The North Carolina Blumenthal Performing Arts Center opened its doors in 1992, after an idea that came to life almost 20 years prior. The idea gained a lot of momentum in the 1980’s after $62 million dollars was donated to begin construction – $30 million from local foundations and corporations, and the rest from North Carolina citizens and a state grant. The final piece to the puzzle came in 1987 when the Belk brothers donated the valuable piece of land that would become the home of the majestic theatre complex.
The Blumenthal Performing Arts Company has 6 theatres under its umbrella, 3 of those are located together at the Performing Arts Center – including the Belk Theatre, Booth Playhouse, and Stage Door Theatre. The Belk Theatre seats just over 2,000 people and features state-of-the-art production equipment and world-class acoustics, giving it the ability to host everything from a grand opera to a rock concert. Second in size, but not by beauty, sits the Booth Playhouse. This courtyard-style theater includes a stunning proscenium arch, and 434 seats in orchestra and gallery levels. This intimate location is ideal for dance and musical ensembles, as well as meetings and seminars alike. The third and final part that makes up this elegant trio is the Stage Door Theatre, seating up to 172 in a flexible configuration. The small intimate setting allows you to feel like you’re up close and personal with the stars, putting this theatre on the map as a new entertainment hot spot! Whether you’re looking to get dressed to the nines for a night at the opera, or looking for a causal night listening to poetry, the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center has it all!
Aside from the magic that unfolds on stage, the Blumenthal Performing Arts Company is also well known for their outreach and positive impact in the community. They have several programs that help integrate the performing arts into local schools, sponsor events such as ‘open mic night’ in hopes of helping local artists follow their dreams, and even have special clubs for veterans, teachers, etc. Click here for a list of all of their community enrichment programs and to find out ways to become involved.
The Bluementhal Performing Arts Center Box Office
(Located at the Belk Theatre)
130 N. Tryon Street
Charlotte, NC
For a list of upcoming events, please visit their website or call the Box Office at 704.372.1000.
