FAQs
GENERAL
Q: Where is Dr. Phillips Center located?
We're in the heart of downtown Orlando. Contact Us | Directions
Q: What are the vision and mission of Dr. Phillips Center?
Our vision is Arts For Every Life®—bringing all kinds of performing arts to people from all walks of life, all around the world. Our mission is to be an inspirational place where people love to be.
We focus beyond presenting performances. It's about enhancing the guest experience on and off the stage through programming, partnerships and outreach programs, which is great for the community. We have a commitment to embrace the entire Central Florida region.
Q: What spaces are in the performing arts center?
We have three theaters, with another on the way, and a number of spaces to explore and celebrate in when you're here. You can even host a special event. Also, our AdventHealth School of the Arts hosts classes and arts education opportunities.
Q: Is Dr. Phillips Center a nonprofit organization?
Yes, the Orlando Performing Arts Center Corporation, doing business as Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation, is governed by a board of directors.
Q: What does the Dr. Phillips Center logo symbolize?
The Dr. Phillips Center logo reflects the inclusiveness and artistic core of the organization, movement and modernism, while honoring the Dr. Phillips namesake. This abstract symbol was inspired by the four-beat motion of a conductor’s baton. The orange color scheme is inspired by the warm Florida hues.
SHOWS & EVENTS
Q: What is the best way to buy tickets (and avoid ticket fraud)?
For official announcements and tickets, always look to our website. While resale sites sometimes work without a hitch, often resellers make commitments they’re unable to fulfill—leaving buyers without legitimate tickets. If you feel this has happened to you, reach out to the website where you bought tickets to figure out your options.
- To buy tickets for groups of 10 or more, please contact group sales at groups@drphillipscenter.org or call 407.455.5550.
- Dr. Phillips Center founding donors and luminary donors receive presale access before individual tickets go on sale to the general public.
- Individual tickets may be purchased by calling the Dr. Phillips Center Box Office at 844.513.2014 or by visiting the Box Office.
- Tickets are also available online at drphillipscenter.org.
Online and phone ticket purchases include handling fees.
Q: What should I do if I lost an item at the arts center?
Please fill out our lost & found form.
Q: What types of artistic programs are offered?
We provide a venue for touring shows, such as Broadway musicals, as well as popular headliners, comedy specials, lectures, musicians, local and emerging artists and much more. You'll often find Orlando Ballet, Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra, Opera Orlando and other favorites performing here.
Q: What are typical show times?
Show times vary, but generally performances begin at either 7:30 or 8 p.m. Some family shows might start a bit earlier, or have a morning or matinee show.
Q: What is the dress code for shows?
Since our vision is truly offering Arts For Every Life®, wear whatever you’re comfortable in. Some people love to dress to the nines—and some people want to wear their favorite t-shirt. It’s totally up to you.
Q: How do I become a Dr. Phillips Center member?
We now call members “luminary donors.” And, just like with a membership, you support our vision of Arts For Every Life® and your entire household enjoys great benefits all year long, based on your annual donation level.
Q: How do I become a subscriber to the Broadway series?
You can learn about subscriptions at orlando.broadway.com/subscriptions or by calling 800.448.6322.
Q: What kind of food and drinks does the arts center offer during shows?
Multiple bars on our Tiers and in Della Phillips Grand Lobby serve a variety of snacks and drinks.
Q: Are food and drinks allowed in the theaters?
Feel free to bring drinks in the theater, but please enjoy your food before taking your seat.
EDUCATION
Q: How important is arts education to the programming at Dr. Phillips Center?
Education is a key component of our mission. Performing arts education develops the whole person—body, mind and imagination. Our goal is to be an institution that serves as a resource for artistic learning, creativity and community-building. We hope everyone who visits Dr. Phillips Center leaves inspired, informed and energized. For more information please contact Education at classes@drphillipscenter.org or by calling 407.455.5551.
Q: What types of arts education initiatives offered at Dr. Phillips Center?
Dr. Phillips Center AdventHealth School of the Arts offers classes, summer programs, master classes, training seminars, school-day performances, and educator workshops. The School of Arts provides advanced learning, performance-based education, professional development, partnerships with local public and private schools, arts groups, after-school programs, and plans to include distance learning.
Our education initiatives are designed to add a new dimension to what currently exists in the community, leveraging local artistic creativity with the latest technology, while delivering new collaborative learning opportunities for ages 2 to 102.
For more information please contact Education at classes@drphillipscenter.org or by calling 407.455.5551.
