concert Hall. It also includes the Jerry Moss Plaza, The Blue Ribbon Garden, and the Gloria Molina Grand Park. All of which are very beautiful places to visit in the Downtown Los Angeles area! I've only visited the Ahmanson Theatre and Grand Park whenever I'm here to catch a musical. They have affordable parking right at the center for a flat $10 starting at 12 pm for a matinee showing or 4:30 pm for a evening showing. Most recently, I was here to catch A Christmas Story: The Musical. Per the usual, the acoustics were fantastic! I definitely prefer coming here versus going out to the Hollywood Pantages Theatre.

I just love taking drives out here in switching off retail therapy sessions over at Ontario Mills, CA. There always will be lots to take in whether you would be visiting RedCat Museum, Walt Disney Concert Hall, Colburn School of Music, Dorothy Chandler Pavilion for LA Opera and Mark Taper Forum (for Broadway shows.). There will always be plenty to do from any of the above venues I listed off the top of my head. If you have a passion for Classical Music or music in general that is, or even if you enjoy the architectural designs of all these beautiful buildings, you should make a weekend trip here. I am currently going through this Scavenger Hunt event called 'DTLA~23 Things to do in 2023,' so I have recently revisited Downtown Los Angeles' 'The Music Center.' I'll look forward to exploring local restaurants and cafes around Downtown Los Angeles', 'The Music Center.' You betcha I'll be back soon!

Great performances and great auditorium. I sat on the second floor and was able to see the stage perfectly. They have concession stand which was pretty pricey, but we are supporting the arts!

The Music Center in downtown LA was opened in 1965. Earlier this year I got serious after years of hesitating, and bought tickets for: www.LaOpera.com and www.CenterTheaterGroup.com So far this year, I've seen the Mozart Opera "Don Giovanni", and "The Marriage of Figaro" at the Chandler. "The Secret Garden", and "Into the Woods" at the Ahmanson. More to come! What a classic place this is. You can buy a drink outside before the show. Parking is very reasonable at 10$ (cheaper than the booze!)

What's there not to love about the music center? only the most happening ng spot in DTLA DTLA in the summer. they also have games showcases, arts for kids, & even an Olympics Olympics watch party tomorrow rrow (8/10/24). all for FREE! Come visit & bring the family

The food was great and price was to be expected for this. The ambience was amazing and beautiful vibes. Instructors were great, venue was beautiful, dancing was fun and beginner friendly while also allowing people to free dance. Overall would recommend I'm definitely coming back

Tacos, drinks and cocktails great environment and secure with law enforcement present , kid friendly...customers service orientated ... very well organize

In the 1970's, when the Academy Awards were held at the Music Center, my mother and I use to come and sit in the metal bleachers to see all the famous Hollywood stars arrive in their limousines and walk down the red-carpet lined with paparazzi's before finally entering to see the Academy Awards. This was my pre-opera memory flashback on Saturday, as I went to see Don Giovanni at The Music Center and I had a great time. During the middle of the performance, a character in the opera mentions the city of "Burgos," and suddenly I had a second epiphany. My grandmother's maiden name was Burgos. I felt this reference was meant to remind me about my mom and the exciting times we spent here. I know my mom would have enjoyed Don Giovanni just as much as I did. The stage production was terrific, with a two-story rotating stage, unique shadowy lighting patterns, bipolar colors, surreal images, and subtle scene transitions. The performers, music and singing were dramatic and enthralling. Parking was easy and reasonable ($10). Before the show, there is a spacious plaza before the entrance with pop-up bars, cafe and food snacks. The drinks are pricey so you may want to check the price list before ordering.

Evening out with the family. It's always nice to go somewhere new. Everyone I interacted with were friendly an polite . Walking around looking at the art an status in the music center , keeps you entertained while waiting to enter the theater . Pretty nice place to go out with the family , friends.

So fun, great music, ver safe place to hangout . People are great, entertainment is great! Must come year after year

Dtla is a great place to learn about dance and music outside so you don't have to worry about going deaf or catching Covid-19.

