Opened in 2005, the 210,000 square foot entertainment venue includes 4 large theatres, 5 art galleries, and 14 art studios. The largest theatre, the Ideka Theatre, houses 1600 and has hosted a vast amount of events. The MAC regularly houses a large variety of events, including: performances, famous art exhibits, cultural events, local markets, city arts classes, and theatrical productions. Tickets are fairly priced compared to other theatres in Arizona such as Symphony Hall and Hale Theatre, and they usually range from about $18-$50, depending on the event. For one night of entertainment, it may seem a bit expensive, but a live performance in any of these well-constructed halls is worth seeing. It is also considerably cheaper than buying tickets for artist performances in other places in the valley such as U.S. Airways Center, when tickets typically range from $30-$150. The MAC is also unique in that there are many local performing groups (such as symphonies, theatre groups, ballet groups, etc.) that use these facilities as well as a variety of well-known performers that have appeared such as comedian Steve Martin, cellist Yo-Yo Ma, and band Jimmy Eat World, to name a few. Viewers can expect a wide-ranging number of performances from a large number of genres such as these, as well as various events such as speeches, talk shows, debates, etc.
Mesa Arts Center is located in the heart of downtown Mesa, surrounded by a beautiful old-town environment. The center adds an affectionate contemporary taste to the surrounding area; post-modern architecture singles out the MAC as a stunningly new and impressive masterpiece that visitors will certainly admire. Jagged angles in design, glass walls, various reflected water areas, bold colors, and various other modern techniques contribute to the striking image of the center.
The MAC is a perfect public setting! Surrounding tables and grass areas invite guests to sit and socialize or enjoy a peaceful afternoon. Visitors are free to use surrounding garden areas and exquisite architectural backgrounds to sit and have personal quiet time, or even take pictures. I spoke with a photographer who frequently uses the center for photo shoots and she said she noticed that the grounds are very popular with a variety of photography opportunities including: wedding/engagement photos, large group photos, and individual portrait sessions because of the variety of areas available. She was grateful for a beautiful and convenient location that was free and public and plans to use it often. Additionally, the backgrounds make for simple photo opportunities, as my friends and I demonstrate in our ‘crazy outfit’ photo shoot we took a number of years ago:
When recently speaking with other visitors of the center, many will agree that the facilities at the MAC are clean and proficient inside and out; they can easily be appreciated by youth and adults alike. There was a consensus among those I visited that there is a variety of performances and events and a positive environment when attending the center. There are also many opportunities for nearby dining and shopping in downtown Mesa which a large number of visiting patrons have come to love as they have visited the center. Parking in and around the center and downtown Mesa is very limited, making large events a little hectic and difficult to find parking places. However, early arrival is generally always courteous and expected at most any theatrical event, and parking can usually be found even if it is a bit of a walk. A very important aspect of the Mesa Arts Center is the convenience of the location, which makes it possible for the large population living in Mesa, Chandler, and Gilbert to attend a theatre. It is one of the closest large theatre locations in the valley for residents of these cities, the next closest being in downtown Phoenix; the MAC has become an important venue for many productions that would not be possible were it not for location (i.e. local theatre groups and symphonies). Compared to other venues, the MAC does not always offer the most prestigious events (i.e. more popular bands) because of less seating compared to a place such as the U.S. Airways Center; it can sometimes be difficult to obtain tickets to popular events because of the comparative limiting seating. However, most tickets must be bought in advance regardless of the location, and the MAC's cheaper online ticket services make it possible to do so. Any concert is worth seeing because of the comfort and surrounding beauty that cannot be found at any nearby theatre.
I have had the opportunity to attend many events at the Mesa Arts Center, and one of my favorite areas has become the Ikeda Theatre. I have been privileged to view many stirring performances and have been able to be on the performing side of the stage as well. All of the theatres in the MAC are very exquisite, with beautiful wood finish, large stage areas, interconnected backstage rooms, widespread acoustics, and very comfortable chairs. The Ikeda is the largest theatre and is one of the greatest larger performance venues for large crowds/expansive stage productions. One event I particularly enjoyed was a concert by a local symphony (which I also had the privilege of performing in later), the Symphony of the Southwest. I felt that the meticulous, professional design of the theatre added wonders to the performance; the lighting was magnificent and the acoustics were perfect. The well-aimed surround-sound effect made it possible for every seat in the house to be a pleasant one where the music could be heard well and the entire stage could be seen. I appreciated the performance immensely because of the glorious music, of course, but I also felt a sense of art appreciation and personal connection to the beauty of the theatre. It was a very memorable experience to be able to venerate sound and sight not only of the orchestra, but also my surroundings.
I have had the opportunity to play and sing at as well as view a number of events in that theatre since. I had the privilege of performing with my high school choir and joining the same symphony on the stage a year later and many times afterward. I have loved each experience not only because of the beautiful sound I get to be a part of (as the music echoes in this glorious hall) but also because I appreciate the simple beauty surrounding me. I feel a deep connection every time I visit the center because I can reminisce on my past performances and feelings I have created within myself regarding those events. I can assure any visitor they will deeply enjoy attending any event or simply visiting the center because it is a place where memories are made, friends are met, and good times experienced. It is a simple place, but a marvelous opportunity in so many ways to be exposed to the arts and entertainment, and experiencing true enjoyment.
