Things to do nearDock Street Theatre

Dock Street Theatre holds a singular place in American theatrical history. The original building on this site, opened in 1736, is widely regarded as the first structure in the colonies built expressly for theatrical performances. The current building dates to the 1800s, when the Planters Hotel rose on the same ground, and a meticulous 1930s restoration by the Works Progress Administration returned it to active life as a performing arts venue, preserving its wrought-iron balconies and rich interior woodwork.

Today the theater is home to Charleston Stage, the city's flagship professional company, which mounts a full season of drama, musicals, and special events each year. The intimate 463-seat house means there is not a bad seat in the room, and the acoustics reward both spoken-word performance and musical productions equally well. Guided tours of the building are available and offer a closer look at its architectural layers.

The theater sits in the heart of the French Quarter District, one of Charleston's most walkable and historically dense neighborhoods. Just steps away stands St. Philip's Church, its steeple a familiar landmark on the skyline. The surrounding streets are lined with antebellum townhouses, independent restaurants, and art galleries that make an evening at Dock Street Theatre the natural centerpiece of a longer night out in the city.