Spotlight: Cheers to 90 years

Carolina Theatre anniversary 6

Harry Lynch

by Jessie Ammons

Whether you’re a local music enthusiast, film buff, or lecture-goer, you’ve likely been to the Carolina Theatre in Durham. The city-owned, nonprofit historic complex screens independent films daily and hosts a diverse array of musicians, comedians, and other performers. It’s a quirky, inclusive mix enriched by the site’s old-school aesthetic, which is part formal theatre, part vintage music hall. The new year marks the theatre’s 90th anniversary, and the hallmark occasion has prompted a well-rounded lineup of celebratory performances.

Emmy and Tony award-winning actress and singer Kristin Chenoweth will kick things off with a celebration concert January 30 before an anniversary party on February 6. The party will feature a specially brewed beer from Fullsteam Brewery, which they’ll keep on tap into the new year. Plans are also in the works for a block party next fall, but before then, check out two noteworthy series: the Series 26 roster of unique performance arts shows, including the American Spiritual Ensemble on January 7 and Black Violin on January 22; and monthly broadcasts of the Royal Opera and Royal Ballet in London, including Carmen / Viscera / Afternoon of A Faun / Tchaikovsky Pas De Deux on January 6.

carolinatheatre.org