Chennai has always been known to encourage all forms of art. There are a lot of festivals held to celebrate art and art forms. It is not wrong to say that Chennai is the cultural capital of South India. Carnatic Music is very popular here. Chennai is a paradise for a student of carnatic Music. There are frequent music festivals held. The Music Festival held here during the month of December is very popular wherein reputed artistes from al over the country perform. Several Sabhas and associations organize these festivals and patrons of music from far and wide attend these concerts.

Dance festivals are also held regularly. The annual Dance festival in Mahabalipuram is a major attraction. Apart from these there are frequent Dance concerts held in Chennai through out the year Chennai is also active in the field of theatre and there are several theatre groups which showcase their talents in the big theatre halls here. There is a dedicated audience for theatre programs as well.