Exhibit Opening Event- Playhouses and Picture Palaces: The Historical Theaters of Downtown Durham
On Friday, October 16, 2026, the Museum of Durham History will open a new exhibit entitled Playhouses and Picture Palaces: The Historical Theaters of Downtown Durham. At various points from the 1880s to the 1970s, Durham’s downtown was animated by the amusements and shows of up to 18 theater sites, comprising 29 named establishments, which this exhibit explores in words, images, and artifacts.
Though we’re presenting 90 years of Durham history, the Carolina Theatre will be front and center. We’ll be celebrating their Centennial in 2026 as Downtown Durham’s sole remaining historical – and historic – theater. (They’re even loaning us some rare artifacts from their attic!)