Tempe Center for the Arts

I took a tour yesterday of the Tempe Center for the Arts (TCA) and wanted to share a little of what I learned. Opened in 2007, the facility was designed to house nine arts groups including Childsplay, Tempe Little Theater, the Tempe Symphony Orchestra, and the Arizona Wind Ensemble. Two stages showcase the groups' performances. The main theater accommodates up to 600 and features African mahogany and stylistic seating. No seat is further than 55 feet from the stage. The smaller theater can accommodate up to 300, depending on what its used for: performance, dance, cabaret or even banquet space.

The TCA also houses a 3,500-square-foot art gallery and, just outside the gallery's doors, a sculpture garden. Banquet and meeting facilities offer stunning views of downtown Tempe, the town lake and Papago Park.

You don't have to wait for a performance to visit the TCA. Stop by, visit the gallery, and take the elevator up to the third floor balcony. It's all free. In fact, even some of the performances are free. "Performance with a View" presents local talent including jazz vocalists and the ASU Saxophone Choir. "Walk-In Wednesdays" is an open mic night allowing for musicians take center stage. Check online for a list of current events.

The Tempe Center for the Arts is located at 700 W. Rio Salado Parkway in Tempe. Telephone: 480-350-2822. Website: www.tempe.gov/TCA.