PARKING & ACCESSIBILITY
Q: How do I find out about accessibility at the Dr. Phillips Center?
Building on our vision of Arts for Every Life, the Dr. Phillips Center welcomes all guests and strives to make its performances and facilities accessible to everyone. The Dr. Phillips Center provides many services to guests with disabilities. Learn more about accessibility to plan your visit.
Q: Is there on-site parking?
We know that parking is a priority for our guests, performers and colleagues. There are almost 4,000 existing parking spaces—triple the amount needed to serve the arts center at full capacity—within a five-minute walk of our front door.
Q: Where is valet parking located?
The valet operation is on Magnolia Avenue, directly in front of the facility. Guests parking in valet enter from South Street.
Q: Is public transportation accessible to the Center?
Public transportation to the performing arts center is provided by the existing Lymmo service, SunRail and additional bus services. Alternate transportation including pedi-cabs and electric carts is also available.
PHILANTHROPY
Q: What types of naming opportunities are available?
There are a wide variety of naming opportunities available, starting from $50,0000. Please contact the Development Department for more information at 407.992.1743.
Q: What sponsorship opportunities are available?
Companies can engage their brand with a variety of robust marketing partnerships through either sponsorship or Corporate Hospitality Packages. Sponsorships are available for the building, performances and events. Corporate Hospitality Packages allow companies to build their own season of shows and enjoy show and event tickets, valet parking, hospitality suites, networking opportunities and other exclusive benefits. For a customized sponsorship package, please contact the Sponsorship Department at 407.992.1746.
Q: How do I give to the performing arts center?
Donations may help complete Phase 2, sustain annual operations or assist with a specific program by giving a gift online at the Dr. Phillips Center website. Checks can be mailed to the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, attention: Philanthropy Department, 155 East Anderson Avenue, Orlando, FL 32801. If you have specific questions, please contact a Philanthropy Department representative at 407.992.1743.
Q: Who are some of your current donors?
We are appreciative of all of the generous corporate and individual donors who have contributed to the Dr. Phillips Center. A full list is available here.
DESIGN & CONSTRUCTION
Q: What is the scope of the entire performing arts center project?
Housed on a nine-acre site, this community facility once completed with Phase 2 will include: three performance theaters, an outdoor performance plaza, rehearsal rooms, administrative offices, and arts education spaces. The building itself is approximately 330,000 gross square feet. Along with the performing arts center and its education and entertainment venues, the two-block site will accommodate public spaces that enhance city life and create a vibrant gathering place for socialization and cultural enrichment.
Q: When did construction begin, and how long until the arts center is complete?
Construction began in June 2011 for Phase 1 and the arts center opened on November 6, 2014. Phase 2 broke ground in March 2017 and will be completed in 2023.
Q: Why is the arts center being built in phases?
As a result of the economic downturn, tourist tax collections declined in Orange County in 2008. This delayed the timing of a $130M commitment from the tourist tax revenues. After conversations with donors, board members, arts groups and community leaders, we determined that a phased construction schedule was the best way to complete the project.
Q: Do the theaters have aisles?
Yes, all of the theaters have aisles, which comply with ADA standards.
Q: What is the availability of bathroom facilities in the building?
An ample number of ADA compliant bathroom facilities are conveniently located on each of the four tiers and comfortably support guests when at capacity. In the lobby areas alone, there are over 78 sinks and 123 stalls with 49 restrooms located throughout the full facility.
Q: What type of oversight did construction of the performing arts center have?
The Mayor’s Citizens Oversight Committee (MCOC) was established in 2007 as an ad-hoc committee appointed by and reporting to the Mayor and Orlando City Council. This committee is responsible for public insight and review of Community Venues projects, including the performing arts center, to ensure they are completed in accordance with the development agreements. Their oversight responsibility includes: the City’s Blueprint (M/WBE) initiative; project timelines; project quality and budget; and overall project accountability and transparency.
OPERATIONS
Q: Who and how does the Dr. Phillips Center operate?
Under the leadership of a board of directors, the Dr. Phillips Center team is responsible for the capital, endowment, planned giving and annual fundraising campaigns; community engagement; education initiatives; along with facility and program operations.
Q: Is the Dr. Phillips Center used for more than just performances?
Yes, the majority of the arts center is available for rental purposes to the public for banquets, conferences, private events such as corporate meetings, weddings, bar and bat mitzvahs, and much more. Our dedicated events team and onsite catering provides turn-key events with flawless execution. Learn more about events.