Performing Arts in Charleston, SC

Posted by Lee and Katherine Keadle on Tuesday, February 18th, 2014 at 3:35pm.


charleston theatres

Charleston, SC is known having a rich history, fine culinary scene, unique architecture styles, and some of the best beaches in South Carolina. Charleston’s arts scene certainly also tops this list, so I’ve also included some of the best venues and performing arts groups below in case you want to check them out!

Dock Street Theatre

When it opened its doors in 1736, the Dock Street Theatre was the first building in the United States dedicated solely to theatrical performances. It is home to the Charleston Stage Company, which is the largest professional theatre company in the state. Since Dock Street is the most most popular theater in Charleston, it hosts many of the Spoleto Festival events. Dock Street recently underwent a $19 million renovation in order to preserve this historic landmark in downtown Charleston.

 

charleston cultural events

Sottile Theatre

Because Sottile Theatre is owned by the College of Charleston, it offers performances put on by students in addition to professional groups. Sottile is one of the few historic theaters in Charleston that can be rented out for parties and dinners. Its piazza and gardens are ideal for receptions - not to mention its prime location just off King Street. The Sottile Theatre opened in 1927 and today seats 785 people, making it one of Charleston's largest formal theaters.sottile.cofc.edu/

 

charleston cultural cultural arts

Charleston Ballet Theatre

This professional dance company has been in Charleston for about 25 years. Although the group has a black box theater located on upper King Street, large performances like the annual Nutcracker are usually held in venues like Gaillard Auditorium or the Charleston Performing Arts Center. www.charlestonballet.com/

 

theaters in charleston

Footlight Theatre

The Footlight Players' mission is to make theater affordable and accessible to more people. The community theater group has relied largely on local talent and volunteers since it was established in 1932. Most productions take place in a circa 1850 cotton warehouse which has been turned into an informal playhouse (the group occasionally performs at other venues as well). Footlight Theatre is located at 20 Queen Street. www.footlightplayers.net/

 

charleston symphony

Charleston Symphony Orchestra

The Charleston Symphony Orchestra performs at various auditoriums and events throughout the Charleston area (the most popular tend to be Gaillard Auditorium and Dock Street Theatre). The resident orchestra is comprised of forty-six full-time, professional musicians, making it South Carolina's largest year-round performing arts organization. You can read about the many outreach and educational programs that the group is involved with on their website. www.charlestonsymphony.com/

Learn more about Charleston South Carolina!