4 LGBTQ+ Arts & Culture Venues in Knoxville, TN

In Downtown Knoxville between Clinch and Church, the Tennessee Theater is a restored 1928 movie palace now hosting Broadway tours, ballet, concerts, and films. Its ornate Spanish Baroque interior is a destination in itself, offering a grand setting for both performances and cinema screenings. The theater is a cornerstone of the local arts scene, welcoming diverse audiences to its historic space.

It's a respected historic venue with a varied lineup. The Bijou Theatre, Knoxville's oldest commercial building, has hosted everyone from punk bands to Joan Baez. This intimate theater is a downtown landmark worth checking out when it reopens. The crowd here tends to be music lovers of all ages, drawn by the eclectic programming.

Founded in 1969, Carpet Bag Theatre is one of the oldest African-American theatre companies in the United States. Based in downtown Knoxville, this company explicitly centers anti-racist, anti-sexist, and anti-homophobic values in its work. It produces performances that give voice to oppressed groups, including queer communities. While specific hours and pricing aren't listed, it's a historic stop for those interested in theater with a social justice lens.

Downtown Knoxville's Emporium Center opened in 2004 as the city's first true arts center, housed in a historic 1895 building. It's a flexible space with multiple galleries featuring monthly changing exhibitions, nine artist studios, and rehearsal and performance spaces. The center is home to several arts organizations, including the Knoxville Gay Men's Chorus. The building's past includes a furniture company, a wholesale goods distributor, and a textile plant. On First Fridays, it's a popular stop. You'll find a mix of visual art and live performances here. Check their calendar for events across the Greater Knoxville area.