Teatro Cancún (El Embarcadero, Blvd. Kukulcán Km. 4, tel. 998/849-5580, www.elteatrodecancun.com [1], ticket office on ground level 11 a.m.–7 p.m. Mon.–Sat.) stages shows by a variety of performers, from dance schools to professional musicians, several times a year. Ticket prices vary depending on the event, but typically range US$5–30.
Casa de la Cultura de Cancún (Av. Yaxchilán s/n, SM 21, tel. 998/884-8364, casadelaculturadecancun [at] yahoo [dot] com [dot] mx) is a state-funded institute that offers an incredible gamut of artistic workshops, performances, film screenings, and expositions (free–US$35). Call or email for the schedule of events when you’re in town.
Cancún [2] has a handful of movie theaters, all offering the latest American and Mexican releases. Make sure you choose one with subtitulada noted after the listed title—unless, of course, you prefer to hear the dubbed version. And if you want to save your pennies, go on a Wednesday, when all Mexican movie theaters have discounted ticket prices.
Convenient movie theaters include Cinemark (La Isla Shopping Village, Blvd. Kukulcán Km. 12.5, tel. 998/883-5604, US$6.25 general, US$4.25 matinee, US$2.15 Wed.) and Cinépolis (Plaza Las Américas, Av. Tulum at Av. Sayil, tel. 998/884-0403, US$6.25 general, US$4.25 matinee, US$2.15 Wed.).
For a first-class movie experience, head to Cinépolis VIP (Plaza Las Américas, Av. Tulum at Av. Sayil, tel. 998/884-4056, US$10, US$5 Wed.); it boasts comfy reclining leather seats and waiters who will bring you sushi, crepes, gourmet baguettes, cappuccinos, and cocktails. Oh—and popcorn and soda, too.
Links:
[1] http://www.elteatrodecancun.com
[2] http://www.moon.com/destinations/cancun-the-yucatan/cancun-cozumel-and-the-riviera-maya/cancun