Performing Arts in Bend Oregon

Bend is a virtual oasis for arts and culture, and live music and theater are no exception. Throughout the city, venues present entertainment by household names, while organizations like the Central Oregon Symphony and the Cascades Theatrical Company showcase the exceptional talent of local actresses and musicians.

Tower Theatre

The crown jewel of the performing arts community in Bend is the Tower Theatre, named for the brightly lit spire that rises 78 feet above the street. Visitors and residents can enjoy nationally and internationally acclaimed performances ranging from comedy, music, theater and movies.

The Tower Theatre was fully restored in 2003 after a 4 million dollar campaign organized by Bend residents brought it back to its original opulence. Improvements such as box seats, an expanded lobby and a state-of-the-art sound and lighting system have made the theater a vibrant community gathering place and a testament to local dedication to the performing arts.

Les Schwab Amphitheater

Popular music fans need travel no further than the Les Schwab Amphitheater in the Old Mill District. Mark your calendars for your favorite summer performances by popstars like Sheryl Crow, country singers like Brooks & Dunn and alternative bands like Modest Mouse and Wilco.

Community Theater

The Cascades Theatrical Company is celebrating its 30-year anniversary in Bend in 2008 with a group of plays that have won Pulitzers, Tony or Obie awards.

2nd Street Theater is a local repertory company that produces seven shows annually, and presents acting workshops and theater training seminars for aspiring thespians.

Professional Theater

Innovation Theatre Works is Central Oregon's first and only professional theatre, dedicated to establishing the region's first true regional theatre on par with Seattle Rep, Portland Stage or the Oregon Shakespeare Festival.

Local Music

Smaller venues are often filled to capacity by Bend's enthusiastic music fans. College students mingle with baby boomers where, on a given night, the Annex might present local bluegrass darlings, The Moon Mountain Ramblers while Silver Moon Brewing plays host to Bend's popular poetry slam. Down the street, the djs at the Mad Happy Lounge spin records, luring passersby into this modish downtown hangout