About The Center For the Arts
The Center For the Arts is Nevada County’s premier performing arts venue, a nonprofit community theater located at 314 W. Main Street in historic downtown Grass Valley, California. Housed in a beautifully renovated 1940s-era automobile dealership, the Center is a 21,000-square-foot multi-use facility with a lively lobby art gallery, classrooms, and two theaters. The main auditorium – now called the Marissa Funk Theater – seats roughly 492 (preadjusted for flats and dance-floor configurations) and is equipped with a cutting-edge Meyer Sound audio system . In addition there is a smaller intimate black-box space (“Off Center Stage”) used for local productions and special events. Since 2000 The Center has grown into a “hub of arts” for western Nevada County, producing an eclectic mix of music, theater, dance, comedy, film and educational programs for all ages . Its mission is to bring world-class performances and community arts into the foothills, enriching local culture and drawing audiences from beyond Grass Valley. Notably, the $3+ million renovation (completed in 2020) reimagined the once‐plain showroom into a modern performance venue, earning state awards for adaptive reuse .
Events and Programming
The Center For the Arts hosts over 150 events per year , ranging from touring concert acts to community theater to family shows. Its stage has welcomed well-known musicians and bands (from blues legend Taj Mahal to regional favorites like Keller Williams), as well as comedy, jazz, world music and youth performances. Regular series include symphonies, jazz nights, bluegrass and folk concerts, dance recitals, and film screenings, alongside locally produced theater. Notable past and upcoming performances have featured established artists (for example, the 2021 reopening series included blues rocker Tinsley Ellis, comedian Tom Papa, and Southern rockers The Allman Betts Band ). The Center is also home to community arts programs and school-age productions – for instance local youth theater troupes (like Lyric Rose Theatre) stage musicals (Mean Girls, etc.) and children’s plays at Off Center Stage. Each summer the Center produces outdoor series (e.g. a socially-distanced Fairgrounds concert by Taj Mahal in June 2021 ), and year-round it even organizes the annual California WorldFest (continued under the Center since 2015) – a four-day multicultural music festival in mid-July (with world and folk headliners) . A variety of festivals, galas and workshops – including an annual fundraising gala – further enrich Grass Valley’s calendar. Ticket prices vary by event: family-friendly shows and youth concerts often run $10–$25, while big touring acts and theater productions generally range from about $30 up toward $70 or more (with modestly higher “VIP” seating in some cases). The Center offers a wide spectrum of culture, from children’s story hours and dance classes in the Kerby Lobby to prime-time concerts and Broadway-style productions, so patrons can usually find something of interest in any given month.
Tickets and Booking
Advance tickets can be purchased directly at The Center’s Box Office, by phone, or online through the Center’s website. The Box Office is conveniently located in the main lobby at 314 W. Main Street and is open for in-person sales typically Tuesday through Friday (around 12:00–5:00pm) . (The official ticket line is (530) 274-8384.) Tickets may also be available at the door on show nights unless the event is sold out. To avoid scams, only buy tickets from the Center itself or verified sources – third-party resale sites are not authorized. Discounted pricing is available to Center Members and students on select performances. Members receive advance notice and may exchange tickets (for credit toward other shows) up to 24 hours before a performance . Otherwise, tickets are non-transferable and non-refundable . If an event is canceled or rescheduled, the Box Office will notify ticket-holders and offer options (rescheduled dates or a tax-deductible donation credit) but does not issue cash refunds. The Center cannot replace lost or stolen tickets, so patrons should keep their tickets secure or opt to have them held at Will Call. Unused tickets may be donated back to The Center for a tax-deductible receipt if arranged via the Box Office in advance. On the day of an event, doors usually open about 30–60 minutes before showtime; arriving early is wise to get parking and settle in without rushing.
