Founded in 1971, the Annenberg Center is one of the nation’s foremost urban performing arts centers on a major university campus, serving as a cultural destination in Philadelphia and connecting regional audiences and the University through a broad range of programs in theatre, music and dance. In fulfillment of its mission, the Center engages world-renowned and emerging artists who express adventuresome perspectives on contemporary issues and timeless ideas and who further the Center’s commitment to artistic and intellectual excellence, diversity and education for adult, student and family audiences.
Annual programming includes dramatic touring theatre, jazz, world music, culturally-specific roots programming (including African, Asian, Latin, and Irish work), and local Philadelphia artists. For 28 years, the Center has also presented Dance Celebration, one of the nation’s top dance series, in partnership with Dance Affiliates. For younger audiences, the Center presents school-time matinee programs through its Student Discovery Series (instituted in 1979), providing area youth with unique artistic experiences. Additionally, the Center’s annual Philadelphia International Children's Festival, established in 1985 as the first event of its kind in the nation, serves children and families in the region with a range of artistic and interactive experiences.