Dock Street Theatre

Charleston is home to a thriving arts scene, including the Dock Street Theatre, America's first permanent playhouse. America’s first theater – designed solely for theatrical performances. It was built in 1736, was remodeled several times, and now serves its original purpose. It is also one of the most photographed buildings in the city . Built on the corner of Church Street and Dock Street (now known as Queen Street), the Historic Dock Street Theatre was the first structure in America built exclusively to be used for theatrical performances. Flora, the first opera performance in America, took place at the Historic Dock Street Theatre. Now owned and managed by the City of Charleston, the Historic Dock Street Theatre (soon to enter its fourth century as the heart of Charleston's artistic life) is home to many of the City's finest cultural institutions.

Beautiful historic venue! Always welcomed by friendly volunteer greeters and ushers. The performances are exceptional with very talented entertainers and a selection of wonderful shows. It's a true Charleston experience!

The show was the best and the experience of being at this theatre was amazing! The employees are very nice, friendly and more important to me, their kindness was superb!! I would highly recommend everyone to please go to this theatre and you’re guaranteed to return!!

We just happened to pass by this as we were exploring Charleston for the first time. It doesn't cost anything and you can just do a free will donation. You're able to go around the entire building unless it's blocked off by a rope. You can walk into the second level of the theater and even the old bar. I definitely recommend just to stop on and in and check it out! The exterior is absolutely stunning and you feel like you're walking back in time when you see the theater.

Overall: A great theatre experience. We'll be back for sure! The good: First time at the theatre and we loved it (Murder on the Orient Express). The actors were great and the charm of the theatre really shows. We had an "obstructed" view in the balcony but there was only one corner of the stage we couldn't see, and it seemed like the production knew to utilize the center of the stage to minimize that issue. Production value itself exceeded our expectations, given the size of the theater. The size of the stage is a lot bigger than it looks, and the costuming/props were great (given the surely limited budget). Ushers and ticket checkers were friendly, and the bathrooms were clean. The not-so-good: The chairs in the balconies are not comfortable. I know that it's the oldest theatre in the US, but these chairs aren't from back then. After 2 hours, it starts to really bug you. That's about it though.

Current show, a Broadway revival of 39 Steps is a don’t miss. Hilarious, engaging and nothing short of awe inspiring in what these character actors seamlessly pull off in two hour roller coaster of a ride. Shout out to the director!

I will say the seats aren't the most comfortable, but other than that I love this little theater! The seats are a little small and hard. They retro fitted old benches with thin cushion style chairs. The acoustics are good. The theater itself is old, pretty. The foyer, box office area, and patio are all very inviting. My wife loves hanging out on the patio with a glass of wine.

Wonderful, historic theater with excellent educational programs for young actors. Updated Jan. 30, 2025: The 39 Steps is such a fun, hilarious show that we loved! It was so impressive (and part of the magic) to see so many characters played by so few actors in this play!

Dock Street Theatre is a nice facility, with a nice outside area. The outside area can be enjoyed during show intermissions. The issue I have with the theatre is that the seats are set up very tightly. For those who may have wide shoulders, the seats are very close and snug. It's not very comfortable.

This theater (spelled theater here) is quite an original, long used for this purpose from the 1700s and will be here for many years to come. The last renovation was spectacular, no more folding metal chairs or anything along those lines to take away from the look and the feel of this wonderful place. The stage is visible from all upstairs and downstairs seating. In the balcony which goes around in a U on the second floor, there is a pub-like bar (not open on our visit on a Thursday night) and a nice sitting room and a bathroom, so there is no need to go down to the first floor except to exit. On the first floor there is, additionally, the ticket office inside of what I would call a history room which years ago used to be where srt was displayed. Off of that room there is a quite large courtyard where you can enjoy talking with one another or having a drink. A most enjoyable place to watch a play, which have always been of the highest quality. We will return.

We have been here twice with students and had a great experience both times. The first time we sat on the floor, watching Charlotte's Web. The second time was in a balcony area for Percy Jackson. The staff always gets us seated quickly with a friendly smile. The theater is beautiful. Many of our students do not get to have experiences like this, and it is such a treat. We believe many of the actors were the same in both shows, and they did an excellent job! We are not sure about parking, as a bus always drops us off out front and then drives away. I would absolutely return again for another show. Highly recommend!

