The Hobby Center for the Performing Arts opened in 2002 providing a state-of-the-art complex for all Houstonians to experience the best of Broadway and the arts right in our own backyard.
Two acoustically distinguished theaters, an impressive grand lobby, a contemporary American cuisine restaurant and convenient on-site parking create a first-class setting in which to enjoy acclaimed theatrical performances and special events.
Hobby Center Virtual Tour
This virtual tour will give you an interactive, 360-degree view of all public spaces available to rent or utilize at the Hobby Center. Envision what your special event may look like or see what kind of stage view you can have in either theater.
Venue Architecture
- The Hobby Center delivers the vision of architect Robert A.M. Stern: “To create a facility where there’s a show before the show”
- Exterior – 60-foot-high glass walls overlook the city skyline, adjacent parks and the Art Deco City Hall
- Grand Lobby – The three-story lobby features Café de Paris limestone, a gold leaf ceiling and a dramatic roof supported by tubular steel columns. The expansive second-floor terrace overlooks Tranquility Park and downtown Houston
- Sarofim Hall and Zilkha Hall – Seating 2,650 and 500 respectively, the halls were designed to accommodate large-scale productions and smaller, more intimate performances. Both are beautifully appointed
Venue Artwork
- Highly regarded contemporary artists were selected to create pieces specifically for the Hobby Center
- American painter Sol LeWitt’s color-suffused mural, “Wall Drawing 2002,” serves as the focal point in the Grand Lobby. Measuring 35′ x 27′, Wall Drawing 2002 was applied directly to the wall surface wall surface by Tomas Ramberg, assistant to Mr. LeWitt and Lead Artist, along with a team of local Houston artists
- British sculptor Tony Cragg’s two-part bronze sculpture, In Minds stands outside the entrance to the Hobby Center. Cast bronze with stainless steel armature, the narrow form (28′ x 4′) weighs 1800 lbs. while the shorter, more voluminous form (22′ x 11′) weighs 3800 lbs. The work was cast in Germany and shipped to Houston from the Port of Rotterdam in Holland
Venue Amenities
- Diana American Grill – this on-site restaurant makes for a convenient pre or post show dining experience complemented by downtown Houston views. Named for Diana Hobby – who impacted the Houston community in countless ways and played an instrumental role in the creation of the performing arts center – the restaurant name serves to honor, acknowledge and extend her legacy of grace and generosity.
- On-Site Parking – Located directly behind the Hobby Center with easy access from both Rusk and Walker Streets this above ground parking garage provides easy access to the Hobby Center. Learn more about parking options.
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Box Office Information
Box Office: (713) 315-2525
Email: [email protected]
Hours: *Subject to change depending on show schedule
Monday-Friday, 10:00am-6:00pm
Saturday-Sunday, 11:00am-4:00pm