About Dominion Energy Center
Dominion Energy Center (formerly known as Richmond CenterStage) is a major performing arts complex in downtown Richmond, Virginia. The historic Carpenter Theatre opened in 1928 as a grand movie palace (Loew’s Theatre) and was later used for live performance as the “Carpenter Center.” In 2009 it was fully renovated with $62.2 million of public-private funding into a 179,000 ft² cultural hub (www.bdcnetwork.com ) (www.bdcnetwork.com ). Its ornate Spanish-Baroque auditorium – now the 1,760-seat Carpenter Theatre – and an expanded lobby were restored, while adjacent buildings were repurposed to add two new performance halls (a 200-seat black-box “Gottwald Playhouse”) and rehearsal/education space (www.bdcnetwork.com ) (www.bdcnetwork.com ).
As the region’s premier arts venue, Dominion Energy Center hosts dozens of events each year. It is home to Richmond’s major arts organizations (the symphony orchestra, ballet company and Virginia Opera perform here, among others) and the Richmond Performing Arts Alliance operates under its roof (www.dominionenergycenter.com ) (www.bdcnetwork.com ). The center’s presence in Jackson Ward has anchored downtown’s cultural life, and its 2009 revival was hailed as “a real sparkler in downtown Richmond” by architecture critics (www.bdcnetwork.com ).
Events and Programming
The venue’s programming spans Broadway tours, concerts, ballet, opera, comedy, dance and family shows. Touring musical productions and Broadway-caliber plays regularly visit the 1,760-seat main theatre (e.g. national tours of hits like Annie and Waitress ), while the smaller Gottwald Playhouse (200 seats) and Bob & Sally Mooney Hall host chamber performances and community concerts (www.bdcnetwork.com ). Each December the Richmond Ballet’s famed Nutcracker runs at Carpenter Theatre, and Virginia Opera and other local arts groups stage performances here. Throughout the year the venue presents pop and rock concerts, tribute bands and comedians as well. For example, Jason Bonham’s Led Zeppelin Evening launched its 2023 tour at Dominion Energy Center (www.dominionenergycenter.com ), and touring stand-up comedians regularly play the hall (e.g. Fortune Feimster’s 2025 tour (www.dominionenergycenter.com )). Family and children’s shows, lectures and special events (book readings, dance companies, cultural festivals) round out the calendar. Overall, the center averages over 100 performances a year, drawing roughly 110,000 ticket buyers in the 2024–25 season (www.dominionenergycenter.com ).
Ticket prices vary widely by event. Generally, family/kids shows and local performances may cost as little as \$15–\$30, while concerts and Broadway tours can run \$50–\$100+ for prime seats. Many events offer multiple price tiers (e.g. front orchestra vs. balcony). Special series (symphony subscriptions or ballet packages) may offer discounts, and students/seniors often get reduced rates. Tickets go on sale weeks or months in advance; press announcements clearly note sale dates and times (for example, Fortune Feimster’s Sept. 26, 2025 comedy show went on sale March 28, 2025 at 10 AM (www.dominionenergycenter.com )).
Tickets and Booking
Tickets can be purchased online or in person through the Dominion Energy Center’s box office. The on-site box office at 600 E Grace Street opens about two hours before each show (www.dominionenergycenter.com ) to sell and distribute tickets. There is also a ticket outlet inside the Altria Theater box office (6 N. Laurel Street) which sells tickets to Dominion Energy Center events on business days (www.dominionenergycenter.com ). For sold-out shows, no tickets are held at the door. Group sales (for 10–20+ people) are available via the Center’s group sales office, which offers discounted group pricing, waived fees and preferred seating (www.dominionenergycenter.com ). All transactions (both box office and concessions) are cashless – only credit/debit cards or digital payments are accepted (www.dominionenergycenter.com ) (www.dominionenergycenter.com ).
If an event is canceled, ticket refunds are issued by the point of purchase (www.dominionenergycenter.com ). Credit card purchasers are automatically refunded to their card; tickets bought in person can be returned to the original box office for a refund. Patrons are advised to keep their tickets until after the show (or refund period). For popular performances, sign up for the venue’s email newsletter or follow local media, as press releases often announce on-sale dates well in advance (www.dominionenergycenter.com ).
