DTR Performing Arts Center Gets a New Name

DTR’s performing arts center gets a new name.

In news that tracks—we finally don’t have to worry about the whole DPAC vs. DEPAC drama anymore. Consider the confusion over. 

Meet Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts. Becoming official March 2—and sure to eventually make its way out of your mouth over its 20-year naming rights tenure—the new moniker is the namesake of naming rights sponsor Martin Marietta Materials Inc., a U.S.-based leading supplier of building materials. 

While locals may still refer to our Downtown performing arts center as “Memorial Auditorium”—nee 1932—the most recently named Duke Energy Performing Arts Center actually comprises Raleigh Memorial Auditorium, Meymandi Concert Hall, A.J. Fletcher Opera Theater, and Kennedy Theatre. 

Oft shortened to DEPAC, the likeness to Durham’s DPAC has muddled many a reader’s plans as they mistakenly moseyed their way to the Bull City’s similarly acronymed DPAC (aka Durham Performing Arts Center). But alas—those almost-matching monikers are a headache no more.

Beyond the distinct branding, “it is evident that Martin Marietta takes pride in our shared community,” says Kerry Painter, director/GM of the larger Raleigh Convention and Performing Arts Complex (including Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts, plus Raleigh Convention Center and Red Hat Amphitheater), which draws 1 million guests annually, “and we are proud to partner with Martin Marietta as we continue to provide world-class performances for our guests.”

For its part, MMCPA—which pulls ~400K+ alone to its four event spaces across 600+ events each year—is a beautiful venue steeped in culture and tradition, says Martin Marietta chairman, President and CEO Ward Nye. “We are excited for the opportunity to be involved in its future,” he adds. “Partnering with The Center for the Performing Arts to ensure the people of Raleigh, Wake County and North Carolina may continue enjoying the performing arts is directly in line with one of Martin Marietta’s core values—community.” See you at the Center. martinmariettacenter.com 

Fun Facts: 

• MMCPA is home to five resident companies: Carolina Ballet, North Carolina Opera, North Carolina Symphony, NC Theatre and PineCone. 

• The center creates an average of $35.4 million in economic impact for Raleigh’s businesses, hotels and restaurants.

• The current 20-year naming rights agreement includes the option of two additional five-year extensions.