Unbelievable: I moved in nearby (Museum Tower, like a block away on Grand) two months ago, have already seen classical, opera, jazz, modern dance, and performance art--all world class, fun, compelling. #DTLA & #BunkerHill amazing place to live and @MusicCenter just part of why.

We had a fantastic time this past Friday at The Music Center's Dance DTLA night. The theme of this final night was Bollywood and we were not disappointed. This event was free and we didn't expect this outdoor event to be so well organized. The stage was set up for the DJ and monitors and there was a huge dance floor. Outside the designated dancing area were tables and chairs where people of all ages sat and enjoyed the night out. Many brought their own food although there were two food trucks parked nearby with delicious food. Security was provided by the L.A. County Sheriff's Dept. so we felt safe and protected. The Mullin Wine Bar was also opened up for the occasion which was a great way to start off the night. The restrooms were opened up as well and were much more refined and clean than I imagined. Parking is available on site as well. This night was much more fun than I expected and my only regret is that I did not take part in the other Dance DTLA events this summer. Visit www.musiccenter.org for more information on upcoming events. Enjoy your visit!

Love live theater and live the Ahmanson! We have been a member for a while. LA is always a great way to experience great dining places.

What a great event free disco lessons and dancing. That was a lot of fun! Everybody had their masks on I loved every single person that was there! They show you the moves that you're going to do next week which is going to be Motown. I'm excited!! What a great event

I refer to this incredible platform of theatres, dining areas and restaurants as LINCOLN CENTER WEST ( New York's finest venue)...This last year I have seen opera, plays and musicals there and I loved every experience. My favorite downtown place. I love getting there 2 hours early and sit near the fountains and people watch and share picnic dinners with my friend Benita, who is my usual companion for each event. I have been to several opening nights that were fantastic experiences. I love and support the arts in Los Angeles and this is the mecca. Each theater is so special with excellent and comfortable seating and I cannot say enough about the joy of live events I have witnessed. Tourists from all over come to visit this location as a "must see" icon of our beautiful city. I am the person people always ask to take their photos! I love meeting new people from all over the globe and try to make their L.A. visit memorable with a smile and offering helpful information! I feel like a welcoming committee of ONE. :) Parking is $9 but there are metered parking on the street. I urge everyone to attend their presentations and support the arts. They have great deals every week, so go to their website www.musiccenter.org for information. Disney Hall is down the street and worth visiting too! In the spring, the Jacarandas are in bloom and I love just sitting on the platform looking out to their beauty. The Music Center is a wonderful place! I give it a lot more than 5 stars!

I would have rated this area much higher, but there was a something that left our group a bit disappointed. I was able to go to the Music Center with a school group for a play at the Center Theater Group. Since we had extra time, the students were able to go around and explore the surrounding areas. The Music Center plaza itself is very lovely. It's well-lit, clean, and feels safe to be in overall. The fountain in the center is neat, since you can run into the middle and wait for the water to gush up and take your cool water bending photos. Later at night, the lights under the water also change colors. There's also cool screens that not only show the events going on at the Music Center, but take a view of the crowds down in the plaza and project them in various different styles: chrome, like the Scream painting, thermo detection, etc. At three of the corners of the Music Center, you have options for drinks and dining. Here comes my main issue. There was somebody in our group that was in a wheelchair and there was no means for them to be able to go downstairs to go see the park across the street without going into another building/structure or going around the entire block behind and rounding off in the from to the center/finding another cross walk after going around the block. The Music Center only had their stairs and escalators to go down and back up (most closest means) instead of an elevator. This was a failure in accessibility and inclusivity.

