The Varsity Center: Carbondale's Art Moderne Hub

The Varsity Center for the Arts stands as a testament to Carbondale's commitment to arts and culture. Housed in the historic Varsity Theater, which first opened its doors in 1940, the center has become a cornerstone of the city's downtown. The building itself is an example of Art Moderne architecture, evoking a sense of nostalgia and grandeur.Originally a single-screen movie house with a seating capacity of 1,100, the Varsity Theater underwent several transformations, including being twinned and then triplexed. A fire in 1981 led to remodeling, but the theater eventually closed in 2003. In 2008, the Stage Company of Jackson County acquired the building and began an extensive restoration project, reopening it as the Varsity Center for the Arts.Today, the Varsity Center boasts three performance spaces: the Balcony Stage, a 137-seat listening room; the East Theater, seating 150; and the Big Room, with a capacity of 475. These spaces host a diverse array of events, including live music, theatrical productions by the Jackson County Stage Company, film screenings, and community gatherings. The Varsity Bar offers patrons a selection of local and craft beers and wines, as well as non-alcoholic beverages and snacks. The Varsity Center is located in the heart of downtown Carbondale, conveniently situated between City Hall and Southern Illinois University.