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Durham Performing Arts Center (DPAC)

4.8
·8k reviews·Durham, United States

Premier venue for Broadway, concerts, and comedy in downtown Durham, NC, known for its quality productions and welcoming atmosphere.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Evenings

Fewer crowds, better parking

CrowdMedium
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View from the stage

Durham Performing Arts Center (DPAC)

Best Time

Weekday Evenings

Fewer crowds, better parking

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Premier venue for Broadway, concerts, and comedy in downtown Durham, NC, known for its quality productions and welcoming atmosphere.

4.8
(8k reviews)

"The venue itself is a five star. My only complaint is in the parking garage..."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Join the Email List

Get early access to tickets & lotteries for discounts. 📧

🚗 Plan Your Parking

Parking decks are available, but expect a walk. 🚗

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.8 · 7,765 reviews

Type

Performing Arts Theater

👶 Good for kids♿ Wheelchair accessible🅿️ Accessible parking🚻 Accessible restroom

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Broadway Blockbusters

Broadway Blockbusters

Main Stage

Experience world-class touring Broadway productions like The Lion King and Beauty and the Beast.

TikTokInstagram+2
Chart-Topping Musicians

Chart-Topping Musicians

Main Stage

Catch acclaimed artists from Kenny G to Brandi Carlile and Mitski.

TikTokInstagram+3
Comedy Headliners

Comedy Headliners

Main Stage

Laugh out loud with performances from top comedians like Kevin James.

Reddit
Unique Musical Acts

Unique Musical Acts

Main Stage

Enjoy diverse musical talents from Postmodern Jukebox to Nickel Creek.

TikTokInstagram+1
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Planning Your Visit

Book Tickets in Advance

Popular shows at the Durham Performing Arts Center (DPAC) sell out quickly. Secure your tickets for Broadway productions, concerts, and comedy acts well in advance to avoid disappointment. Consider joining the DPAC email list for early access and lottery opportunities for discounted tickets. Reddit

Parking & Arrival

While DPAC is in a vibrant downtown area with restaurants, parking can be a walk. Several parking decks are available, and while attendants manage traffic flow well, be prepared for potential queues. Reddit+1 Consider dining nearby before or after your show to maximize your downtown experience. TikTok

Best Times

When
Weekday Evenings
Why
Fewer crowds, better parking
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekend Afternoons
Why
Family-friendly shows
Crowd
High
When
During Off-Peak Seasons
Why
More ticket availability
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🎷 We had really good “sax” that night. 😂😉 In the words of Kenny G. #KennyG #Saxaphone #dpacdurham
@allie.in.the.wild
92 likes • 2.2K views

🎯 Join the Email List

Get early access to tickets & lotteries for discounts. Reddit 📧

🚗 Plan Your Parking

Parking decks are available, but expect a walk. Reddit+1 🚗

The Durham Performing Arts Center (DPAC) As people are finding their seats before the performance of the Postmodern Jukebox. #postmodernjukebox #pmjtour #dpac
@request.rashad
28 likes • 3.9K views
The Durham Performing Arts Center (DPAC) sure rolled out the red carpet for the season opener of Disney’s musical Beauty and the Beast. From a magnificent flower wall to a swag bag full of goodies, I felt like a Disney princess stepping into one of the world’s most beloved fairytales. And I even got a close up peek of Belle’s glorious gold gown, which is on display in the President’s Club. Thank y...
beltlinetobroadway
166 likes • 4K views

🧥 Bring a Sweater

Venue temperatures can vary; layers are recommended. Reddit 👕

📱 Download the DPAC App

For easy access to tickets and show information. :iphone:

TV STARS! JM Scholars David Ta'Bon and Delaney Fuquay joined an ensemble of distinguished student actors last night to open the DPAC Rising Star Awards show. Here they are on stage at the Durham Performing Arts Center in a quick clip from ABC 11 News.
jmhsarts
45 likes • 1.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Join the Email List

Get early access to tickets & lotteries for discounts. Reddit 📧

🚗 Plan Your Parking

Parking decks are available, but expect a walk. Reddit+1 🚗

🧥 Bring a Sweater

Venue temperatures can vary; layers are recommended. Reddit 👕

📱 Download the DPAC App

For easy access to tickets and show information. :iphone:

🥂 Enjoy Nearby Dining

Explore downtown Durham's restaurants before or after the show. TikTok 🍴

What Travellers Say

4.8
(8k reviews)