Seating and Layout
The main Marissa Funk Theater is a single-level house with tiered rear seating and a removable front-floor section. In total it offers 492 fixed and floor seats in a proscenium auditorium , plus an open 3,500 sq.ft. floor area when chairs are cleared for dance or standing events . The seating geometry is fan-shaped for good sightlines; there are no obstructed-view sections. For seated concerts or plays, the front rows on the flat floor are right up against the stage, while most seats are on a gentle rake. Acoustically the hall is well-engineered, thanks to the Meyer Sound system; even crowd noise is minimal and speech/music carry clearly. The Off Center Stage (located a block away at 315 Richardson) is a smaller cabaret-style theater: seating there is often general-admission (first-come basis) with a few round tables and low chairs around an open performance area . Long parties at Off Center are advised to arrive early to snag adjacent seats or tables. Overall, the best views are usually from center rows in the tiered section, but side and floor seats all offer full view. Patrons tend to favor middle-to-back tiered seats for concerts (for the best sound balance) and front floor/aisle seats for musicals or family shows (for proximity). There are 13 ADA-accessible locations in the house (six wheelchair bays, plus extra-wide aisle seats) which can be reserved by phone . The intimate scale means even the top balcony rows (if any temporary seating were used) are never far from the stage. Note that late arrivals are usually seated by ushers at the first suitable break, to avoid disturbing performances.
Getting There and Parking
The Center is at 314 West Main Street in downtown Grass Valley, near South Auburn Street. Grass Valley is about 46 miles northeast of Sacramento via CA-20 and CA-49, and about 30 miles southwest of the Reno area. Drivers coming from Sacramento/I-80 use highway 49 north, or from Reno/I-80 use CA-20 west into town (see directions on the Center’s website). Plenty of parking exists for local traffic. There is a City-owned lot immediately behind the Center (accessed on Pierce or Mill Streets) that patrons may use during performances . Beware, some spaces in that lot may be numbered or reserved for staff, so check signage. Ample free street parking is also found throughout downtown (on Main, Mill, Neal and adjacent blocks) – these are usually free curb spots or short-term zones. On busy nights, additional public lots are near the old City Hall (around E. Main & S. Auburn) and on Neal Street; these are a 5–10 minute walk. Rideshare services (Uber/Lyft) are available in Grass Valley, and there is a drop-off zone near the Main Street entrance of the Center for convenient access. (There is no on-site shuttle or valet.) If you rely on public transit, the Nevada County Connect bus has routes stopping in downtown Grass Valley; the nearest stop is a few blocks east on Mill Street or East Main Street. Arrive a bit early to find a parking spot, especially for popular shows, and be mindful that downtown streets can get busy. The area is flat and walkable, so nearby parking is rarely more than a few blocks distant from the theater.
Inside the Venue
Upon entering The Center, visitors enter the “Kerby Lobby,” a bright open space housing the box office, coat rack area, and art gallery walls. The lobby also provides access to Rick’s Café (the full-service bar) and concession stands where patrons can buy snacks, soda, beer and wine. You may bring small snacks or bottled water into the theater, but outside liquor or glass bottles are not allowed . The bar is open before and during most ticketed shows – we ID anyone ordering alcohol and recommend drinking responsibly. Ushers will guide you to your assigned seat in the auditorium once the house opens. The interior is modern and clean: plush seating, climate control for comfort, and large aisle handrails. There are easily two large restrooms (and additional lockers or water stations) located down a hallway off the main lobby; all restrooms are restroom ADA-accessible. Coat check is not provided, so guests usually carry light bags or hang coats in the lobby niche. During the show, out of courtesy keep cell phones silent and avoid flash photography – recording or even amateur photography is strictly prohibited during performances . Service dogs are allowed; other pets are not. The venue enforces bag searches and a standard security policy: items such as weapons, knives, illegal substances, and glassware are banned . A lost-and-found desk is handled by the Box Office, so check immediately if you misplace something. The Center prides itself on friendly, professional staff – after the show, feel free to mingle in the lobby (often with performers) or browse the gallery. For connectivity, there is no public Wi-Fi network announced (cell reception is decent indoors, though); most people come prepared with printed or smartphone tickets. Watch out for low strobe lighting or pyrotechnics if bringing young kids: many rock concerts use dramatic lighting, so earplugs for little ears are a good idea.
