Dominion Energy Center, Richmond

Richmond is home to the Dominion Energy Center, a cornerstone of performing arts that encapsulates the city's rich cultural landscape. Formerly known as Richmond CenterStage, this multifaceted complex boasts a historic legacy intertwined with modern artistry, featuring five distinct venues across two locations.

The centerpiece of this facility is the Carpenter Theatre, an architectural gem originally opened in 1928 as a Loew's Theatre movie palace. Designed by the eminent architect John Eberson, known for pioneering the "atmospheric theatre" concept, the Carpenter Theatre dazzles with its Spanish and Moorish baroque architecture. The interior mimics a Spanish villa under a night sky, complete with a ceiling depicting stars and moving clouds. This venue, once the epitome of cutting-edge design in the South, now serves as a 1,800-seat proscenium theater.

Adjacent to the Carpenter Theatre is Dorothy Pauley Square, a modern addition housing four other venues. These include the Libby S. Gottwald Playhouse, a 200-seat flexible theater; Bob & Sally Mooney Hall, a space dedicated to jazz and cabaret; Showcase Gallery, which combines visual arts with a reception area; and the Genworth BrightLights Education Center, a hub for educational initiatives under the Richmond Performing Arts Alliance (RPAA). This alliance, formerly the Richmond CenterStage Foundation, was formed after merging with the Carpenter Center for the Performing Arts and plays a pivotal role in the city's artistic community.

Richmond's Dominion Energy Center is not just a venue for local and regional performances but also supports national touring acts. With eleven resident companies, including the Richmond Ballet, Virginia Opera, and the Latin Ballet of Virginia, the center is a dynamic hub for the arts. These resident companies utilize the center's diverse venues for performances and educational activities, ensuring that the Dominion Energy Center remains at the heart of Richmond's cultural and artistic expression.