Experience Columbus - Performing Arts

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Performing Arts & Theater

Columbus is a city that loves the performing arts, and provides plenty of opportunities to experience them year-round. The Columbus Symphony, led by Junichi Hirokami, plays classical music for every season, including its Holiday Pops series in the winter, Picnic With the Pops in the summer, and several special events in between, and throughout the year.

The Columbus Jazz Orchestra is led by former Count Basie Orchestra lead trumpet Byron Stripling. The CJO performs most of its concerts at the Southern Theatre in Downtown Columbus, although the group also walks on the wild side in the summer, with the JazZoo series at the Columbus Zoo. Fans can also enjoy classical and contemporary chamber music with ProMusica Chamber Orchestra and the great talents of Opera Columbus.

Those who admire ballet should not miss an opportunity to see BalletMet perform. The troupe is marking its 30th year of performing original and classical works of dance. BalletMet also provides the cornerstone of the holiday season, with its annual production of the classic The Nutcracker.