Discover CharlestonA Front Row Seat: Theaters & The Arts in Charleston SC

It’s no secret that Charleston, SC is one of the most vibrant cultural centers of the southeast. The arts in Charleston have been a pillar of our community for generations. To this day, the performing arts community in Charleston has been a major component of our heritage and culture. As host to the renowned Spoleto Festival USA, every year during the last weeks of May and early June, Charleston shines in the international arts spotlight.

Charleston’s commitment to offering an arts experience unsurpassed by anything else is reflected in the recently completed grand renovation of the Gaillard Center. This exquisite performing arts center and concert hall will be the crown jewel of Charleston and a fitting home for the arts for generations to come. The renovation of the Gaillard Center has been heralded by longtime Mayor Joe Riley who has remarked that  “It will be one of the finest concert halls in America, and I believe one of the most significant public buildings in the city’s history. “

These are some of Charleston’s other much loved, significant historic venues in town: 

 1. The Dock Street Theatre

This theater was the first venue to be used solely for theatrical productions in America. It first opened in 1736, and soon after was destroyed in a fire. After it was reconstructed, the property served as the Planter’s Hotel from 18095 until 1935. It was thoroughly renovated and reopened as a theater again in 1937. In 2010, the Dock Street Theatre reopened yet again after another round extensive renovations that included state of the art lighting, sound systems, new air conditioning, seating, and restroom facilities. Today, the theater operates as one of the most notable historic and cultural landmarks in the city. The Charleston Stage company is currently in residence at the theater and it also hosts events like the Spoleto Festival. Find out about upcoming performances at the Dock Street Theatre.

2. Charleston Music Hall

This beloved downtown venue is located just a few steps off of King Street and hosts music acts all year round. Attendees adore this venue for its intimate atmosphere, wonderful acoustics, and its comfortable seating with great stage proximity. They provide diverse programming that includes everything from national traveling comedy acts, to local jazz artists in residence. Check out the calendar of upcoming performances at the Charleston Music Hall.

3. Woolfe Street Playhouse

The Woolfe Street Playhouse is located in the heart of Charleston’s upper King Street district and is considered to be a hub for the vibrant, up-and-coming performing arts community in town. This intimate, cabaret-style theater is a favorite among theater lovers in Charleston, and the building is currently undergoing an ambitious renovation process. You can learn more, and help to fund the project here. The Village Repertory Company is currently in residence at the Woolfe Street Playhouse, and they even offer dinner and a show at a select few local bars and restaurants!

4. Theatre 99

Charleston’s home for improve comedy, Theatre 99 is a wonderful place to spend an evening laughing with friends – one may even get pulled up on stage! The improve troop, The Have Nots, frequently put on budget friendly show (some nights tickets are as low as $5) and traveling groups, stand-up comics, and comedy festivals will often take up residence as well. They even put on improve classes where you can bring out your inner comedian! The 2016 Charleston Comedy Festival is right around the corner, January 20 – 23, 2016 … You don’t want to miss it! Check out their calendar and plan a fun group outing at their Meeting Street theater.

Make 2016 the year to experience the diverse arts available here in Charleston. If you’re planning to visit, don’t miss your chance to take in some culture and history the next time you’re in the Holy City. Already live here? If you’re lucky enough to live downtown, it’s just as easy as walking down the street!  

Note:  We have taken a keen interest in a rather interesting arts endeavor here in Charleston, Ballet Evolution, which is a collaborative non-profit that partners ballet with live chamber music and artistic dance.  This innovative dance initiative provides a resource for gifted young artists of the Charleston Youth Ballet as well as enhances the current performing arts atmosphere of the city.