Seating and Layout
The main Carpenter Theatre is a proscenium hall with orchestra and two balcony levels. Following the 2009 renovation, the stage was enlarged and the seating was restored with modern amenities (www.bdcnetwork.com ). The center section of the orchestra or front mezzanine generally offer the best sight lines and sound. All seats are reserved (no general-admission areas) – you choose a section when purchasing tickets. The Carpenter’s new sound system (installed in 2025) was designed for its roughly 1,800 seats (www.dominionenergycenter.com ), producing clear audio even in the upper balconies. (For plays or musicals, the house mix position in the rear orchestra typically ensures good balance.) Sightlines can be tight in the last rows of the upper balconies – some taller patrons prefer seats a few rows back rather than the very front of the balcony. The smaller 200-seat Gottwald Playhouse is an intimate black-box theater on the same campus, used for experimental theater and small concerts. (Seating layouts there vary by production.)
VIP or luxury boxes are not part of this facility: seating is general in the theater. Patrons should avoid extreme side seats in the curtained off stage-left or stage-right “house wings,” which have limited visibility. For orchestra-level seats, rows closer to the floor are great for details on stage; for music concerts, seats further back may yield a fuller blend of sound. The workshop lobby between levels allows quick access to an upstairs restroom (renovated and roomy (www.tripadvisor.com )), water fountains and the concession stands on both levels (www.dominionenergycenter.com ). Note that the first mezzanine (the short balcony over the rear orchestra) has only one restroom up there, so plan any bathroom breaks accordingly.
Getting There and Parking
Dominion Energy Center is in downtown Richmond at 600 E. Grace Street (corner of Grace and 6th St.) (www.dominionenergycenter.com ) (www.dominionenergycenter.com ). It’s a few blocks east of I-95’s Grace Street exit. The venue is well-served by Richmond’s public bus system (GRTC). Several downtown bus routes run on Broad and Main Streets just a block away, and the Pulse transit stations (Main Street Station and VCU area) are within 6–8 blocks. Union Station (Amtrak) and the Greyhound/bus terminal are around two blocks west on Broad Street.
On-site parking is limited, so pre-book if possible. The closest parking is the Commonwealth deck at 11 N. 6th (Broad & 6th St). This city-run garage charges about $8 for event parking and opens two hours before performances (www.dominionenergycenter.com ). A surface lot on East Grace Street (609 E. Grace) is just a one-minute walk away and typically operates on “event parking” mode (opens ~3.5 hours pre-show) (www.dominionenergycenter.com ). Other nearby garages and lots – such as at Broad & 3rd, and the Fifth/Broad Street municipal lot – also offer evening/event rates ($5–$10). All parking lots usually begin pricing 1–2 hours before the show and may close about an hour after the show ends (www.dominionenergycenter.com ). Handicapped spaces are available at these lots for permit holders (www.dominionenergycenter.com ). Street parking is scarce downtown; plan extra time or consider ride-sharing. Rideshare/taxi dropoff is safe under the Grace St. marquee (6th & Grace).
Inside the Venue
Upon entering, guests pass through a security checkpoint. The center uses “frictionless” metal detectors to speed up entry (www.dominionenergycenter.com ). All purses and bags are subject to search, and a strict bag policy is enforced: only small bags (no larger than ~12″ x 8″ x 6″) are allowed (www.dominionenergycenter.com ). Backpacks, briefcases and coolers are prohibited. Service and medical bags must be declared and may be searched. The facility is smoke-free (no smoking indoors); a designated smoking shelter is at the 6th & Grace entrance (www.dominionenergycenter.com ).
The lobby areas are elegant but not huge – think Broadway-theater style. There are two main levels in the Carpenter lobby, with restrooms and concessions on each level. Concession stands sell snacks, soda, water as well as a selection of beer and wine (including local craft brews) (www.dominionenergycenter.com ). For example, available brews often include names like Devils Backbone, Bold Rock cider and Richmond Lager (www.dominionenergycenter.com ). Note that all concessions are cashless (credit/debit cards only) (www.dominionenergycenter.com ). Virginia food (Fall Line Kitchen, etc.) caterers sometimes offer gourmet items for special events. There is no coat check or ATM on site. The building typically feels cool, so it’s wise to bring a sweater.
