Community Theater and Arts Education in Charlottesville
Community Theater, Classes & Performance Space in Downtown Charlottesville
123 E Water St · Parking: Street parking available on Water Street and surrounding blocks (metered until 5pm weekdays, free evenings/weekends). Water Street parking garage located two blocks away.
Live Arts Services
Advanced theater training for high school students with ensemble building and public performances.
After-school acting classes for youth covering theater fundamentals, improvisation, and performance skills.
Acting technique, scene study, and improvisation classes for adults at all skill levels.
About Live Arts
Live Arts has been Charlottesville's premiere community theater since 1990, serving as both a performance venue and educational institution in the heart of downtown. Located at 123 East Water Street, the organization operates a black box theater that hosts 6-8 full productions each season, ranging from classic dramas and comedies to contemporary works and original musicals. The intimate 120-seat space creates an immersive theatrical experience where audiences sit just feet from the performers, making it one of the best live theater experiences in Charlottesville for those seeking professional-quality community productions.
What People Are Saying
“Nice place for theatre lovers! Their building is nice with three levels and two different theatres. They have a concession stand for intermissions and it's generally a good time if you're into performing arts.”
“Saw Young Frankenstein, the musical, at Live Arts. Wow: the talent of those actors, extremely well done choreography and direction. All the voices were amazing, some were Broadway ready. Was my first time: what a treasure Charlottesville has! Also :comfortable seats, and the volunteers are fun and gracious hosts.”
“Wonderful play! Exciting and funny and heartwarming 💕 💖”
4.8 ★ avg rating · Verified Mar 27, 2026
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