It's located in the French Quarter neighborhood of downtown Charleston. I did a self guided tour because I read online that it was one of the most haunted places in Charleston. I didn't experience anything while I was there but it is free if you want to roam around. They also have shows throughout the year, you can check on the website for what's coming and how much are the tickets. I highly recommend checking out the interior and having a seat. Even if you're not checking out a show, it's still very cool just admiring the old architecture. Just a note it is handicap accessible.

Fantastic production of Fiddler on the Roof!! All seats are good so don't need to splurge.

Went to see Fiddler on the Roof; WOW what a show!! The performers were stupendous as was the live orchestra. We sat in the balcony and could see everything perfectly. The lady that helped us over the phone, Cris, was an angel; so blessed to have dealt with her. We truly enjoyed the performance and recommend it highly.

Funny, quirky and sometimes factual presentation of the early exploits of JFK with the beautiful and seductive former Dutch beauty queen Inga Arvad Fejos. Presented by Charleston Stage Co. In this historic and intimate venue in the heart of the city. What an amazing night!

Good looking faculty, friendly ushers, concessions, and ticket staff. A grand old theater with a long Charleston history that you can read about in the box office.

Overall: A great theatre experience. We'll be back for sure! The good: First time at the theatre and we loved it (Murder on the Orient Express). The actors were great and the charm of the theatre really shows. We had an "obstructed" view in the balcony but there was only one corner of the stage we couldn't see, and it seemed like the production knew to utilize the center of the stage to minimize that issue. Production value itself exceeded our expectations, given the size of the theater. The size of the stage is a lot bigger than it looks, and the costuming/props were great (given the surely limited budget). Ushers and ticket checkers were friendly, and the bathrooms were clean. The not-so-good: The chairs in the balconies are not comfortable. I know that it's the oldest theatre in the US, but these chairs aren't from back then. After 2 hours, it starts to really bug you. That's about it though.

Parking especially handicapped is difficult, thankfully we were early. People from theatre were outside and helped us find a spot despite having to get ready for show. Many thanks to JESSIE in particular for telling us not once, but twice when we could not find a spot. Parking is NOT Dock Street Theatre's issue. It is in Downtown Charleston, South Carolina where there are one way cobblestone roads, some dating back to early 1700's. I guess horses did not require so much space to bring people,as cars do & even less room needed to "park" a horse. JESSIE even helped my mom park my car, explained with the handicap plates we could park more than the 1 hour limit the sign stated, again because there were not designated handicap spaces. They are all along curb. Again in 1700's handicap spaces were unknown. The theatre was wonderful and concerned about people's health. They require vaccination cards and masks worn whole time. NO exceptions The theatre was great. Outside courtyard to wait for seating & intermission to buy drinks & snacks. Cash ONLY for this. But quite pleasant and inexpensive. Oh, No alcohol on Sundays...it's the south. Theatre beautiful. People helpful and friendly but JESSIE still was greatest. We saw "Blythe Spirit" but there is an array of shows every season. Worth every penny! 5 Stars!

Oldest theatre in America in the French quarter of Charleston. Beautiful & historic it's like traveling back in time. The interior still holds up and is a great place to catch live performances.

Incredible experience a must go! The volunteers, the experience, the play we saw was epic. Highly recommend.

This theater is the oldest theater in America. In the heart of Charleston's French quarter it was refurbished in 2010 Built in 1736, it also was the site of the planters hotel in the 1800s. The WPA project in the 1930s restored it as a theater

Nice old theatre on Church street. The seats could be more comfortable but the place is splendid. I was surprised that no refreshments were available. The ushers were friendly, polite and professional. I look forward to my next visit. All the seat locations were close and intimate.

A truly beautiful venue. In fact, its claim to fame is "America's First Theater" and it recently was named the most beautiful building in South Carolina. This venue brings modern theater and traditional historic architecture into one. With balcony seating and a large orchestra section, the views all around the stage are beautiful. The traditional underground pit is a beautiful setting for the band and incredible acoustics. The staff is always friendly and knowledgeable during each and every performance. With an outdoor bar and rest area, restrooms upstairs and downstairs, an upstairs resting area and spacious lobby, there is ample room to move around in between sets as well as pre and post event. Year after year, the theater company offers a mix of modern and classic live theatre to meet all types in the Charleston area. The colors, architectural design and location make it a prime building for visitation for tourists.

