Events at Monarch Theatre, Phoenix

About Monarch Theatre

The Monarch Theatre is a high-energy downtown Phoenix nightclub and music venue, known for its focus on electronic dance music. Opened in May 2012 by local EDM promoters (Relentless Beats among them), Monarch occupies a large converted space at 122 East Washington Street in the heart of the city. The club has two levels and a massive open dance floor (roughly 7,000 square feet (www.phoenixnewtimes.com)) in front of a raised stage. According to venue guides, the Monarch “reigns supreme over Phoenix’s downtown nightlife,” offering “culturally well-rounded events” with top DJs and a pulsating Funktion-One sound system (joynight.com) (ra.co). The interior is sleek and modern – patrons report upscale decor and mood lighting – and the exterior sports a bold street-art mural by local artist Andy Brown (added in 2015) that makes the building a landmark of Roosevelt Row’s arts district (dtphx.org).

With a total capacity of roughly 900 people (joynight.com), Monarch brings in dance acts that fill the floor on busy nights. Instead of reserved seating, it is primarily a general-admission club: most guests stand and dance on the main floor. There are a few booths and lounge areas around the edges by the bar and at the rear (www.phoenixnewtimes.com)where patrons can rest between sets. VIP tables and bottle service are available for purchase (ask the box office or contact the club for details). In the local scene, Monarch quickly gained a reputation as *the* late-night dance club in central Phoenix – even winning Phoenix New Times’ “Best Nightclub” in 2019 and routinely featuring in nightlife roundups.

Events and Programming

Monarch Theatre hosts dance parties, DJ concerts and themed club nights most weekends (generally Wednesday–Saturday, plus occasional special dates). It specializes in electronic genres: think house, techno, trance, drum & bass, dubstep and big-room EDM. The club’s calendar includes both local DJ residencies and touring stars. For example, Phoenix music websites document that early grand-opening events in 2012 featured Grammy-nominated singer Nadia Ali and trance shows from Relentless Beats (www.phoenixnewtimes.com) (www.phoenixnewtimes.com). In recent years, Monarch has hosted a variety of national and international acts – from Chicago-style house DJs to Detroit techno names – often promoted by big-electronic collectives like CircuitAZ and Insomniac. In summer 2025 for instance, CircuitAZ organized a series of techno showcases at Monarch headlined by producers like Pleasurekraft and Drunken Kong (www.circuitaz.com) (www.circuitaz.com), and a recent show by Black Asteroid boasted an “immersive” 4-corner Funktion-One sound setup (ra.co).

Many events are weekly or monthly residencies. Local fans enjoy Thursdays (sometimes billed “UK Thursdays” with bass music) and special nights with local “Solstice” DJs spinning house and trance (www.phoenixnewtimes.com). Other nights may feature hip-hop or reggae-influenced dance music by invited guests, but EDM is the core. Typical headliners range from underground club DJs (live sets and DJ sets) to occasionally big-name EDM artists. Since Monarch is a club venue without assigned seats, almost all events are general admission (standing on the floor). Ticket prices vary by show: local or small DJs often run $10–$15, while bigger national acts may be $20–$30. In its opening-weekend coverage, New Times noted initial admission prices as low as $5 for a Thursday club show and $10–$20 for weekend headliners (www.phoenixnewtimes.com). Events often start late (doors around 9–10 PM) and run past midnight, so patrons can plan accordingly.

Tickets and Booking

Tickets for Monarch Theatre events are usually sold in advance through the event promoter or authorized ticket vendor (e.g. the promoter’s website or an online ticket outlet). Because Monarch is a nightclub rather than a typical theatre, there is no daytime box office; advance purchase is highly recommended for popular shows. Some dance nights will sell remaining tickets at the door (if the event isn’t sold out), but there are no guarantees of availability. Ticket prices depend on the artist and day of week. Expect base prices around $10–$20 for local DJs and $20–$30 (or more) for nationally known acts, with early-bird or presale discounts often offered. Occasionally special deals (like $5 entry) pop up on opening events or low-demand nights (www.phoenixnewtimes.com).

Keep in mind that Monarch’s ticket policy is straightforward: **all sales are final** (www.monarchtheatre.com). There are no refunds or exchanges once purchased. If an event is rescheduled, tickets remain valid for the new date; if it’s canceled without rescheduling, only then will refunds be issued (and typically only if no alternate date has been announced within 180 days (www.monarchtheatre.com)). When booking, double-check the name on your ticket – if picking up at will-call, you must present a matching ID at the door (www.monarchtheatre.com). For most shows, doors and opening acts start around 9–10 PM (www.monarchtheatre.com), so arriving early is wise. (Patrons often note that headlining DJs don’t take the stage until around midnight (www.monarchtheatre.com).) It’s also a 21+ club, so you must be at least 21 and have valid photo ID to enter (www.monarchtheatre.com) (www.monarchtheatre.com).

