Be sure to catch a show at Carolina Theatre, an institution that’s been standing in the heart of downtown Durham since 1926. Elevated to iconic status through weathering more than nine decades of social, political and economic change, the Carolina Theatre is a source of civic pride, an important marker of historic change and a crucial resource for education in the arts. In the past, live shows have featured Ronald Reagan and Katharine Hepburn. Tour the theatre or get a ticket to see a film, a live event or an educational program. This renovated 1926 Beaux-Arts style theatre was also the site of civil rights protests in the early 1960s, now documented inside the theatre's “Confronting Change” exhibit.
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Hours:
Monday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
This was my first time coming here and I was pleasantly surprised how nice it is. The bathrooms were clean, the seats were nice and actually comfortable, they were very clean. I went to Summit Church service and the sermon was amazing. GOD is our source. Sometimes we put the resources that HE places in our lives as idols attempting (intentionally or unintentionally) to make the idols. I understand. I will definitely come back here. All we need is a Keurig and we'll be in there.
Boo Chi
Feb 16, 2025
5
Stopped by to see Josh Johnson and everything seemed very well planned, and it was a comfortable experience. Appreciated the discounted flat-rate parking across the stress, the assistance to find seating in the auditorium, and the ambience for the comedy show. The concession stand had enough snacks and drinks, but don't expect as much as you'd get at the movie theater. The worker that helped me out at the stand was really polite and nice. Overall, it was clean and suitable for the event. Had a great time at the show.
David Lindquist
Jan 20, 2025
5
The theatre is beautifully maintained and the home to The Chamber Orchestra of the Triangle for over 20 years, an orchestra that never fails to delight us with great soloists and interesting programming not dependent on old chestnuts. Yesterday’s concert, Letters from Mozart, was no exception—a pure delight.
D F
Jan 19, 2025
5
Had a great time seeing Kumail Nanjiani perform live at The Carolina Theatre. It was our first time visiting this beautiful, almost 100 years old venue. Parking is available on the street and garage across.. due to our venue being sold out, there was a lot of traffic jam within the hour of starting so would recommend to get there early to secure parking more easily.
Heather Haley
Jan 16, 2025
5
This historic gem in downtown Durham has the friendliest staff and very fairly priced concessions. It has been beautifully maintained and the versatile entertainment offerings are top-notch. I wish more places like this existed.
Stephanie Palm
Nov 17, 2024
5
I just went to my first show at the Carolina Theatre and was thoroughly impressed with the venue! The concessions were reasonably priced and l loved the multiple locations, the staff was so helpful and friendly, and the size of the venue felt intimate and I doubt there's a bad seat in the house. I absolutely loved it and will be back for many more events. :)
Rudolf Schmidt
Nov 1, 2024
5
Amazing theatre! Beautiful and classic. Every show I have seen there has been amazing. The acoustics are unmatchable.
And it always feels like you are a part of the show, or even a personal friend of the performer(s).
Any concert or performance here is work going to if you're even remotely interested. Highly recommended.
Julia Pedroza
Nov 1, 2024
5
Took my son here for his first ever concert for his 6th birthday. He had an amazing time seeing Celtic Thunder and said it was the "best day I've ever had"! We were on balcony 2, center row, and had a perfectly unobstructed view.
Brian C
Oct 30, 2024
5
Truly one of the best venues in the area with a great vibe. Great concession prices and a friendly staff. They've got multiple theaters in the building too so they can screen multiple movies at once. I always call ahead to get tickets too and the staff is super reliable! Hunter in particular came in clutch on getting me my tickets when I wanted to buy over the phone!
Vegan Linked
Oct 3, 2024
5
This place was beautiful, a precious and well preserved piece of History. I saw BEAT there, for anyone wondering Adrian Belew, Steve Vai, Danny Carey, Tony Levin! It was one of the greatest shows ever! The sound, the seats, the staff, everything about it was just perfect. It was the most I ever spent on a concert because prices have gone up so much these days but it was so worth it, even a 3-hour drive!
Michelle Corey
Jun 19, 2024
5
Finally got to join in on a Kevin Smith Q&A. The show was amazing and the Carolina Theater is such a great venue! Very full of history and entertainment. I wish we lived closer so we could go more often. Will definitely be visiting again soon!
John Linde
Jun 17, 2024
5
The theater is beautifully decorated and sits in a stunning location in downtown Durham. The staff is very friendly and very accommodating to attendees. I really enjoyed seeing my favorite director/comedian Kevin Smith and experiencing a wonderful and enlightened show. I love the history of the place and how it's still thriving to keep everyone entertained and continuing to enjoy live events. I would definitely love to come back in the future. Parking wasn't any trouble and quite easy to access getting into and out of in a timely manner. Great place and keep up the hospitality and good vibes.
Cecelia Helm
May 22, 2024
5
This place is awesome. They always have great shows here. This particular show, Leonid & Friends, was amazing!! 2nd time we've seen them and looking forward to the next time. Concessions were well stocked, facilities were clean, and staff was very friendly.
Tim Gronendyke
May 7, 2024
4
Wonderful venue! The seats we a little narrow for my 'full-sized' tail.
The staff were all friendly and helpful.
