
Live Music & Theater Guide in Columbia, South Carolina, United States
1. Columbia City Jazz Orchestra
Experience big band jazz at its finest. This 18-piece orchestra plays classic and original tunes.
- Live Big Band Experience: Uncommon to find a full 18-piece jazz orchestra in Columbia.
- Classic and Original Tunes: A balance of both classic and original compositions make for an exciting performance.
- Local Talent: All musicians are local to the Columbia area, showcasing homegrown talent.
2. Taylor Music Theatre
A small but vibrant theater with a focus on community-driven performances.
- Community-Driven Performances: Performances are often produced or directed by local artists.
- Intimate Setting: The small size allows for a more personal and immersive experience.
- Diverse Offerings: A variety of plays, musicals, and concerts catering to different tastes.
3. The Blue Note
World-class jazz and blues venue featuring international artists.
- International Artists: A rare opportunity to see renowned jazz and blues musicians in Columbia.
- Intimate Venue: An up-close experience with artists, often offering VIP seating options.
- Historic Location: Located in a historic building, adding to the ambiance and charm.
4. Columbia Opera
Experience the beauty of opera in Columbia with talented local artists.
- Local Talent: A chance to see and hear local artists excel in the art of opera.
- Variety of Operas: Offers a mix of classic and contemporary operas throughout the year.
- Educational Programs: Provides educational programs to help foster a love for opera in the community.
5. The Koger Center for the Arts
A state-of-the-art facility presenting professional touring Broadway shows and local productions.
- State-of-the-Art Facility: Modern venue with top-notch sound, lighting, and seating for the best theater experience.
- Professional Touring Shows: Brings Broadway hits to Columbia without the need for travel.
- Local Productions: Offers opportunities for local artists and groups to perform in the space.
6. The Art House Cinema & Pub
A unique venue combining a movie theater with a pub serving craft beer.
- Movie Theater and Pub Combined: Enjoy a movie with dinner and drinks in one convenient location.
- Independent and Art Films: Screens independent and art films not typically found at mainstream theaters.
- Craft Beer Selection: A diverse selection of local and regional craft beers to complement your film experience.
7. The Village Idiot
Irish pub with live music and theater performances, fostering a lively social atmosphere.
- Live Music and Theater: Offers live music and theater performances for a diverse entertainment experience.
- Irish-Themed Pub: Authentic Irish decor and menu add to the overall atmosphere.
- Community Gathering Spot: A popular spot for locals and visitors alike, fostering a strong sense of community.
8. Workshop Theatre Company
A professional theater company focusing on new works and collaborations.
- New Works and Collaborations: Dedicated to presenting new, innovative plays and fostering creative collaboration.
- Local Artists and Actors: Provides opportunities for local artists and actors to develop their craft.
- Affordable Tickets: Offers affordable ticket prices, making theater accessible for all.
9. Independence Street Live
A popular outdoor concert series featuring local and regional musicians.
- Outdoor Concert Series: Enjoy live music in a beautiful, outdoor setting.
- Local and Regional Artists: Showcases a mix of local and regional artists, exposing audiences to new talent.
- Community Gathering Space: Brings the community together for a fun and engaging experience.
10. The Nickelodeon Theatre
Independent movie theater showing classic and independent films.
- Classic and Independent Films: Offers a mix of classic and independent films not typically found at mainstream theaters.
- Artistic Programming: Presents special film series and artistic events throughout the year.
- Community-Driven: A community-driven theater, dedicated to fostering a love for cinema in Columbia.
11. The Longhorn's Saloon & Grill
Country music venue with live performances, dancing, and Southern comfort food.
- Live Country Music: Offers live country music performances for an authentic experience.
- Dancing Opportunities: Provides a dance floor, making it easy to get up and enjoy the music.
- Southern Comfort Food: Serves delicious Southern comfort food to complement your entertainment experience.
12. The South Carolina Philharmonic
A professional orchestra offering classical music performances and education programs.
- Professional Orchestra: Features talented musicians and conductors for a top-notch performance experience.
- Classical Music Performances: Offers a variety of classical music performances throughout the year.
- Education Programs: Provides educational programs to help foster a love for classical music in the community.
13. The Trustus Theatre
A professional theater company producing contemporary and classic plays.
- Contemporary and Classic Plays: Presents a mix of contemporary and classic plays, appealing to diverse audiences.
- Local Artists and Actors: Provides opportunities for local artists and actors to develop their craft.
- Affordable Tickets: Offers affordable ticket prices, making theater accessible for all.
14. The Jazz Room at Seneca's
An intimate jazz club offering live performances and a sophisticated atmosphere.
- Intimate Jazz Club: Provides an up-close experience with artists, often offering VIP seating options.
- Live Jazz Performances: Offers live jazz performances from local and regional musicians.
- Sophisticated Atmosphere: Features elegant decor and a curated cocktail menu for an upscale experience.
15. The Music Farm Columbia
A concert venue featuring local and national touring artists across various genres.
- Local and National Artists: Showcases a mix of local and national artists, exposing audiences to new talent.
- Variety of Genres: Offers a variety of genres, appealing to diverse music lovers.
- Up-close Experience: Features an up-close and intimate setting for an engaging concert experience.