Durham Performing Arts Center

123 Vivian Street, Durham, NC 27701, USA

Address:	123 Vivian Street, Durham, NC 27701, USA
Phone:	+1 919-680-2787
Site:	dpacnc.com
Rating:	4.7

Location

Photos 100

Reviews 6

Rick Nipper

I recently attended a performance at the DPAC. I had never been to this facility before. The DPAC website is extremely helpful with their directions and with suggestions for parking. I have to confess that I was fortunate to have an Orchestra seat, but it appears that visually all the seats are probably good. The acoustics were great. I was concerned ahead of time that sitting on the 5th row back I would have to strain my neck back to see the stage, but this was not the case at all. The facility was very well planned. There are cup holders on the backs of the seats. There were plenty of staff to check tickets so it didnt take long to get in the building even though it was an almost sold out performance. There were also plenty of staff to help direct you to your seats. I had an opportunity to look at upcoming events. There will be some outstanding performances of all types in the future months. The venue is obviously having great success at getting top talent. I would recommend checking often for future events. The only issue I had (and the only reason I didnt give 5 stars) was with the parking deck next to the DPAC. It took so long to get out of the parking deck after the performance was over. There were plenty of security and people directing traffic out on the street, but if you were on the upper levels of the garage, it took a very long time to even move much less get out of the garage. I would advise not parking in this garage though it is very convenient.

Cecilia Condori

Went to this venue and was able to get seats on the 3rd floor. Bad idea to pay that much. The acoustics are terrible and I am not bragging but have been to other venues in the US as well as abroad like Sydney or Lima, we left after the intermission because we found that the play was not funny and was politically charged but the worse part was not being able to hear well the dialog. Maybe it was funny but the laughter from the people below us would muffle the next sentence and had to guess what came before the next punchline. Willing to give this place a second chance because maybe someone forgot to turn on the speakers up there. One thing for sure will have to pay premium to be closer to the stage. Whoever is in charge never had to seat up there DURING a performance with dozens of people around. The laughter came mostly from below so it wasnt us only and that alone makes me think it wasnt us but a poorly design venue. The place needs an upgraded sound system with all the extra money they get. No a bad seats in the house? previous posters dont have an idea how bad it can get up there, no wonder why only half or less of the seats were occupied while everything else was at capacity, dont waste your money, go to a movie and save some for the next orchestra level for a better experience. Durham is not the most visitor friendly city to drive and find a place to park but that is a different post.

Robert Campbell

So, they built this brand new facility.... But, parking is a problem -- I would suggest you park at the Corcoran parking deck, across the railroad tracks -- it was free when we went to see Lewis Black (12/3/2008). But, dont expect any sort of path or sidewalk between parking and DPAC. Inside, the facility is nice, but it just doesnt seem laid out or even thought out well -- getting in was so-so, long lines at concessions, just doesnt seem to move quickly. The mixed-drinks bar was off to the side (OK, fine) but they ran out of Sam Adams beer -- huh? The server person didnt know much about mixed drinks (OK, fine). So, clearly, some of the finishing touches arent there. Inside, sitting down, this is where I was a bit disappointed -- I literally felt like I was sitting on a plane -- the seat was comfy, but no room of any kind to speak of -- my knees were all of 1" from the seatback in front of me (Im 6 2"). And, could someone please tell the fine people attending shows that FLASH photography is prohibited!? Getting out, every single person in the place is funneled down the same two flights of stairs, making exiting very slow and tedious. Again, getting back to the Corcoran parking garage was a bit like just every man for himself. Overall, for a new facility, I expected it to be much better than it was -- but still I have tickets to see Robin Williams next year.

Beverly Iredale

We have had season tickets since the opening of DPAC and it has added a special quality to our wonderful life here in Durham. We simply love the theatre and havent seen a bad show yet. Weve attended other concerts/shows that were not part of the season ticket packages -- and they have all been wonderful as well. Weve been to many theatres in NYC on Broadway -- but DPAC outshines them all in terms of the quality of the facility, the wonderful staff and the comfort of the seats. And of course the selection of shows/events is simply stellar! Weve had seats in many different places and have truly not had a bad seat. This year we purchased a season ticket for my mother who lives in W-S. She doesnt know yet -- but when we tell her she will be so excited! She has been to DPAC before, and since my Fathers passing this past May, she will be excited to have so many special nights out on the town with us. SO VERY GLAD THAT THE PERFORMING ARTS CENTER CHOSE TO COME TO DURHAM !!!

Ron Wen

If you enjoy the theatre and live performances, you can not beat the DPAC! A modern and glass filled design shows off a lot of natural light in the day time and a glow at night. Inside DPAC is full of red carpets and luxurious without being overdone. Seating is comfortable and there are no bad seats. What really makes a night at the DPAC special is the great customer service at all levels. Door men, ushers, concessions, bar, everyone there is very well trained and ready to help you enjoy your evening. The bathroom lines can get long but move quickly as well as the lines for food and drink. And of course this all wouldnt work without a great show lineup and DPAC gets the best Broadway theater along with excellent music and comedy acts. Its rare to find a night when there isnt a cool performance playing here. So thank you DPAC for all the great evenings and memories. Ill be back soon...

Melissa Cook

My family, friends, and I have had so many amazing experiences with DPAC. Ive attended 2 shows and have my 3rd set of tickets purchased. Whether its assistance in parking, seating, or with ticket purchases, their staff never cease to amaze me. Recently I was sent upgraded tickets to the show Im planning to attend, due to the section my tickets were in being closed. There was a problem with my seating, so I emailed them. By the next morning I had received emails from 2 staff members (Charlotte and Jessica) offering assistance and a had a missed call and voicemail on my cell from yet another person (Kenneth) offering assistance. I want to thank them not only for prompt replies, but thorough and courteous help. My issue was resolved quickly, professionally, and kindly. I look forward to my next show. Thanks!