About Theatre of The Living Arts
The Theatre of the Living Arts (TLA) is a cornerstone of Philadelphia’s South Street arts scene with a rich history. The building dates to 1908, when it opened as the “Crystal Palace” concert hall with about 500 seats (philadelphiaencyclopedia.org ). Over the century it alternated between a concert/movie hall and live theater. In 1959 a new resident nonprofit theater company launched here (directed by Anne Ramsey and others), finally earning the name “Theatre of the Living Arts” (hiddencityphila.org ) (philadelphiaencyclopedia.org ). In the 1960s under director André Gregory it became nationally famous for bold, offbeat plays (Gregory’s time there was even immortalized by the film *My Dinner With Andre* (news.pollstar.com )).
In the mid-1970s TLA gained a cult reputation showing avant-garde films: classics like *The Rocky Horror Picture Show* and the John Waters cult favorite *Pink Flamingos* ran as midnight features here (hiddencityphila.org ). Later TLA’s focus shifted to live music, and today it operates as an intimate concert and events venue. In fact, trade press describes TLA as “Philadelphia’s premiere small concert venue” for up-and-coming bands (www.livedesignonline.com ). Its marquee neon sign and exposed-brick interior make it immediately recognizable on South Street. Complex Magazine even ranked the TLA among America’s top 50 small concert halls in 2014 (hiddencityphila.org ). To local fans it’s a beloved institution – in its first five seasons in the 1960s it sold over 250,000 tickets (philadelphiaencyclopedia.org ) and helped make South Street a bohemian cultural hub. In short, the TLA’s blend of historic legacy and energetic live entertainment makes it one of Philly’s most unique venues (philadelphiaencyclopedia.org ) (philadelphiaencyclopedia.org ).
Events and Programming
The TLA hosts live music almost every night, with a lineup that spans genres. Typical concerts include indie rock, punk, alternative, metal, hip-hop and electronic acts. For example, national touring artists such as Hole’s frontwoman Courtney Love, rapper J. Cole, and even television performer Darren Criss have played there (www.livedesignonline.com ). Philadelphia-based groups and singer-songwriters also appear frequently, and the venue occasionally books comedy shows and themed dance parties (like 21+ EDM nights). Almost every week has several shows – the production team notes that “TLA still hosts bands nearly every night of the week” (www.livedesignonline.com ). Because the hall is strictly general-admission, fans are free to stand or move about on the main floor (some shows may offer a small “VIP” area of reserved first-row spots). With only about 800–1,000 people capacity (www.partyslate.com ) (www.livedesignonline.com ), many shows sell out quickly. Ticket prices vary by act, but in recent seasons most concerts have ranged roughly from $20–$50 per ticket, depending on popularity (major headliners sometimes charge more). Overall, events at the TLA tend to draw energetic, young audiences – it’s known for its edgy, intimate vibe as much as for the variety of talent on stage (www.livedesignonline.com ).
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for TLA shows must be purchased through the venue’s authorized outlets or promoters. There is no traditional paper box office window outside of showtime – instead, the theatre uses mobile ticketing only. All tickets are scanned on smartphones upon entry, so printouts or emailed tickets are not accepted (www.tlaphilly.com ). It’s best to buy in advance online (through the theatre’s official site or vendor) and then show the QR code on your phone. The venue’s box office phone line (215-922-1011) is available for questions or will-call pickups, and on-show-day will-call ticket pickup opens when doors do (usually about 1 hour before showtime (www.tlaphilly.com )). Free guest services are provided if you have phone or ticket problems. Note that popular concerts can sell out fast, so if a show seems likely to pack the hall, watch for any presale windows (fan clubs or newsletters) and act early. Tickets are generally non-refundable once purchased; reselling through unofficial channels is common but carries risk. In practice, ticket prices for most TLA concerts in recent years fall into the low-to-mid range (~$25–$45), with only top-billed tours occasionally exceeding that. Buyers should also prepare to pay with credit/debit cards only, as the venue turned completely cashless (including at concessions) in recent years (www.tlaphilly.com ).
