Home to an eclectic mix of art and entertainment, Panama City is a progressively creative art city. With many finding inspiration in the simple, natural beauty of this city on the bay, there are countless visual and performing arts venues to immerse yourself in the local scene.
The Marina Civic Center hosts performing arts from around the world, as well as special events throughout the year, Seating just over 2,500 people, every seat is a good one in this intimate venue. The Panama City Music Association and the Panama City POPS Orchestra both utilize the civic center as their primary venue bringing the excitement of classical and modern music, dance, opera, and musical theatre to attract the interests of the widest possible audiences. *The Marina Civic Center is currently closed due to Hurricane Michael*
The vintage art deco Martin Theatre, built in 1936, was originally part of a chain of movie houses that has touted such special guest appearances as Clark Gable and cowboy great Bill Elliot. After a complete renovation in the early 1990s, the theatre expanded and reopened with a 1500-square-foot meeting space called the Green Room. In recent years, it has hosted a variety of classic films and live performances. *The Martin Theatre is currently closed due to Hurricane Michael*
Across the street from the Martin Theatre is the Panama City Center for the Arts. Known for offering creative enrichment and visual experiences of fine art, sculpture, jewelry, and ceramics, the Center for the Arts also hosts occasional live music and film events. In May of 2020, the Center was donned with the largest mural in Downtown Panama City. A collection of Monarch Butterflies, be sure to see it yourself!
With an inexhaustible creative scene, Panama City offers a plethora of small, independent galleries hosting exhibits and providing immersive hands-on activities for art enthusiasts of all ages. As the sun sets across the City, the sounds of music rise from almost every corner, because in this city, music is a necessity. As part of the fabric of the community, local live music is an essential experience for guests.