Accessibility is robust: three public elevators (one at the main entrance, two near the upstairs restrooms) service all floors (www.dominionenergycenter.com ). Wheelchair-accessible seating is offered on every level – simply request it when booking. In fact, patrons who notify the box office about mobility needs get first choice of the accessible seats and seats immediately beside them (www.dominionenergycenter.com ). Assistive-listening devices (audio headsets) are available for free – these can be checked out at the concierge desk (left side of the main entrance) with a photo ID deposit (www.dominionenergycenter.com ). The center also participates in the KultureCity sensory-inclusive program: complimentary sensory bags (with headphones, fidgets, etc.) can be loaned to guests from the box office lobby (www.dominionenergycenter.com ). ASL interpreters can be arranged for specific shows by contacting the office about two weeks in advance (the production covers the cost) (www.dominionenergycenter.com ). Staff are available at the desk to assist with any other special needs.
Nearby Amenities
Just blocks away are numerous restaurants and bars. For a pre-show dinner, the Marriott and Hilton hotels host recommended partners – for example, Fall Line Kitchen & Bar at 500 E. Broad (in the Marriott) (www.dominionenergycenter.com ) and the Gather & Hem brewpub at 501 E. Broad (in the Hilton) (www.dominionenergycenter.com ). Grace Street, just outside the venue, offers casual options: the Upscale Southern-American Lillie Pearl (416 E. Grace) (www.dominionenergycenter.com ), the brick-oven pizzeria BrickFire (525 E. Grace) (www.dominionenergycenter.com ), or lunch spots like Buttermilk & Honey (415 E. Grace) for biscuits and barbecue (www.dominionenergycenter.com ). About a block north, Mama J’s Kitchen (soul food at 415 N. 1st St.) and the family-style Southern restaurant Kaleidoscope Diner (610 E. Main) are local favorites (www.dominionenergycenter.com ). For drinks afterwards, the Shockoe Bottom area (a short walk north on Canal Street) has several pubs and breweries. Bar Solita (123 W. Broad, Mexican cuisine) and Tarrant’s Coffee (1 W. Broad, cafe fare) are just a few minutes’ walk (www.dominionenergycenter.com ).
Hotels: The Marriott and Hilton on East Broad (500–501 E. Broad) are literally across the street from the theater (www.dominionenergycenter.com ). Other downtown options include the hip Graduate Hotel, the boutique Quirk Hotel and the historic Jefferson Hotel, all within a few blocks (www.dominionenergycenter.com ). Mid-range chains like Homewood Suites or Hampton Inn also serve downtown. It’s wise to book early for major events as rooms can fill up fast when big shows are in town.
What Makes This Venue Special
Dominion Energy Center is unique in Richmond for its mix of old-world charm and modern facilities. The fully restored Carpenter Theatre preserves ornate 1928 architecture (intricate Spanish-Baroque plasterwork, a sweeping proscenium lobby) while adding expanded backstage space and technical systems (www.bdcnetwork.com ) (www.bdcnetwork.com ). Its multiple stages under one roof allow everything from grand orchestra concerts to intimate theater productions in one visit. Locally, the venue has become the heart of the city’s arts scene – hosting the symphony, ballet and opera under one organizational umbrella, and serving as a base for arts education programs (BrightLights Center) and community events. The scale of its programming – over 100 shows and 100k+ attendees per year (www.dominionenergycenter.com ) – means it has a significant economic and cultural impact on Richmond. Artists and audiences alike praise its acoustics and ambiance: for example, a local architecture reviewer dubbed the revived theater “a real sparkler in downtown Richmond” for its dramatic interior and top-notch facilities (www.bdcnetwork.com ). This combination of historic significance, architectural beauty and technical capability is what sets the venue apart.