On the evening that we were at The Music Center, there were 3 events going on. At the Grand Park, the Los Angeles Times' FOOD BOWL Night Market was happening, an opera was going on at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion and Soft Power in the Ahmanson Theatre. We recently went to the opening night of David Henry Hwang's play with a musical, Soft Power, in the Ahmanson Theatre. The Ahmanson Theatre is part of The Music Center Complex along with the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion and Mark Taper Forum. This theatre has a capacity of over 2,000 and boasts fantastic acoustics. It shares an underground parking structure that goes down to 8 levels and even extends under North Grand Avenue. The parking structure has a flat fee of $9 which you pre-pay at the entrance. We were amazed that the full to capacity parking lot was actually quite organized at the exits even though multiple exit lanes converged together toward Hill Street or Grand Avenue. It didn't take us more than 15 minutes to exit. With hope, we'll be returning to one of the venues within The Music Center again.

Long a cultural hub for performed music, theater, and dance in Downtown Los Angeles. The Music Center encompasses the Mark Taper Forum, Ahmanson Theatre, and the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion. A large plaza, filled with water features and landscaping, ties them all together. Throw in a few food vendors and street performers, and you have a gathering space for theater-goers. Not far from City Hall, the complex sits between Grand and Hope / Temple and First. Underground parking makes it very convenient to access the Center. The Dorothy Chandler no longer hosts the Oscars, as they did for many years, but the memories linger. Opera now has a home at the D.C. Pavilion. We've enjoyed shows at the Taper and the Ahmanson, plus strolling the grounds of this Center. It's celebrating its 50 year anniversary this year, and going strong, judging by the turnout at the Ahmanson yesterday.

We didn't come here for a performance but to take pictures of the courtyard. They have some interesting art sculptures which provides some great photo opportunities. Its great place to explore while visiting DTLA.

Wow. I had such a great time here. I can't believe I have never visited the Dorthy Chandler Pavilion. I think the music center sits a 100 persons. I attended the Free annual Christmas/ Holiday celebration musical and was seated at the top but still had a great view. The staff did an excellent job of seating everybody well over a 100 persons coming and leaving. Definitely check this place out. The Disney music hall is across the street, as is Grand park, and the Broad is down the street. There is also some other notable venues in close proximity.

This was a great surprise! I was waiting for a show at the Ahmanson and discovered so many cool things in the quad of The Music Center. There are small eatries and wine which was great to sit and enjoy while I waited. In the middle of the quad on a Friday night they had dancing lessons going on with music which was great to watch and participate. Now that I know, I will be back even if I don't go to the theater!

# S L E E P L E S S - B R E A K D O W N (# of + stars = rating) * A T M O S P H E R E/C O N C E P T: +1 star * P R E S E N T A T I O N: -1 star * C O S T: +1 star * S E R V I C E: +1 star * R E V I S I T: +1 star I had a blast with my friends during their Sleepless event. Not too crowded, price was right. Colors were amazing, the exhibits were fun, and very cute. My bf claims he could have done better, but I actually like how it was done. I was amazed at all the lights, decor, music, art, and even the dance floor. The dance floor lit up to the tune of the music. In addition, they had a shadow play on the stage. Snow cascaded down the outside and inside of the halls. One area had black light art pieces that shone in the back while you took pictures. That room was the most crowded. Their chandeliers glittered in rainbow colors and were just absolutely beautiful. P A R K I N G Easy with the parking structure.

Visited 6/24/2016 This review is for Dance DTLA which was held at the Music Center. We attended the line dancing. So much fun!! We definitely will be back! Absolutely free. Parking is $9. They basically played music almost nonstop for 4 hours. Learned so many dance steps, I've forgotten them already. I definitely remember the 2 step. You don't need a partner. You can definitely find one there. The 3 of us went, and most of the dance lessons we don't need a partner. The dance instructor stands on a platform slightly above the crowd. Best place to stand is in front of him of course or otherwise watch the people around you. Not to many choices eating wise. We ended up going to Tommy's. Quite a few tables to sit at, but we didn't need one because we danced all night. You might want to wear comfortable shoes. Wearing boots for 4 hours was not to bad. Wish they had a mister! Gets kinda hot from the dancing. Looking forward to Friday night dancing!

