What a true Durham Gem. In the heart of downtown Durham since 1926, the Carolina Theatre has become one of its city’s most beloved institutions. After opening as the Durham Auditorium, the venue was renovated three years later and renamed the Carolina Theatre, a movie theater that also presented stage shows and concerts. Great parking as well

Carolina Theatre is my single favorite place in Durham. Over the years Ive been to dozens of events here, and Ive never been left wanting or dissatisfied. From huge comedy acts like Dave Chappelle to indie film screenings like there yearly Nevermore Film Festival, Carolina Theatre has something for everyone if youre looking for a night out.The classy atmosphere and relaxed staff blend together to make you feel at a slightly nicer version of home. It is quite simply the best place to see a show in town. There isnt a bad seat in the venue. If you go to an event here and the refreshment line is long, go up the stairs on the far left, and theres a secondrefreshment stand not many people know about!Im headed there tonight to see the Jay and Silent Bob reunion tour. In 2 weeks Ill be there for their yearly indie horror film festival (Nevermore). They also have a retro film series where you can see all your favorite old films on the big screen in an old school theatre atmosphere.Just go. Youll have a great time!

Very nice place for a concert after work on a Monday. I must say that I was not familiar at all with the Jon Doe band (opening act) and Im sure most other people werent either. The seats were pretty close to the stage in the Orchestra. Note that the even numbered seats are on the right side as you face the stage and odd seats are on the left. It was a bit confusing as we initially thought our seats 8 &10 werent together. It was after 9 (on a Monday night by the way) that the main performer took the stage...Lelah James. although it was kind of late, the show was awesome and Lelah came with energy, excitement and movement. Near the end she asked lots of people to come on stage and dance. Some people were turned away because they couldnt get to the stage quick enough. Very nice show!

The Carolina Theatre of Durham is the crown jewel of North Carolina theatres. No other theatre shows the amazing films they do. Staff is incredible too. Well worth supporting.

Was in a stage play here the last weekend in January. Beautiful facility with plenty of dressing rooms and it has a movie theater upstairs. It is also connected to the Durham Marriott. I DEFINITELY recommend this building if you have a play to produce.

My family and I came to see the Moscow Nutcracker here and we sat in the balcony. I can honestly say there is not a bad seat in the house. The ambiance is a little vintage and slightly upper class. You want to dress nice to see your shows. They serve wine and all in all it was a great, slightly more sophisticated outing for the family. Parking is ample across the street for 5 bucks. BUT they only take cash. You can park down the street slightly in a parking lot, but not the McDonalds which has towing signs. Street parking is not easily found either.

Saw Travis Tritt at Carolina Theater and would definitely go there again. Parking was convenient and we were immediately greeted by every staff member we saw.... almost like they were expecting us! We sat in Orchestra and had no problem seeing the stage. Our exit from the theater was quick and in no time we were out of the parking deck and on our way thanks to traffic direction provided by the theater. Charming theater and a great overall experience!

Love the films they bring in.. and the film festivals throughout yearEvery Friday night a double feature is awesomeness

It was a very rewarding experience!!

This is a really cool historic venue. We saw The Second City comedy show and it was hilarious. The venue has good concessions and youre allowed to take them in the theatre, which is great. I just wish they could add some cup holders because theres nowhere to put your drink and shows involve clapping, which you need both hands for.

Excellent, helpful staff and a lovely atmosphere. Multiple concession stands mean minimal waiting times for snacks, and they have a good beer selection as well! We went with a friend in a wheelchair and they had no problems accommodating our needs.

Good place to watch on stage performances. concession stand in full effect!#85SouthShow

Nice restored theatre in downtown area. Performance hall and two movie theatres. Have enjoyed many great concerts here. If you are on the main floor level avoid the very back - being under the overhang of the balcony can affect sound quality.

Nice place to see a show. Convenient parking garage across the street and very friendly and helpful staff. Concessions on all floors. Handicap accessible and clean rest rooms. 5 stars guys well done!

Great atmosphere and love the older movies on the big screen! Will definitely go again.

Well maintained old theater. Not crowded inside. Refreshment stands/bars on lower and upper floors. Everyone was nice and helpful. Love this venue!

This is a beautiful theater for all kinds of events.The size is perfect and every seat had a great view of the stage.We saw a spoken word performance here by Henry Rollins and it was an amazing night. Whats even better is there is a parking garage just across the road.

Experience was great! The wait to get inside was short, the staff were friendly and helpful as well. The concession prices are decent. Lines for the bathrooms were short. The venue and the bathrooms were clean. Parking garage is right across the street!

