Published by Christina. Last Updated on August 1, 2024.
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DPAC (Durham Performing Arts Center) is nestled in the center of Durham’s American Tobacco District and trust me—this is a venue that cannot be missed. It’s one of the best indoor things you can do while in North Carolina‘s Bull City and it’s also recognized as one of the best in the US.
However, there’s more to it than just being a great place to visit and be entertained. Let us take you through nine reasons we think you should spend time at DPAC and its surroundings in Durham, even though you already know you should!
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DPAC in Durham: 9 Reasons Why It’s THE Place to Catch a Show in Bull City
Address: 123 Vivian Street, Durham, NC 27701
Official Website
Award-Winning Venue
With 2,700 brand-new stadium-style seats, DPAC is currently ranked as the fourth-best theater in the US. Shows at DPAC often fill up within hours of tickets being released, as Pollstar ranked them #2 in Attendance in the country.
Selling out 130 performances during the 2017/2018 season is an indication that the people of Durham love DPAC. But unlike other venues, you never get the feeling like you’re jam-packed. The views from every spot are wonderful, which have convinced us there’s really no such thing as a bad seat in DPAC.
The staff know what they’re doing, from the parking lots to the stage, and are able to get everyone to their seats and back home without a hassle!
Shows for Everyone
With over 200 performances a year, it’s hard to keep up with all the performers who’ve come through DPAC. This diverse cast of acts proves there truly is something for everyone, too.
If you’re into comedy, Jo Koy, Bill Maher, and Jerry Seinfeld are just a few of the names that come to mind. There isn’t a bad seat in the house to enjoy bands like The Decemberists, and singer-songwriters such as Joan Baez, and Lyle Lovett.
Then, there are the Broadway performances, such as The Book of Mormon, Cats, and the highly anticipated Hamilton, that will keep you humming and singing days later.
Don’t forget about their awesome Christmas shows, including A Christmas Carol, The Nutcracker, and more!
By the way, DPAC season tickets are currently on a waitlist (check here), but you can register and join the fun when they become available again!
Read More: Christmas in North Carolina (the Best Holiday Events)
DD Program
Did you know that DPAC participates in a Designated Driver Program? By signing up at the Guest Services window on the first floor’s entry lobby, those who pledge not to drink alcohol during the event can receive a complimentary fountain drink or bottled water.
It’s fast and easy to sign up for the program and is definitely a win in my book!
Great Parking
Parking at DPAC is a breeze! With two huge parking garages next to the facility, it’s so easy to park and get home without a hassle. In total, you have five garages to choose from, that are within walking distance.
We’ve left events at other venues early just to beat the crowd to get home to the babysitter, but not at DPAC. You breeze right through! We always park inside the American Tobacco East Deck off Mangum Street because it’s the most convenient for us.
What’s your favorite way to get into DPAC if you’ve been before?
Food All Around
Many of the best restaurants in Durham are close to DPAC. If you can get in, grab a pre-show meal at NanaSteak. Grab a custom cocktail there while dressed to the nine’s and make your evening extra special.
Tobacco Road Sports Cafe is another cool spot and it also overlooks Durham Bulls Athletic Park (DBAP), which is a bonus during game nights.
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Stay Next Door
Connected to DPAC, the exquisitely placed and designed Aloft Downtown Durham is the perfect jumping-off point before exploring Bull City and the rest of The Triangle.
There’s an outdoor pool, indoor gym, and more fun amenities to enjoy while staying there. Even if you’re not staying at Aloft when attending a show at DPAC, the on-site W XYZ Bar serves drinks and delicious small plates! It’s a great spot before and after the show.
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Keepin’ it Local
While DPAC does host a lot of huge Broadway and international entertainment performances, it is also a space used by locals for entertaining.
Sip+Savor and the Bull City Food and Beer Experience are just a couple of the special events that have raised nearly $40,000 for local Durham non-profit organizations. Triangle Rising Stars is a fun competition where 40 schools and 150 students participate to showcase their talents.
The Arts are Alive!
“Heart of the Arts,” a community outreach program, has been connecting shows and audiences since 2008. This program brings professional theater and Durham students together and gives them many opportunities to learn from the best.
It’s a great program that includes masterclasses, backstage tours, post-show discussions, and orchestra rehearsals.
If you’ve taken advantage of this opportunity or a similar one, what did you think of it? How do you think this type of thing impacts everyone involved?
Last Minute Tickets
Didn’t plan ahead for your favorite act, or are you looking for something to do with a night free? Don’t worry! DPAC holds a limited number of rush tickets for most Broadway performances.
For $20-30, you can still snag a seat without having to plan months in advance. I wouldn’t recommend always doing this, but hey, it’s always worth a shot to see if you can enjoy a night out at the last minute.
Ready for Your First (or Next) DPAC Show?
It’s obvious that we love DPAC and can’t wait for the next time that we get to visit this awesome venue. Have you ever been?
If not, is there anything as awesome as this place where you live? We’d love to know about it and might even go check it out someday!