Seating and Layout

The Monarch’s interior is laid out like a classic nightclub rather than a seated theatre. There is a large central dance floor (about 7,000 square feet (www.phoenixnewtimes.com)) facing a raised stage where DJs and performers appear. The stage is framed by visual screens and lights (promoters often plug a giant LED wall or video visuals behind it). Above the stage may be trusses for moving lights, lasers and disco balls, adding to a club-style atmosphere. Behind the dance floor, opposite the stage, you’ll find the main bar along one side wall and a bank of booths and lounge seating on the other (www.phoenixnewtimes.com). These booth/vip areas give guests a place to rest or eat between songs – however, the core of the venue is the standing crowd on the floor.

• General Admission Floor: The vast majority of patrons will stand or dance on the main floor. For the best view of the DJ booth and lights, front-and-center on the floor is ideal, but it can get crowded. The audio here is strong – Funktion-One speakers are often pointed down into the crowd – so bring earplugs if you’re sensitive. If you prefer a little breathing room, standing a bit further back near the bar areas still gives a good view of the stage and balancing a bit quieter sound.
• Bar and Booth Areas: For many shows you’ll pay separately at the bar for drinks. The booths opposite the bar can be more comfortable for sitting, and they still overlook the dance floor. Those spots are usually first-come, first-served on a night-out basis (unless a table is rented as part of a group package).
• Balcony/Upstairs: The venue has two levels in the front section (some refer to it as a mezzanine). From up there, you get a bird’s-eye view of the dance floor and stage. DJs and lights are still clearly visible from the upstairs perimeter patio or balcony rail. (Keep in mind, only a limited number of people can stand up there before it fills up.)
• VIP Sections: When available, VIP or bottle-service areas (usually roped-off tables) are typically on the sides of the floor or fully upstairs. Unless you reserved one, they are not accessible. There are no numbered seats – any chair or tall stool near booths is first-come basis unless you’ve paid extra.
• Acoustics: Monarch is designed for loud music. The Funktion-One sound system provides clean bass and full-range audio. Sound is optimized on the floor, so standing off to the sides or back can be slightly quieter. The ceiling and walls help contain the sound, so you usually don’t hear the outdoors – you’ll definitely feel the bass through the floor. The venue recommends ear protection if concert-level noise bothers you (joynight.com).

Getting There and Parking

Location: Monarch Theatre sits at 122 E. Washington Street in Downtown Phoenix. It’s one block east of 3rd Street and one block west of 1st Street, right in the core of the Convention and Washington Street area. Landmarks nearby include the downtown convention center and the Chase Field ballpark. Note that the official door entrance is on Washington Street (and some events direct you to use the alleyway entrance around the corner) (www.circuitaz.com).

Public Transit: The Red Line of the Valley Metro Light Rail runs directly to the intersection of 3rd St. and Washington – there is a station literally in front of the venue (www.monarchtheatre.com). You can catch the train from Tempe, downtown Phoenix or other points, then exit at the 3rd St/Washington stop. From there, step onto Washington Street and walk east to the theater’s entrance. Many bus routes also run along Washington or Jefferson streets, but the rail is the easiest direct option to reach the club. (www.monarchtheatre.com)

Parking: Downtown Phoenix has a mix of street and lot parking. Street meters run along Washington and nearby streets; rates under normal conditions are hourly fees, pausing during the late-night hours. According to the venue, after 10:00 PM the parking meters in downtown often expire and become free, so late-arriving patrons usually can find free street parking if lots are full (www.monarchtheatre.com). Numbered commercial lots and garages (such as those around the nearby arena or in CityScape) are also within a few blocks. On event nights, those lots may charge $5–$10. If you prefer guaranteed parking, consider reserving a spot in advance via a parking app or ParkWhiz near 3rd Street. Keep in mind that very popular shows (or concurrent sports/concert events) can make parking scarce, so aim to arrive a bit early.

Rideshare/Taxi: Uber/Lyft drop-offs and taxi stands typically use 3rd Street or Washington in front of the venue. Some events instruct guests to enter via the alley behind the theater (along northbound 3rd St), so a safe drop-off point is the 3rd St alley adjacent to Washington (www.circuitaz.com). This can help you skip front-door lines on busy nights. If you’re staying downtown or nearby, walking from a close hotel or taking the free DASH downtown circulator (some routes connect around City Hall) are also options.