Nearby Amenities
The Center’s downtown location puts guests near many dining and lodging options. Just a block away is a cluster of restaurants and cafés – notable picks include Alloro Ristorante (Italian, 124 Bank St.), The Bicycle Thief (pizza and pub fare, 122 E. Main St.), and popular coffee shops like Brew Bakers (209 W. Main) and Local Coffee (128 S. Auburn) for pre-show snacks. For quick bites in the evening, Gordon Biersch brewpub, El Aguila (Mexican), and Uptown Family Beer Co. are a short walk. A few blocks east is the famous Marshall’s Pasties bakery (for Cornish meat pies) and the Center Street Bistro on South Church. After shows, casual bars like Wise Guys (145 West Main) and Tanters are open late for drinks and often live music. Reserved patrons can also snag takeaway meals from nearby grocery stores (Safeway and Trader Joe’s a 5-min drive east on EAuburn St). Lodging is plentiful: The Gold Miners Inn (just one block from the Center) offers comfortable motel rooms; the Courtyard Suites or Cedar House Inn are within a mile. For a quaint stay try the local bed-and-breakfasts in this historic downtown. If driving: note that Main Street can fill up, especially on weekends. Taxi companies serve Grass Valley (you can dial for local cab), and as mentioned rideshares are available. The town is safe and well-lit; it’s common for theater-goers to dine downtown before a show. As a tip, many locals recommend arriving at least 45 minutes early: you can grab dinner at a nearby restaurant or coffee shop, then stroll over through the art galleries before showtime. The Center’s arts-education classes sometimes coincide with events, so there may be dance or music happening elsewhere in the building during off-hours.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Center For the Arts stands out for its unique history and community spirit. In a small Gold Rush town, it’s remarkable to have a modern 500-seat theater with professional acoustics and lighting – a point of pride for locals. The building itself embodies Grass Valley’s past and future: born as an auto showroom in the 1940s, it was reborn through community fundraising (over $3 million was raised) into a cultural landmark . Architecturally it blends historic charm (brick facade and steel beams) with polished glass entry and vibrant lighting. Inside, the Kerby Lobby features a rotating gallery of local artwork and murals, making every visit feel like an art exhibit plus a show. The Center has hosted the region’s most anticipated performances – from guitar legends to touring Broadway shows – often selling out this modest-sized venue. It’s beloved by artists and audiences alike because of its warm, intimate atmosphere: on stage the distance to the audience is small, yet the technical quality is on par with big-city houses. Grass Valley’s audiences are knowledgeable and enthusiastic; performers often comment how well-attended and powerful the crowds are. Local tradition has grown around the Center: patrons often meet friends at the bar, share community artwork, and join annual events like the new-season gala. The Center’s community impact is significant – it stimulates local businesses by drawing people downtown for dinners and lodging, and it provides a creative home for youth programs and nonprofit fundraisers. Overall, the combination of high-end sound system, flexible seating, eye-catching renovation and deep local roots makes The Center for the Arts a uniquely cherished venue in the foothills.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The Center is wheelchair friendly – there’s an ADA ramp at the front entrance and accessible parking spaces in the back lot . Inside, there are reserved wheelchair/mobility seating locations and wider rows; these can be booked in advance by calling the Box Office . For the hearing impaired, a T-coil hearing loop is installed in the theater . Assistive listening devices (ALDs) are available at the Membership Desk in the lobby upon request . Service dogs are welcome, just let staff know in advance if possible.
What to Bring/Not Bring: Only small personal bags are permitted – expect a quick bag check. Do not bring outside alcohol or glass containers ; professional cameras or recording equipment are banned . (Cell phones should be silenced and used only discreetly outside the hall.) Ticket holders should carry their printed or digital ticket and ID (especially if you plan to use the bar). It’s wise to bring layers or a light sweater – the air conditioning can be chilly once the theater fills. If you have young children attending an all-ages event, bring child-size ear protection, as some shows use loud music or effects. The Center prohibits smoking inside; a sidewalk area outdoors is usually designated for smoking or vaping, often used during intermission.
