Spotlight on Walhalla Performing Arts Center

People behind the shows

The Walhalla Performing Arts Center is a terrific venue to see talented musicians and performers. Housed in the Historic Walhalla Civic Auditorium, the Walhalla Performing Arts Center offers an intimate setting with a world-class stage that appeals to entertainers and audiences alike.

The facility is success story that began in 1993 when concerned citizens advocated for saving a building many thought was beyond repair. The restoration process took ten years and the building opened to the public in 2003.

Fast forward twenty years…The WPAC is going strong thanks to the dedication of Executive Director Mark Thompson and his tight knit group of volunteers.

Mark has a knack for attracting a wide range of performers to the relatively unknown city of Walhalla. He books the talent and has a wonderful group of people on his team working together to make sure the front of the house runs smoothly. Volunteers serve as bartenders, greeters & ushers during the performances. This enthusiastic group of volunteers works to ensure each patron has a fantastic experience at the WPAC. If you are looking for a way to help serve the community (and enjoy live performances!), the WPAC is always looking to complement their crew of volunteers. To find out about volunteer opportunities, contact the WPAC box office at 864-638-5277 or email walhallapac@gmail.com.

The Walhalla Performing Arts Center is a 501(c)3 stand-alone, non-profit organization and the facility is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

WPAC Back Story

From Grade School to Premier Entertainment Venue

Housed in the Historic Walhalla Civic Auditorium, the Walhalla Performing Arts Center offers an intimate setting with a world-class stage that appeals to entertainers and audiences alike.

Originally built in 1913, the building served as the Walhalla Grade School auditorium for decades. By the 1990s, the building had major problems and nearly ceased to exist. In 1993 concerned citizens obtained a lease and a 501(c)3 designation and restoration efforts began. It took ten long years, and finally, in 2003, the building was open to the public once again. We are thankful that community members saw the value of saving this historic building. Every effort was made to upgrade the facility to meet the needs of modern artists. Oconee County is fortunate to have this event venue which draws talented performers to its stage.

A History of Hosting Top Performers

WPAC has a surprisingly diverse line up of big-name performers on the calendar. Wynonna Judd, The Marshall Tucker Band, Arlo Gutherie, Crystal Gayle, Travis Tritt, and many nationally known entertainers have played at Walhalla Performing Arts Center recently.

WPAC is an easy drive from larger cities and appeals to musicians and entertainers going from Greenville, Charlotte, Atlanta, and other destinations in the Southeast. Shows at WPAC allow entertainers to unwind a bit and enjoy the low-key setting on the front or back end of other engagements.

A Venue with a View

The audience gets an up-close personal view of performers. The auditorium has 453 seats including balcony seating. There is a reception hall that can seat 100 people. Concessions, including beer and wine, are served in the reception hall during event performances. When available, the reception hall can be rented for special occasions or conferences.

Places to Eat During Your Visit

When you visit Walhalla, SC, you’ll find a quaint small town bustling with activity. There is abundant free parking at WPAC, and the location is close to some great restaurants and bars: Gather Uptown, Carolina Pizza Company, 3 Amigos Grill, Los Arcos Mexican Grill, The Steak House Cafeteria, Steph’s Steaks, Trailhead Tavern, West & Co. Taproom and Garage Tap Room are within walking distance from WPAC.

WPAC is a volunteer organization supported by members, sponsors, and volunteers. Every ticket, concession purchase, and event rental supports the ongoing success of WPAC.

Check the Walhalla Performing Arts Center website for updated listings.

New shows get added to the line up all the time!