I remember visiting Charleston years ago when the Dock St Theatre was under construction / renovation, and I couldn't wait to see what it would look like when it was restored back to its prime. I've been in it several times since then, and am always amazed at how beautiful and authentic the theatre looks. In an age of cinemas, reclining chairs, and overpriced popcorn, it's great to see a theatre that holds to its roots and remains authentic as the city of Charleston should be. The volunteers / staff are always friendly and welcome you in for a tour, whether you're a local or a visitor. I recommend taking time to explore every room of the building and just enjoy your time in the building to absorb the history that is on display. Also go out into the back courtyard to experience the feeling of that as well. You won't be disappointed.

This will be the highlight of any visit to Charleston. Incredible local company practicing their art at the oldest working theater in the US. Beautifully restored. We have enjoyed many wonderful plays at this historic venue. Light refreshments are available before curtain call and during intermission. Upstairs there is an historic bar that is open only on certain nights that illustrstes where the term "bar" actually comes from. After the play, walk to Kaminsky's three blocks away on market and enjoy a fantastic desert. A Charleston tradition.

America's First Theatre. It is amazing. It feels like you have stepped back in time when you enter this venue. The stage is kind of small, but the troupes manage very well in making their productions appropriate. I have never felt like anything was missing from a show or that any corners were cut in the presentation. It has been recently renovated and I really like some of the subtle enhancements. First of all, you must stop to take in the view of the theatre from the outside before even stepping foot inside. Situated on Church Street, towards Broad, it is right in the heart of a pretty residential area. There are a few art galleries and restaurants very close by, but it just feels old and home-y in this part of town. Not a care in the world. Strolling down the street and all of a sudden out of nowhere sits this historic site. It is a welcome sight and I never get tired of it. This particular night, we were here to see "A Christmas Story!". A friend was performing and I never pass up a chance at a good show, especially in this location. I recently took my mother and grandmother here to see "The Producers". As a teen, I used to usher here. We would volunteer time to pass out the brochures and help with seat assignments, all while hoping to sneak a chance to see a good show from a folding chair in the very back. Oh, fond memories. The theatre was decorated for Christmas with a lit tree, wreaths, candles, etc. It was of course done very tastefully. The banisters were draped with garland, reindeer adorned the upstairs fireplace, and a large Christmas tree in the entrance way greeted us upon arrival. A few notes to patrons: Will Call is in the room to the left when you enter. There are restrooms on both levels, and they are both on the right side of the building as you face it. There is a cash bar upstairs above the Will Call area. You must finish your drinks before going back into the theatre however so hurry during intermissions, or just arrive a little early to pre-game. Parking is on the street, but there are garages within a few blocks radius as well. You could even catch a pedi-cab to transport you in style.

Beautiful theater, great show. Came here to see Dracula and was not disappointed. They even have a bar/refreshment stand in the side foyer. I'm not sure if I've ever been in a theater this nice. Yeah actors were obviously well versed and very talented, and I'm glad that I had a chance to see your show in this theater while I was in Charleston. I would come to this theater again to see any show. It is also in a great location.

I really like the Dock Street Theatre on Church Street in Charleston as a performance venue. You can feel the history and all of the centuries of performances in the building as you are inside. The building itself and architecture are very beautiful and well preserved with so many cool things to see throughout the inside like the paintings and antiques. The venue is not too large and every seat there is a good one as you can see pretty good even from the balcony. I also like all of the different rooms and courtyard of the Dock Street Theatre as there is plenty of room to move around before, during intermission, and after a performance to gather. I also really like that the building is open for free tours for all when there is not a performance. It is a good place to show people around.

Great night watching "Forevermore" About Edgar Allan Poe life. Not a bad seat in the house

My first visit to the dock street theatre! It's small and intimate, but still has the ability to put on a big show. It's the first theatre in the country, however with that comes some blandness. There is not much charm or character involved in this theater compared to some other theaters I've been to in other cities. No chandeliers or much decor. The size though lends to it being a place where every seat is a good seat! It's nice and cool inside, and has a beautiful terrace just outside the back doors for pre arrivals, or intermission drinks and snacks. The stage is elevated, and the seats appear to be all at the same level, so it makes it somewhat easy for folks behind tall people to still see. I'll definitely be going back for future shows. A very nice venue to watch some good theater!