Before the Show: Aim to arrive at least 30 minutes before curtain. This allows time for parking, picking up tickets (if needed), and grabbing concessions. (The box office will hold Will Call tickets up until just before showtime.) If your ticket is general admission on the flat floor, lines may form at the entrance, so early arrival means a better seat choice. Check in at the lobby desk: staff will scan your ticket and direct you to your row. No late seating will occur until a suitable break, so plan restroom visits ahead. The lobby gallery and art displays are free to browse; many visitors enjoy seeing student artworks or local exhibits on display prior to curtain. If you’re a member, there may be a separate check-in desk for member-season passes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid: Don’t wait until the last minute to find parking – downtown lots fill up on big show nights. Avoid buying tickets from secondary resellers or scalpers, as these will not be honored . Dress is casual, but avoid high heels on steep steps if you need simple mobility. Do not prop open the theater doors – they’ll be locked promptly at show start. Finally, if ill, consider streaming or rescheduling: The Center is ticketed generously so even simple coughs carry. The staff is accommodating, so if any issue arises (late arrival, seating problem, lost item) just speak with an usher or box office representative; they’re there to help you enjoy the show.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the seating capacity of The Center For the Arts?
The renovated main Marissa Funk Theater seats about 492 patrons (total fixed plus floor seats) . The venue’s tiered-house design ensures good sightlines for all. For special events the flat floor seats can be removed to create a 3,500 sq.ft. dance area . The smaller “Off Center Stage” black-box (at 315 Richardson) holds roughly 80–100 people, typically in first-come seating.
How do I purchase tickets for a show?
Tickets can be bought at The Center’s Box Office or by calling (530) 274-8384, and also online via the Center’s official website. The Box Office at 314 W. Main St. is open Tuesday–Friday (roughly 12–5pm ) and on show nights (one hour before curtain). You can also sometimes buy at the door if the event isn’t sold out. Always use the venue’s official sources – tickets from unauthorized sellers may be invalid.
Are there discounts, memberships or group rates?
The Center offers membership tiers with benefits like discounted tickets and priority booking. Group discounts are occasionally offered for some shows (call the Box Office to inquire). A key perk: Center members can exchange tickets (for credit) up to 24 hours before a show . Unfortunately tickets are generally non-transferable and non-refundable for non-members .
What are the parking options at the venue?
Parking is available right behind the theater in a free lot (enter from either Mill or Pierce Street) . During events most open spots there are for patrons (except a few reserved spaces). You can also find plenty of street parking on Main, Mill, Neal and surrounding downtown streets – these spaces are typically free. On busy nights overflow parking can be found at nearby city lots (e.g. near E. Main & S. Auburn). Rideshare drop-off is easy on Main St., and a designated zone sits by the theater entrance.
Is The Center for the Arts accessible for those with disabilities?
Yes – the venue is ADA-accessible. There is a wheelchair ramp at the front entrance and accessible parking with ramp access in the rear . Inside, staff says that wheelchairs have easy access to all public areas. There are 13 designated ADA seating spots (combining wheelchair bays and companion seats) throughout the theater , which can be reserved in advance through the Box Office. A hearing-loop (T-coil) audio system is installed in the auditorium for the hearing-impaired ; you can borrow assistive listening devices upon request.
Can children attend performances, and do kids need their own tickets?
Children of all ages are welcome at appropriate shows, but all attendees (including infants on a parent’s lap) must have a ticket . Parents should consider show content when bringing little ones – for example, concerts with loud music or lengthy programs may not be suited for toddlers. The Center advises bringing ear protection for kids at very loud events. Many family-oriented performances (like children’s musicals) are specifically marketed for younger audiences.
Is photography or video recording allowed inside?
No. For legal and artistic reasons, any kind of photo, video or audio recording is prohibited during performances . This includes smartphones – even flash photography is a strict no-no. You may turn your phone back on between shows or during intermissions, but please silence it during the performance. Official event photographers (if used) are coordinated by the Center; personal cameras should be left at home or stowed away.
Are we allowed to bring our own food or drinks?
Outside alcohol and glass containers are not allowed inside . The Center does have a concession stand and full bar (with beer, wine and snacks) , which most guests use. Non-alcoholic drinks (like water or coffee) and small snacks are generally permitted in the seating areas, but it’s best to enjoy food and drink in the lobby. Large coolers or picnic baskets should be left behind. If you’re unsure, the ushers can advise you before the show.