Visitor Tips and Information
• Arrival time: Plan to arrive at least 30–60 minutes before showtime. (Parking lots and the box office open early: e.g. the Commonwealth deck opens ~2 hours before shows (www.dominionenergycenter.com ).) This gives you time to park, go through security and find your seats. Security check: All guests pass through a metal detector and have bags inspected. To move quickly, bring only essentials – phones, wallets, keys – or use the venue’s concierge storage. Dress comfortably: No formal dress code is enforced; most people dress business-casual. The theater can be cool, so consider a light sweater or jacket. Cashless venue: The box office and concession stands accept credit/debit cards only (www.dominionenergycenter.com ) (www.dominionenergycenter.com ) (no cash). Bring a payment card or a mobile wallet. Bags/phones: Small cameras and cell phones (without flash) are generally fine for personal use, but professional cameras/recorders are prohibited (www.dominionenergycenter.com ). Phone apps and digital tickets are encouraged; you may need to show your phone ticket at entry. Food and drinks: Outside food or drink is not allowed inside (www.dominionenergycenter.com ). On-site snacks and beverages (popcorn, soda, local beers/wines) are available in the lobby (www.dominionenergycenter.com ). You may bring an empty reusable water bottle to fill. Restrooms: Located on each lobby level. The second-floor women’s restrooms have been renovated and are spacious. Note that upstairs has fewer stalls, so shorter lines are used there. Children: Kids under 2 (24 months) sit free on a guardian’s lap for most shows (www.dominionenergycenter.com ). All others need a ticket. Some family events may require tickets for infants too; check the event’s policy before attending. Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible seating and companion seats are available – ask the box office at ticket pick-up for assistance (www.dominionenergycenter.com ). Service animals are welcome; other pets are not permitted (www.dominionenergycenter.com ). Request assistive devices (hearing or sensory) in advance or at the concierge desk as needed (www.dominionenergycenter.com ) (www.dominionenergycenter.com ).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the address of Dominion Energy Center?
The venue is at 600 E. Grace Street in downtown Richmond. It’s on Grace Street between 6th and 7th streets. (The Carpenter Theatre entrance faces 6th & Grace.) This block is just east of the Richmond Convention Center and a few blocks from Broad Street (“The Boulevard”). (www.dominionenergycenter.com ) (www.dominionenergycenter.com )
Where can I park for a show and how much does it cost?
Nearby parking options include the Commonwealth Deck at 11 N. 6th Street, which charges around **$8** for event parking. That deck is about a 3-minute walk away and opens 2 hours before the show (www.dominionenergycenter.com ). A lot on E. Grace Street (609 E. Grace, 1-minute walk) also operates as event parking (opens ~3.5 hours prior) (www.dominionenergycenter.com ). Other nearby surface lots and garages (e.g. on W. Broad or 5th Street) typically charge \$5–\$10. All recommended lots open a few hours before performances and may close ~1 hour after the show ends (www.dominionenergycenter.com ).
Can I take public transportation to Dominion Energy Center?
Yes. GRTC buses run on Broad Street and Main Street nearby, with stops at 6th & Broad or 7th & Main just a block south. The Pulse bus-rapid-transit stations (Main Street Station) are also a few blocks away. The center is an easy walk from the Union Station transit hub. In general, downtown Richmond is well-served by buses and by rideshare (Uber/Lyft) drop-offs.
What are the best nearby hotels for attendees?
Two major hotels are literally across the street: the Richmond Marriott (500 E. Broad St.) and the Hilton Downtown (501 E. Broad St.) (www.dominionenergycenter.com ), which have attached restaurants and bars. Other downtown hotels within a few blocks include the Graduate Hotel, the Quirk Hotel, and the historic Jefferson Hotel (www.dominionenergycenter.com ). Smaller chains (Homewood Suites, Hampton Inn, etc.) are also nearby. Booking well in advance is advised for sold-out shows.
What is the seating capacity and layout?
The main Carpenter Theatre seats **1,760** in a classic theatre layout (www.bdcnetwork.com ) (orchestra plus balconies). The Gottwald Playhouse seats about 200 for smaller shows. All seats are reserved (no GA sections). The house has orchestra and two balcony levels, with central seating providing the best views. Patrons should select seats that balance sightlines and hearing (the 2025 sound upgrade covers the full 1,800-seat hall (www.dominionenergycenter.com )). Note there are no private boxes or stadium-style seats.
When do the doors and box office open before a show?