So I'm reviewing the upgrades to one of my favorite hangouts in LA. It's a gorgeous Thursday evening, 80 degrees, 8pm ish and I just stopped for a little break on an evening run. I just moved back to the downtown area and I forgot how much I loved this concourse. These are one of the many places in the city you can just come sit, relax and enjoy the pleasant atmosphere. If it's crowded, it's crowded with people dressed up to see an opera or experience the symphony. If it's quiet, you'll get to hear the almost unpredictable wavelike sounds coming from the fountain. It's beautiful here and even more pedestrian friendly from the street. They've added escalators, more seating, more evening attendants or safety patrol AAAAAND there a bar and coffee shop. Come check it out and fall in love all over again with this municipal mini oasis.

Used the Music Center Garage to park for an event at the Walt Disney Concert Hall, a couple of blocks away. Parking on Saturday was $9.00 for all day, great value in downtown LA. Recommended for your parking and entertainment needs

At the newly renovated Music Center plaza for a Wagner opera, Tannhauser after a 1.5 year absence due to the COVID 19 pandemic. I wanted to warn anyone who has been a pre-COVID visitor re: the changes. First of all, $15.60 for a 2 oz. Tito's vodka cocktail in a plastic glass is ridiculous. When asked for olives--they didn't have any which is their standard these days. The food selection is grab and go sandwiches at the bar. I advise you eat before you come. My husband and I stood in line in front of Go Get Them Tiger which is a coffee and pastry bar for 10 minutes before we realized the offerings were limited to coffee, latte and pastry. There is an effort to check vaccine status with a picture ID which I wholeheartedly agree with or I would not have returned to the Chandler. Im giving the Music Center a 2 star rating with the hopes the bring back Tinas Tacos!

The Music Center Los Angeles County's performing arts destination has a rich history worth exploring prior to your first or next visit. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Los_Angeles_Music_Center Whether you explore or not, being at The Music Center is all about your inner artist experience, what theatre (The Ahmanson, The Mark Taper, Dorothy Chandler Pavilion or Walt Disney Hall), what performance you choose, how the music, the words make you feel, what you think to be ingrained in your brain, your life as a result. Arrive early to grab a bite at one of The Music Center's casual dining food venues, steal a photo op at the fountain, revel in the architectural design, skyline or just stroll and be. We chose to sit and sip at the Pinot Bar post performance to avoid standing in line at valet parking. An unusually warm December night allowed us to linger over a cheese plate, a glass of wine, enjoy great service and casual banter with a most charming barkeep. Parking is the biggest downside here especially when all three theatres run concurrent performances a fact clearly explained on The Music Center's website. Day of the matinee we held tickets for we received an email advising to allow even more time to arrive and park due to the ongoing wildfires. We opted valet parking over the $9 garage parking fee during matinees and it would have been fine if a patron hadn't left their vehicle without leaving the keys - TOTAL backlog, pressure which the attendants handled with humor and grace. Next time we will take The Metro!

The center itself was good; nothing too special. However the show, Swan Lake, was ABSOLUTELY AMAZING! My mother in law and I came to see the show and it was the best play I have seen and I've seen a dozen different plays. I highly recommend this play as well as the venue!

My favorite place in DTLA! If you love theaters, this is the place you need to check it out. 3 theaters in this center, Dorothy Chandler theater (opera and dance), Mark Taper theater (play) and Ahmanson theater (musical). Beautiful courtyard with nice fountain. Many seating area with shade. There is a restaurant and bar in the courtyard. Also, taco stand and convenient store. Parking underground. Nearby attraction are city hall, Walt Disney Hall and The Broad museum.