Great place to see a comedian or music show. Best parking is in the deck directly to the north across Morgan St. Balcony seating is pretty good if you want to save some money on tickets. Save money on fees by getting tickets directly from the box office at the theater. Venue is much smaller than the DPAC. Plenty of good restaurants within a few blocks too.

Great place went there for Kip Moore Concert. Historical look, liked venue would go again tomorrow especially if I had free tickets to concert

Great venue. Awesome staff.

Carolina Theatre is an absolute gem. An intimate place to watch a live show and a comfortable experience for seeing a movie. We are here all the time. Take advantage of limited release films and documentaries as well as throw-back events to see your old favorites on the big screen. Local beer on tap and real butter on your popcorn is something not typically offered at other locations around here. Stick around after the film to enjoy Downtown Durham!

This was a great experience in Durham! I went to see Dave Chapelle, the wait outside was a bit long, inside, the theater is reminiscent of “the good old days” the prices for concessions are VERY REASONABLE. The staff was great and the area was very nice. I will hope to see another show here.

Beautiful vintage venue. VERY convenient that parking is right across the street because I usually dread finding spots in Durham downtown. Acoustics were great, lighting was great, staff was very kind and engaging. My only complaint was that I had a handrail in my field of view from my regular seat (Balcony 2, front row) but I moved up a row at intermission with no problem.

Ive been here there times and all three were great. It has wonderful old fashion ambiance but modern amenities.

This downtown Durham staple is a must-visit. The retro movies series is a great Friday night activity for a date or the family. The popcorn has real butter I think.

Beautiful theatre. The show felt semi-intimate however the seats were so small and close together I felt like had I been wearing a large coat I may not have fit! With that said I certainly will return

Great old theater. Love the facility and atmosphere. I did feel for a minute that the ghost of Booth was lurking behind me but the he too settled down and enjoyed the show. One tip, if you are seated in the balcony levels, take the elevators. The stairs were convenient but not well signed so it felt a little like a labyrinthin. Also, the ushers seemed a little unsure of how seating was layed out so that led to a bit of confusion. Overall great experience though, so no worries.

This theatre in Durham is beautiful, and so are the people who work here! Had a wonderful time. If another band we like is playing here, we will definitely come back. Very worth the drive from Charlotte.

I attended and India Arie concert here and thoroughly enjoyed it. Parking was free and easily accessible right across the street from the theater, and traffic was well controlled. We were in and out without any headaches. And the show was awesome. India Arie is a queen!We had to find food outside of the theater, so the only thing I would suggest is having at the very least hot dogs and pizza available in the theater concessions (popcorn and candy, etc. wasnt quite enough). We ended up going next door to the Marriott hotels restaurant, and that food was very very good! We felt a bit rushed since we didnt plan to step away to eat. The information that came from the theater prior to the concert did mention restaurants choices in the area around theater, but we didnt plan ahead. All worked out though, and we had a great night.

The Carolina theater was an amazing place for me and my mother the experience was phenomenal and Tanya Tucker was legendary

I attended the 85 south boys comedy show. The employees there were very friendly and very attentive. The theater was very beautiful in a retro type of way. It was a sold-out show so every seat was taken. Even though its an older building Im a very tall woman and very curvy and honestly even though we were shoulder-to-shoulder I was comfortable. I really enjoyed my visit and the show was amazing.

The Carolina Theatre is a grand ole theatre and I highly recommend. We had the pleasure of seeing Jeannie Robertson and she was WONDERFUL! We had second balcony seats dead center. I love going to events here, everything seem more up close and personal.

Kevin Smith was a 5 star man! Great show great crowd awesome movie! Go check out the Jay and Silent Bob Reboot!!!

I love the movie selection, especially the Moviediva on Wednesdays. The seats are comfortable and the staff friendly. I cant wait to visit the theater too.

Was a great show. I hope someone recorded it. RAUNCHY. HILARIOUS. They sold me a seat that turned out to be a folding chair which was uncomfortable. The snacks I had were stale. Carolina Theater replied that if they had known that I was uncomfortable they would have refunded my money. Would they also refund me the time effort and wardrobe and travel I put in to upholding my part as a patron expecting a real seat and fresh food? Once a person has committed so fully to the evening there is little else to do but grin and bear it or all that effort time and money is wasted. As I said, the show was great. The accommodations were not. Carolina Theatre should either cease the practice of selling seats that do not exist or place some sort of notice or disclaimer that the seat you purchase may actually be a folding chair, trash can or whatever else they can find for you to sit on. If they really wanted so badly to make this right, instead of responding to my review as if I were in the wrong for making a FACTUAL observation about the circumstances then they should do what any other similarly situated business would do and refund my money. I really feel as though this was a bait and switch operation and honestly theyre lucky I didnt file a BBB complaint. Never make your customer out to be wrong. Number one rule in a customer service business. And thus I reduce my previous review from four stars to one star.