Inside the Venue

Entry and Security: Expect a short line at the door, especially on Friday and Saturday nights. Before entering, all guests undergo a security check: bags are searched and you’ll pass through a metal detector (www.monarchtheatre.com). This ensures safety by barring weapons, illegal drugs or other contraband from the club (www.monarchtheatre.com). The dress code is mostly relaxed – come casual (jeans/t-shirts are fine) or upscale-casual; some patrons wear dresses or button-down shirts on busy nights. However, the theater strictly prohibits any gang-affiliated attire (such as certain color bandanas, patches or logos) (www.monarchtheatre.com). Do not plan on entry with large backpacks, glass bottles, or outside food/drink. After security, ID is checked for 21+ events – bring a valid government photo ID (driver’s license, passport, etc.) as Monarch is now 21+ only (www.monarchtheatre.com).

Bar and Drinks: Once inside, you will find a full-service bar along one side of the main floor. Bar menus typically include cocktails, mixed drinks, beer and wine. Prices are higher than at an ordinary bar (this is downtown club pricing) – one review wryly notes “overpriced drinks,” but most agree the bartenders are competent and the premium is part of the venue experience (joynight.com). Craft cocktails or bottle service will cost more than a standard drink. The bar may stay open all night or until last call (usually around 2 AM), but budget accordingly. There is no food service kitchen – no full meals are available, only bar snacks or cocktails.

Atmosphere and Production: The vibe inside Monarch is vibrant and loud. During a show, house lights are mostly off and the dance floor is lit by moving beams, strobes and color washes from above. Many events also use large video screens or LED walls around the stage for visuals. Fog or haze machines are often used, so expect a haze-smoke effect. Because of the nature of club sound-systems, you’ll hear loud bass thumping through your body. Cell phone reception is usually okay, but streaming music or video may lag in heavy crowds. (There is no public Wi-Fi.) Merch tables sometimes appear near the entrance or back wall on nights where touring artists play – check after entry if you want artist t-shirts or CDs.

Restrooms and Other Facilities: Stairwells or hallways off the dance floor lead to the restrooms. There are separate men’s and women’s facilities on the ground floor; upstairs may have an additional unisex or ADA restroom. Lines can form quickly during big breaks, so plan restroom trips accordingly. Coat-check service is not mentioned, and since Phoenix weather is warm most of the year, most late-night crowds come lightly dressed anyway. If you do carry a jacket or large bag, make sure the coat check – if offered – does not cost extra (many clubs will tag your items). Otherwise, keep belongings minimal, tucked, and be aware of your personal items in the crowd. You may see security lockers around, but there is no official secured storage – with a crowd that size, it’s safest to carry just the essentials.

Nearby Amenities

Dining and Pre-Show Options: Monarch is surrounded by a bustling downtown neighborhood. On 1st and 3rd Streets (two blocks west and east), you’ll find a cluster of popular bars and restaurants perfect for pre-show dinner or drinks. For example, Pizzeria Bianco (on Adams St. one block south) is a world-famous pizzeria often busy before Knickknack Alley shows. The Arrogant Butcher and Postino WineCafe are a couple of blocks west near 3rd Ave, serving American and Mediterranean fare. CityScape Phoenix (3rd & Washington) has chain and local eateries (think Rock Bottom Brewery, Chipotle, Esther’s Kitchen) and a food court style area. If you want cocktails, the Roosevelt Row arts district (just a few blocks north on 3rd Street) offers lounge bars like Bitter & Twisted or Citizen Public House. Essentially, downtown Phoenix has options for just about any cuisine – from sushi and steak to vegan bowls – all within walking distance.

Hotels and Lodging: Several downtown hotels are within a short taxi or MetroRide from Monarch. Closest can include the Hyatt Regency Phoenix (one block west), Renaissance Phoenix Downtown (in CityScape), or Hilton Garden Inn on Jefferson. A short drive away or within walking distance (0.3-0.5 miles) are the Sheraton Phoenix Downtown and the Found:Re downtown hotel. If you prefer boutique lodging, try Roosevelt Row’s eco-friendly Luhrs City Center or the eco Ace Hotel a bit to the north. Staying near 1st Street and Washington will put you within 10 minutes’ walk of Monarch.

Other Nightlife: After your show at Monarch, downtown Phoenix stays lively. Bar options right around the corner include BarSmith (130 E. Washington, adjacent venue) or the Sky Lounge. If you want to keep the night going, Crescent Ballroom and Valley Bar are trendy music bars a few blocks north. Throughout downtown, you’ll find all-ages clubs, comedy bars, and late-night lounges. Taxis and rideshare are readily available until 2 AM. The light rail also continues running until around 1 AM (check schedules). In short, Monarch is in the center of the action – once your night at Monarch is done, there are many places nearby to eat, drink or catch more live music.

