Over 120,000 Visited Clayton Center This Year

The Clayton Center's Palladian Series, which just finished its 2010-2011 season a few days ago with a concert by jazz star Dianne Reeves, won rave reviews and brought thousands of people to Clayton over the last few months.

The positive economic impact is very important, but Mayor Jody McLeod says the positive impact on the town's reputation and quality of life is valuable, too.

"The Clayton Center, with its wonderful concerts and programs, is beyond important," the Mayor said. "Where would Clayton be without it? How could we ever begin to calculate its true value?"

The season--which began with Comedian Jon Reep and included such stars at Kathy Mattea, The Blind Boys of Alabama, Guitarist Tommy Emmanuel, Bluesman James "Superharp" Cotton, Singer Colin Hay and Reeves--was one of the Center's best ever, said Executive Director Heidi Stump.

"Our patrons appreciate the variety," she said. "It was another great season, and we continued to draw large numbers from outside of town."

She said about half who attended Clayton Center programs were from out of town, which means added business for local restaurants, gas stations and stores.

Many called or emailed after attending a particular show to express their feelings about the venue and show. Here's a look at what a few had to say:

This was my first time at the Clayton Center to see a performance. I am from Chapel Hill and since the show I have been telling everyone, it's a bit farther to drive from Chapel Hill, but honestly, it's that much better. We will be coming back and love everything about the venue and the people that were making it happen. —Tommy Emmanuel Fan

Excellent shows and facilities. Overall, an excellent value for the price. —Tommy Emmanuel Fan

Overall, we enjoyed the show very much. This place and its programs are a real gem and a much-appreciated alternative to some of the other venues in our area. Often, simple production and raw talent provide the most entertaining and satisfying experience for me. Thanks for bringing these options to the Triangle. —Tommy Emmanuel Fan

We felt like we had discovered something really great when we came to the Clayton Center. Can't say enough about it! —Tommy Emmanuel Fan

Great evening and I did not have to travel to Raleigh, Durham, Cary or Chapel Hill to enjoy quality and contemporary interest music/entertainment. Thank you so much. Keep bringing in acts that are unique and good like Mr. Cotton.—James Cotton Fan

Great place. Acoustics are great and there's not a bad seat in the house. —James Cotton Fan

The lineup for the new season will be released in August.

You can keep up-to-date on all Clayton Center activities by joining the Clayton Center email list on the Center website at www.theclaytoncenter.com

The Clayton Center Auditorium and Conference Center continues to be a beehive of activity after the Palladian Series ends. With events ranging from weddings and receptions to medical seminars and non-profit workshops, the Conference Center provides a valuable service while bringing in revenue. In fact, revenue generated by the Conference Center helps to sustain the Performing Arts Series. In all, more than 120,000 people visited the Center this year, either for a performance, meeting or other event.