The Clayton Center facts for kids
The Clayton Center is a special place in Clayton, North Carolina. It's where people go to enjoy live shows and big meetings. The Town of Clayton runs this center. You can find it right next to the Town Hall. Many people from Johnston County, North Carolina and the nearby Triangle area visit The Clayton Center.
Contents
History of The Clayton Center
From School to Arts Hub
The building where The Clayton Center now stands used to be a school. It was called Clayton Elementary School. The school closed its doors in 1997. After that, the building got a new purpose.
How the Center Started
The Clayton Center was created by a team effort. The Town of Clayton worked with the Clayton Cultural Arts Foundation. This group helps raise money for the center. The Clayton Center first opened its doors in December 2002.
What You Can Do at The Clayton Center
Events and Gatherings
The Clayton Center is a busy place. Many different events happen here. You can find receptions, trade shows, and even weddings. These events often take place in the main lobby. It has a cool glass atrium.
Meeting Spaces
The center has many rooms for meetings. These rooms are on both the first and second floors. They are perfect for groups to gather.
The Main Auditorium
The center has a large auditorium. It can seat 600 people! This big space is used for many things. You can watch presentations or film screenings. It's also a great spot for concerts and pageants. Many other performing arts shows happen here too.
Special Performances
The Clayton Center hosts a special series each year. It's called the Palladian Series. This series brings in artists from all over the world. They perform different kinds of shows.
Famous Performers at The Clayton Center
Many well-known artists have performed here. Some of them include:
- Capitol Steps
- David Sedaris
- Doc Watson
- Riders in the Sky
- Chris Thile
- The Flying Karamazov Brothers
- Harlem Gospel Choir
- Eileen Ivers
- Jesse Cook
- Jim Brickman
- Ricky Skaggs
- Shawn Colvin
- Kathy Mattea
- Johnny Winter
- Ruthie Foster
- Eric Bibb
- John Pizzarelli
- Blind Boys of Alabama
- Colin Hay
- Tommy Emmanuel
- Dianne Reeves
- James Cotton
- Robert Cray
- Jake Shimabukuro
- Ladysmith Black Mambazo
- Nanci Griffith