Seating and Layout
Theatre of the Living Arts is a mostly standing-room venue with a few elevated seating areas. The main floor is flat and slightly sloped up toward the back, so any spot still gets a clear view of the stage. There are no fixed seat rows on the dance floor – arriving early lets you stake out a front or center spot. Along the left side (near the soundboard) the venue stakes off a raised platform with folding chairs for wheelchair users, ensuring an unobstructed line of sight (halfaccess.org ). Immediately in front of that accessible section is a small “VIP” seating area (a few rows of chairs) reserved on some shows (halfaccess.org ). In addition, a narrow balcony level (reached by stairs only) wraps around over the back of the hall. This balcony offers some bench-style seating and a bird’s-eye view of the stage, but it is not wheelchair-accessible (halfaccess.org ). Quickly: the best spots in the house are usually up front on the main floor for energy, or on the balcony for tongue orientation; side corners can have partial obstructions.
In terms of production, the TLA boasts a modern, professional sound system. In 2013 the venue installed a top-of-the-line L-Acoustics speaker array with multiple subwoofers, significantly improving clarity and bass response (www.livedesignonline.com ). The club’s FOH engineer reports that every touring sound tech who has mixed here finds the audio quality dramatically better than before (www.livedesignonline.com ). Because the system was designed to minimize wall reflections and to fly most speakers overhead, sound coverage is very even across the crowd (www.livedesignonline.com ). Concerts at the TLA are generally loud but crystal-clear; fans and sound professionals alike praise the full-range audio even from side or rear positions. (Lighting is handled by show producers – there are standard stage lights and rig points, but no special resident laser or video gear.) Overall, the configuration feels like a stripped-down club: no obstructive support columns, exposed brick walls, high ceilings and a big open floor. The pub-style front-of-house and lounge areas give it a raw, industrial vibe, which many fans find appealing and authentic.
Getting There and Parking
The TLA is located at 334 South Street, Philadelphia, PA 19147 (between 3rd and 4th Streets). By car, the neighborhood offers only limited parking. Street parking is heavily metered and restricted (halfaccess.org ). There is a cash-only lot on 5th Street near Bainbridge as the most convenient paid option (halfaccess.org ). For the easiest experience many attendees use parking apps (ParkWhiz has partnered with the venue) to reserve a space in advance (www.tlaphilly.com ). After shows, South Street can fill up fast, so it’s safest to budget extra time to find or pay for parking.
Public transit is often simpler. SEPTA buses serving South Street include routes 12, 40, 47 and 57 (moovitapp.com ), which stop right on or near South Street. (For example, the #12 Line runs along Chestnut passing South St., the #40 goes to Penn’s Landing, #47 from Bala/West, #57 from West Philly.) The nearest subway stop is Walnut-Locust (Broad Street Line, at 10th & Locust) about half a mile away, or one can take the PATCO Speedline (into Philadelphia) to the 8th & Locust St. station and walk a few blocks south. Center City is easily reachable by these routes. Rideshare and taxis drop off right on South Street; a common meeting point is just outside the venue’s entrance at 334 S. St. The TLA is also only about 0.8 miles (15-minute walk) from both the Philadelphia Convention Center and the Pennsylvania Convention (former civic center) area. For those coming from Philly’s airport or Amtrak’s 30th St Station, it’s roughly a 10–15 minute drive/taxi to South Street (though public rail/subway options are more circuitous).
Inside the Venue
Entering the TLA, you’ll notice it’s very much a concert-club atmosphere. Doors typically open about one hour before showtime (www.tlaphilly.com ), and security staff perform bag checks at the entrance. Guests are allowed small soft-sided bags up to 12″×6″×12″ (about a purse or small backpack); anything larger is refused (www.tlaphilly.com ). All bags are searched. The main concert hall is open and industrial: concrete floors, exposed brick, minimal decoration – it’s meant to feel stripped-down and casual. Expect a crowd ranging mostly from late teens through the 30s. There is no formal dress code, but comfortable “night out” clothes and sturdy shoes are wise for a standing show.