Excellent customer service, comfortable seating and most importantly the GREATEST popcorn ever! Vegan option available or real butter with organic popcorn.A classic Durham spot to enjoy movies, concerts and more. You will not be disappointed in this gem!

Amazing customer service, clean theater area with a variety of shows.

Show was great. Theater is old with uncomfortable seats. I sat in the balcony and it was very warm. Employees were very friendly.

Great concert tonight by the Fab Four!

An amazing space with very pleasant staff. They host concerts, film festivals, current and classic release films and much more. Recommended.

Fantastic time, wish there were more bathrooms and a second bar, but not a bad seat in the house, great sound.

Weve attended many events at the Carolina Theater over the years from the Nevermore Film Festival, to our daughters annual recital from Dance Theatre South, and most recently an intimate evening with Travis Tritt in Fletcher Hall. The decorum of this almost century-old theater is always top notch, the staff is always very friendly, and honestly the acoustics are phenomenal, so that theres not a bad seat in the house.

Traveled here to see Arron Lewis. Great venue and next to the hotel!

This is a great little theater from yesteryears, but updated for modern times. Great venue for shows and movies. Classic in a great way. The retro cinema series is a great offering as well.

Love their retro night. Great performances too. Beautiful architecture.

What a gorgeous theatre. Amazing sound, friendly staff, decent restrooms, great bar and snack selections. My only complaint is that it seems to be in disrepair which breaks my heart because its such a beautiful place. Id like to see the ceilings and walls repaired and better fire safety in place. Maybe a donation box or the option to chip in to help restore it would be nice when buying a ticket.

GREAT atmosphere, beautiful venue. BUT..... you can’t enjoy the show because of the few, select uncaring individuals that have to stand up. It ruins the show. You can’t see anything. Start selling tickets for those who have to stand, at the back, anyone standing at the front should get two warnings and escorted out. Got to be that way. It’s always a select few but Carolina Theatre is absolutely beautiful!

Great venue with wonderful staff! Went to a concert and the house mix was spot on, not a bad seat in the whole Theatre. Looking forward to more shows there.

The theater works well for smaller, more intimate shows. Clearly it was originally meant for theater plays, but worked for a movie screening for a couple hundred attendees.

Best entertainment venue in the area with an eclectic selection of artists to satisfy every taste. Recently had the pleasure of seeing Jake Shimabukuro (sp?) there and, as usual, he knocked it out of the park with a nice assist from the folks who run the theatre.

This place is super neat. Very cool staff, and the movie selection during Halloween season is amazing and diverse. Serves beer in the concessions, its super clean, and we just love it!

My granddaughter and I went to see The Russian Ballets performance of the Nutcracker. It was our first time ever going there. The staff was pleasant as well as helpful. The building is a multi -purpose place there was a movie theater and dining area. The theater had comfortable seating and great views. It was a quaint venue and the other guests were quite friendly.

Went there for the India.Arie concert. Temperature was good, sound was great and great view from our balcony seats. Would definitely return for another concert.

Love this place! Retro Film Series is a great value and a great way to spend an evening. Also, CT has nice selection of beer and wine.

Amazing! I went to see a movie and the building is beautiful. The lighting and clarity of the movie was the best Ive ever seen. Very nice people working there as well. Im definitely going to be a regular. Thank you for existing!

This place is a touring venue so its as good as the acts they get. We loved seeing Ladysmith black mambazo there, and we were excited that they got John Cleese in the house!

Great venue. It is an older building, so the floors are a bit uneven! I would happily go back for future concerts!

Great old theater . Lines at the boxoffice and concession stand move very fast ! Very happy with my experiences !

Great acts with great prices. Large enough theatre, but still small enough for great personal entertainment experiences.

Great place! Not for the audience tgat is looking for the latest trends. This is an old school place! Great atmosphere!

The theater is beautiful and the staff are so friendly. They have great food and drink options as well.

Beautiful location, great events, highly recommended to individuals to attend. The staff is amazing and so very respectful.

What a great venue. The staff was efficient and professional and the theater itself is beautiful without a bad seat in the house. The concession staff did seem a little overwhelmed but it was a crazy night so Ill give them a break.

