Arts
San Jose’s sprawling city is home to many attractions. There’s something for everyone, including the art lover. Whether it’s ballet or opera, film or live theatre, consider some of the options that await you in San Jose.
Opera San Jose: This is a professional opera company, currently housed in the California Theater. That building was opened in 1927 for Vaudeville performances.
Ballet San Jose Silicon Valley: Originally dubbed the San Jose Cleveland Ballet, this was an endeavor shared by San Jose and Cleveland designed to bring performances to both cities at less expense. As of 2000, Cleveland no longer participates and the ballet continues in San Jose. The classic ballets are only a part of the resident company’s repertoire.
San Jose Repertory Theatre: Many communities boast repertory theatres. The San Jose Rep was the first professional theatre company in the city.
Cinequest Film Festival: Film Festivals are becoming increasingly popular and the San Jose Cinequest Film Festival is touted as one of the most influential of its kind. For filmmakers to be featured at this festival is considered a high honor. The festival draws thousands of locals and tourists.
San Jose Museum of Art: This is a free museum with an impressive collection of art from the past century – primarily of artists from the area. The building’s history is reason enough for a visit – it has served as the city’s post office and as a library, and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Other museums in the area include the Mexican Heritage Plaza, the Portuguese Historic Museum, and the Rosicrucian Historical Museum of Egyptian artifacts.