Your Quick & Easy Guide: Arizona Financial Theatre – Phoenix, AZ

Arizona Financial Theatre History

Located in downtown Phoenix, the Arizona Financial Theatre originally opened as the Dodge Theatre in 2002 to close a gap in the local concert market, giving the city a much-needed midsize venue to attract performers who had outgrown the club circuit but weren’t quite at the arena level. The building boasts striking, modern architecture on the outside and scalable seating on the inside, allowing it to host big shows at its full 5,000-seat capacity and downsize for more intimate events. In 2010, the venue was rebranded as the Comerica Theatre, before rights switched again in 2019 to the Arizona Financial Credit Union.

Arizona Financial Theatre Performers

In its opening month, this Phoenix venue hosted jazz star Harry Connick Jr. and funnyman Jerry Seinfeld, and since then, countless legends in music and comedy have graced its stage, from David Bowie and Robert Plant to Conan O’Brien and Ellen DeGeneres. In 2002, a performance by the Blue Collar Comedy Tour — featuring Jeff Foxworthy, Bill Engvall, Larry the Cable Guy and Ron White — was documented in the namesake movie released the following year. Comedian George Lopez filmed his HBO special, America’s Mexican, here as well. In 2019, the theater hosted a special evening with former first lady Michelle Obama.

Planning Your Visit to Arizona Financial Theatre

The Arizona Financial Theatre’s downtown location conveniently puts it within walking distance of many pre-show dining destinations, including popular steakhouse The Arrogant Butcher, Mexican joint Chico Malo and sushi restaurant Harumi.

Arizona Financial Theatre Frequently Asked Questions

What are the Arizona Financial Theatre parking options?

The Adams Street Garage sits next door at the corner of 4th Avenue and Adams. The garage opens at 6pm on weekdays, and earlier on weekends. Parking can be purchased in advance through Ticketmaster.

Does the Arizona Financial Theatre serve food?

Concessions are available at the bars inside the venue.

What are the seating options at the Arizona Financial Theatre?

The auditorium is divided into three sections: the main floor seating area, a club seating area, and balcony seating. Special VIP seating packages are also available.

What are the Arizona Financial Theatre’s safety & security guidelines?

The venue has a clear-bag policy in effect with a maximum size of 12”x6”x12”. Small clutch bags are also permitted (maximum size 4.5”x6.5”). For a complete list of COVID-19 safety protocols, visit the theater’s website.

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