Business Details
Experience Premier Arts & Culture in Livermore
Livermore Valley Performing Arts Center has been a cornerstone of cultural enrichment in the Tri-Valley region since its inception. Our mission is to engage, enrich, and inspire our diverse community through a broad range of arts opportunities, including performances, exhibitions, educational programs, and community collaborations. With state-of-the-art venues like the Bankhead Theater and Bothwell Arts Center, we provide platforms for both emerging and established artists across music, theater, dance, and visual arts. Our commitment to accessibility ensures inclusive experiences for all patrons, while our educational initiatives nurture artistic talent from childhood through adulthood.Backed by a dedicated team of professionals and supported by ten resident companies with over 270 combined years of experience, we foster artistic growth and community engagement. As a nonprofit organization, we prioritize equitable access to the arts, offering free youth programs, discounted student tickets, and donor-supported initiatives that ensure financial barriers do not limit participation in cultural experiences.
Services
Theater Performances
Art Exhibitions
Music Concerts
Dance Recitals
Educational Workshops
Event Rentals
Accessibility Services
Youth Programs
Donor Programs
Community Collaborations
Highlights and features
- We offer 270+ combined years of artistic experience through ten resident companies
- Our venues host diverse performances from classical music to contemporary theater
- We provide accessible arts experiences with wheelchair seating and assistive devices
- Our educational programs serve all ages from youth music classes to adult art workshops
- We maintain historic Bankhead Theater while innovating with modern Bothwell Arts Center
What people say
Exceptional acoustics
Beautiful architecture
Inclusive programming
Engaging exhibits
Youth-friendly events
Services
Theater Performances
Our venues host diverse theatrical productions ranging from Broadway-style musicals to experimental works. Professional and community theater groups utilize our state-of-the-art facilities for immersive storytelling experiences. Each season features curated performances that entertain and provoke thought while supporting local artists and touring productions.
Art Exhibitions
The UNCLE Credit Union Art Gallery showcases contemporary works from Bay Area artists across multiple disciplines. Rotating exhibits feature painting, sculpture, mixed media, and special projects that reflect current cultural themes. All exhibitions are free and open to the public during scheduled gallery hours.
Music Concerts
From classical symphonies to world music ensembles, our concert series presents diverse musical experiences. Resident companies like the Livermore-Amador Symphony and Del Valle Fine Arts deliver high-quality performances while emerging artists find platforms for innovation and collaboration.
Educational Programs
We offer arts learning opportunities for all ages through workshops, classes, and youth programs. Initiatives include Suzuki music instruction, visual arts education, and theater training that develop artistic skills while fostering creativity and cultural appreciation.
Event Rentals
Our facilities accommodate private and corporate events with flexible spaces in the Bankhead Theater and Bothwell Arts Center. Technical support, catering services, and customizable layouts make us ideal for weddings, conferences, and special celebrations.
People
Chris Carter
Executive Director
Chris Carter leads Livermore Valley Performing Arts Center with over 20 years of experience in arts administration. He oversees strategic operations while maintaining community partnerships that expand access to cultural programs.
Reanna Bradford
Director of Finance and Administration
Reanna Bradford manages financial operations with expertise in nonprofit accounting. Her 15-year career in arts organizations ensures fiscal responsibility while supporting program growth and sustainability.
Ruth Egherman
Director of Marketing
Ruth Egherman develops marketing strategies that connect audiences with cultural experiences. With a background in arts communications, she promotes community engagement through innovative campaigns and digital outreach.
Eric Johnson
Director of Operations
Eric Johnson oversees venue operations with technical expertise in theater management. His 18 years in performing arts facilities ensure optimal conditions for productions and events while maintaining historic spaces.
Lawrence Kohl
Musical Director
Lawrence Kohl serves as conductor for the Pacific Chamber Orchestra. With decades of experience leading Bay Area musicians, he brings artistic vision to classical performances while mentoring emerging talent.
Questions
What types of performances are available at the Bankhead Theater?
We present theater, music, dance, and speaker series events including Broadway-style shows, classical concerts, contemporary performances, and educational programs for all ages.
Are there accessibility options for patrons with disabilities?
Yes, we offer wheelchair seating, assistive listening devices, elevator access, and accessible restrooms. Contact our box office for specific accommodation requests.
How can students access discounted tickets?
Full-time students above high school qualify for reduced-price tickets to Del Valle Fine Arts concerts. Children attend most performances free with adult supervision.
What educational programs do you offer?
We provide music instruction, art classes, theater workshops, and youth performance opportunities through Sycamore Strings Academy, Bothwell Arts Center, and resident company collaborations.
Can I rent the venue for private events?
Yes, our facilities accommodate weddings, conferences, and special events with customizable spaces and technical support available through our rental department.
How does Livermore Valley Arts support local artists?
We provide performance venues, exhibition opportunities, and educational platforms while collaborating with ten resident companies that represent 270+ combined years of artistic experience.
Reviews (4)
Alan M.
Dec 20, 2021
Report
Run by hypocrites.
"Diversity, equity, and inclusion is important to us and a priority in our leadership," said Chris Carter at a November Livermore City Council meeting. He is executive director of the Livermore Valley Performing Arts Center (LVPAC) and his words surprised me. Any good done by LVPAC is overshadowed by its board members' harmful lawsuits. The LVPACBoard of Directors includes Joan Seppala and Jean King, who helped fund campaigns against affordable housing in Livermore and a nearby solar farm. Housing justice and environmental justice both effect people of color
"Diversity, equity, and inclusion is important to us and a priority in our leadership," said Chris Carter at a November Livermore City Council meeting. He is executive director of the Livermore Valley Performing Arts Center (LVPAC) and his words surprised me. Any good done by LVPAC is overshadowed by its board members' harmful lawsuits. The LVPACBoard of Directors includes Joan Seppala and Jean King, who helped fund campaigns against affordable housing in Livermore and a nearby solar farm. Housing justice and environmental justice both effect people of color
Benny H.
Dec 12, 2021
Report
Nice little theater. Came here for the Nutcracker and overall it was a satisfying experience. Most of the seats give you a decent view, so you never really feel like you're missing out. The seats aren't the largest, but nothing is ever perfect right?
Still, if you're watching a show, the theater is mostly good overall.
Still, if you're watching a show, the theater is mostly good overall.
Shiela T.
Sep 14, 2021
Report
Beautiful theatre, friendly staff and an amazing performance by the Pacific Chamber Orchestra. It was my first symphony experience and one that did not disappoint. I will definitely be back for another show by PCO as they do have a few upcoming programs scheduled. It was a fulfilling way to spend my Sunday afternoon with such beautiful music by Brahms.
Melissa S.
Aug 19, 2021
Report
I've lived near here and never know this part of town existed. What a nice neighborhood. Lots of restaurants and a green area. There is also a large parking garage across the street. We came to see Kinky Boots. It was actually a movie of the live show. I had difficulty getting tickets. It said everything was booked or it was ADA access. I got the only tickets left. As it turns out they were less then 50% filled. We did talked to the usher and changed seats as we were way too close and on the side. The ushers were very helpful and concessions were allowed in the theater. I recommend this theater
