South Carolina’s performing arts scene is deep and rich, from centuries-old theater spaces welcoming traveling performers to famed local productions such as The Carolina Opry. Experience the magic of the theater in these beautifully preserved historic buildings.
Abbeville Opera House
Established in 1904, this historic opera house in Abbeville has showcased a variety of Broadway touring shows and local performers. This turn-of-the-century jewel is open to the public for tours Monday–Friday.
Dock Street Theatre
Signature wrought iron balconies and haunted lore make this Charleston theater a popular historic landmark, which has undergone numerous renovations and rebuilds since its original opening in 1736. Get tickets to a performance by Charleston Stage Company, the resident theater troupe.
Newberry Opera House
Renowned vocalists, magicians, mind readers and touring Broadway musical casts have performed in Newberry at this French Gothic-style opera house, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Lowry Family Theater at McCelvey Center
Once home to the Yorkville Female Academy—founded in 1852—York’s McCelvey Center includes this historic 1920s-style theater that hosts an array of musical events, most notably the annual Southern Sound Series.
Town Theatre
In Columbia, check out the longest continuously operating community theater in the country. A National Historic Landmark, this lovely two-story brick structure has played host to many beloved productions such as Mary Poppins.
Sumter Opera House
Anchored in downtown Sumter, this towering brick wonder features a clock tower and serves as an architectural landmark. The gorgeous interior space and solid acoustics make it a memorable venue to catch a show.
Scenery & Songs
Scenic beauty and fresh air provide the ideal backdrop for a one-of-a kind concert series. Music on the Mountain at Table Rock State Park in Pickens features monthly bluegrass jam sessions. Adding to the feel-good vibe is an open invitation for local musicians to play along with their banjos, fiddles, guitars and mandolins. Rent a cozy cabin or camp out and make it a getaway.
In Travelers Rest, June signals the promise of free outdoor concerts. Bring a blanket and settle in at Music in the Park. The sounds of everything from country to blues to retro ‘80s emanate from Trailblazer Park, home to panoramic vistas of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
The Sandhills Bank Amphitheater in North Myrtle Beach brings live music and fun for the whole family during its Sounds of Summer Concert Series. Watch talented local bands under a starlit sky on Friday nights. Enjoy a 50-plus-year tradition at the Thursday night Music by the Lake on the Furman University campus in Greenville.
Featuring a variety of great stories and exciting trip ideas, the 2021 South Carolina Vacation Guide makes planning your next getaway to the Palmetto State easy. Request your free copy or download the guide today.
