The Official State Theatre of Tennessee
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Frequently Asked Questions
Have a question about the Historic Tennessee Theatre? It is highly likely that it has been answered below. In the event that you're still curious about something, give us a call at 865-684-1200.
Finding the Tennessee Theatre
Please be advised that starting May 1, 2008, a short section of Interstate 40 between James White Parkway and Hall of Fame Drive will be closed for reconstruction. Travelers will still be able to use the directions below to reach downtown Knoxville, as the exits will be open. For additional directions and answers to questions about downtown construction and closures, visit TDOT's SmartFix I-40 website.
From I-40 East: Take Exit 389, Broadway/Hall of Fame Drive. Turn right on Hall of Fame toward downtown. Go about a mile, through several traffic lights. Turn right onto Summit Hill Drive. Turn left onto Gay Street at the third traffic light. The Tennessee Theatre is located at 604 South Gay Street.
From I-40 West: Take Exit 389, Broadway/Hall of Fame Drive. Turn left on Hall of Fame toward downtown. Go about a mile, through several traffic lights. Turn right onto Summit Hill Drive. Turn left onto Gay Street at the third traffic light. The Tennessee Theatre is located at 604 South Gay Street.
Parking
Free parking is available for most night and weekend performances at the State Street garage located behind the theater, as well as the nearby Locust Street and Market Square garages. Additional parking lots and on-street parking are located nearby. Click here to download a current and easy-to-read map.
For performances during regular business hours, parking is available in all of these areas for a fee. Parking fees vary from lot to lot. Please allow ample time to park.
Service fees
Service fees are charged in addition to the advertised ticket price and will vary depending on the purchase method. Service fees cover the costs of operating a box office, including staffing, software licensing, and shipping/handling.
Website show calendar
We do not post shows on our schedule until we have confirmed an on-sale date. For some rental or private events, information will not appear on our calendar.
Dress code
There is no specific dress code for The Tennessee Theatre. Some events such as the Symphony and Opera will draw a dressier crowd. Most people enjoy dressing up to go to the theatre, but you will see people wearing everything from casual to Sunday best, and on Opera nights, formal wear.
Special needs
If you have special seating needs, please contact the theatre's box office directly at (865) 684-1200, option 2.
Concessions
For most shows, the concession stand in the lobby sells snacks, sodas, beer, wine, and mixed drinks. For movies, we sell popcorn, candy, soda, beer, and wine. Prices vary from $1-10. Food and beverages are allowed inside the auditorium for all events except the symphony, opera, and classical music events, and at the artist’s specific request. Please check with the ushers and bartenders when you arrive at the theatre to see if there is a restriction on food and beverages in the auditorium for that evening’s performance.
Tours
To schedule a tour of the Tennessee Theatre, contact Bill Snyder at 865-684-1200 ext 149. Tours are scheduled depending on the theatre's schedule of events. No tour will be scheduled on a date when there is a production taking place.
Lost & Found
Items that are left at the theatre are kept in our lost and found at the Clinch Avenue Box Office. Please call (865) 684-1200 ext. 2 during regular business hours to see if your item has been turned in.
Seating for Children
Every person age 2 and above must have a ticket.
Smoking
The Tennessee Theatre is a non-smoking venue. This rule is strictly enforced.
Camera/Audio/Video Policy
Every show is different. The Tennessee Theatre abides by the rules set forth by the artists and their management. Please call the Theatre at 865-684-1200 within two weeks of the event for the camera policy.
Knoxville Symphony Orchestra, Knoxville Opera and UT Cultural Events
These local performing arts organizations produce events at the Tennessee Theatre and sell tickets through their own offices. Tickets for these organizations' shows are available at Tickets Unlimited outlets, by phone at (865) 656-4444, online by clicking here.
Knoxville Symphony Orchestra
100 South Gay Street, Suite 302
Knoxville, TN 37902
Box Office: (865)
291-3310
Administrative
Offices: (865) 523-1178
Fax: (865) 546-3766
Knoxville Opera
612 East Depot Avenue
Knoxville, TN 37917
Box Office: (865)
524-0795, option 1
UT-Cultural Attractions Committee
Office of Student
Activities
305 University
Center
Knoxville, Tennessee
37996
Phone: (865)
974-5455
Fax: (865) 974-9252