McAllen Performing Arts Center Information

“The McAllen Performing Arts Center serves as a premiere venue for the performing arts so as to enhance the range, quality and accessibility of cultural fare available to the public; to promulgate arts education; and to contribute to the cultural life of McAllen, the Rio Grande Valley, South Texas and Northern Mexico.” – McAllen Performing Arts Center.

The new venue has been built to state-of-the-art standards, including adjustable acoustics to suit a wide variety of musical events from contemporary pop concerts to orchestral symphonies and a hydraulic stage and orchestra lift enabling height variations for the performers. The performance center is 93,471 square feet, with theatre itself capable of seating 1, 800 with over 2,300 square feet of usable space. The venue also contains monumental stairs with impressive outside views.

Sitting at the epicenter of McAllen’s bustling shopping district, there’s plenty to do in and around the area – perfect if you’re looking to make a day or weekend out of your visit. 

As well as music and cultural events, you can also enjoy culinary and religious festivals. The venue is committed to increasing awareness of different cultures and experiences within McAllen, which it has achieved with several show-stopping performances hosted over the years.

There are restrooms located on every floor, and three levels of seating, with the VIP lounge located in The Tower. The venue is surrounded by shopping, dining, and other entertainment options in McAllen.

The multi-faceted arts center also boasts several educational programs such as workshops, discussions, and lectures surrounding various aspects of performing arts – providing a forward-thinking approach to the future of the arts within the South Texas district.

The center has hosted several stand-out shows including Annie and The Lion King, plus iconic legends such as Tony Bennett. You will also see the Russian ballet and the Valley Symphony Orchestra on its world-class performance list. 

History of McAllen Performing Arts Center

Plans for the McAllen Performing Arts Center were initially in the works as far back as the late 1970s, when officials wanted to discuss the future of the existing McAllen Civic Center (its predecessor). The conversation started because bigger performances at the Civic Center couldn’t work as the older building did not have the facilities it needed to host larger events.

City officials felt that McAllen had moved beyond the dated Civic Center and wanted to look at other places that could host larger-scale concerts and events. Leaders felt they wanted to bring more culture to McAllen and increase footfall in the surrounding area. 

There were several owners involved in the planning and construction of the new center and they all agreed on purchasing the current location as it was a large space that was closest to the original venue. 

But what about the civic meetings and business events the Civic Center hosted? The nearby McAllen Convention Center opened nine years before the performing arts center and now hosts an array of conventions, galas, and banquets – leaving MPAC free to bring large shows, festivals, and outstanding productions to South Texas. 

So, the McAllen Civic Center was demolished and one month later in November, MPAC officially opened its doors to a host of diverse shows. Now you could buy tickets to see Broadway shows like Elf and Annie, along with notable performers who have played some of the biggest venues in the world. 

Designed by ERO Architects local to the McAllen area, the 93,000-square-foot building features unobstructed views of the large stage, state-of-the-art lighting, and spectacular acoustics. The Rio Grande River influenced the colors and textures of the interior design. They also installed a grand wooden staircase that is a feature in itself. 

The aim of rebuilding the center was to attract large traveling tours and entertainment shows. Today, more shows than ever can tour through the Houston and San Antonio areas and have a good space to perform in. The auditorium is now able to highlight well-known acts such as Phantom of the Opera, Lion King, and Wicked.

For parking information please see the McAllen Performing Arts Center parking page.

For ticket information and information on our recommended ticket provider please see the McAllen Performing Arts Center tickets page.

To view the seating configuration and find out about accessible seating, please see the McAllen Performing Arts Center seating chart.