Along the sides of the hall and in the lobby you’ll find the venue’s bar and concessions. A full bar serves beer, wine, and spirits (www.tlaphilly.com ) – specialty craft beers are often available – and soft drinks. The venue shifted to 100% cashless payment, so bring a credit/debit card to buy any drinks or merchandise (www.tlaphilly.com ). Bar snacks are basic: you can get popcorn, soft pretzels, chips and candy (www.tlaphilly.com ). There is a staffed coat check where you can leave jackets or larger items for a small fee. Wi-Fi is offered throughout the venue (www.partyslate.com ), and cell service is usually strong enough for online ticket scanning.
Restrooms are at the back of the hall and (for women and men) a small single-family/accessible restroom is available as well (halfaccess.org ). Plan accordingly: on sold-out nights the restrooms and bar lines can be slow (many patrons note they are quite small compared to the crowd size). For convenience, note that upstairs there are additional restrooms near the balcony (which many find cleaner than the downstairs ones) (www.tripadvisor.com ). There is also a coatroom. If you want merchandise, touring bands often set out a table by the stage with T-shirts or CDs. Otherwise, no special amenities – just the stage view and the music. (Photos with phones are usually tolerated, but professional cameras are not allowed unless explicitly permitted.)
Nearby Amenities
South Street is a vibrant corridor, so there’s no shortage of places to eat or drink before or after a show. Within a block walking distance you’ll find classic Philly fare like cheesesteaks (the famous Jim’s Steakhouse is on 4th & South), pizza and sandwiches. For sit-down dining, the area hosts a mix of cafes and restaurants – everything from Italian and Mexican to hip gastropubs. Notable spots include the Double Knot sushi bar (Bassett’s Brewery building), the relaxed Libertine Cafe, and “Liberty Bar” (a local craft-beer tavern). If you’re looking for cocktails or drinks, check out Rich Johnson’s Tavern or Philadelphia Brewing Co. nearby. Coffeeshops and dessert spots are plentiful too.
Accommodations are also nearby. The heart of Center City is just a few blocks north, so major hotel options (like those along Walnut Street or at the Convention Center) are only about a 10–15 minute walk or quick ride away. For example, the Holiday Inn Express downtown (on Walnut) and the Kimpton Hotel Palomar (Rittenhouse Square) are within a mile. Many people coming to concerts stay in Old City or Society Hill as well, which are a short cab or bus ride away. If you need a ride home very late, Philadelphia’s taxi and rideshare services operate 24/7; the venue’s area is generally busy and safe late at night. (The nearest overnight train service ends at 12:30am on weekends, but Uber/Lyft or taxis are plentiful on South Street after shows.)
What Makes This Venue Special
The TLA’s long-running mix of history and underground charm is what truly sets it apart. It uniquely blends Philadelphia’s theatrical roots with its indie-music identity. Artistically, it was one of the first art-house theaters in the country to embrace avant-garde works; decades before critics loved it as "an immediate hit" that drew crowds of bohemian artists and gave South Street a “creative hotspot” vibe (philadelphiaencyclopedia.org ). (Many Philly theater lovers still remember it as a trailblazer under André Gregory in the 1960s, when even *My Dinner With Andre* featured the venue.)
