Arts and Culture
The City of Glendale is home to a multitude of talented artists, arts organizations and cultural events that play an important role in bettering the lives of residents and making our city a well-rounded, culturally rich community.
Recognizing that a vibrant arts and culture community attracts both residents and businesses, City leaders made a purposeful effort to expand the role they play in planning Glendale’s future. From the purchase and rehabilitation of the historic Alex Theatre Performing Arts and Entertainment Center, to the support of the new Glendale Arts Alliance, to the creation of the City’s Arts and Culture Commission, to the inclusion of the arts into all aspects the City’s new Downtown Specific Plan, arts and culture activities have been woven into the fabric of the City’s economic development efforts.
These arts and cultural institutions are proven catalysts for growth and prosperity and help to attract investment in our community, generate jobs, encourage tourism and, most of all, make Glendale the jewel of Los Angeles County.
Glendale Arts
In May 2008, the Glendale Redevelopment Agency approved the formation of Glendale Arts, a private nonprofit organization charged with managing the Alex Theatre and coordinating resources that are designed to benefit Glendale-based artists, arts organizations, businesses, government agencies, and local schools.
Glendale Arts believes that a great city is defined by its arts. We envision a supportive environment that encourages and values all artistic disciplines and believe that the arts are an essential ingredient for a vibrant, creative, and economically healthy community.
Theatres
Alex Theatre
The Alex Theatre has been a Los Angeles area landmark since 1925. In 1992, the City of Glendale Redevelopment Agency purchased the Alex to serve as the centerpiece of Glendale’s revitalized Brand Boulevard. Glendale is home to the historic Alex theater. For over 80 years this landmark offers a range of programs including classical, contemporary and world music concerts, to film screenings, live theatre and stand-up comedy. In addition, the Alex Theatre also hosts award shows, fundraisers and a variety of other special events and frequently serves as a location for television, commercial and film productions. The Alex Theatre once hosted an American Idol try out.
A Noise Within
A Noise Within Theatre has been in Downtown Glendale since 1991 and is dedicated solely to producing classical dramatic literature. It is the only company in Southern California working in the repertory tradition (rotating productions using a resident ensemble of professional, trained artists).
Glendale Centre Theatre
Glendale Centre Theatre is the longest continuously-running centre staged theatre in the country. The Theatre first opened in 1947, and has been operating from its permanent location since 1965.
Glendale Civic Auditorium
The Glendale Civic Auditorium is a 25,000 square foot multi-level meeting and exhibition facility with state of the art audio and visual system. This Spanish Revival/ Art Deco classic building plays host to professionals and consumers and is home to large conventions, business seminars, and consumer shows.
Historical Sites and Museums
Glendale currently has over 60 registered landmarks, including theatres, adobes, libraries, parks, hotels, shopping districts, and neighborhoods. Please visit the Historic Sites link for more information.
For a complete list of arts and cultural information, please visit www.glendalearts.org.
Arts & Culture Commission
The Arts and Culture Commission is responsible for promoting art activities and education in Glendale. It serves as an advisory group on the arts to the Council and City boards and commission. In addition, the Commission offers support and assistance to existing organizations involved in the arts and/or culture in Glendale, reinforces the City's identity and civic pride through arts and culture, and recognizes the importance of the arts in the City's quality of life
