Bushnell Center for the Performing Arts in Hartford, Connecticut: A Welcoming Cultural Hub

The Bushnell Center for the Performing Arts stands as a cultural jewel in downtown Hartford, Connecticut. Since opening its doors, this historic venue has become the heart of the region’s arts scene, hosting over 350 events each year including Broadway shows, symphony performances, and community gatherings. When you visit The Bushnell, you’ll experience Connecticut’s premier performing arts destination where entertainment and architecture blend to create unforgettable memories.

In 2001, The Bushnell expanded its offerings with a second theater, adding a modern 907-seat performance space to complement the original historic building. You’ll find the center conveniently located at 166 Capitol Avenue, making it easily accessible for an evening of cultural enrichment. Whether you’re a longtime arts enthusiast or looking for a special night out, The Bushnell offers something to delight everyone who walks through its doors.

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The Bushnell Performing Arts Center

The Bushnell Performing Arts Center stands as Hartford’s premier destination for the performing arts. You’ll find this cultural gem hosting an impressive variety of shows, from Broadway tours to symphony performances and concerts across its multiple stages.

For the 2024-2025 season, you can enjoy blockbuster Broadway hits including Disney’s The Lion King, MJ, and Back to the Future The Musical. The center offers flexible Choose-Your-Own subscription options, allowing you to select at least four shows and secure great seats for the performances you’re most excited to see.

Beyond performances, The Bushnell publishes Muse, their quarterly arts magazine celebrating creativity and community. It’s a wonderful way for you to stay connected with upcoming shows, Bushnell initiatives, and exciting developments in Connecticut’s arts community.

The Bushnell creates unforgettable experiences in a historic venue that has been entertaining Connecticut residents and visitors for generations. You’ll appreciate both the caliber of performances and the beautiful architectural setting that makes each visit special.

Rating: 4.7 (3047 reviews)
Location: 166 Capitol Ave, Hartford, CT 06106
Contact: (860) 987-5900
Website: Visit Website

History and Legacy

The Bushnell Center for the Performing Arts has a rich and meaningful history dating back to its origins as a heartfelt tribute. This Hartford landmark has evolved into Connecticut’s premier performing arts venue while maintaining its historical significance.

Origins and Development

The Bushnell’s story began as an act of love between a father and daughter. Dotha Bushnell Hillyer built the center as a permanent tribute to her father, Horace Bushnell, who had made significant contributions to Hartford.

Originally known as Bushnell Memorial Hall, the venue has been a cultural cornerstone of Hartford for decades. In 2001, The Bushnell completed a major $45 million expansion project that transformed it into the comprehensive performing arts center you can visit today.

The building itself features distinctive artistic interior elements that reflect its historical significance. When you take the hour and a half-long tour, you’ll discover fascinating details about the center’s early history and the beautiful architectural features.

Impact on the Arts Community

Today, The Bushnell stands as Connecticut’s largest arts organization, hosting more than 350 events yearly. You’ll find everything from major Broadway tours to symphony orchestras, family presentations, and community events gracing its stages.

The center has become a cultural hub that actively promotes economic development in Central Connecticut. As a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, The Bushnell works to present, create, inspire, and share the best in performing arts with the community.

When you visit, you’ll experience a venue that has played a crucial role in shaping the artistic landscape of Hartford and the surrounding region. The Bushnell continues to fulfill its mission as a dynamic 21st Century performing arts center that builds community through artistic excellence.

Architecture and Design

The Bushnell Center for the Performing Arts showcases stunning architectural design that blends historic charm with modern functionality. This Hartford landmark features both classic Art Deco elements and contemporary additions that make it a visual masterpiece.

Iconic Features

The original Bushnell building, completed in 1930, was designed by Corbett, Harrison, and MacMurray—the same architects who created New York’s famous Radio City Music Hall. You’ll be impressed by the Georgian Revival style featuring elegant brick exterior walls accented with ornamental limestone bands and a solid granite base.

When you visit, don’t miss the historic Mortensen Hall with its beloved Art Deco styling. This 2,000-seat auditorium represents the golden age of theater architecture.

In 2001, the Bushnell expanded with the addition of the modern 907-seat Belding Theater. This state-of-the-art performance space features a spacious stage (92 feet wide and 42 feet deep) perfect for contemporary productions.

The thoughtful design connects Hartford’s architectural past with its future, making your visit both culturally and visually rewarding.

Cultural Significance

The Bushnell Center stands as a cultural cornerstone in Hartford, deeply woven into the fabric of Connecticut’s artistic identity. Its impact extends beyond performances to shape community connections and celebrate diverse artistic expressions.

Community Engagement

The Bushnell serves as Hartford’s unique gathering place for arts, education, and community activities. You’ll find this historic venue actively working to bring people together through shared cultural experiences.

The center partners with local organizations to advance education and promote economic development throughout Central Connecticut. These collaborations help create a stronger sense of community in the region.

Diverse Performances

You’ll discover an incredible variety of shows at The Bushnell—from Broadway productions to symphony orchestras. This diversity ensures there’s something for every taste and interest.

As Connecticut’s premier presenter of performing arts, The Bushnell consistently brings world-class entertainment to Hartford. The venue attracts nationally recognized touring productions that might otherwise only play in larger cities.

The programming reflects a commitment to artistic excellence while remaining accessible to diverse audiences. When planning your visit, check their calendar for upcoming shows spanning multiple genres—classical music, dance, theater, comedy, and family entertainment.

This rich mix of performances helps strengthen Hartford’s cultural identity and makes The Bushnell a must-visit destination during your Connecticut travels.