Architecturally and culturally, it retains a gritty authenticity. Unlike corporate arenas or glitzy clubs, the TLA feels like stepping into Philadelphia’s art scene: exposed-brick walls, eclectic posters on the walls, and a marquee that lights up South Street at night. Live Nation’s investment (including the custom sound system (www.livedesignonline.com )) was done with an eye toward preservation rather than overhaul, so the venue passed a historic renovation award for respecting its character. Musicians love the venue too – many bands return for the quality of sound (engineers praise the L-Acoustics PA) and the enthusiastic crowd. Local fans feel a connection to the place: one news write-up crowed that reverting the name back from “Fillmore” to TLA was “one small victory for local tradition” (news.pollstar.com ), underscoring how much the community cherishes the old name and legacy. In sum, the Theatre of the Living Arts is special because it’s not just a place to catch a show – it’s a piece of Philadelphia history, an ever-present community hub, and a real throwback to the city’s experimental cultural past.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The TLA is wheelchair-friendly on the main floor: there are no steps to enter and no steps on the floor itself (halfaccess.org ). Guests using wheelchairs are escorted to a dedicated raised viewing area at the back (bar level) which has clear sightlines and folding companion chairs (halfaccess.org ). The accessible restroom and family restroom are on the main floor near this section (halfaccess.org ). (Note that the balcony is accessible only by stairs and has no wheelchair access.) Patrons with other disabilities should email or call ahead; venue staff offer additional accommodations on request.
What to Bring/Not Bring: Bring your e-ticket on a charged smartphone (printouts are not allowed (www.tlaphilly.com )) and photo ID if needed. Bags larger than 12″×6″×12″ (a standard purse size) will be turned away (www.tlaphilly.com ), so pack light. Outerwear can be left at coat check. No outside food, drink or alcohol is permitted. Recording devices and flash photography are not allowed during shows (phone pictures without flash are usually tolerated). The venue enforces a no-smoking policy inside (including e-cigarettes) by law.
Arrival Time: Expect lines for entry and coat checks on busy nights, so plan to arrive at least 30–45 minutes early if you want a good spot or to avoid delays. Generally, doors open 60 minutes before the start time (www.tlaphilly.com ). The show usually begins promptly on schedule. If you have special needs (like collecting tickets at will-call, requiring accessibility access, or settling staff questions), it’s best to get there when doors open. Missed Entry: Late seating is often not allowed once the show starts, so latecomers have to wait for a break in the performance (or even till intermission) to enter. Plan accordingly.
Inside Tips: The TLA gets loud, so earplugs can be a good idea if you’re sensitive. There is minimal seating on the floor (few stools near the back), so wear comfortable shoes for standing. The balcony overhanging the rear can be a good vantage point, but it has limited capacity and fills quickly. Keep an eye on the crowd – on packed nights it can get very tight, and shoulder bumps are normal. If you need to step out, you can – but re-entry might only be allowed at a break, so consider going during an early band.
Special Rules: Bags and coats are checked thoroughly for weapons or contraband, so don’t bring any prohibited items (sharp objects, etc.). As mentioned above, ID may be required at 21+ events. The theater does not allow any exceptions to age rules: guests under 18 may be barred if an event is strictly 18+ or if alcohol is being served freely. If a show is labeled 21+ (often late-night dance or comedy shows), all attendees must have ID. There’s no dress code – just come in whatever you plan to wear to a bar concert.
Final Note: Fans often describe TLA shows as very lively and personal – one reviewer said “the sound was great and the view was phenomenal” even for a busy rock show (www.tripadvisor.com ). Be prepared to sing along, dance, and enjoy the experience. With its long history and local charm, the Theatre of the Living Arts is both a practical mid-size music hall and a true Philadelphia institution. Following the guidelines above will help you have a smooth, fun visit here.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capacity of the Theatre of the Living Arts?
The TLA is a relatively small venue. It can hold roughly 800 people standing (some sources note up to 1,000 for crowded events) (www.partyslate.com ) (www.livedesignonline.com ). Seated capacity is around 450 when tables and chairs are used. In practice most concerts are general admission, so expect to see crowds of several hundred for popular shows. Because capacity is under 1,000, shows often sell out quickly, so buying tickets early is recommended.
How do I buy tickets for a TLA show?