What Makes This Venue Special

Monarch Theatre stands out as Phoenix’s premier electronic dance-music club. Unlike multi-purpose theaters or concert halls, it was purpose-built (from a former nightclub space) to serve the city’s growing EDM scene. The spacious, two-story black-box design and Funktion-One audio system give both DJs and dancers plenty of room and top-shelf production capability (www.phoenixnewtimes.com) (ra.co). Local press has praised the venue – Phoenix New Times called it a “dance emporium” with “a diversity of boogaloos” on the floor each night (www.phoenixnewtimes.com). Indeed, fans flock here for the immersive party experience, complete with big visuals and a heaving crowd.

Architecturally and culturally, Monarch also contributes character to downtown. An eye-catching mural by street artist Andy Brown wraps the exterior, adding to Roosevelt Row’s public-art vibe (dtphx.org). Unlike smaller bars, it’s one of Phoenix’s few sizable late-night venues (aside from the downtown arena and theaters), making it vital for big touring artists. Under previous ownership the space was “PHX Nightclub,” a well-known hip-hop club, but rebranding to EDM allowed for a fresh start in 2012; old-timers note the owners wanted a dedicated hotspot for dance music (www.phoenixnewtimes.com) (www.phoenixnewtimes.com). The community aspect is evident too: one long-time promoter says the owners even let charity groups use the empty club on off-nights (for example, a #hashtagLunchBag volunteer meal program runs there monthly (www.monarchtheatre.com)). In summary, Monarch Theatre combines the scale of a big club with city-centric flair – a place where both Phoenix locals and visiting DJs love to gather.

Visitor Tips and Information

• Bring a valid photo ID – Monarch is strictly 21+ as of mid-2021 (www.monarchtheatre.com) (www.monarchtheatre.com). Guests without ID will be turned away.
• Buy tickets in advance. If a show is popular, day-of tickets may sell out. There is no refund policy (tickets are final sale (www.monarchtheatre.com)), so confirm show details before purchasing.
• Plan to arrive early. Doors often open around 9–10 PM; if you want to dance near the front, get in early. Late arrival means longer lines and a more crowded floor.
• Security checks are standard – metal detectors and bag checks (www.monarchtheatre.com). Prohibited items include weapons, outside alcohol or drugs. Also do not bring large backpacks. Small purses or camelbacks may be allowed but are subject to inspection.
• Dress comfortably but stylishly. The official dress code is "casual to evening formal" (www.monarchtheatre.com). Jeans, nice shirts and dresses are all fine. Avoid athletic jerseys, hats or gang colors, as any gang-related clothing is not permitted (www.monarchtheatre.com).
• Parking tip: If you come late (after 10 PM) on an event night, street parking meters in downtown often expire (www.monarchtheatre.com), so many patrons snag free curb parking. Otherwise use a nearby paid lot.
• Check the venue’s entry instructions. Some events use the alley entrance (on 3rd Street) rather than the main door (www.circuitaz.com). This is usually noted on the ticket or event page. Riding drop-offs often let you off by that alley.
• Remember there is no re-entry. (www.monarchtheatre.com) Once you leave, you can’t come back in on the same ticket. So if you plan to get food or smoke outside, do it before going inside.
• Wear earplugs if needed. The sound system is extremely loud – one local tip page even advises guests to “consider bringing some ear plugs” for the speakers that “go to 11” (joynight.com).
• Know the schedule. Monarch lists event lineups and opener times on its website or social media. Typically the main DJ won’t play until around midnight, so the first hour is often local openers or house music to warm up the crowd.
• No cameras with interchangeable lenses are allowed – phone cameras are usually fine, but check with venue staff if you’re unsure about recording equipment.
• It gets hot. On a packed dance floor, expect to sweat. Dress in lightweight clothes if you’re dancing nonstop, and stay hydrated with water between drinks.
• Check-out shows from promoters like CircuitAZ or Insomniac, as they often book at Monarch. Following venues’ social media or EDM clubs (e.g. subscriber lists) can help you get pre-sale access.
• If you have accessibility needs (wheelchair, etc.), call ahead. The ground floor is reachable by a level entrance, but the venue may not have full elevator service to balconies. Staff can advise on accommodations.
• Keep your belongings secure on the dance floor. Cells and wallets should be zipped in a front pocket or small bag. The club is friendly, but crowded nightlife always carries pickpocket risk.
• Finally, have fun and respect others. The Monarch has a reputation for a friendly, inclusive vibe. Security staff are “chill” according to patrons (www.monarchtheatre.com), focusing on everyone having a good time. Just follow the rules, and you’ll enjoy central Phoenix’s premier dance nightspot.

Frequently Asked Questions