Free Shows & Events

Share the joy of live performance with the whole family.

We are committed to making the performing arts and our spaces accessible to all.

As part of our mission, we offer free events that bring our community together through shared experiences, with a focus on inclusivity, representation and accessibility. Share the joy of live performance with the whole family.

On the left of the photograph, a live band plays on top of the Bank of America stage in front of the Hanover Theatre. In the right foreground, an audience sits and enjoys the music as a Bees And Thank You food truck services others in the background at the Carroll Plaza Ribbon Cutting, 2023. Photo by Unity Mike Photography.

Programming on Carroll Plaza

Francis R. Carroll Plaza and the Bank of America Stage are the perfect backdrop for outdoor performing arts in Worcester, from our summer Lunchtime Concert Series to a circus variety show to kick off downtown Worcester’s annual Winter Festival and everything in between.

Syncopated Ladies

Spotlight: Conversations That Matter

Our DEIB Committee is committed to fostering meaningful conversations about representation and equity in the arts. Our next panel discussion will explore the dance industry, breaking barriers and celebrating successes with Chloé Arnold, cast members from Syncopated Ladies and local industry professionals. Join us on March 13 at 5:30pm.

Two performers in costume act in an outdoor production. The performer on the left wears a brown hat, a gray vest with feathered details and a headset microphone, extending their arms with an expressive smile. The performer on the right wears an orange cap, glasses and a white outfit with feathered sleeves, smiling with hands clasped. The background features large windows reflecting warm interior lights.

Youth Acting Company on Carroll Plaza

Each fall, the conservatory’s Youth Acting Company presents free public performances on Francis R. Carroll Plaza. The Youth Acting Company presented Charlotte’s Web in fall 2024, supported by TJX Companies, Inc.

The Stories of Hansel & Gretel and Peter & The Wolf

Youth Ballet Company on The Main Stage

Each spring, the conservatory’s Youth Ballet Company presents a free public performance of The Stories of Hansel & Gretel and Peter & The Wolf. This is a great opportunity to introduce the whole family to storytelling through ballet. The 2025 performance is March 6 at 6pm and is generously supported by TJX Companies, Inc.

Special Events & Performances

Our free programming also includes special performances that highlight powerful stories and diverse perspectives. In addition to our recurring offerings, we are incredibly excited to offer a free public performance of Layon Gray’s Black Angels Over Tuskegee, a compelling play that shares the story of the first African American aviators in the U.S. Army Air Forces. This performance is February 26 at 7pm and includes a Q&A with Layon Gray and the cast after the show.

Worcester PopUp at the JMAC

The Jean McDonough Arts Center (JMAC), home of the Worcester PopUp and the BrickBox Theater, is a dynamic arts and culture hub located in the heart of Worcester’s Theatre District. The PopUp is a gallery-style space where local artists, organizations, and creatives present a variety of no-cost events, from art shows and open mics to yoga classes and lessons in drag. Public gallery hours are Wednesday to Sunday from 2pm to 6pm.

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