A Guide to the Carolina Theatre of Durham
The historic Carolina Theatre is a crown jewel of Durham, hosting touring performers and local events in its main hall and showing films in the city's only downtown movie theater.
Tucked away behind the Marriott and Durham Convention Center, The Carolina Theatre isn't immediately apparent for downtown Durham visitors. As you walk down Foster Street toward Durham Central Park, the Beaux-Arts-style building emerges through the trees, revealing one of Durham's most beloved attractions and the non-profit home of music, comedy, arts and independent cinema. The Theatre's mission is to welcome everyone and to drive the cultural, educational and economic vitality of the region. Since 1926, the Theatre has carried out this mission, and it contains 100 years of history within its walls.
The History of the Carolina Theatre of Durham
Built in 1926, the Carolina Theatre is the only remaining Vaudeville-era theaters in Durham. It was closed in 1978 for renovations, and its interior decor was restored in 2011. It's now owned by the City of Durham and operated as a non-profit. The theatre has hosted the world premieres of the Durham-based baseball film "Bull Durham" as well as "The Best of Enemies," a film that tells the true story of the fight for desegregation in Durham.
Historic Exhibits
Those interested in diving into the theatre's story can take a guided or self-guided tour and visit three exhibits inside:
- A Century in Downtown Durham – Main Lobby: A look at the Carolina Theatre and the artists and films that have appeared over the years.
- Restoring Hope – First Balcony Level: A tribute to the volunteers of the 1970s and 1980s, this exhibit tells the story of Connie Moses and her quest to resurrect and restore the Carolina Theatre and the ballroom that bears her name.
- Confronting Change – Second Balcony Level: A look at the 1960s peaceful protest in the streets of Durham. This exhibit tells the story of the desegregation of the Carolina Theatre and the people dedicated to making certain their theater, and their community, had equal access for all.
The Carolina Theatre Celebrates Its 100th Anniversary
This year marks an important milestone for The Carolina Theatre. To celebrate 100 years of performances, community enrichment and dedication to the arts, The Carolina Theatre has planned a year of celebrations. The 100th anniversary celebration will kick off on January 31st with a 100th Birthday Party. Take the stage with live band karaoke, test your luck at drag bingo, or hit the cinemas to view classic cartoons, all in celebration of the Carolina Theatre's birthday. This will be the first of many anniversary events, and you won't want to miss any of them.
For the Carolina Theatre, the Durham community is just as important to it as it is to Durhamites past and present. With that in mind, they will spend the year collecting stories about the Carolina Theatre from the public to be included in its historical record. They have put together a special form where you can submit your memory online.
The Theatre also invites you to "help shape the next century of unforgettable experiences" by contributing to their Centennial Campaign. You can give a one time gift or set up monthly donations to ensure that The Carolina Theatre continues to be the community staple for culture and entertainment that it has been for 100 years.
Fletcher Hall
The main auditorium, Fletcher Hall, accommodates over 1,000 guests in its iconic blue seats and hosts touring and local musical acts, comedians, dance performances, film festivals, educational programming and much, much more. In Fletcher Hall, there isn't a bad seat in the house, in fact, every seat was restored in 2024 and Grand Suites were added to the first balcony. Take a look at the seating chart to find out more. You'll find top-notch programming most nights, and the theatre also schedules special series like Family Saturdays to provide accessible entertainment to all.
Family Saturdays
This series is dedicated to providing high-quality, affordable arts programming to introduce young audiences to the magic of live performances.
2026 Programming Highlights
Notable touring performers making appearances in the coming months include (be sure to check the full calendar for all performances and events) :
- Cirque Immersif — Feb. 2 & 3, 2026
- The Monti: Strictly Platonic — Feb. 13, 2026
- The Wood Brothers — March 7, 2026
- Leela James: 2BHONEST — March 11, 2026
- Dan Soder: The Golden Retriever of Comedy Tour — Apr. 11, 2026
- Swan Lake — April 30, 2026
- Ichiko Aoba — May 1, 2026
- Larry & Joe — June 6, 2026
- Brad Williams: The Tall Tales Tour — Oct. 24, 2026
The Cinemas
The Cinemas at Carolina Theatre is the only place to see movies in downtown Durham and its mix of retro cult classics, seasonal delights, double features, indie films, documentaries, panel discussions, sensory-friendly programming and more, along with top new releases, makes it a destination for film buffs in the area. Plus, the short lines and comparatively lower-priced concessions make it a true hidden gem.