The seats are so comfy, and you cant beat five dollar Tuesdays! Wish I had the time to go to this theater every week! I like the fact that you can tip the staff with any purchase at the food/drink stand if you would like. They deserve it every time I go!

Been there several times. Many great events and movie choices. Wonderful staff and concessions.

This theater has so much character...and the best popcorn! I love their Retro Film series and the chance to see older movies on the big screen. Splatterflix is my favorite weekend!

What an incredible experience! I saw Daniel D. and Eric Stanley! Simply priceless!!!

Amazing place to see a movie or a show. Support your local businesses, especially wonderful non-profits and artistic venues like this one.

Great seating space. Excellent sound

It is a nice environment but quite small

We saw Maria Bamford perform here last week and the show was great. A really cool, historic theater, but it could use a little love and restoration and something to get rid of the slightly musty smell. That said, our view was pretty good, even from the second balcony and we had a fun time.

Was there for a podcast with friends. Loved the ambiance there. The seating is a little close but I had an awesome time!

Went there for the NC Gay and Lesbian Film Festival. The theater spaces were clean and spacious. The concession people that I went to a couple of days located between cinemas one and two were really slow. I dont know if theyre always assigned to that one or rotate, but Id suggest going to one of the others for potentially faster service.

Beautiful, beautiful theater. Amazing place to see a film. Staff were all exceptionally nice.

Excellent venue all around. Unique visually, good acoustics to boot.

We had a wonderful time watching Second City last night. This theater is a gem for Durham!

This theater was amazing and gorgeous! We loved attending the concert we came to see.

Classic old theater with beautiful decor. We were present for a live music show, and the sound was excellent. Seats were comfortable even for a tall person.

Watched a series of short films from Sundance Film Festival here this past Sunday with my wonderful girlfriend. The theater was clean, beautiful, and the seats were comfortable. All of the staff were a delight. Cant wait to return for another unique showing!

Beautifully restored. Great theater showing independent movies. Also hosts fine music performances. Like to visit this theater when Im in Durham.

Lots of fun and laughter and positive motivation in our chosen profession. Nurse Blake is truly genuine and caring!

The Carolina Theatre continues to be a beacon of art, culture and hope. The Music Folks for Ocracoke show illustrates how strongly they believe in community, music and philanthropy. Support this wonderful venue!

Seating was good, kids couldnt stay captivated. Glad we came on special needs night. Thanks for the experience. At 8&10, they just arent old enough to appreciate it.

Historical building, creates an intimate setting. Carolina Theatre houses concerts, local symphony, dancing recitals, and much more. CT also has two movie theaters that host retro movies!

Great shows, great service, chairs could be more comfortable and building could use a touch up, sound system needs an upgrade

Love this theater. Two theaters with stadium seating and one historic theater beautifully restored and maintained.

This quirky local cinema art house is a restored Grand Dame where smaller music and comedy acts come through town. There are three smaller cinemas and the large hall where we have caught fabulous 5-start performances such as David Crosby and The PFX experience, as well as the exciting preview of the new Downton Abbey film for which many audience members dressed up in period outfits. They have new releases as well as their ever-reviving Retro film series. The Carolina is a gem that any city would be proud to possess.

Beautifully restored to its 1926 build date. Lots of History here, great live world-class performances and semi reasonable prices. Great staff and service.

Dave Chapelle was great, had front row seats and my only complaint is the the pit seats are to close together and very uncomfortable. For the price there should be better seats in the pit.

Saw a great show, even though I sat in the balcony still had a great view. Sound was a little loud though.

Carolina Theatre is beautifully designed. The seats on the main floor are very comfortable, but the seats on the upper level not so much. The venue offers snacks and beverages. The restrooms are clean and spacious. The volunteers and staff are very friendly. I always enjoy my trips there.

Good seats great sound Three Dog Night51 years young

The Carolina Theater is a great place for film festivals, visiting personalities, and retro movies. Its comfortable, the people are friendly, and the owners obviously have a love for film. It is one of the BEST parts of Durham. Classy AF! Check out Nevermore if you get the chance!

100 Men in Black concert was excellent. Looking forward to next year. Praise God!!

Nice place to see a show. The only downside is that the seats are old and the cushions can be pretty uncomfortable. Wouldnt keep me from seeing a sbow there and parking is conveniently located right across the street.

Marcus King Band was awesome! Carolina Theater is beautiful, roomy seats, and has great views.

A historic performance theatre and a great independent cinema that features retro double features and fantastic film festivals!

Amazing venue. Just seen Dave Chappelle and the whole crowd loved it

Watched a showing of Sundance shorts here and it was a great experience.