The Durham Performing Arts Center, also known as DPAC, is a major performing arts venue located in downtown Durham, North Carolina. DPAC is home to Broadway touring productions, comedy shows, concerts, family events and more. One of the most commonly asked questions about DPAC is how many seats are in the venue’s main theater.
The Main Theater at DPAC
DPAC’s main theater is a grand, elegant performance space that can seat up to 2,700 people. The seating capacity includes:
- 1,753 seats in the orchestra level
- 466 seats in the mezzanine level
- 481 seats in the balcony level
In total, the DPAC main theater has space for 2,700 audience members to take in a show. This makes it one of the largest theaters in the Triangle area and an ideal venue for major Broadway productions, concerts, comedy acts and other live events that draw big crowds.
Orchestra Level Seating
The orchestra level is the main floor of seating at DPAC. With 1,753 seats, this section makes up the majority of the venue’s seating capacity. The orchestra level has 20 rows of seating, labeled A through T. This section puts audience members closest to the stage for an intimate, upfront view of the performances.
Key features of the DPAC orchestra section include:
- Rows A-E are the premium orchestra seats, providing the closest views
- The orchestra pit separates rows A-C from the stage
- Rows F-T extend back through the center orchestra section
- Side orchestra sections flank the center orchestra area
Orchestra level seats are typically the highest demand and most expensive tickets at DPAC. But the large seating capacity in this main floor section means there are over 1,750 seats available with views from the front and center of the theater.
Mezzanine Level Seating
Above the orchestra level at DPAC is the mezzanine section, which contains 466 seats. The mezzanine level has 10 rows labeled A through J. This level is elevated above the main floor orchestra section but still quite close to the stage. The mezzanine provides the following seating options:
- Rows A-B are premium mezzanine and nearest the stage
- Rows C-J extend throughout the center mezzanine section
- Side mezzanine sections flank the center area
The mezzanine level provides the elevation to see over the patrons in front of you. Centrally located mezzanine seats have excellent sightlines for a close view from a bit higher up. The mezzanine puts guests in the middle of the theater experience with two levels of seating above and below.
Balcony Level Seating
The third and highest seating level at DPAC is the balcony. The balcony has 20 rows labeled A through T. With 481 seats, this upper level is the smallest seating section but still provides many great views. Key features of the balcony level include:
- Rows A-F are premium balcony seats closest to the stage
- Rows G-T extend back through the center balcony section
- Side balcony sections on either side of the center
Although it’s the furthest from the stage, the balcony provides elevated sightlines to see over those below. The tiered seating plan ensures most seats have a full view. For fans of theater architecture, the balcony also displays the gorgeous decorative details and lighting fixtures inside DPAC.
ADA Accessible Seating
DPAC aims to provide theater access for all patrons, including accessible seating options for people with disabilities. These ADA seats are available on all three seating levels in various locations throughout the venue. Features include:
- Wheelchair spaces with adjacent companion seats
- Removable aisle-side armrests
- Areas with no steps for easy access
Accessible seating requests can be made when purchasing tickets to ensure suitable accommodations. Service animals are also permitted within the theater.
Suite Rentals
In addition to the orchestra, mezzanine and balcony sections, DPAC also has 18 private suites that can be rented out. These luxury suites accommodate 6-12 guests in an exclusive space. Key suite features include:
- Prime views of the stage
- Upscale furnished lounge areas
- Private restrooms
- Food and beverage service
- Personal suite attendant
The suites offer corporate event space or a special night out in comfortable, upscale surroundings inside the theater. Rental fees apply to use of the luxury suites, which deliver a one-of-a-kind DPAC experience.
Total Seating Capacity
In summary, here is the total seating capacity breakdown for the main theater at the Durham Performing Arts Center:
Seating Section | # of Seats |
---|---|
Orchestra Level | 1,753 |
Mezzanine Level | 466 |
Balcony Level | 481 |
Total Seats | 2,700 |
With nearly 3,000 available seats, DPAC has the capacity, amenities and accessibility to serve large audiences in downtown Durham. The multi-tiered layout provides excellent views of the stage from all levels and sections. Understanding the detailed seat count within the orchestra, mezzanine and balcony levels helps theatergoers determine the ideal spot to watch a show from this premier performing arts center.
Conclusion
DPAC is a magnificent theater with a seating capacity of 2,700 in its main venue. The orchestra level alone contains over 1,750 seats, plus the mezzanine and balcony levels provide additional seating tiers flanking the center orchestra section. DPAC offers accessible and luxury suite seating options as well. The expansive size and seating range give the Durham Performing Arts Center the ability to host major touring productions, concerts, comedy acts and other events that draw substantial crowds. With three levels of seating plus private suites surrounding the stage, DPAC continues to impress audiences and performers alike.