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Utah Valley may be known for its towering mountains, outdoor recreation, and large universities, but it's also a thriving hub of performing arts and entertainment.
Utah.com explains that the incredible quality of entertainment in the Beehive State stems from Utahn's long-held appreciation for performing arts.
"From settlement days forward, Utahns have actively supported the performing arts as opportunities for entertainment, education and enlightenment.
Nearly every city and community has an amateur performance company or access through the state's colleges and universities."
So, you're looking for a top-notch local theater production? Check. Spirited live music? You got it. World-class dance? Yep!
From outdoor musical theater under the stars to gritty indie music, you can find a whole range of performing arts throughout Utah County. Here's a deep dive into the best live entertainment spots the area has to offer.
Covey Center for the Arts
The Covey Center for the Arts is a cornerstone of Provo's arts community that hosts a wide range of performances, including professional theater productions, concerts, dance shows, and art exhibits.
With a 670-seat main theater, an intimate black box theater, and two art galleries, the Covey Center offers space for both large-scale and smaller performances. It's a place where local talent can hone their trade in music and dance.
Visitors can truly get a taste of everything—upcoming events include concerts by Fleetwood Mac and Billy Joel tribute artists, BYU's Noteworthy and Vocal Point acapella groups, and performances by the Utah Metropolitan Ballet.
Whether you love music, drama, or visual art, the Covey Center has something for everyone.
SCERA Center for the Arts/SCERA Shell
The SCERA Center for the Arts in Orem is a beloved community icon known for its welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere. SCERA hosts a wide variety of events that includes stage productions, outdoor concerts, movie screenings, and youth programs.
The unique building first opened to the public as a movie theater in 1941 and now hosts a performing arts season in its 450-seat showhouse from September through May. Upcoming shows include Les Misérables and The Wizard of Oz.
During the warmer months, the SCERA Shell Outdoor Theatre creates magical live performances under the stars as well as hosting occasional concerts. This summer's lineup will be a treat: Newsies, Annie, and Hello, Dolly! will all grace the outdoor stage.
Velour Live Music Gallery
What do Imagine Dragons, Neon Trees, and The Aces have in common? The Velour—a tiny, eclectic live music gallery where these bands got their start. The Velour has a long and storied history and still maintains its status as a hotbed of new talent.
The venue's vintage-inspired décor, warm lighting, and intimate stage create an unforgettable atmosphere. Discover new artists at open mic night or catch a show by an established act. Whatever you choose, a night at the Velour will be a one-of-a-kind experience.
Music lovers looking for raw, authentic sound and an electric crowd need to check the Velour off their bucket list.
Hale Center Theater/The Ruth
Nathan Hale Theater—colloquially known as The Ruth—is the new home of the beloved Hale Center Theater Orem.
This new state-of-the-art facility is located at the doTERRA campus in Pleasant Grove. The Ruth opened its doors in January 2025, so you'll practically smell the new paint while you catch a show in a pristine, world-class space that has taken the title of Utah County's premier live theater.
The 77,000 square-foot facility has two separate theaters for larger and smaller audiences, to maintain that up-close feel of the original Hale theater. Upcoming mainstage productions at The Ruth include Cinderella, Jersey Boys, An American in Paris, and a youth production of Phantom of the Opera. Get your tickets in advance here!
Brigham Young University
The completion of the new music building at BYU adds extra oomph to an already excellent music and performing arts department. Locals can head to Provo to attend a concert or dance performance at the 170,000-square-foot Music Building that was completed in 2023.
The 1000-seat concert hall—built vineyard-style with a centralized performance space surrounded by tiers of audience. The university's Bravo! Events bring world-class musicians like classical pianists or folk musicians to perform at BYU.
In addition to showcasing BYU's talent, the venue also hosts dance performances from visiting ballet groups, plus events like the United States National Dancesport Championships. And of course, there is a theater season with runs of various performances ranging from Shakespeare to High School Musical. Visit the BYU Arts page to snag tickets for upcoming shows.
Utahvalley.com blog has great ideas
Visit utahvalley.com for many more ideas that will knock your socks off! A few of many ideas include a songwriter's showcase, a large musical festival in American Fork called Fork Fest, a weekly event in Springville with a live band, locations changing from indoor to outdoor for the summer months, at the Legends Motor Co. on Fridays, and karaoke.
Get more ideas from the Utah Valley Chamber
If you're looking to discover all the performing arts-related activities that Utah County has to offer while supporting local businesses, the Utah Valley Chamber of Commerce is a great resource. Visit their website for more information and to discover new local arts venues, festivals, and performances.
