6 Best Performing Arts in Nashville, Tennessee

Darkhorse Theater is Nashville’s answer to independent, alternative theater. Housed in a former church, it's comprised of resident companies who share the performance space, with varied productions ranging from Shakespeare to the work of local playwrights, to politically driven shows.

Like their neighbors the Nashville Opera, the Nashville Ballet holds performances downtown and at their Sylvan Park location. They frequently hold classes and community events in the space as well.

If jazz is your thing, be sure to check the calendar of the Nashville Jazz Workshop, which offers classes, performances, and various special events throughout the year. There are typically a couple of events taking place each day, with proceeds benefiting the nonprofit Workshop's mission of keeping jazz in Music City.

Nashville’s Opera company aims to celebrate a lesser-represented genre in Music City, and to make it accessible and interesting to all audience members, including opera newbies. Shows are held at the Noah Liff Opera Center black box theater on multiple weekends each opera season. The company also performs downtown at the Tennessee Performing Arts Center.

Tucked behind popular Germantown restaurant 5th and Taylor is the Back Corner, a venue, bar, and nightclub operated by the same hospitality group. Most nights at the Back Corner boast some form of entertainment, be it a writer's round from local songsmiths, a themed DJ set, or shows from local and touring musical acts. The Back Corner offers table reservations. Check the calendar before visiting in case of private parties or ticket events.

If you're looking for laughs while you're in Music City, look no further than Third Coast Comedy Club. Nestled inside the Marathon Village complex, the local favorite plays host to sketch, improv, and stand-up shows most nights of the week. And if you're interested in brushing up on your own comedy chops, Third Coast also offers classes and workshops (check availability before visiting).