Is there a dress code for events at the Center?
No formal dress code is enforced. Most audiences dress in casual or business-casual attire. However, keep in mind Grass Valley’s evenings can be cool, so you might bring a light jacket. Some patrons do dress up a bit more for big-concert or gala events, but you’ll see a range of attire. Above all, wear whatever makes you comfortable for sitting or dancing (many concerts have standing room near the stage).
What time do doors typically open before a show?
Doors generally open 30–60 minutes before the scheduled show time. This gives you time to park, buy any last-minute concessions, and visit the restroom before seating. Specific door times for premium events might be noted on your ticket or the website (e.g. some sold-out concerts open earlier). To avoid lines and get good seats (especially in general-admission areas), it’s wise to arrive as early as possible once the doors open.
What is the exact address and location of the venue?
The Center For the Arts is located at 314 W. Main Street, Grass Valley, CA 95945 . It is on the west side of downtown facing the intersection of W. Main & S. Auburn. Online maps and GPS will find it easily by that address. Once here, the theater entrance is clearly marked by tall glass doors under a marquee. Nearby cross streets are S. Auburn and W. Pine or S. Church and W. Main – it’s where Banks of America and local shops line Main Street.
How much do tickets usually cost at The Center?
Ticket prices vary by performance. Small community events or children’s shows typically range around $10–$25. For concerts and touring artists, expect higher prices – often $30–$60 or more for main-floor / middle seats. VIP or premium-tier seats (when offered) can go above this. The best way to know is to check the event listing on the Center’s website, which will show price tiers in advance. Matinee tickets (for weekend kids shows) are usually cheaper. Discounts for seniors, students or center members may apply depending on the production.
Is there both assigned seating and general admission seating?
For most main-theater concerts and shows, seating is reserved: each ticket has a row and seat number. A layout and seat selection tool is usually available online at purchase time. Occasionally the center configures an event as general admission (e.g. standing room or cabaret tables, often in Off Center Stage); in those cases seats are first-come-occupied. Flight times (like a dance concert) may release unassigned “cabaret” seats upon entry . Always check your ticket details: if it mentions a specific seat, you are assigned. If it just says “General Admission,” you’ll want to arrive early and claim a spot.
What is Off Center Stage at 315 Richardson St?
Off Center Stage is the Center’s secondary performance space, located one block north at 315 Richardson Street. It’s a flexible “black box” theater used for smaller concerts, comedy, youth shows and community events. It seats roughly 80–100 people with movable chairs and often a small café-style table setup. Tickets for Off Center events may be assigned or general admission depending on the show. The amenities (small lobby, restrooms) and policies (no Outside alcohol, no recordings, etc.) are the same as the main Center building.
Where can I find the seating chart for The Center For the Arts?
Seating charts for specific events are shown during the ticket purchase process on the Center’s website. You can preview where seats are located by selecting a performance and looking at the interactive map. For an overview, the main theater has rows labeled A (front) to the back row, with aisles left and right. The “best” seats for view and sound are generally center-middle rows. If clicking seat maps is confusing, you can always call the Box Office for recommendations – they know the house well and can advise if you need a good vantage point or easier wheelchair access.
What if I need to refund or exchange a ticket?
The Center’s official policy is that all ticket sales are final (non-refundable, non-transferable) for non-members . If you won’t be able to attend, your options are limited to donating the ticket back to the Center or giving it to someone else (informally). Center members do have one benefit: they can exchange tickets for a similar upcoming event up to 24 hours before showtime . In the event of a cancellation by the Center, patrons will be notified and offered an exchange or credit (or donation receipt if chosen).
Is The Center for the Arts involved with California WorldFest?
Yes. California WorldFest, an annual four-day outdoor music and arts festival in the Sierra foothills, is now produced by The Center. The festival began in 1997, and since 2015 The Center for the Arts has taken over its operation . WorldFest typically happens every mid-July and features multiple stages of global music and dance. While the location is outside town (now at Richards Ranch near Lincoln), the Center handles ticketing and promotion for WorldFest as part of its programming.
