Dock Street Theatre — Attraction in Charleston

Where to begin. We arrived very early due to dinner plans and arrived in a heavy rainstorm. While enjoying the sound of the rain amongst the architecture, we took photos and just admired. When we finally went inside, we were greeted by incredible volunteers, purchased a book of history and were allowed an opportunity to speak to the one and only, Richard. A volunteer usher that had been attending the theater since being a young boy. The time he took with us and our son was incredible. We were then escorted to our balcony seats and watched a show, The Play that Goes Wrong, in which we laughed so hard our tummies hurt. The actors and actresses are so talented, funny and on point. The atmosphere itself is special, that’s the only word for it. You must do this if you’re visiting, it is a MUST. (I only wish this were the play you would see as I imagine that elevated our experience for sure). Even if you’re a native, don’t miss this ability to come here...

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...

Going to the Dock Street during stage season has been in the top three lifetime favorite family traditions for nearly a decade. Growing up in Charleston, you are exposed to many culture-enriching influences, but the Dock Street has been on top for giving my daughters access to amazing stories, set to life, in an amazingly gorgeous theatre, that happens to be the first space built in America exclusively for entertainment and recreation, and we always think how many fantastic people sat in the church pew-like seating before you over the last couple of centuries. Not only does the Dock Street feel like one of the classiest places in Charleston, it somehow still feels like home here. The cast, crew, and front of house staff are so warm & friendly. Thank you for all of the amazing performances & experiences, Dock Street Theatre crew & @charleston...