About the Pac

The Francis Marion University Performing Arts Center opened in 2011 and is located in downtown Florence. Its main elements include an 849-seat main auditorium with a fly tower and orchestra shell, a 100-seat experimental theater, and an academic wing with classrooms, offices, and rehearsal spaces for the Department of Fine Arts Music Industry degree. The surrounding grounds include the 500-seat Truist Amphitheatre and the Beverly Hazelwood and Starr Ward Garden Courtyard. FMU’s Music Industry program, a division of the Department of Fine arts, is housed at the PAC along with resident performing companies (the Florence Symphony Orchestra, Masterworks Choir, South Carolina Dance Theatre) and the Drs. Bruce and Lee Foundation. The PAC is home to a variety of cultural and civic events throughout the year. Spaces are also available for rentals by the public.

Parking

The best choice for PAC parking is the City Parking Complex, located across Cheves Street from the PAC facility. The complex is accessible from Irby and Dargan Streets, and it’s FREE! Other parking may be available at nearby locations on certain days, and on Dargan Street in front of the building. Accessible, labeled parking is located on the West Cheves Street side of the PAC.

Accessibility

Accessible seating is available inside the PAC. Contact our ticket office with your needs and concerns, and we will be happy to assist.

For assisted listening devices, please see an usher upon your arrival.

Concessions

A variety of concession items are available for purchase prior to perofrmances and during intermissions. In some instances, beverages are allowed in the theatre in an official Performing Arts Center container (also available for purchase). Food is not allowed inside the theatres.

Seating

Accessible seating is available inside the PAC. Contact our ticket office with your needs and concerns, and we will be happy to assist. For assisted listening devices, please see an usher upon your arrival.

All patrons, young or old, need a ticket to attend shows at the PAC. Because small children often have needs that live entertainment cannot fulfill, and to make sure all of our patrons enjoy the show, we strongly recommend that children 5 years or younger do not attend most PAC shows.

Meet Our Team

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How can I purchase tickets?

There are three ways to purchase tickets. Online at fmupac.org, by calling 843.661.4444, or in person at our ticket office located at 201 South Dargan Street, Florence, SC. The ticket office is open M-F from 12:00pm – 5:00pm, and 90 minutes prior to any performance.

Are there fees for purchasing tickets?

All sales have a $3 facility fee per ticket that goes towards FMU scholarships and for facility ticketing expenses. Any tickets that are mailed require $1.50 per ticket, and any online purchases have a $3.75 per ticket processing fee.

Where do i park?

We suggest that you park in the City Parking Complex across Cheves Street, accessible from Irby Street and Dargan Street (Link to map). And it’s free! Other parking may be available at nearby locations on certain days, and on the street in front of the building.

Where is accessible parking?

Accessible parking is available on the Cheves Street side of the Performing Arts Center (see map).

Is there accessible seating?

Absolutely. Simply contact our ticket office with your needs and concerns, and we will be happy to assist.

What about assisted listening devices? I sometimes have difficulty hearing the performance.

Yes! Once you arrive at the PAC, please ask any usher for assistance.

Can children attend performances?

We think it is important for all young people to be exposed to the performing arts and other similar events, especially those that are intended for children and families. But because small children often have needs that live entertainment cannot fulfill, and to make sure all of our patrons enjoy our shows, we do strongly recommend that children 5 years or younger not attend most FMU Performing Arts Center performances.

Will children need a ticket to attend?

Yes, all patrons, young or old, need a ticket.

Can I take photos or videos, or record audio at any of the performances?

Unfortunately, you cannot. Many of our artists and performers have restrictions on photos, videos, and recording, and it can also be distracting to other patrons. We ask that you simply enjoy the performance as it unfolds in front of you!

Are concessions available at the venue?

Yes, at some events a variety of items are available prior to the performance and at intermission. Food is not allowed in the theaters but beverages are allowed if in a FMUPAC beverage cup. These can be purchased at the theatre for $2.

What if I am running late, and get to the theater after the show has started?

Don’t worry; we will get you inside as soon as possible. We generally allow seating at appropriate breaks in the performance, such as between songs or at natural breaks. So we ask for your patience.

What should I wear?

Some people enjoy dressing up and others prefer more casual attire. Basically, it’s up to you!

What if I have additional questions?

Simply call us at 843.661.4444, or email us at fmupac@fmarion.edu!