As the leaves begin to change and the air grows crisp, the Twin Counties are gearing up for a vibrant season of theater and live entertainment. This fall and winter, the Imperial Centre for the Arts & Sciences and The Dunn Center at North Carolina Wesleyan College will host an array of performances that promise to captivate audiences of all ages. From classic Shakespearean comedy to nostalgic holiday favorites and dynamic live music, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

The Imperial Centre: Where Magic and Memories Meet

The Imperial Centre in Rocky Mount is set to enchant theatergoers with two highly anticipated productions this season. First up is "A Midsummer Night’s Dream," running from October 10th to 13th. This beloved Shakespearean comedy, filled with love, illusion, and mischievous fairies, will transport audiences to a whimsical world where the lines between reality and fantasy blur. With performances at 7:30 p.m. on October 10th through 12th, and a matinee at 2 p.m. on October 13th, this production is a must-see for fans of classic literature and theater.

As the holiday season approaches, the Imperial Centre will spread festive cheer with "A Charlie Brown Christmas," scheduled for December 12th to 15th. This heartwarming tale, based on the iconic television special, follows Charlie Brown as he discovers the true meaning of Christmas amidst the hustle and bustle of the season. The showtimes are 7:30 p.m. on December 12th through 14th, with a 2 p.m. matinee on December 15th. It’s the perfect way to kick off the holiday season with family and friends.

In addition to its theater offerings, the Imperial Centre also boasts a children's museum, a science center, and an arts center, making it a cultural hub for the community year-round.

Tickets can be purchased for the upcoming theater performances using this link!

To learn more about what The Imperial Centre offers, check out their website!

The Dunn Center: A Stage for Every Taste

Over at The Dunn Center at North Carolina Wesleyan College, the season is off to an exciting start with a lineup that features a mix of comedy, music, and tribute performances. On September 13th, the season kicks off with Reggie Rice, a family-friendly show brimming with hilarious comedy and innovative illusions that will leave audiences laughing and amazed.

The excitement continues as the much-loved tribute band Departure returns on 9/27, along with a diverse array of new talent debuting on the Dunn Center stage. In October, audiences can enjoy a variety of fun shows; a performance by the “King” at The Ultimate Elvis Concert (10/3), the down-home wit and inspirational wisdom of Rocky Mount native John Floyd (10/11), as well as Nirvani – A Nirvana Tribute Experience (10/18), which captures the essence of one of the most iconic bands of the 90s.

As October comes to a close, the Dunn Center will host Larry & Joe (10/25), a dynamic duo from North Carolina's Triangle area, performing a unique fusion of Venezuelan and Appalachian folk music. November keeps the energy high with Damn Tall Buildings (11/1), a Brooklyn-based roots/Americana band that blends bluegrass with swing, ragtime, jazz, and contemporary influences.

The season will conclude on February 7, 2025 with a tribute to a musical legend. The Purple Xperience, a five-piece group from Minneapolis, will pay homage to Prince, bringing his iconic sound and electrifying stage presence to life for fans old and new.

In addition to its performance season, The Dunn Center will also host a special exhibition celebrating the art of Bob Ross. Following the tremendous success of last year’s exhibit, which attracted over 11,000 visitors from across the country and beyond, the Dunn Center will showcase "Bob Ross Bringing Back the Joy," featuring 76 newly revealed paintings by the beloved artist. The exhibit will run from December 2nd through January 13th, 2025, with advance tickets available for $15.

Tickets can be purchased for all concerts and art exhibits at The Dunn Center with this link!

This fall and winter, the Twin Counties offer an abundance of cultural experiences that are not to be missed. Whether you’re a theater enthusiast, a music lover, or an art aficionado, the Imperial Centre and The Dunn Center have curated a season of events that will inspire, entertain, and delight. Mark your calendars and get ready to experience the best of local and regional talent right here in the Twin Counties.