Charleston Stage at the Dock

Charleston Stage at the Dock

Welcome to Charleston Stage at the Dock, the Charleston local theater that is often times referred to as 'America's First Theatre'.

The theatre group itself was first established in 1809 within the historic French Quarter of downtown Charleston. However, the Dock Street Theater was built in 1736, with its first show that year being The Recruiting Officer. This building is considered to be the very first in America devoted exclusively to theatrical use. The very first opera performance in America happened here as well, entitled Flora. 

It is assumed that the Great Fire of 1740 wiped the original building out, though the Planters Hotel was soon built in its place (1809). In 1835 the gorgeous facade additions were added on, and that is what you will see today.

While here you can see shows such as Mamma Mia, Of Mice and Men, and A Christmas Carol, though the lineup will change seasonally. As far as student exclusive opportunities during your visit, check out what the company has to say about their education programs:

Charleston Stage has one of the oldest and largest arts education programs for young people in the region...The goal of Charleston Stage’s acting classes is to provide young people with performance and creative thinking skills that will serve them in whatever profession they one day choose. Students develop poise, movement, speaking, and acting skills as they explore improvisation, theatre games, character development and the many skills of professional actors.