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Birmingham's performing arts companies are well regarded throughout the country. Catch a performance if you can.
Set within an ultramodern building next to the staggering contemporary design of Birmingham’s library, the revered Birmingham Repertory Theatre is one of England’s oldest (founded in 1913) and most esteemed theater companies. All about the live performance, it’s equally at home performing modern or classical works.
This is the home of the distinguished City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra and a venue for jazz, pop, and classical concerts. The centerpiece of the revamped Centenary Square has a shoebox-shape, 6,000-pipe organ, and impeccable acoustics; it's easily one of the finest concert halls in England.
First opened in 1901, the Alexandra, or “the Alex” as it is affectionately known, welcomes touring companies on their way to or from London’s West End. Bookings and queries should be done online.
The second company of the Royal Ballet, the touring Birmingham Royal Ballet is based at the Hippodrome Theatre, which also plays host to visiting companies such as the Welsh National Opera.
This huge stadium within the massive National Exhibition Centre (universally known as "the N.E.C.") is located close to the airport. Tickets for all events here should be bought through the Ticket Factory.
The splendidly neoclassical venue holds a wide range of events, including organ recitals, opera, and contemporary music concerts. Monthly tours teach about the history of this magnificent building, where both Mendelssohn and Charles Dickens debuted new works.
