At the Hylton Center

Before the Performance

Pre-Performance Discussions

Sponsored by the Friends of the Hylton Center

Join us at the Hylton Center one hour prior to most Hylton Presents events, and enjoy our lively and popular Pre-Performance Discussions. These forums are led by local experts and, often, by the artists themselves. Here, patrons are encouraged to ask questions and are able to gain a bit of insight and knowledge about our world-renowned guest artists. Held in Merchant Hall, these captivating exchanges provide a unique opportunity to go behind the scenes!

When available, information about the speaker(s) is posted on the event listing for each performance.

Buchanan Partners Art Gallery

Enjoy exhibitions by local and regional visual artists before or after a performance in the Buchanan Partners Art Gallery.

Food at the Center

Concessions are available prior to Hylton Presents performances and at intermissions in the Didlake Grand Foyer. Snacks, cookies, sodas, and wine are available for purchase. Cash only.

Raise Your Glass 

Did you know you can enjoy a beverage from the comfort of your own seat during the performance? Purchase a Hylton Center souvenir cup for $5, fill it with your favorite drink and enjoy the show. As of March 10, 2020, the re-use of Hylton Center tumblers has been temporarily suspended until further notice.  New cups may be purchased and used, but will not be refilled.

House Rules and Helpful Information

For the safety, convenience, and benefit of all audience members, performers, and staff, we ask that patrons please observe the following rules and regulations:

Upon arrival

• You must be 21 years or older and provide a valid ID to purchase alcohol. 
• Please do not leave personal possessions unattended. 

Upon entering the theater

• All patrons must have a valid ticket regardless of age.  
• Lap seats, if offered, are for 2 years and under. Baby carriers may be placed on seats if you have purchased a ticket for that seat. Carriers must not block the view of other patrons or impede egress in the aisle. 
• Patrons must sit in their assigned seat. If you need to move your seat, please contact the Ticket Office. 
• Patrons arriving after the start of a performance will be seated at an appropriate break in an appropriate location as determined by house management and as dictated by artists’ requirements.   

While inside the theater

• No photography or video recording. 
• Food and drink are not permitted into the theaters, with the exception of bottled water or our Venue Tumblers, which can be purchased at the concessions stand or the Ticket Office.  
• In accordance to venue safety and fire code, all aisles must remain clear of objects at all times. Patrons must sit in a physical seat, and may not stand or sit on an aisle.  
• Disturbing fellow patrons by loud conversation, phones, visual and auditory distractions, or otherwise inappropriate behavior is not permitted and may result in removal from the event without a refund.
• All railings in the theaters must remain clear of personal items at all times.
• The following items are prohibited from our theaters: 
• Balloons
• The use of Tobacco or vaping products
• Flames of any kind
• Fire arms
• Animals, unless they are an ADA service animal. ADA service animals must remain leashed while on property.  
• Violation of House Rules or University Regulations may result in prosecution and/or removal from the event without a refund.

Learn about accessible options when visiting the Hylton Performing Arts Center.