Family Guide to DPAC (Durham Performing Arts Center)
DPAC (Durham Performing Arts Center) is one of the top-performing venues in the country, consistently ranking among the top five theaters in America for ticket sales. It brings Broadway touring productions, major concerts, and comedy shows right to our backyard. Taking your kids to their first Broadway show at DPAC is a Triangle rite of passage.
The Basics
Location: 123 Vivian Street, Durham, NC 27701
Capacity: 2,700 seats
Box Office: Open Tuesday—Friday 10 AM—6 PM, Saturday 10 AM—4 PM
Tickets: Vary widely. Broadway shows typically $30—$150+. Family shows can be as low as $20.
Parking: Several decks and lots within walking distance. The DPAC Parking Deck on Morgan Street is closest. Expect to pay $10—$20 for parking on show nights.Best Shows for Families
DPAC's season typically includes several family-friendly productions. The best bets for kids:
Broadway Musicals
Disney productions (The Lion King, Frozen, Aladdin when they tour) — these are the gold standard for first Broadway experiences. Ages 6+.
Wicked — hugely popular with kids 8+ who can follow the story.
Annie, Matilda, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory — when they come through, these are perfect for ages 5+.
Cirque du Soleil — usually performs a run at DPAC. Mesmerizing for all ages, though some shows can feel long for under-5s.Special Family Events
DPAC occasionally hosts:
Kids' concerts (Kidz Bop, Disney Junior tours)
Holiday shows (The Nutcracker, A Christmas Carol productions)
Comedy and magic (family-friendly comedians, magic shows)Choosing the Right Seats
Best Seats for Families
Orchestra center, rows M—T — close enough to see facial expressions but not so close that the sound is overwhelming.
Front mezzanine — excellent sightlines and kids can see the full stage. This is my top pick for families.
Avoid the back of the upper balcony — the stage feels very far away, which can make it hard for kids to stay engaged.Booster Seats
DPAC offers free booster seats for small children. Ask at the front of house or guest services when you arrive. These are first-come, first-served, so arrive early.
Tips for Your First DPAC Visit
Before the Show
Buy tickets early. Popular shows sell out months in advance. Sign up for the DPAC email list for presale codes.
Talk about the show beforehand. Listen to the soundtrack, read a synopsis, or watch a trailer. Kids enjoy shows more when they know the basic story.
Discuss etiquette. No phones, no talking, stay in your seat. Practice at home if needed.
Eat dinner before. There's limited food inside (a small concession stand with drinks, candy, and light snacks). Restaurants in the American Tobacco Campus next door are great pre-show options.Day of the Show
Arrive 30 minutes early. This gives you time to park, find your seats, use the restroom, and settle in.
Use the bathroom before the show starts. Lines during intermission are long.
Dress up a little. It's not required, but kids love the feeling of "going somewhere fancy."During the Show
Sit on the aisle if your child might need a bathroom break.
Intermission is usually 15—20 minutes. Hit the bathroom immediately — don't wait.
If your child is truly struggling, step into the lobby. DPAC staff are understanding.After the Show
Expect a crowd. The parking deck will be packed. If you're not in a rush, wait 10—15 minutes in the lobby before heading to your car.
Walk through American Tobacco Campus — the outdoor area is beautiful at night and a nice way to decompress.Age Recommendations
| Age | Ready for DPAC? | Best Show Types |
|——-|————————-|————————-|
| Under 4 | Probably not | Wait a year or two |
| 4—5 | Maybe | Short shows (60—75 min), Disney |
| 6—8 | Yes | Disney, family musicals |
| 9—12 | Absolutely | Most Broadway productions |
| Teens | Yes | Almost anything on the schedule |
Nearby Restaurants
The American Tobacco Campus adjacent to DPAC has:
Mellow Mushroom — pizza, very kid-friendly
Tyler's Taproom — burgers and pub food
Bull City Burger and Brewery — local favoriteA bit further (5-minute drive): Dame's Chicken & Waffles and Nana Taco are kid-approved.
A night at DPAC is magical for kids. There's something about the lights dimming and the curtain rising that creates a core memory. Start with a show you know they'll love, and you'll be hooked as a family.
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