Saw the final performance of Pericles by the Globe. Amazing performance. Fastest two and a half hours of Shakespeare I have ever encountered.

Wow! They have a free/donation-based self-guided tour. We were wandering around downtown when we stopped to look at the facade of the building. A very nice man opened the door and asked if we'd like to come in a take a look around. Very interesting historical landmark. I would love to see a production here! They said they hope to start again later this year if you're in the area!

I have taken my family to several performances and have never been disappointed. Last show we went to I bought seats upstairs in the balcony and my daughter was thrilled. The seating is limited, but the theatre is intimate and beautiful.

We came strolling by this beautiful antique theater one afternoon on our first day out on our vacation. We popped in to check it out and we were greeted by a lovely older woman who was very welcoming, and told us a bit about the history of the theater, and let us look around. She even told us about a legend of a ghost who supposedly haunts the place. She told us that the ghost is "a lady of the night". I was taken back, because not only have I never heard a hooker be called such an elegant name, but I was also intrigued to know that there was a ghost hooker roaming the halls of the place! So we decided to buy some tickets to the show for the following night which was a show called, you can't take it with you. Both the venue, and the show were great. My only gripe would be that the military discount tickets were a bit steep for my pocket book. Other than that it was a great experience!!!

What a beautiful theatre. I tried to give it 4 Star but can't figure any issues I had a problem with. We went to a Spoleto performance that was absolutely fantastic. Acoustics were great. This place has been spruced up since last time I was here. Great outdoor courtyard. Clean bathrooms. Nice staff. We sat up in the Balcony section which was really nice. The place was sold out and not too hot or too cold. The history of this building is fantastic and the way they have preserved it is spectacular. A real gem in Charleston. I recommend it highly.

What a great place. It's an old fashioned theater with a long history. We just saw "Anything Goes " last night and it was superb - NYC quality. The only downside is the seating is slightly uncomfortable - but with a good show, it didn't matter as I forgot what I was sitting on. Going for the season tickets next season!

This is a beautiful, intimate theatre without a bad seat in the house. We watched the play called "Nevermore" which was enjoyable with acting worthy of the entry fee. The concessions were also fairly priced.

I attended a chamber music performance and a play here as part of the Spoleto Festival. It's a historic building. The first Dock Street Theatre was destroyed by fire in 1740, and that was America's first theater. This building was completed in 1937 and then renovated in 2010. The acoustics are marvelous for Chamber Music, and the lobby area is quite charming. Also a wonderful place to attend a play.

My girlfriend duct taped me & dragged me to see Momma Mia. I was so amazed at the quality of singing and talent in this show. Its better than anything I've seen on Broadway. The girls (sorry guys) in the Ensemble were crazy gorgeous. The choreography was big stage and the theater was impressive. Thank you.

Beautiful theater, we were here for the White Christmas performance. The actors and play itself was phenomenal. Only suggestion for visitors is splurge for the center of the balcony. Side balcony seats have very obstructed view. We were allowed to move during the first act to open seats in the upper middle.

Amazing theatre in historic charleston. If you are on a romantic weekend in Charleston- go see a play here and support the arts as well as your brain. The show we saw was excellent and was a great addition to our weekend. Plus it's the oldest theatre in America. Great stuff!

I brought my daughter to see Junie B in Jingle Bells Batman Smells. It is a wonderfully funny and entertaining play! We had balcony seats and could see very well! Can't wait to come back for more plays for children!

It's the oldest theatre in the USA y'all. Built in the mid 1730's and still putting on performances, the Dock Street Theatre is one of the most historic buildings in all of Charleston, SC. Far from the most comfortable theatre in the area, it sees a LOT of action around Memorial Day when the Spoleto Festival is in town. The rest of the year is a bit hit-or-miss, with Christmas time bringing the usual "A Christmas Carol" type fair. FYI: The inside of the Ford's Theatre near Washington DC, where Lincoln was assassinated, was modeled after the Dock Street. It's worth a look if you find yourself wandering down Church Street.

What an amazing production at Christmas! The singing, the dancing, the staging...all were spot on! We now bought a package for the season. #enjoyment

I've seen several shows and musicals here. While I personally prefer to sit in the balcony, there is not a bad seat in the house. The venue is intimate and comfortable. The old historic style of the theater is beautiful and it is a great place to go see a show or musical downtown.