Tickets are sold exclusively through the theater’s authorized outlets (official site, box office, or signed-up email list). All tickets are mobile-only (no printed tickets) (www.tlaphilly.com ). You should purchase tickets in advance online through the venue’s official channels. The box office phone is 215-922-1011 if you have questions or need help on show day (cinematreasures.org ). Most shows have assigned on-sale dates, and popular acts can sell out fast. A small number of tickets may be released at “will call” on show day, but it’s safest to get a ticket ahead of time. The theater strongly encourages buying only through official sellers and warns against unauthorized resellers.
What are the seating options at TLA?
For most concerts, the floor is general admission standing-room. There are no fixed seats on the main floor, so you can move around freely (but early arrival gets better spots near the stage). There is a raised platform at the back left (wheelchair accessible) with folding chairs for disabled guests and companions (halfaccess.org ). A small “VIP” seating area with a few chairs is sometimes available in front of that accessible section (halfaccess.org ). Finally there is a narrow balcony level with bench seating accessible by stairs (not wheelchair-accessible) over the rear of the venue (halfaccess.org ). In summary: main floor = mostly standing, rear platform = some folding chairs, and tiny upstairs balcony = limited seated view.
What are the parking options at TLA?
Street parking is scarce, as South Street is metered and busy (halfaccess.org ). The venue notes that there is a cash-only parking lot on 5th and Bainbridge a block away (halfaccess.org ). For convenience, the TLA also partners with ParkWhiz, so you can reserve a nearby garage spot in advance (www.tlaphilly.com ). Visitors often use rideshare or car services instead. If driving, expect to arrive early to find a spot – many people also park a few blocks north and walk or take a quick cab to the theater.
What public transit should I take to get to the TLA?
Theatre of the Living Arts is well-served by SEPTA. Several bus lines run along South Street: for example, routes 12, 40, 47, and 57 stop right at or near the venue (moovitapp.com ). You can take the Broad Street Line subway to Walnut-Locust or the Market-Frankford Line to 8th & Market and transfer to a bus. Alternatively, the PATCO high-speed line (from New Jersey) stops at 8th & Locust, just a few blocks north. After exiting transit, it’s a short walk south on 3rd Street to reach 334 South Street. Public transit tends to be reliable and avoids the hassle of parking.
Are the facilities ADA accessible?
Yes. The ground level of TLA is completely step-free from the street to the show space (halfaccess.org ). There is a designated wheelchair seating area at the back of the hall (raised on a bar platform) complete with folding companion chairs (halfaccess.org ). An ADA-accessible restroom is available on the first floor (halfaccess.org ). If you have special needs or require assistance, you can contact the box office in advance or speak to staff upon arrival for support. Note that the upper balcony is only reachable by stairs and is not wheelchair-accessible (halfaccess.org ).
Can I buy tickets at the door?
The TLA box office is open on show days, but walk-up availability depends on demand. For smaller or mid-week shows, a limited number of tickets might be sold at the door (usually opening night). However, for popular concerts it’s quite common for shows to sell out in advance. It’s safest not to rely on door sales. If you must try buying at the venue, arrive early (before doors) to check if any tickets are left. Remember the box office often starts sales about 1 hour before showtime; if a show is marked “sold out” online, the door usually will be sold out too.
Is there a coat check or anything like that?
Yes, the TLA provides a coat check service in the lobby area. When you arrive, look for staff offering to check your jacket or bag for a small fee. This frees up space in the single coatroom or carry-on areas. Note the venue is small enough that only one coatcheck exists (so lines can form at intermission). Be sure to pick up coats promptly after the show. There is no luggage storage besides the coat check.
Can I bring my own camera or recorders?
In general, no. The TLA’s policy forbids professional photography and audio/video recording during concerts. Small personal cameras are typically not allowed unless the artist specifically permits photography that night. Security will usually confiscate or prevent entry with large cameras or equipment. Cell phone snapshots without flash are usually tolerated, but any flash, tripod, or high-end camera is prohibited. This is common for live-music venues to protect intellectual property. If you need to photograph the show for press or production, you would need pre-approval from the promoter or artist and then coordinate with staff.
