I went to see Muscadine Bloodline at the Carolina Theatre and honestly, I can't recommend this venue enough! If you love live music but aren't a fan of huge crowds and overpriced everything, this theater is a total gem. First off, the vibe here is just cool and intimate. It's one of those places where, even if you're sitting a bit farther back, you still feel close to the action. The acoustics were great, every note and every lyric was super clear, which really made the performance feel special. Muscadine Bloodline killed it, by the way! One thing I really appreciated: the whole experience felt easy and relaxed. Getting there was a breeze and there's a parking garage directly across the street, so no crazy searches for a spot or long walks in the cold/rain/heat. You can literally be inside the theater within minutes of parking. Inside, the concessions were surprisingly reasonable. I was bracing myself to pay $20 for a beer like most venues, but nope, drinks and snacks were actually affordable. It's a little thing, but it made the night even better. Being able to sit for the show was also huge for me. The seats were comfortable, with a good view from just about anywhere. I loved not having to stand the whole time or jockey for space. It's honestly the perfect size, big enough for a killer crowd atmosphere, but small enough that it's not overwhelming. All in all, the Carolina Theatre just nails it for live shows. Great music, chill atmosphere, reasonable prices, and zero hassle. Can't wait to catch another concert here! read more

See all

First time going to Carolina Theatre to see EarHustle (IYKYK). The theater is lovely, nice intimate setting. We sat in the 4th row and gelt immersed in the performance but there really isn't a bad seat in the house. Parking was right across the street and reasonably priced. My only complaint was their concessions didn't have much variety. I should have done my research because I went to the event without eating dinner and popcorn just didn't do it for me. I'm looking forward to seeing more shows here. read more

Such a cute theater located in Downtown Durham! We went to see Wicked here & it was packed. Concessions are available for purchase in front of the theater room. My only negative note is that some seats are a little janky- like I couldn't fully relax bc it felt like my seat was going to tip backwards so I'd probs recommend you avoid E8 haha- but it wasn't egregious. Really appreciated that they have student discounts on tickets. Free parking available after 7pm on weekdays at the nearby Durham Center Garage. Definitely planning to go back to catch a live show one of these days. 8/10 would recommend! read more

Carolina Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Durham, North Carolina

It's historic so it's hard not to love. I saw the movie hundreds of beavers here and what a wild ride. While I love that movie, and generally the shared reaction from the crowd is what I love about the movie going experience, these people laughed WAY too hard at bits that had already been done a bunch throughout the movie. I think it was because they really wanted to have a good time, so they laughed harder than was warranted. That isn't the worst crime but just to give you an idea of the people who I assume frequent this establishment. Mhm: -old -pretty -weird stuff to see -solid move going experience Mm-Mm: -the shallowest steps I may have ever encountered inside the actual theatre (where it's dark) -I remember the concessions being kinda disappointing but nothing in particular -overzealous crowd -atrocious parking read more

The Carolina Theatre is both a historical landmark, a nonprofit, a community resource, a place to see world-class entertainment, and my favorite movie theatre in Durham. I've seen everything from famous stand-up comedians to an entire dog film festival. Definitely sign up for their emails and be sure to check out some of their festivals like Full Frame and Nevermore. The staff and volunteers are lovely and always friendly. I love their popcorn and that you can have an adult beverage with your show. Overall, the price point is much lower than other theatres. My only complaint is that I don't like having to pick your seats for movies in advance and some of the old chairs are uncomfortable and too close together (if you are in Fletcher). But those are very small complaints and I feel lucky that we have such a great venue in downtown Durham! read more

I enjoyed coming here for a concert. The sound was pretty decent. However with their recent renovation, they have put the seats closer together. It makes it difficult to get to your seat. read more

Carolina Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Durham, North Carolina

This was my first visit to the Carolina Theatre and was able to park at the poring lot across the street. Once I arrived I picked up my tickets at will call. The attendant at will call advised me that with my VIP tickets we could go back stage after the show. The theater has the option to purchase snacks and drinks such as popcorn and wine. We had really good seats at the venue. The theater is not too large which provides an intimate experience. The show was great with a great sound in the venue. After the show we waited and asked several ushers where to go to get back stage but multiple staff members said they didn't know anything about where we should go. We were confused why people that work at a venue wouldn't know where to go. They didn't offer to try and find the answer to our question either. read more

Carolina Theatre - Chris Botti & Sy Smith - Performing Arts Near Me - Durham, North Carolina

