Title: Bushnell Center for the Performing Arts in Downtown Hartford | Expedia.co.uk [Bushnell Center for the Performing Arts Hotels](https://expedia.co.uk/Bushnell-Center-For-The-Performing-Arts-Hotels.0-l6071383-0.Travel-Guide-Filter-Hotels)[Bushnell Center for the Performing Arts Car Hire](https://expedia.co.uk/Compare-Cheap-Car-Hire-In-Bushnell-Center-For-The-Performing-Arts.d6071383.Car-Hire-Guide)[Downtown Hartford Holidays](https://expedia.co.uk/Downtown-Hartford.d553248635074842140.Holidays-City-Breaks) # Bushnell Center for the Performing Arts ![Bushnell Center for the Performing Arts featuring interior views](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6071383/30b7fad6-5b3e-42d6-b540-4325295d1ccf.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![Bushnell Center for the Performing Arts featuring interior views](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6071383/30b7fad6-5b3e-42d6-b540-4325295d1ccf.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![Bushnell Center for the Performing Arts showing heritage architecture and interior views](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6071383/b07fff38-0092-416c-adb8-7a3d33e53bf1.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![Bushnell Center for the Performing Arts featuring signage](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6071383/7399568b-4c6d-41b6-8c32-04b78e6ebf20.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ![Bushnell Center for the Performing Arts which includes interior views](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6071383/11eb0211-09c7-4609-9c3a-ae6c20fd6619.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh) ## Visit Bushnell Center for the Performing Arts Activities --- --- #### While seeing a play or concert in Hartford’s historic venue, look up to admire one of the largest ceiling murals in the United States. If you are in Connecticut and want to see a show, you will likely find yourself at Bushnell Centre for the Performing Arts. “The Bushnell,” as it is commonly called, has been a destination for theatre and music since the early 20th century. Mortensen Hall, the original theatre building, was built in 1930 in honour of Horace Bushnell, a local minister who created a lasting legacy of parks throughout Hartford. Spot similarities to features of Radio City Music Hall, the so-called “Showplace of the Nation” in New York City. The same architects are responsible for Mortensen Hall. Look up as you walk into Mortensen Hall. *Drama*, one of the largest ceiling murals in the United States, spans the heights of the theatre. The *Muse of Drama* is the mural’s centerpiece. Mythological figures surround her feet while symbols of the modern era soar above her. In 2002, the Bushnell expanded with the 906-seat Belding Theatre, named for longtime supporter Maxwell Belding. Note the ceiling mural here, which pays homage to Mortensen Hall’s celestial motifs with a modern interpretation. Go to the glass-enclosed Autorino Great Hall just outside the Belding Theatre. Your eyes will immediately be drawn to *Ode to Joy*, Dale Chihuly’s wild glass sculpture that dominates the space. The Bushnell attracts world-class performers from all realms of entertainment. It has hosted legendary late-night comedian Jay Leno, the Broadway musical *Wicked* and the dancers from the Alvin Ailey troupe. Enjoy the classical music of the Hartford Symphony Orchestra, the Bushnell’s primary tenant. Purchase tickets online, by phone or at the box office. Some shows, like the holiday *Nutcracker*, sell out quickly so you should purchase your tickets well in advance. Others may be available on the day of the performance. Ticket prices vary depending on the show. The Bushnell Centre for the Performing Arts is located in the heart of downtown Hartford. Choose from many eating and dining options within a short walking distance. You can easily find city parking nearby or pay for a valet service during evening performances. ### Popular places to visit ![State capital of Hartford skyline, Hartford, Connecticut'](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/501142/56f7b7e6-8ef5-4257-9ce7-c9f41ec8f83e.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Connecticut State Capital After visiting Connecticut State Capital, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Hartford. Experience the area's entertainment choices or attend a sporting event. [](https://expedia.co.uk/Connecticut-State-Capital-Downtown-Hartford.d501142.Attraction) ![Bushnell Park featuring château or palace, a garden and heritage architecture](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/507270/e8240890-18dc-467f-a282-8051f46f3d37.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Bushnell Park Relax near the pond or take a ride on the antique carousel at one of America’s oldest publicly funded parks, located in the heart of Hartford. [](https://expedia.co.uk/Bushnell-Park-Downtown-Hartford.d507270.Attraction) ![The Wadsworth Atheneum is an art museum located in Hartford, Connecticut.](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/180005/c6451015-4b4f-4c8c-aea0-a618bbb7da00.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh) #### Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art You can browse the exhibits at Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art, a museum with a story of its own, during your travels to Hartford. Experience the area's acclaimed theatre scene and great live music. [](https://expedia.co.uk/Wadsworth-Atheneum-Museum-Of-Art-Downtown-Hartford.d501159.Attraction) #### Museum of Connecticut History You can study the exhibits at Museum of Connecticut History, a museum with a storied past, during your trip to Hartford. Experience the area's acclaimed theatre scene and great live music. [](https://expedia.co.uk/Museum-Of-Connecticut-History-Downtown-Hartford.d6071407.Attraction) #### Connecticut State Library Connecticut State Library is just one of the places to see in Hartford, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Experience the area's entertainment choices and acclaimed theatre scene. [](https://expedia.co.uk/Connecticut-State-Library-Downtown-Hartford.d553248621558114628.Attraction) #### Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Arch Learn about the local history of Hartford when you spend time at Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Arch. Experience the area's entertainment choices and great live music. 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