Retro Film Series
The ongoing, weekly Retro film series is dedicated to bringing classic movies back to the big screen and presents themed double-features (for only $12!) four nights per week, programmed by the Theatre's in-house film curator. Weekly themes include:
Sensory Friendly Film Series
Once a month, the theatre hosts sensory friendly film screenings offering a welcoming and supportive environment for individuals with autism or those in need of sensory accommodation. Tickets are free and can be reserved ahead or at the box office thirty minutes before the screening begins. Learn more about what to expect from a sensory friendly screening here.
Annual Programming, Events and Festivals
In addition to the regular, weekly programming and one-off events, The Carolina Theatre is home to annual events and festivals that draw crowds from across the globe. Because these events happen every year, you'll want to make sure you read closely to make sure the event your interested in hasn't already happened this year.
Film Festivals and Music Series
- Centerstage: The Wavemakers Series – a series by Grammy-nominated Durham artist Rissi Palmer dedicated to celebrating diverse voices. Find your next favorite artist at this dynamic mix of performance and conversation.
- Nevermore Film Festival – each February since 1995, a juried competition festival featuring brand-new feature and short films emphasizing horror, science fiction, dark fantasy, animation and mystery/thrillers from around the world.
- Dates: Feb. 27-March 1, 2026
- Full Frame Documentary Film Festival – a program of Duke's Center for Documentary Studies, the four-day festival in early April dedicated to nonfiction cinema fosters community between filmmakers, film professionals and the public in downtown Durham.
- Dates: April 16-19, 2026
- OUTSOUTH Queer Film Festival – since 1995, the second-largest LGBTQ film festival in the Southeast.
- Dates: TBA
Carolina Theatre FAQs
Where is the Carolina Theatre?
The Carolina Theatre is located at 309 W. Morgan St. in downtown Durham.
Where can I park for Carolina Theatre?
Metered street parking, free after 7 p.m., is available all around the Theatre, including on West Morgan Street, and Durham Centre Parking Garage is across the street at 300 W. Morgan St.
Is the Carolina Theatre accessible?
Yes, the Carolina Theatre is committed to providing a first-class experience for all individuals and has made a number of accommodations and services available. Find out more on the theatre's website.
How can I purchase tickets for Carolina Theatre programming?
Tickets for performances and films may be purchased online via carolinatheatre.org or carolinatheatre.showare.com or at the box office Monday - Friday, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. and one hour before live performances. The Cinema box office opens 30 minutes before the first screening of the day and closes 30 minutes after the last screening of the day begins. All ticket sales are final.
Can I bring a bag to Carolina Theatre?
Yes. All bags are subject to inspection. No backpacks are allowed. For a full list of prohibited items, read the theatre's security policy.
Where to Stay
When you come to Durham to attend a festival or event at The Carolina Theatre, don't forget you'll be right in the heart of downtown Durham, a walkable district with plenty of new things to see and do. There are five hotels within walking distance of the Carolina Theatre:
- Durham Marriott City Center Marriott City Center is connected to the Carolina Theatre, offering easy access to festival activities.
- 21c Museum Hotel Explore the hotel’s art collection and snag a selfie with the 21c mascot – a hot magenta penguin (.2 miles from the Carolina Theatre).
- The Durham Hotel A mid-century boutique hotel with a celebrated restaurant and rooftop bar (.2 miles from the Carolina Theatre).
- Aloft Durham Downtown Located near the American Tobacco Campus, Aloft offers a modern aesthetic, heated pool, and proximity to plenty of dining and entertainment options (.5 miles from the Carolina Theatre).
- Residence Inn Durham McPherson/Duke University Medical Center Area The newly constructed Residence Inn has apartment-style suites, heated pool, and fitness center near the Brightleaf District (.6 miles from the Carolina Theatre).
- Unscripted Durham An eclectic hotel with a rooftop deck, pool and unique cocktail and cuisine options. (.1 miles from the Carolina Theatre).
- Springhill Suites by Marriott City View A stylish, all-suite hotel with modern amenities and sustainable practices. Enjoy free breakfast and bring along the pup for a pet-friendly stay. (.8 miles from the Carolina Theatre).
Recommended Stories
