Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts

The Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts is a historic cultural landmark at the southern end of Fayetteville Street in downtown Raleigh. Originally opened in 1932 as the Raleigh Memorial Auditorium, the complex was rebranded in 2023 from its former name, the Duke Energy Center. Its grand architecture serves as a visual anchor for the city’s vibrant downtown district, offering a sophisticated atmosphere just steps away from the North Carolina State Capitol. The center features four distinct performance spaces, including the majestic Memorial Auditorium and the intimate A.J. Fletcher Opera Theater, making it a premier stop for national comedy tours. It has hosted a diverse array of celebrated comedians, such as DL Hughley, Sheryl Underwood, and Harland Williams. Known for exceptional acoustics and professional production, the venue provides comedy fans with a polished, world-class experience in the heart of the Triangle.