Another fun night at the theater. There's always an energetic vibe about this place. I never come here thinking my presence is an obligation to witness something that I normally would not want to see. Live performances can be tedious at times but I always look forward to going to the Music Center, as opposed to any other venue in town. I have been coming to the Music Center since I was just a small child, and it as as exciting for me now as it was way back when. The Dorothy Chandler Pavilion reminds me of the Avery Fisher Hall in New York City. Even if you are not seeing a concert or show, It's worthwhile for every Angelean to come to the Music Center and at least walk the grounds, and hopefully see the Magic Fountain!

Terrible experiences three times in a row thanks to the Covid vaccine gastapo stop check before entry. I understand checking... although the mandates are over the govt has given each business the ability to check or not check. However - the people checking are demanding - not asking - but demanding your proof. Two days ago me and my boyfriend were accosted - I was actually startled by how fast the worker in a red vest ran up to me I had to tell her to calm down I wasn't trying to sneak in. While she was checking my proof some other lady in a red vest decided she was going to check my boyfriends. Not sure why the same person couldn't check our proof ? So now my boyfriend shows his proof and the lady rudely tells him. I'm going to have to see your scan code... why couldn't she just tell him "sorry I didn't see it all sir Can you scroll down on your screen ? " instead she demanded like he was a criminal. When I stepped back to check on him she rudely told me she was checking him and I could go in... like if I was going to walk ahead to enter without him. The time before they were asking for proof of boosters but when my boyfriend said he didn't have one they told him next time he wouldn't be let in - and let him in anyway. I witnessed this with several others. Then before that I was eating in the near by restaurant and someone in a red vest actually came to my table and tried to get me to show vaccine proof while I was eating - asking me if I was going to see the show after. Letting me know they could check me now. I asked for the name of the person in charge they told me Sarah but she wasn't around luck for her. Inside the theater people did take off their mask they did nothing never even saw them come in.

I've got a serious soft spot for The Music Center. The fountain in the middle is calming, entertaining, and whimsical, sometimes all at once. The plaza portion is super spacious, with seating for picnicking before a show at Dorothy Chandler, Mark Taper, or the Ahmanson, and comes alive in the summer with the Dance Downtown series (http://www.musiccenter.org/events/activearts/Dance-Downtown/), and hosts some pretty awesome (and free) events throughout the rest of the year, as well. It's pretty barren when there's no show or special event, but even then, you appreciate the community aspect of the space in this not-so trekked to part of downtown LA. While parking is heinous (and expensive), avoid it by taking the Metro or busing it.

Went to see The Play That Goes Wrong. Saturday matinee. Really enjoyed the play. The music center is under construction but they have all the walk ways planned out clearly.

I've reviewed the Ahmanson and Dorothy Chandler both separately so check my reviews for those if interested. I'm leaving this review solely for my first hand view of Dance Downtown last night. Can you say serious dance party??? Holy wow! This place was jammin'. I bet its super cool after dark. We checked it out from the sidelines as we enjoyed our dinner before heading into the theater but let me tell you, these people were having a blast! Check out the website for more info http://www.musiccenter.org/events/activearts/Dance-Downtown/ What a fun way to spend and evening even if you aren't attending a show but what a great way to spend some time before attending a show. Valet parking is $23 Self Parking below is $9 The music center is a great place to bring kids, families, girls night, out of town guest, date night - you name it. I'm looking forward to going on a tour of the Walt Disney concert Hall very soon. Lots of great info on all programs, events, activities, and shows on their website.

I've been here a few times for some really neat and FREE events! This summer, they've got Bring Your Own Dance Moves (BYODM) nights where a few DJ's will spin tracks and ANYONE who is around the area can stop in and dance the night away at the Music Center Plaza! It's a beautiful venue with ample space for the events that it hosts. There's the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, the Mark Taper Forum, the Ahmanson theater, and the Walt Disney Concert Hall. If you are nearby, you can always bring a picnic basket to enjoy during the afternoon/evening. I suggest following The Music Center's mailing list. Yes, you'll get lots of e-mails flooding your inbox, but if you like fun activities that are either cheap or free throughout the year, you don't want to miss out on it! Parking fees can vary based on the event and time of day. But if you're feeling green, you can hop on the metro's Red or Purple line to the Civic Center/Grand Park station and it's super close from there. I can't wait for another event here!

