By Jim Carchidi
February 5, 2026
Judson’s Live at Dr. Phillips Center has earned a notable reputation in a short amount of time. Since presenting its first public concert on Feb. 6, 2024, the intimate live music venue has earned local and national acclaim for its artistry and hospitality. Accolades include recognition as one of the World’s Greatest Jazz Venues by DownBeat Magazine and honors for Best Live Music and Best Appetizers from Orlando Magazine.
History
Community leaders join board members and staff of Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts for the grand opening of Judson's Live on Feb. 6, 2024. Images courtesy of Dr. Phillips Center
Judson’s is named after the late Walt Disney Co. executive Judson Green, who, along with his wife Joyce, supported the venue’s creation. Their love for the performing arts and travels to listening rooms and cabarets around the world inspired the design while their patronage aided its development.
“It was our pleasure to support and see this project come to life,” said Joyce Green. “Judson’s Live holds a special place in my heart and reflects the love Judson and I shared for music and placemaking in our community. Two years later, seeing so many others embrace and enjoy the space is incredibly fulfilling.”
By the numbers
Over its first two years, the music room has welcomed more than 87,000 guests for 946 performances: 481 by Florida-based artists and 465 by touring artists.
Judson's Live is renowned for presenting a wide range of music in an intimate setting.
The venue is best known for its jazz lineups but its range of 34 musical genres includes:
- blues
- country
- hip-hop
- gospel
- Broadway
- Latin
- big band
“Some venues are just stops on the tour, but Judson’s Live always feels like home” said Orlando native and performer Cece Teneal, whose tours have spanned 36 countries. “I am grateful to be a part of its story and proud to keep making memories on that stage.”
The menu offers a wide selection of small plates and cocktails to compliment the musical experience.
Performances are complemented by a comfortable atmosphere featuring seasonal cuisine. The current menu of 11 small plates, two boards, two flatbreads and three desserts is presented with table-style seating for up to 140 guests.
Now playing
The two-year anniversary celebration is highlighted by the "Nashville Night in Orlando" two-night engagement featuring Cole Taylor & Travis Denning, Feb. 6-7 at 8 p.m. with an additional 4 p.m. show on Feb. 7. Tickets are available on the Judson’s event page.
Judson’s is open six nights a week and located at the South Street-facing side of Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, 445 S. Magnolia Avenue. To learn more about Judson’s Live and upcoming shows, visit drphillispcenter.org.
Sponsor: The Orlando Real is sponsored by the Pozek Group — the #1 real estate team in Orlando and the Official Real Estate Team of the Orlando Magic.
About the Author
Jim Carchidi is an Orlando journalist and photographer with previous work at the Orlando Sentinel and Orlando Business Journal. He covers development, arts, culture, and local stories for The Orlando Real.
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