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Wortham Center for Performing Arts
What you need to know
Located in the heart of downtown Asheville’s Pack Square Cultural District, the Wortham Center for the Performing Arts is a renowned multi-venue facility dedicated to enriching, enlightening, educating, and entertaining through the performing arts. Originating in 1992 as the Diana Wortham Theatre, the center underwent a major expansion in 2019 that added two additional venues alongside its flagship 500-seat proscenium Diana Wortham Theatre: the Tina McGuire Theatre, a flexible black box venue seating 80-100, and the Henry LaBrun Studio, a multi-use space for classes and events. The larger facility hosts more than 200 public events annually, ranging from music, dance, and theater to comedy and educational series, attracting over 55,000 patrons each year. The Wortham Center is home to numerous local arts groups and also features the acclaimed Wortham Presents series, showcasing nationally acclaimed touring artists.
Local's Tip
For the best experience at the Wortham Center, plan to arrive early to enjoy downtown Asheville’s dining and nightlife before performances. Check the Dig Local App and diglocal.com for the current season schedule and special events, including the popular Wortham Presents series. If attending educational or community events, booking tickets in advance is recommended due to high demand. Exploring performances in all three venues offers a rich variety of artistic experiences that highlight Asheville’s creative spirit.
What the locals say
Asheville locals value the Wortham Center as a cornerstone of the city’s vibrant cultural landscape. Visitors appreciate its exceptional acoustics, diverse programming, and accessibility within the city center. Regular attendees highlight the venue’s warm, inviting atmosphere and its role in nurturing local talent through residencies and educational outreach. The inclusion of multiple performance spaces allows for varied experiences, from grand-scale productions in the Diana Wortham Theatre to intimate shows and workshops in the smaller venues. Patrons also praise the convenient parking and proximity to downtown dining and attractions, making it a favored destination for arts enthusiasts.
What you need to know
Located in the heart of downtown Asheville’s Pack Square Cultural District, the Wortham Center for the Performing Arts is a renowned multi-venue facility dedicated to enriching, enlightening, educating, and entertaining through the performing arts. Originating in 1992 as the Diana Wortham Theatre, the center underwent a major expansion in 2019 that added two additional venues alongside its flagship 500-seat proscenium Diana Wortham Theatre: the Tina McGuire Theatre, a flexible black box venue seating 80-100, and the Henry LaBrun Studio, a multi-use space for classes and events. The larger facility hosts more than 200 public events annually, ranging from music, dance, and theater to comedy and educational series, attracting over 55,000 patrons each year. The Wortham Center is home to numerous local arts groups and also features the acclaimed Wortham Presents series, showcasing nationally acclaimed touring artists.
What the locals say
Asheville locals value the Wortham Center as a cornerstone of the city’s vibrant cultural landscape. Visitors appreciate its exceptional acoustics, diverse programming, and accessibility within the city center. Regular attendees highlight the venue’s warm, inviting atmosphere and its role in nurturing local talent through residencies and educational outreach. The inclusion of multiple performance spaces allows for varied experiences, from grand-scale productions in the Diana Wortham Theatre to intimate shows and workshops in the smaller venues. Patrons also praise the convenient parking and proximity to downtown dining and attractions, making it a favored destination for arts enthusiasts.
Scoops for Wortham Center for Performing Arts