Wortham Center for the Performing Arts
18 Biltmore Ave, Asheville, NC, 28801
“Not a bad seat in the house” is a common review for the Wortham Center for the Performing Arts. This Asheville gem is a Goldilocks find: small enough to feel intimate with great sound, large enough to attract high-profile acts. With three venues in the complex, there’s always something on at the Wortham Center, from comedy to ballet and beyond.
The basics
The Wortham Center is one of Asheville’s most beloved artistic institutions. Formerly known as the Diana Wortham Theatre (its first venue), the space now holds three distinct theaters, but the largest of the three still only seats 500—offering a chance to see fabulous performances surprisingly up close. And right in Asheville’s buzzy Pack Square Cultural District, it’s a night on the town that rarely disappoints.
Asheville music and arts tours will give you just enough to pique your curiosity—if you get the chance, be sure to catch a show inside.
Things to know before you go
Accessible seating is available at all three venues.
With the exception of water, outside food and drink are not permitted in the theater (concession-stand goods are allowed).
Children under 2 years old are not permitted at performances.
How to get there
There’s no on-site parking at the Wortham Center. If you have a car, there’s metered on-street parking and other options; the theater recommends the Biltmore Avenue Parking Deck, the Aloft Hotel Parking Deck, and the Buncombe County Parking Deck. With the parking situation, it’s easier to walk, catch a taxi, or nab a rideshare.
When to get there
Try to arrive at the Wortham Center roughly 30 minutes before showtime. That should give you enough time to find parking, enjoy the spacious lobby, find your seats, and grab a drink at concessions. If you still need tickets, the box office is open Tuesday through Sunday, from 10am to 4pm and one hour before performances.
Dinner and a show
The Wortham Center for the Performing Arts is smack-dab between two tasty Asheville institutions: Marble Slab Creamery and White Duck Taco. If you have time, make this night a two-fer with dinner (or ice cream) and a show; if you don’t, find another way to take in Asheville’s excellent foodie scene, such as taking a food tour. Like the Wortham, it won’t disappoint.
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