8 Best Performing Arts Venues in Charleston, South Carolina

Toasting emerging designers and models with runway shows, competitions, and exhibitions, the main events at this five-night festival in March are held beneath tents in Marion Square. Smaller shows are hosted by downtown boutiques. The festival has helped several designers launch their fashion careers. But perhaps even more impressive than the festival are the tony after-parties.

This city-owned grand performance hall hosts symphony, theater, and ballet companies, as well as concerts by renowned musicians and numerous events during Spoleto Festival USA.

In a charming theater built in a former cotton warehouse tucked into the French Quarter, this troupe—in continuous operation since 1931—produces original plays, musicals, and other events throughout the year.

Touring Broadway productions and big-name bands frequent the 2,300-seat North Charleston Performing Art Center. In recent years, performers such as Bon Iver, Tony Bennett, and Willie Nelson have taken the stage. It's worth paying extra for seats in the front half of the venue.

In a space on Cannon Street, this local troupe produces timely comedies and thoughtful classics throughout the year, as well as special holiday performances.

This grand art deco–style multiplex is Charleston's most modern cinema, with comfortable stadium-style seats and the usual popcorn and treats.

Performances by the College of Charleston's theater department and chamber and classical musical recitals are presented at this theater inside the Halsey Institute during the school year.

One of Charleston's biggest annual events, this celebration of the region's flora and fauna takes place in mid-February, offering fine art by renowned wildlife artists, bird of prey demonstrations, dog competitions, an oyster roast, and a gala. Spread across three days, the expo generally attracts more than 500 artists and 40,000 participants to various venues around the city.