Step Inside the Hippodrome & The PACC

Every March, the world celebrates World Theater Day, a timeless art form that brings stories to life and unites communities. Here in Waco, two venues stand out as shining examples of the city’s thriving theater scene: the Waco Hippodrome and The Performing Arts Community Center (PACC).

Step inside the Waco Hippodrome, and you’re walking through a living piece of history. Built in 1914, this iconic theater has hosted theatrical acts, silent films and live performances for over a century. The name “hippodrome” has a unique origin: in ancient Greece, a hippodrome was an open-air venue for horse racing. Though horses are long gone, the Waco Hippodrome still sparks the same applause, gasps and laughter as it did in years past.

This spring, the Hippodrome is keeping Waco theater alive with an exciting lineup of performances, including a Johnny Cash & Patsy Cline Tribute, Waco Jazz Orchestra, and comedian Zach Rushing. Whether you’re a theater veteran or a first-time visitor, the Hippodrome’s charm and historic atmosphere make every show a unique experience.

While the Waco Hippodrome upholds an older theatrical tradition, The Performing Arts Community Center (PACC), opened in September 2024, reflects the energy of a growing and evolving arts scene in Downtown Waco.

Located in the heart of downtown, The PACC was created as a flexible, community-driven performance space designed to support local artists, performers and creatives of all kinds. The two-year-old center hosts a wide range of programming—from live music and theatrical productions to workshops, classes and special events—giving both emerging and established performers a place to share their work and connect with audiences. 

Kids and young people have plenty of ways to get involved. Through youth theater programs, performance workshops and summer camps, children can explore acting, singing, dancing and even technical aspects of theater like lighting and set design. Local schools and organizations often partner with The PACC to give students hands-on experience, while open auditions and community classes make it easy for anyone, from beginners to budding professionals, to step onto the stage.

This spring, visitors can expect Waco’s Got Talent, Country Classics Concert, and Harry Potter Live, all which showcase local talent and the diversity of the performing arts in Waco. Whether you’re discovering a new musician, attending a small theatrical production, or participating in a workshop, The PACC offers an intimate and engaging way to experience the arts up close.

Together, the Hippodrome and The PACC show that Waco has something for every theater lover. From century-old architecture and rich history to cutting-edge performances and community-driven art, the city’s stages are alive with stories waiting to be told. This World Theater Day, consider supporting local theater: buy a ticket, attend a workshop or simply take a moment to appreciate the arts that connect Waco’s past and present.

Whether you’re drawn to the grandeur of the Hippodrome or the innovative spirit of The PACC, Waco’s theater scene is ready to welcome you. There’s never been a better time to experience the magic of live performance in Downtown Waco!