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The Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts Tickets
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- Seating, Pa
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Upcoming Events at The Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts
The venue
About The Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts
The Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts is a 1,660-seat, multi-use auditorium on the campus of Appalachian State University in Boone, North Carolina. Renovated and reopened in 2013 as the Schaefer Center (formerly Farthing Auditorium), it hosts a diverse lineup from touring performances to university productions. The venue features orchestra and balcony levels with flexible seating options shown in both non-tiered and tiered formats on the official site. When you’re planning a visit, think easy access, reliable parking, and nearby accommodations that fit a range of stays. We’ve got you covered with practical details and trusted partner recommendations to help you secure your seats without the hassle.
Whether you’re catching a world-class dance show like Ailey II: The Next Generation of Dance, a concert with Heather Headley and the Western Piedmont Symphony, or the kick-off of the annual An Appalachian Summer Festival, the Schaefer Center is your gateway to Boone’s vibrant performing arts scene.
Parking is convenient with the Peacock Lot across Rivers Street and the Blue Ridge Parking Deck behind the Center. Additional options include the Rivers Street Parking Deck and College Street Deck, with paid parking applying during business hours. For a stress-free trip, AppalCART offers fare-free bus service, and campus shuttles can help you reach the venue for events. If you’re staying nearby, explore these neighborhood hotels and dining spots, chosen for value and solid service for guests attending performances at the Schaefer Center:
- Courtyard by Marriott Boone – Modern lodging a short drive or ride from the venue; convenient for extended stays and quick access to campus.
- Hampton Inn & Suites Boone – Comfortable rooms, reliable service, easy access to local attractions.
- Horton Hotel & Rooftop Lounge – Boutique option with a rooftop experience ideal for pre-show dining or a nightcap.
- Holiday Inn Express Boone – Value-focused stay with complimentary breakfast and convenient location.
- Graystone Lodge – Relaxed, family-friendly lodging close to campus and dining options.
For dining, consider local favorites near Boone’s university district and the center. We’ve highlighted establishments often praised by visitors for quality, service, and proximity to the Schaefer Center. To keep things simple, we provide links below to trusted partner hotels and restaurants. Always confirm current hours and proximity for your show date.
Event planners and attendees will appreciate the venue’s accessibility features and flexible seating configurations. If you’re curious about the seating, the official site offers a seating chart in both non-tiered and tiered formats to help you choose the best view for your preferred experience. Use placeholder seats like great seats and sections like the section you want to select your view.
Good to know
Seating, Parking & Venue Information
- Capacity: 1,660 seats (multi-use auditorium with orchestra and balcony levels).
- Location/Address: 733 Rivers Street, Boone, NC 28608.
- Venue type: university performing arts center / multi-use auditorium.
- Seating chart: available in non-tiered and tiered formats on the official site.
- Parking: Peacock Lot across Rivers Street; Blue Ridge Parking Deck behind the Center; Rivers Street Parking Deck and College Street Deck also available; paid parking may apply during business hours.
- Transit: AppalCART fare-free bus service; campus shuttles and event transportation available.
- Nearby hotels: Courtyard by Marriott Boone; Hampton Inn & Suites Boone; Horton Hotel & Rooftop Lounge; Holiday Inn Express Boone; Graystone Lodge.
- Notable events: Ailey II: The Next Generation of Dance (Feb 20, 2026); Heather Headley with Western Piedmont Symphony (Jul 13, 2025); opening night of An Appalachian Summer Festival at the Schaefer Center (historic event with Idina Menzel).
- Renaming/history: renovated and reopened in 2013 as the Schaefer Center, formerly Farthing Auditorium.