Business Details
33 Years
experience
Experience Live Performances at Walhalla Performing Arts Center
Walhalla Performing Arts Center stands as a testament to community dedication and historical preservation. Founded in 1993 by visionary educators Jean Phillips and Maxie Duke, our organization revitalized a century-old school building into a vibrant cultural hub. With over three decades of experience, we specialize in hosting live music, theater, and community events in an intimate setting that connects performers and audiences. Our team, led by Executive Director Mark Thompson, combines deep local knowledge with professional expertise to deliver world-class performances and event hosting.We maintain the building's historic charm while offering modern amenities like our WPAC Suites, ensuring comfort for performers and guests. Recognized on the National Register of Historic Places, we prioritize transparency in operations and community engagement, offering educational programs and sponsorship opportunities to sustain our mission of enriching Upstate South Carolina's cultural landscape.
Services
Live Concerts
Theater Productions
Event Rentals
WPAC Suites
Community Programs
Details
- Year established: 1993
Highlights and features
- We operate a National Register of Historic Places-listed venue with exceptional acoustics
- Our team has restored and maintained the building since 1993
- We offer unique WPAC Suites for performer accommodations
- We host diverse programming from country music to community theater
- Our organization has received local government and tourism support
Associations and certifications
- National Register of Historic Places
Services
Live Concerts
Host professional music performances across genres in our historic auditorium. Our venue accommodates diverse acts from country to blues artists. The intimate setting ensures optimal audience engagement and artist-audience connection.
Theater Productions
Present theatrical performances in a restored early 20th-century auditorium. The space maintains original architectural elements while meeting modern production needs. Ideal for both community theater and professional touring shows.
Event Rentals
Offer historic venue space for weddings, conferences, and special events. The facility includes modern amenities while preserving original design features. Accommodates up to 400 guests with flexible seating arrangements.
WPAC Suites
Provide luxury accommodations in renovated second-floor classrooms. Each suite features king beds, kitchenettes, and private bathrooms. Designed for performers and guests attending evening events at the center.
Community Programs
Deliver arts education initiatives and local history programs. The center maintains partnerships with schools and cultural organizations. Offers volunteer opportunities and donor engagement programs for community members.
People
Jean Phillips
Co-Founder
Educator and community leader who spearheaded the 1993 restoration of the historic auditorium. Dedicated 10 years to fundraising and preservation efforts that saved the building from demolition.
Maxie Duke
Co-Founder
Former teacher who partnered with Jean Phillips to transform the vacant school building into a performing arts center. Instrumental in securing initial funding and community support.
Mark Thompson
Executive Director
Current leader overseeing operations since 2015. Directed recent renovations that added WPAC Suites and modernized facilities while maintaining historic integrity.
Questions
What types of performances does WPAC host?
We present diverse programming including country, blues, classical music, theater, comedy, and community events throughout the year.
Is the building historically significant?
Yes, our 1903 auditorium is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and was originally constructed as a school.
Can I rent the venue for private events?
Yes, we offer space for weddings, conferences, and special occasions with capacity for up to 400 guests.
Are accommodations available on-site?
We provide two luxury WPAC Suites with kitchenettes and private bathrooms for performers and event guests.
How is WPAC funded?
As a 501(c)3 nonprofit, we operate through ticket sales, donations, sponsorships, and grants from local government sources.
What are the box office hours?
Our office is open Monday-Friday 9am-3pm and one hour before showtimes for ticket purchases.
Videos
Reviews (7)
Wicket Cricket
Dec 28, 2021
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Sure the location is off the beaten path. However the distance is well worth the quality. So many fantastic performers put on shows here. The theatre is well maintained and is a beautiful historic landmark. You feel welcomed with joy from the front doors until exit. Im so glad I visited and you will as well!
Nancy Wade-Quarles
Dec 23, 2021
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Beautiful performance. The renovation of the old school auditorium is amazing. Staff is small, but they work hard to make the events enjoyable and comfortable for their guest.
Laura Dyal
Nov 17, 2021
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Full of Rich History. A beautiful concert hall. Gorgeous, antique columns, antique ceiling tiles, chandeliers. Went for a " Linda Ronstadt Experience"
Angelia Kirk
Oct 06, 2021
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I absolutely love coming to shows at the Walhalla Performing Arts. We try to arrive earlier to enjoy dinner. There is a great pizza place and a cafeteria style diner. And a Steak & More restaurant opening soon. The shows are reasonably priced, seats are very comfortable and there are really no bad seats. Except first row end seats. Hard to see if a band has their equipment in the way. We have seen a number of quality performances that were wonderful. Well worth the hour 1/2 drive for us!!!
Kathy Savage
Sep 05, 2021
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Saw The Black Jacket Symphony perform Pink Floyd's Dark Side of the Moon album. I saw Pink Floyd in the 80s.This experience was spot on!! Plus, kudos to Walhalla Performing Arts for a great event, from seating to concessions!! Loved it all. Thanks for great night!
Tomas Oconnell Road Warrior
Aug 06, 2021
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This is a great venue in a interesting location. The staff is friendly and the acts are mostly incredible. We have now utilized the facility several times and always have a good time. All good views and the sound system is terrific. We see a show every chance we can get up here. Love it.
David Seamans
Jul 19, 2021
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A small intimate setting for concerts with a great room for sound. Very friendly & helpful staff. Excellent variety of genres & top performers
