Clemens Center

Clemens Center Mission:

The mission of the Clemens Center is to enhance the quality of life for the region's residents and visitors by providing a diversity of excellent performing arts programming in an outstanding facility.

Located in the central Southern Tier of New York State, the Clemens Center is the region's premier performing arts center with two spectacular performance spaces. Mandeville Hall is a flexible, "black box" venue suitable for intimate performances. The majestic Powers Theater is an architectural treasure that has been newly restored to its vaudevillian-era grandeur. Magnificent murals, gold-leaf details and reconstructed opera boxes now adorn the theater just as they did when it opened in 1925. The 1,618-seat Powers Theater has been called the most beautiful theater between New York City and Buffalo – it is truly awe-inspiring! The recent renovation included expanding the stage and upgrading technical equipment, making it possible for the Clemens Center to showcase the biggest and the best in live entertainment. From blockbuster Broadway shows to theatrical productions, and concerts to family entertainment!

The Clemens Center is the perfect place to connect with family and friends to create memorable performance experiences that enrich, inspire and even amaze you. Our programming reflects the diverse interests of audiences around the region whose lives are enriched by music, dance, theater, comedy and more. From on-line ticketing to courteous customer service and easy parking, you'll enjoy a hassle-free performance experience.

With the renovation and reopening of the Powers Theater, the Clemens Center is well-positioned as a highly valuable community asset rarely found in a city the size of Elmira, New York. Our mission extends beyond entertainment and into the community through school programs, subsidized facility rentals and other support programs that help thousands each year. Like the Arnot Art Museum and the National Soaring Museum, we are proud to contribute to the cultural richness of Chemung County, improving the quality of life for all who live in our area.

The Clemens Center annually leases space to more than 55 tenants in our facility. These tenants include the following performing arts organizations: Elmira Little Theatre, The Orchestra of the Southern Finger Lakes, Rafael Grigorian Ballet Theatre, Common Time and New Heights Dance Theater. As "resident companies," these organizations provide community members with opportunities to perform on a professional theater stage.

Clemens Center Vision:

The Clemens Center will be the premier entertainment destination for engaging and memorable performing arts experiences in our region. We will educate and cultivate an appreciation of the arts in the communities we serve.