See all

Carolina Theatre is absolutely such a charming place to either watch a cinema or a show. I have been there a few years ago before to see Girl Named Tom with my daughters after they won on The Voice and they started touring! I recently saw Wicked in Fletcher Hall and it was a unique experience to watch a film in there and its my favorite setting now to watch a movie! I also went to a comedy show this past weekend to celebrate my 50th Birthday and I saw Sherri Shepherd in her "Make It Make Sense Tour". The show was incredible! The Director of Ticketing, Mike Karczewski, was so kind and helpful and professional with excellent customer service and he went above and beyond to make that opportunity special for me, along with the customer service from Eden in the box office as well and Stacie helping me to my seat. I 100% recommend Carolina Theatre as the best venue! Thanks so much Carolina Theatre for helping to make my 50th birthday one to always remember and I truly look forward to more shows and memories at the theatre! read more

Love this venue! There's really not a bad seat in the place since it's a smaller venue. We were up on the top level for the Switchfoot concert and we were still able to clearly see the stage. They have elevators but there are quite a few steps if you head up to the top levels by foot! Parking is easy with the garage directly across the street or some street parking on many of the surrounding streets. Like most venues these days, the ticket fees online are just outrageous. I was shocked how much we paid for this show even being in the top section. read more

See all

My absolute favorite theatre! A great place to see all kinds of films, old and new. They have all kinds of fun movie marathons. Also a great place for music and events. The people are kind, the building is beautiful, and the parking is easy. The concessions are great. Please check it out! read more

I have been to the Carolina Theatre a few times in the two years that I've lived here at it has always been an enjoyable experience! This was definitely the case last night with seeing Spyrogyra. First, the staff, everyone was so friendly and helpful! My mom and I went to fill our water bottles as only empty containers were allowed. The water was very warm, like ready for a tea bag warm. We told a staff member, Bonnie, about it, and she not only got us new water but apologized and allowed us to take a free candy bar! We got to our seats on the balcony, and wow! From every angle, we were able to see the band, and they were amazing! Love that they gave us two hours of nothing but fun, heart-felt jazz. Also, they came back for an encore song, which got most of us out of our seats dancing! The theatre has done some wonderful upgrades over the years as the sound quality and interior are nothing short of spectacular! No matter where you sit, you are going to enjoy the show! Also, they provide a lot of wonderful and in-depth history of the theatrw, which is eye opening and heart felt. I will be back for more shows in the near future! read more

The Theatre is beautiful and they always have a great lineup of shows. The movie series are also awesome, but the people make it the best place to go. From the volunteers to the staff in the box office, everyone is delightful! Special shout out to Cas in the box office! Buy tickets, enjoy the shows, check out the movies, and go!! You won't be disappointed. read more

Some of my best memories of Durham are of the Carolina Theatre. Be sure and visit the 3rd floor! read more

Great theater space - beautiful, lots of theater sizes, world-class festivals. Downsides: there is a facility fee tacked on to tickets; they prompt for tips at the concession stands (they are just handing you items); the tickets for retro movies are the same price as new films; and, if you're streaming films, they will hound you to death for donations. Also, the volume can get out of control here - I've started bringing ear plugs, just in case. read more

Lovingly restored, the Carolina Theatre is a gorgeous venue to catch a film festival or Arlo Guthrie performance. We recently took my parents to see "Wicked" there, and they were impressed by the new historical trailer before the movie began. I'm proud to live in a place where Civil Rights were fought for, and that takes historic preservation seriously. read more

A wonderfully restored and operational old movie house that has been updated for stage shows, concerts, lectures, and special presentations. They don't built 'em like this anymore! A great concession stand with huge bags of popcorn, sodas, wine, and craft beer is open during many shows, and unlike more strict venues, you can enjoy your snacks and libations during the show! read more

See all

Just went to see the War and Treaty, a great country western Duo, they were fabulous, please google them, you will be mesmerized. I bought the CD. Been listening to it for two days as I drive to and from work. As a matter of they will be on the Country Music Awards show tonight in ABC! read more

Carolina Theatre - Shana Tucker performed for Family Series last season. The show was great, family and kids enjoyed it. - Performing Arts Near Me - Durham, North Carolina

