As a champion of Paducah’s thriving arts scene, Mary Katz, executive director of the Carson Center, has curated an entertaining itinerary, guiding both locals and visitors through the city’s dynamic performing arts landscape. Dedicated to fostering creativity and enriching cultural experiences, Mary’s leadership ensures that Paducah upholds its reputation as a small Southern city with a big focus on art. See below for her handpicked list of performing arts destinations throughout Paducah.
Mary Katz, executive director of the Carson Center
Experience the Cultural Heartbeat of Paducah
If you love to tap your toes to the pulse of today’s performing arts scene, Katz suggests catching a show at the Carson Center. Located in the heart of downtown Paducah, the Carson Center hosts a diverse array of Broadway hits, dramas, dance performances and well-known entertainers year-round. As the orchestra-in-residence, the Paducah Symphony Orchestra (PSO) graces the stage here as well, led by the exhilarating energy of Artistic Director and Conductor, Raffaele Ponti.
Located in the heart of downtown Paducah, the Carson Center hosts a diverse array of Broadway hits, dramas, dance performances and well-known entertainers year-round.
Get Inspired by Live Theater
Market House Theatre is the next stop on your journey and is housed in the historic Market House building. A cornerstone of Paducah's arts community, this award-winning community theatre hosts a dynamic lineup of musicals, dramas, and comedies throughout the year. From the Main Stage Series to fall ghost tours and murder mystery dinners, Market House Theatre offers entertainment for all ages and tastes.
From the Main Stage Series to fall ghost tours and murder mystery dinners, Market House Theatre offers entertainment for all ages and tastes.
Indulge in Artistic Expression at Clemens Fine Art Center
Next, venture to the Clemens Fine Art Center, the cultural hub of West Kentucky Community and Technical College. This multifaceted venue boasts a fully equipped theater with seating for 472, hosting national touring shows and providing space for presentations and performance events. The center's gallery space offers an intimate setting for receptions, showcasing a diverse range of visual art.
This multifaceted venue boasts a fully equipped theater with seating for 472, hosting national touring shows and providing space for presentations and performance events.
Unwind with Craft Brews, Handcrafted Cocktails and Live Music
For a taste of Paducah's local flavor and a dose of live entertainment, Katz suggests venturing to Barrel & Bond, The FoxBriar Cocktail Bar and Paducah Beer Werks. At Barrel & Bond, Paducah’s own bourbon bar, lovers of Kentucky’s native spirit can sip and relax in a cozy atmosphere, mere steps from the Ohio River. Paducah Beer Werks, housed in a refurbished Greyhound Bus terminal, serves up an array of craft brews and delectable fare, with local and regional bands and comedians adding to the vibrant ambiance. Only a few blocks from Paducah Beer Werks is the FoxBriar Cocktail Bar, featuring inspired menus of handcrafted libations and indulgent desserts amidst the soothing tones of live jazz every Saturday night.
Only a few blocks from Paducah Beer Werks is the FoxBriar Cocktail Bar, featuring inspired menus of handcrafted libations
and indulgent desserts amidst the soothing tones of live jazz every Saturday night.
Check out the Paducah Calendar of Events for more creative outings and itinerary inspiration!