The Music Center is THE center of the cultured music and dance scene of Los Angeles. More than 1 million visitors a year attend the four theaters anchored by four resident companies. Opened in north downtown in 1964, it continues to offer a mix of high-class paid events and fun free dance & musical experiences year round. World-class Theaters: * Ahmanson Theatre * Walt Disney Concert Hall * Dorothy Chandler Pavilion * Mark Taper Forum Resident Companies: * LA Phil * Center Theatre Group * LA Opera * LA Master Chorale * plus the Glorya Kaufman Presents Dance group The large plaza is centered around a huge fountain with Pinot Grill, Spotlight Cafe, and Tina's Tacos providing food options. Kendall's Brasserie is at street level while Patina at Walt Disney Concert Hall offers a step-up for French cuisine. Parking is $9 for events or up to $20 for non-events. Valet is also available. Cheaper options are within walking distance or take one of the Metro buses. Three complimentary tour options start at the Walt Disney Concert Hall Grand Lobby and offer a great way to see more of the theaters and learn a little about the history and architecture. * Symphonian Four Theater Tour - 90-minute docent-led tour through all four venues (if available) - Free - Tue-Sat: 10:30 a.m. or 12:30 p.m. * Walt Disney Concert Hall Self-guided Audio Tour - About 1 hour - Free and narrated by John Lithgow - 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. (availability varies) - Must be 10 years old * Walt Disney Concert Hall Guided Tour - 1-hour docent-led tour garden and interior focusing on the architecture - Free - Days vary, but mostly Thu, Fri, Sat, and Sun at Noon and 1 p.m. It's been almost 50 years since The Music Center became reality and it still delivers a classic and classy afternoon or evening for Angelenos of all ages. A visit to the Music Center is an experience that not only takes you to the heart of music in Los Angeles, but adds a little music to your heart, too.

We've come to The Music Center over the years to see musicals, plays, & speakers. It's a Los Angeles landmark. On this night we were here to see The Sunshine Boys at the Ahmanson Theatre. We were running late due to our dinner taking longer than expected & knew that we'd be in a seating hold. No big deal, there are monitors in the lobby to watch the show while you wait. We also got to catch up with some friends that work there. The staff there are really professional & friendly. Not just our friends either. The show was really funny with Danny DeVito & Judd Hirsch's wise cracking & timing was reminiscent of their days on Taxi. We had a great time.

I've been here for several shows at the Ahmanson and the Mark Taper. I love catching stuff here as they host a variety of shows. Most recently I caught Peter and the Star Catcher, a prequel to Peter Pan. Parking will set you back $9. I have yet to see anything at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion though it's on my list. The fountains, X'mas tree and open air quad make it a very nice place to hang out before they show. They also have bathrooms you can access before the show too.