The Carolina Theatre is a small venue located adjacent to the downtown Marriott convention center complex I have been here several times for concerts and comedy and each time it's been for a packed house Give yourself a little extra time to go through the security and get your ticket stand as it is a historic theater and can't process people to quickly but also not too long but it's a problem The sound is good the seats are comfortable and overall it's been a great experience every time so I would not hesitate to recommend the Carolina Theatre for show read more

Carolina Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Durham, North Carolina

The Carolina Theatre is a beautiful, historic theater set in the heart of downtown Durham, but you can read all about that from any of the other reviews. I'm here to tell you about the wonderful staff. This past Friday, we were excited to attend laser Pink Floyd to introduce our 12-year-old to my favorite band. Unfortunately, our 12-year-old has allergies, and they had an allergic reaction to some of the food we ate at dinner before coming to the show. The staff was absolutely amazing, especially Hunter, who showed real concern and sympathy while helping us out. I wanted to be sure to give the staff the recognition they deserved for making a tough situation for our 12-year-old as good as it could be. Kudos to the staff! read more

Beautiful setting, helpful staff. Really enjoyed the show we attended. I'm supposed to add more characters but I've said what needs saying!

I'm here trying to enjoy a rare movie with my kids and partner, and I'm not sure what the hell is going on at the concession stand but the girl with purple hair is completely unprofessional and rude. I got popcorn for my kids and before even asking for it she barks at me "what do you want?!" I said "3 popcorns please" and she said "how many?!" With this pissy look on her face. Then when I proceeded to grab the popcorn and leave she whispered underneath her breath "you're welcome bitch" I've spent a majority of the movie crying in the theater, I don't know why people treat some people that way. I used to live it here but I sadly won't be returning. This is just no way to treat someone, if you're having a bad day don't take it out on someone else. It made me really uncomfortable. read more

The Carolina Theatre is a must visit in DTD. I've been twice now to see Anjelah Johnson and Second City and have had great experiences. It is affordable and staff members are very helpful. Join their mailing list to stay up-to-date on upcoming shows. read more

Came here last night with some peeps to see Ronny Chieng. We parked at the Durham Centre Parking Garage and it was a very short walk over to the Carolina Theatre. Before you go, make sure you bring either a negative covid test or your vaccine card with you because they do check for that before letting you in. Once inside, the helpful staff checks your tickets and directs you to your seating area. After the show, there is a staff member who helps direct the walking traffic across the street so that the theatre goers can get back to their cars in the garage. Overall, we had a very pleasant time at the Carolina Theatre. read more

We've lived in Durham for 24 years but have started patronizing this theater more in the last 5-7 years or so. I used to think their live offerings were more esoteric and not exactly my cup of tea. However, they've been booking a lot more comedians, legacy rock groups, dance troupes, new artists, etc., that have a good following. Once inside, the main performance venue feels pretty intimate. Even from the second balcony, you have a good view of the stage. Prices are usually more reasonable than other large venues, but then again it depends on the particular artists. We also like that there are plenty of restaurants and bars nearby. It's very easy to get pre- or after-show drinks and bites. A great venue for live shows. read more

Avoid Cinema 2. (Cinema 1 is great and comfortable--I have watched many movies in that one.) I went last week to see a movie in Cinema 2 for the first time, and the (unfortunately new, so they probably won't change them for many years) seats are not only very straight-backed, but even worse, there is so little knee room (and also zero shoulder-room--I felt like I was on an airplane) and so little foot room that it was excruciating. There is no way that a person with a mobility disability or prosthetic could see a movie in there. My knees were bent at a less than 90 degree angle, with the bottom of the seat pressing into the backs of my calf/knees, my toes were pressing into the back of the seat in front of me, and due to the lack of flooring space (stadium seating), my foot was hanging half off because there was only enough floor space beneath my seat for my heel and arch. Somebody needs to urgently re-do this theater and maybe even get an ADA consultant to help. read more

When a gal gets up to a bit of a landmark in number of reviews (800 seriously? where does the time go?), a gal needs a Landmark to review. Such is the Carolina Theatre...an Historical Landmark in downtown Durham that has much to be appreciated. We have been here several times over the years. Most recently saw Home Free on a Sunday night in December and Kristin Chenowith on this past January Saturday. The Carolina Theatre brought her in to start their 90th Year Celebration, and what a way to kick it off! TIP: Get on their email list, because you never know who or what will happen here next! The variety is truly just that...something for everyone at some point. Prices vary according to the show. Don't wait to buy what you want, because the Fletcher theater isn't gigantic. We have yet to sit in the balcony, but much of it appears to be closer than the back of the floor. We have sat at the front of the Orchestra and the back and the sound has been very good each time. For Kristin, sitting on the right in the back on the floor, we did have the sound and light folks two rows behind us, which meant we could hear some of their whispered directions. Didn't bother us, but might want to keep it in mind when selecting seats if it would bother you. The lobby area is quite small with a small concession stand. Not my favorite place to hang out, but they open the seating area well in advance and they do allow drinks in the auditorium. This is a beautiful, charming, lovable NON-PROFIT Theater that is working hard to deserve our support! read more