Reviews Summary

DPAC is widely praised as a top-tier performing arts venue, lauded for its high-quality Broadway shows, diverse musical acts, and excellent technical production. The friendly staff and vibrant downtown location are frequently highlighted as major positives, though some visitors note that parking can involve a walk and seats could be more comfortable. Reddit+1

"Made our way out here for the Kevin James Comedy Tour. I had never been in this part of Durham, it is very inviting with a cool vibe. The DPAC is located next to the minor league baseball team……which I now want to make it out to a game…..restaurants all around and lots of parking decks. The center itself is really nice, clean and easy to access. Their security was a breeze and they along with the door greeters were super friendly and welcoming. Everyone was helpful and we quickly found our seats. They have some snacks for sale along with soft drinks and alcoholic drinks. We just got a soda and water because we had gotten dinner outside prior to the show. The venue is warm with lots of cozy seating. The sound and lighting were great. Once the show was over we were able to walk out pretty quickly. The venue itself is a five star. My only complaint is in the parking garage, even though they are conveniently located near the venue, they only had one elevator and lots of people waiting. The good thing is that even though it looked like a jam packed nightmare , we actually got out pretty quickly. Parking attendants have it set up perfectly and you are on the road home within minutes. Overall a great experience and definitely will try to get to more shows here!"

William Herrera

"Have attended multiple traveling Broadway musical performances at DPAC. Have never been disappointed in the quality of the performances.
Everything from set design, technical
effects, music & vocals, actor performances - all beyond expectation! The facility itself is lovely, comfortable, convenient. And especially the DPAC staff, they make visiting all the more enjoyable. DPAC is truly an asset to the Durham and Triangle community. Get on their email list & watch for the ticket lotteries for discounted tickets."

John S.

"We have been to a few shows here
Most recently Beauty and the Beast
It is a wonderful venue
A bit of a walk from parking garages
(Pay for them with credit card)
Lots of concessions
And so many helpful ushers around
It can be hot and cold In the show so bring a sweater you can take off"

Lauren : Rank Rise Studio

What People Like

High-quality performances
Friendly and helpful staff
Vibrant downtown location

What People Dislike

Parking can be a walk
Seats could be more comfortable

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

DPAC is located in downtown Durham, NC. It's easily accessible by car, with several parking decks nearby. Public transportation options are also available. TikTokReddit

Walking to DPAC from nearby areas like Little Bull is generally considered safe, but it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings, especially late at night. Reddit

Several parking decks are conveniently located near DPAC. While attendants manage traffic well, be prepared for potential queues, especially after popular shows. Reddit+1

Yes, most parking garages near DPAC accept credit card payments. Reddit

DPAC is served by local bus routes, making it accessible via public transportation for those in the Triangle area. Check local transit schedules for routes and times.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets can be purchased directly from the DPAC website, the DPAC box office, or authorized ticket retailers. It's recommended to buy in advance for popular shows. Reddit

DPAC often offers ticket lotteries and discounts for email subscribers. Joining their mailing list is a great way to find out about these opportunities. Reddit

The DPAC box office hours typically vary, so it's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information on operating hours.

Outside food and beverages are generally not permitted inside DPAC. Concessions are available for purchase inside the venue. Reddit

Age policies vary by show. Most Broadway shows are suitable for a general audience, but it's advisable to check the specific show's recommendations. TikTok

🎫 🎭 Onsite Experience

DPAC offers comfortable seating with good sightlines from most locations. Some reviewers note that seats could be more comfortable, but the legroom is generally praised. Reddit+1

The sound and lighting systems at DPAC are excellent, providing a high-quality experience for all types of performances. Reddit+1

Yes, DPAC has various concessions offering snacks, soft drinks, and alcoholic beverages. Reddit

There is no strict dress code at DPAC. Most attendees dress casually or smart-casual, depending on the performance. TikTok

DPAC is committed to accessibility, offering accessible seating, restrooms, and services for patrons with disabilities. It's recommended to contact the box office in advance for specific needs.

📸 📸 Photography & Social Media

Photography and videography are generally prohibited during performances at DPAC to respect the artists and other audience members. Check specific show policies. TikTok

Yes, the lobby and exterior of DPAC offer great spots for photos, especially with themed decorations for certain shows. Instagram

Popular hashtags include #DPAC, #DurhamNC, #PerformingArts, and specific show hashtags. TikTok+1

Absolutely! Many visitors share their experiences on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, showcasing the performances and the venue. TikTokInstagram

DPAC typically offers Wi-Fi access for guests, allowing you to stay connected and share your experience.

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