Located in Fort Worth, Texas, the Bass Performance Hall—also known as Bass Hall—is a premier performing arts venue that opened in 1998. Originally suggested by pianist Van Cliburn to philanthropists Nancy Lee Bass and Perry Richardson Bass, this striking limestone facility was designed by David M. Schwarz of Architectural Services, Inc.
When you visit, you will instantly notice the building's grand façade, which features two massive 48-foot-tall angels sculpted by Marton Varo from Texas limestone. Inside the 2,056-seat Founders Concert Theater, look up to admire an extraordinary 80-foot-diameter dome painted by Scott and Stuart Gentling. As a versatile multi-purpose venue, Bass Hall hosts a wide array of entertainment, ranging from symphony, ballet, and opera to rock concerts, Broadway productions, and family series.
It proudly serves as the permanent home for renowned resident companies including the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra, Texas Ballet Theater, Fort Worth Opera, Cliburn Concerts, and the prestigious Van Cliburn International Piano Competition. Nearby, the connected Maddox-Muse Center houses the 220-seat McDavid Studio and the Van Cliburn Recital Hall. Whether you are taking in a live concert or a theatrical production, you will experience one of Texas's finest cultural landmarks.
What to see at Bass Performance Hall
- Two 48-foot-tall angels carved from Texas limestone gracing the front façade
- An 80-foot-diameter dome inside the Founders Concert Theater painted by Scott and Stuart Gentling
- Home venue for the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra, Texas Ballet Theater, and Fort Worth Opera
- Host to national touring Broadway productions, rock concerts, and the Van Cliburn International Piano Competition
- The adjacent Maddox-Muse Center featuring the 220-seat McDavid Studio and Van Cliburn Recital Hall
Visiting tips
Be sure to arrive early enough to admire the incredible 48-foot-tall limestone angels carved on the venue's exterior façade before heading inside for your show.
How long: 2-3 hours · Best time: During scheduled showtimes
How to get there & what’s nearby
Bass Performance Hall is easy to reach on Fort Worth’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Kimbell Art Museum and Amon Carter Museum of American Art. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Fort Worth travel guide.
See the full Fort Worth travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.