See all

The Carolina Theatre is a gem in downtown Durham! From the convenient location, beautiful architecture, convenient parking, comfortable seating (with drink holders), and beautiful interior, it's truly hard to find something negative about this spot. Whether you're in the mood for one of their retro, horror or classic film series, a comedian or musical artist or a film festival, they've got lots of offer. You can park in the covered parking garage across the street for $3, or easily find free street parking along Foster Street. With it's convenient downtown location, you can easily eat at any of the great downtown spots and walk to the theater. They also offer concessions at the theater, which include a draft line-up of local craft beer. Carolina Theatre has a customer appreciation day (I believe) twice a year, where patrons are invited to view the current film and enjoy free popcorn. I've seen everything from historic lectures about Durham [Untold Durham; October 2012] to Comedian performances [Aziz Ansari (March 2014) and David Cross (February 2016)] and of course I've participated in many of their film nights where they show anything from The Dark Crystal to The Princess Bride. If you haven't visited Carolina Theatre yet, I highly recommend putting it on your "to-visit" list! read more

See all

The theatre is a little bit older but it gets the job done. It's small and sets more of an intimate mood. I caught a show here and had seats right behind the pit. I thought it was a good view but wouldn't mind sitting back further to get a wider view of the stage. The sound system sounded great, even up at the front. I don't think you can go wrong with any seats in the house since the theatre is so compact. It gave me this old movie theatre vibe from the 90's. I'm glad that the theatre stayed true to it's root. I appreciate the vintage and vibe of it. Keeping it real! read more

Small and dated facility could use a face lift. Good pricing for the concert we attended. Decent location with many fun things to do locally if you travel to attend an event. read more

Finally made it to Carolina Theatre for a visit and the Jim Jefferies show recently and it was about time. This classic, retro theatre is known as both a live events and movie theatre with, hot, real buttered popcorn! From the outside, Carolina Theatre has an impressive facade with large neon sign and lit face. Inside it feels a bit creaky and classic but just what you would expect from a historic theater. We were sitting up in the balcony and that level has its own concessions stand with lounge area which is a nice touch. A handful of draft beers, wine cups (heavy pours), everything was pretty reasonably priced. Sight-lines at Carolina Theatre are pretty good with good HVAC for the show. Audio/acoustics are not fantastic but good enough, they had a couple of glitches for Jim Jefferies. But overall I'm impressed. As much as I like newer, modern venues like DPAC, I have a soft spot in my heart for more retro theatres that I grew up with in New England. There's something about the charm, architecture and history that you can find at a place like Carolina Theatre that just can't be reproduced... read more

Carolina Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Durham, North Carolina

See all

what a lovely place to go see a movie. downtown durham is pretty quiet at night, so parking is abundant on the streets. The theater sound for a movie isn't stellar, especially when there are chit chatters in the audience, but it was still nice to watch a film in an older setting. No cup holders or fancy cushiony chairs, but they serve beer and popcorn and candies all for a relatively low price! I think i bought a beer, hot chocolate, and a large popcorn for $12! i'm a fan and I'm looking forward to the live performances here this year! read more

Carolina Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Durham, North Carolina

This theatre is absolutely stunning. It is much more than seeing a play or film but a true experience. This historic theatre has a range of showings with various times listed on their website. My husband and I saw a film and I was just stunned by the architecture, chairs, and overall aesthetic. Another plus is that their food and drinks are very reasonable priced compared to typical theaters. We will definitely be back. read more

Carolina Theatre - The chairs are so charming to me! - Performing Arts Near Me - Durham, North Carolina