The box office windows open about 2 hours before the advertised showtime (www.dominionenergycenter.com ). General admission doors into the theater typically open 30–60 minutes before curtain. (For example, the parking deck opens 2 hours early (www.dominionenergycenter.com ), so plan to arrive before that if buying at the venue.) Arriving early is recommended to avoid lines and get settled.
Does the venue have a dress code or attire recommendation?
No formal dress code is enforced. Most patrons attend in smart-casual attire. It is indoors, air-conditioned, and can be cool, so light layers are wise. (For example, many people wear a sweater or jacket.) Costumes or team jerseys are generally only worn on special theme nights. In short, arrive comfortably for the performance type you’re seeing.
Are children allowed and are there age restrictions?
Children are welcome. For most shows, children under 24 months may sit on a parent’s lap for free (www.dominionenergycenter.com ) (no separate seat needed). Otherwise all attendees need a ticket. Some special performances (especially children’s shows) may require tickets for infants as young as 12 or 18 months – check each event’s policy. There is no lower age limit aside from the lap policy. (Unaccompanied minors should ensure they have permission from guardians.)
What items are NOT allowed inside the theater?
For safety and comfort, large bags and prohibited items are not allowed. Only small purses/clutches (no larger than 12″×8″×6″) are permitted (www.dominionenergycenter.com ). Backpacks, laptop bags, coolers, boxes and similar large bags are banned. Outside food or drink is also prohibited (www.dominionenergycenter.com ). Professional cameras, video cameras, audio recorders and recording flashes are strictly forbidden in the Auditorium (www.dominionenergycenter.com ). Flash photography or filming during shows is not allowed. Smoking and vaping are banned inside (smoke-free building) (www.dominionenergycenter.com ); a designated smoking area is outside under the Grace Street marquee.
Are there accessibility features for guests with disabilities?
Yes. The building has three public elevators providing access to all levels (www.dominionenergycenter.com ). Wheelchair seating and companion seats are available on each level; guests notifying the box office can reserve these seats first (www.dominionenergycenter.com ). Service animals (with documentation) are allowed (www.dominionenergycenter.com ); other pets are not. The theater offers assistive listening headsets at no cost (available at the concierge desk with an ID) (www.dominionenergycenter.com ). Sensory-support kits (with noise-canceling headphones, etc.) are also free to borrow at the box office (www.dominionenergycenter.com ). ASL interpreters can be arranged in advance by contacting customer service. Staff will accommodate any reasonable requests to ensure an accessible experience.
What food and drink options are available inside?
The venue has concession stands on both lobby levels of the Carpenter Theatre. Standard theater snacks (fresh popcorn, candy, nuts) and soft drinks (Pepsi products) are sold (www.dominionenergycenter.com ). On the alcohol side, beer and wine by the bottle or tap are available – including local craft beers and cider (e.g. Devils Backbone Lager, Bold Rock cider) (www.dominionenergycenter.com ). All concession outlets are cashless (credit/debit cards only) (www.dominionenergycenter.com ). (No outside food/drink is allowed inside (www.dominionenergycenter.com ), but you may purchase a meal at nearby restaurants before the show.)
Is the box office cashless and what payment methods are accepted?
Yes. As of July 2022, the Dominion Energy Center operates as a cashless venue (www.dominionenergycenter.com ). All box office and concession sales require credit or debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, etc.) or digital wallet payments. No cash is accepted anywhere on premises. Along with payments, your ticket may be scanned on a digital device at entry, so buying tickets online or using mobile e-tickets is convenient.
Can I meet performers or go backstage?
Generally no. Dominion Energy Center’s production areas (stage, wings, dressing rooms) are restricted to authorized personnel. It is not an open house venue. Post-show meet-and-greets are by special arrangement only (for example, educational programs may offer preorder opportunities). The theater does sell programs and merchandise on the lobby level on occasion, but you cannot freely wander behind the stage. Please respect staff directions and stay in public areas unless invited.
If a show is canceled, how do I get a refund?
If an event is canceled, follow the ticket seller’s policy. Tickets purchased at the box office can be returned to the same location for a refund. Credit-card orders (online or by phone) will be automatically refunded to the original payment card (www.dominionenergycenter.com ). Group purchases should contact the group sales office. For best results, keep your tickets and check the email or call the central box office for next steps; usually the refund is issued to the buyer’s account.