This is a true old time theater. It almost reminds me of a church. The stage is updated, and the staff were professional and friendly.

I have been blessed to see a lot of performances all over the country. Last night we saw Young Frankenstein. I have never laughed so hard in my life! I saw a Broadway production of this and the dock street theatre performance was a thousand times better. This was one of the best musicals I have ever seen in my life. Dock Street Theatre of course is a beautiful venue and there is not a bad seat in the house.

We really enjoy this little gem. It's casual enough that our whole family attends the performances (ie: children of various ages). It's elegant enough to feel very special.

I love all of the performances at Dock Street Theatre, and their line up for the 2016-2017 season looks incredible, including two Christmas performances. Tickets can be bought online and either printed at home or picked up at Will Call. Prices vary by which seats you select, and discounts for both military and students under the age of 26 are available. I recommend sitting center stage, around 5 rows or so back in the orchestra section. If you're the kind of person who enjoys balcony seats, those are available too. The theatre ins't extremely large, housing a few hundred people or so, but it is clean and well kept. There is an outside bar on the first floor and another bar/lounge on the second floor; however food and drinks are not allowed in the theater. THE DOWNSIDE is that they do not accept credit/debit at the bars. They are strictly CASH ONLY. Other than that, I have nothing negative to say about Dockstreet. The stage is always immaculate and for the most recent show I saw, Mary Poppins, there were impressive aerial stunts on stage. Don't park in the 1 hour residential parking or you will get a ticket-try to find a meter parking spot which is free after 6pm, or park in the garage near Market/East Bay for approximately $5. There are plenty of places nearby to walk to for dinner before the show.

We attended The Producers last night. The performance was spectacular. We could not stop laughing during the entire performance. The actors are true professionals. The venue is intimate with no bad seat in the house.

We have seen several plays here over the past 3 years and all have been high quality entertainment. On Feb. 24 we saw "Seat of Justice" and it was outstanding. Kudos to Julian Wiles for highlighting such an important chapter in American history with such care and accuracy.

My husband and I were taking an evening stroll, and the theater happened to be closed today. My husband stopped and swore he saw a woman walking inside down the hall, but then he says she vanished suddenly. I told him it was probably a member of cleaning crew but he said she was wearing a dress! Shortly there after I began to do research and found this theater was said to be haunted and the woman he saw was most likely a woman named "Nettie". Pretty eerie....

Gorgeous old fashioned Theater, with very clean and modern bathrooms. I have heard so much about the wonderful performances here so I recently saw the Sojourner Truth play - incredibly well acted especially the actress who played sojourner because the audience cried and laughed and I was so empowered at the end during the speech. I was always a daydreamer in high school, not interested in much, so Sojourner's speech didn't stick then. It came back to me and really moved me, I'll never forget it now. My Dock Street Theater review has become a review for a play! Anyway, I really took in the old fashioned theater atmosphere too. Can't wait for Spoleto, have to catch some shows here!

I love catching a show in this great little theater! Quaint, comfortable, historical, and great acoustics. Whether chamber music, a musical, or play, check this place out for a great evening on the town. It's a little piece of Charleston history. Afterwards, take a walk in the neighborhood, as it's one of the coolest areas in town (old churches, graveyards)

What a great piece of history Dock Street Theater is. Tucked in the heart of the Holy City, this theater may be the best date spot in Charleston. Great productions, in a wonderful setting. Do yourself a favor and go see whatever you can get tickets too!

I've only been to the Dock Street Theater to look inside but it is in wonderful condition for the age. So i can't give a true review of the theatre itself as i've never viewed on.

This place is super cute. It is beautiful and has a nice historic feel to it. The seating opens up directly onto the courtyard where you can get refreshments or hang out before the performance, or during intermission. This is an older theatre so the seats are a bit small, but perfectly comfortable. They also have balcony seating though the view from some of these seats is obstructed. I have been to see three different plays: young Frankenstein, Hairspray, and Dracula. I thought they where all well done but my favorite will always be musicals! They have one night a show that is pay as you like. You can pay as little as $10 and it makes a great night out! They sell out fast for the popular shows so you should buy your tickets early if you have your heart set on it. My friends and I have had trouble getting tickets sitting together on these nights, but we always have a nice time. I would definitely recommend going to see a show here they always do a nice job. Its something different to do, and your supporting the arts!