(Attended 11/27/12 TU @ 7pm): A wonderful meeting place for cultural connoisseurs, people peepers, and fountain frolickers! An evening of fresh air, music and fun was to be had with my friend at The Music Center in downtown Los Angeles as a precursor to a performance at the Ahmanson Theatre. As a child, my family came here and caught a matinee performance of whatever at one of three stages: Ahmanson Theatre, Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, Mark Taper Forum. And afterwards, my siblings and I were allowed to play in the glorious water fountain with water that spouted up from the marble-layed ground. Funny, not much as changed since then and into my adulthood! Although I was here for the opening night performance of the Cole Porter inspired musical, "Anything Goes", I've often came here and met friends, grabbed a meal from one of the cafes or food carts, alone time and just hung out, and weather-permitted played in the water fountain. We arrived early so we settled in, walked around and talked about our day and grabbed a bite at the Spotlight Café before we went to find our seats. During our meal, we and others were serenaded by a male street solo singer. As an appreciation, we kindly dropped an offering ($2.00) into his round hat placed on the ground before him. The service was mainly non-existent with the exception of the nice parking attendant at the gate and those in the parking garage who methodically pointed you in the right direction should you not understand the layout of the cones. Otherwise, there really wasn't any need for service per se. Parking was ample with an underground parking garage ($9.00). In addition, there were other garages and lots within the area (fees may vary) as well as street parking but required a bit of walking. If so inclined, valet service was also available for a nominal fee. Overall, The Music Center has been a part of my entire life having been born and raised in the City of Angels, and I had and continued to make fond memories here. Los Angeles doesn't have much in the way of culture but this place can certainly hold its own and locals should be proud of it. With the wealth of activities to do here or simply not do anything at all, The Music Center had something for everyone. I found very good value based on the experiences, price and service noted above (total bill was around $11.00; no tip required), but potentially there could be no cost at all. The atmosphere was a wide outdoor open space with the aforementioned water fountain, metal tables, chairs and benches to sit on, eateries, and three excellent performance centers. Banners that promoted the current shows were hung about. No TVs nor music blared from outdoor speakers. The attire was casual if you planned to just chillaxed which I would then be in a t-short, boardshorts, and flip-flops. But I attended a performance so I was dressed more appropriately in a suit. And the various facilities and businesses found here accepted my credit card of choice...AMEX!

I've only been here for the Dublab Sleepless events so I can tell you everything outside of the theater is pretty amazing. I visited the ballroom/bar on the first floor and saw Dorothy Chandler's portrait. There's a few other art pieces in there (Girl With The Pearl Earring) that we weren't allowed to take photos of. The ceiling is amazing with all of the glorious chandeliers and designs. The bathrooms are still kept in tact in that it has that old 50's or 60's feel but it's modern in that the toilets and towel dispensers are automatic. They're also super clean and feature a powder room which I wish would come back in today's society. The third floor still has the old phone booths with the sliding doors behind you minus the phones. I wish they'd keep all of the old timey artifacts in there! I'd recommend seeing anything at the Music Center.

IMPRESARIO RESTAURANT (in Music Center) Because I so appreciate and rely on reviews written by others for so many activities, restaurants, entertainment and other purchases, I feel responsible to write and post reviews myself. Normally writing reviews gives me the opportunity to acknowledge the many excellent experiences I have. Sadly, this was NOT my experience with IMPRESARIO RESTAURANT in the Music Center. My friend and I are still in shock after eating in Impresario Friday night April 20th. We were not aware of the massive construction in the courtyard between buildings as we had planned to eat there. We therefore did not make a reservation in Kendall's Restaurant (which had no space available) So our only choice was Impresario. We trusted that because this is the Music Center that the quality would be excellent. Not only did the food available NOT match up to the description on their website, but the $45 prix fixe seemed like a joke. It seemed more like a pop-up restaurant badly done. There was nothing to be carved, even if there had been a "carving station". To offer 'fish & chips' was surprising, but what was offered was fried fish and potato chips! The vegetarian Wellington was mashed potato and perhaps other vegetables all mashed inside a pastry. The beef was hors d'oeuvre size pieces of meat. The 2 salads were: mixed green/yellow string beans with peas or cut up tomatoes. The dessert was 2 different, again hors d'oeuvre size, little cakes. We could help ourselves to coffee. We had such compassion for the service staff as they were certainly doing their best to be gracious. I am just so thankful that I know NOT to bring our family or friends from out of town to dine at the Music Center!

Aside from it's cultural significance, the place is just plain awesome! Whenever I take an out-of-towner around in downtown LA, I try to do this: Get cheap take out food from Chinatown and park our butts at the Center in front of the fountain and have a great meal. I love love love the peace and beauty this place provides. It is such an oasis in the middle of the concrete jungle known as downtown LA. It is a joy to watch tourists taking pictures of the sculptures and the field trip students entering the Center. Sometimes, they even have outdoor events. I remember seeing my very first real life bagpiper in this very same plaza. Awesome!