Is there food and drink available?
Yes. The theater has a full bar and snack counter. You can buy draft beer, bottled beer, wine, mixed drinks and non-alcoholic beverages inside. The selection includes local craft beers and standard spirits. Bar snacks include popcorn, pretzels, chips and candy (www.tlaphilly.com ). The venue is cashless, so have a credit/debit card ready. Outside food or drinks are not permitted. If you want a meal before or after, many restaurants line South Street; there are sandwich shops, cafes and bars within a two-block walk.
What is the bag policy?
TLA has clear bag policy limits. Bags must be 12″×6″×12″ or smaller; larger backpacks or suitcases are not allowed inside (www.tlaphilly.com ). All bags are searched by security on entry. If you have an approved bag under the size limit, be prepared for a quick inspection (no liquids or dangerous items are permitted). The coat check can store larger jackets or bags for a fee, as long as they fit in the single coatroom. Essentially: carry only what you need (like a small purse or slim backpack). Oversized bags will be denied.
Are there age restrictions?
Age rules vary by show. Many concerts are all-ages (18+) or no one under 16 allowed, but some are explicitly 21+ or 18+ due to alcohol service or content. If a show is labeled “21+” on ads, simply no one under 21 is admitted (staff will check ID). Typically, younger teens who have tickets can attend as long as they are with an adult guardian, but you should always check the event’s policy in advance. No infants/children without tickets are allowed, to avoid crowding. Bottom line: expect crowds of 18–35, and check the promoter’s age listing before buying tickets.
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The entire main floor (from street into the hall) is step-free (halfaccess.org ). Wheelchairs can enter at front doors and navigate the flat floor space. The venue reserves a wheelchair viewing area (with chairs) at the rear left side (halfaccess.org ). The staff will escort guests to that spot. An ADA-accessible restroom is available. The only area without accessibility is the upstairs balcony (stairs only). So overall the TLA is wheelchair-friendly so long as you stay on the main floor and use the designated seating zone.
Can I leave the venue and come back in?
Typically no. The TLA is generally a one-time entry venue. Once you go through security and climb onto the floor, you’re not allowed to exit and re-enter freely. If you leave during the show, you usually cannot come back until an intermission or set break. This is common at small clubs to prevent ticket sharing. If you need something (outside food, smoking, etc.), plan accordingly, since exiting may mean missing part of the performance.
How early should I arrive before a show?
You should plan to be there as early as possible, especially for popular shows. Doors open about 60 minutes before showtime (www.tlaphilly.com ), so arriving right when they open lets you get a good spot in front. Even 30–45 minutes before the first band can be wise, because lines for tickets or entry and coat check can form quickly. Late arrivals often end up on the very back row or even have to stand in the arms area between sets. In short: early birds get front-and-center standing room!
Are there restrooms inside?
Yes. There are gendered restrooms (men’s and women’s) at the back of the main floor. Additionally, a single large family/accessible restroom is provided nearby (halfaccess.org ). On busy nights these can get crowded, and patrons often note the downstairs restrooms are small. The upstairs balcony also has extra restrooms which are usually less crowded (and reportedly cleaner) (www.tripadvisor.com ). There are no outdoor facilities on site, so plan to use them during band changeovers. Water fountains are not available, so if you need water, bring an empty bottle to fill at a bar.
What should I wear to a show at TLA?
There’s no dress code, but most people dress casually. Think “night out at a club”: jeans, t-shirts or casual tops, and comfortable shoes (You may be standing for hours). If it’s very cold or wet outside in Philly, bring a jacket (coat check is available (www.tlaphilly.com )) because you’ll need it getting between venues. If you have a late show, layering is smart (it can get warm on the packed floor). Avoid wearing anything valuable that you wouldn’t want bumped into or spilled on – band tees, hats, and sturdy boots are popular. In summer months dress in light layers; in winter, you’ll likely shed a sweater once inside.
