Nestled in the vibrant heart of Leimert Park on Degnan Boulevard, the Barbara Morrison Performing Arts Center stands as more than simply a venue—it is a beacon of artistic possibility and community-driven creative uplift. Founded in 2009 by the late, legendary vocalist Barbara Morrison, the Center has since evolved into a fully-equipped production and performance space under the hands of owners Tim Morganfield and Karen A. Clark, who have embraced Barbara’s original vision while expanding its possibilities for artists, dreamers, and community gatherings.

A Vision Realised

From the moment Barbara Morrison opened the doors, her goal was clear: to create a home-field stage for artists—especially those whose voices had been overlooked—to find their power, build their craft, and share their truth. The result? A lush 99-seat theatre in Leimert Park that became a sanctuary for live music, jazz, blues, spoken-word, theatre, film, and cultural exchange. 

Under the leadership of Tim and Karen A., the Center continues that mission. Tim, originally Barbara’s stage-builder turned partner, brings deep experience in production, while Karen, with her background in financial leadership, ensures the space thrives operationally and remains accessible to artists and organizations alike. Together, they promote the space not only as a performance hall—but as a place where artists can grow, collaborate, record, stream, and imagine beyond the stage.

The Space & Its Perks

The Barbara Morrison Performing Arts Center offers a host of amenities for both creators and event hosts, providing a flexible, high-touch platform for artistic, community, and private events. According to the Center’s website:

• Adaptable venue for live music, theatre, art, film, meetings, parties and more. 

• Full-production company capability: “space rental for simple or complex events, including recording, streaming, and audio-mixing services.” 

• Ideal for private events: consultations available for staffing, availability, event contract applications.

In practice, that means when you book the Center you’re getting:

• A dedicated stage and performance environment in an iconic cultural neighborhood.

• Equipped audio-visual and production support — enabling live performance, recording sessions, live-streaming, or hybrid events.

• A venue steeped in legacy and community meaning, in Leimert Park, a hub of Black cultural arts in Los Angeles.

• Flexibility: from an intimate concert, to a panel discussion, to a party with full production.

Why It Matters

In a city where creative spaces are often fleeting or expensive, the Barbara Morrison Performing Arts Center represents something rare: a space where promise meets possibility. Tim and Karen keep the doors open for artists who haven’t yet broken through, for people seeking to mount a production on their terms, and for community gatherings that reflect Leimert Park’s rich cultural identity. They carry forward Barbara’s spirit of empowerment, giving practitioners not just a mic, but the infrastructure, respect, and visibility they deserve.

The Invitation

If you’re looking for a venue where your event can both reflect and elevate your purpose—whether you’re showcasing music, theatre, film, a community panel, or a private gathering—Tim and Karen’s leadership at the Barbara Morrison Performing Arts Center promise more than just a space. You’ll get legacy, craft-forward production, and a platform nestled in a culturally thriving neighborhood.