This is a useful place, though not the most technologically advanced. It has a prosceneum theatre as well a couple of movie screening rooms upstairs. This is where you go for your festivals (they do an Alfred Hitchcock thing about once a year, and sci-fi screenings, etc.) and art-house movies that aren't going to play at the mall multi-plex. Occasionally, they will screen a film in the main theatre, so it's kind of fun to sit up in the balcony for a movie and pretend it's the '50s. That space is mostly used for live acts, like acoustic concerts and comedians. The movie screening rooms upstairs are fairly small and, since this is a historic building, have only been partially retrofitted for today's moviegoing experience. The advantages are that you can see some films that won't show anywhere else in the area and you can have a beer while you do it. Also, the popcorn is made fresh in front of your eyes instead of being brought in by the bushel in plastic bags. The disadvantage is the poorer quality of picture and sound, which can't touch what you would get at, say, Southpoint Cinemas. But the ambience and overall level of experience and offerings make me very glad it's part of the downtown Durham scene. read more

Totally old school performance center which has pretty good acoustics for what it is. Small, intimate and the seats are spread well enough to give you a good view. Note: When you buy tickets on ticket master you may be afraid that the cheaper seats are bad ones and will give you nosebleed. Not true! While I have splurged for closer seating... the venue is small enough to satisfy even when the purse strings are tight. Movies are fun to watch here, especially in the balcony. Also spring for the popcorn here. It is real, the last time I checked. read more

This is an old performing theatre in old Durham, NC. It shows its history and wear. Nice and quaint charm. Good parking across street in structure with crossing assistance. Would come back again. read more

Carolina Theatre - Beatles Tribute Band - Performing Arts Near Me - Durham, North Carolina

Updating my review because I just remembered a time when the staff were very nice to me. I didn't have a fun time at full frame the other night (NOT their fault), so it might be a while before I am able to return but I will be back for the LGBTQ fest probably and other stuff they put on. I just remembered a friendly person at the concessions lady. She was wearing a fun hat and so nice and chatty (it was slow, a matinee). I was wearing a cute cat shirt and she told me the manager (I think it was the manager) had found an orphaned kitten and brought it in the rescue it. I asked if I could pet it because I love cats so much and she checked to make sure it was okay and then invited me back into a staff only stairwell so I could pet the cute black kitten in the man's arms. They're very friendly and welcoming here, and I highly suggest patronizing them. Especially because it's one of maybe only three places in the Chapel Hill and Durham where you can see truly independent cinema. I actually tweeted about this and they liked my tweet about this memory, so I thought I'd share on facebook how cool the staff are there! read more

We had tickets to catch a show at the historic Carolina Theatre. This show was showcasing all sorts of drums and percussion instruments geared toward toddlers and school aged children. The host was a wonderful woman who infectious spirit flowed out from the stage to the audience. This was a very interactive show where clapping and even joining her on stage to play the instruments were encouraged. My husband took over one of the bongos for a set. So fun and unique. As a bonus the theatre has a exhibit on the top level called "Confronting Change" that speaks to it's racial segregationist past and how it eventually allowed all people of all colors to finally be treated as equal. Make sure you check it out no matter what show you are there to see. read more

See all

I like this theater - it's small and intimate and plays films you can see elsewhere. The downside is it's an upgraded theater which offers stadium seating but which lacks the legroom of most theaters today. I mention this because at 5'6 I feel things are a bit tight in the smaller theater I can't imagine if I was taller how I would feel. That said the retro films, and art films shown will keep me returning and thrilled to go into this updated historical building. read more

Impressed with physical renovation and upgrades. Wheel chair access on balcony is difficult. Suggest handicap/senior unloading/loading area at curb in front of theater. read more

Whenever in the mood for a movie, my wife and I ask, 'What's playing at Carolina?' It may not have all of the hit movies that roll through your average movie theater, but there always excellent films. The theatre, is always clean, and quiet. You will never have to worry about that teen age crowd in the back row making all the noise and kicking the seats in front of them. They have a full snack bar packed with all the typical items you would find at your average theater, and even great beer selections. They have wine as well, typically just Bare Foot's Chardonay, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon. The building itself is beautiful, and recently they have added an area downstairs dedicated to telling the story of The Carolina Theatre. If you love history, an love Durham, you must check this out. They host several film festivals, and give the public an opportunity to see films on original prints that are difficult to find these days. About a year ago we watched Gone with the wind in the main hall. How beautiful it was to experience this film on the big screen in a theater that matched its time frame. I cannot express enough how much this theater means to me and how thankful I am to have it so near home. If you havent visited yet, plan a visit soon! read more

Carolina Theatre - Beautiful stormy night at Carolina Theatre. - Performing Arts Near Me - Durham, North Carolina

See all