The Clayton Center

The Clayton Center is a renovated performing arts and event venue in historic downtown Clayton, North Carolina, housed in the former Clayton Elementary School — a building that served the community from 1915 until 1997. Through a public-private partnership between the Town of Clayton and the Clayton Cultural Arts Foundation, the 1926 auditorium was restored and a companion conference center added; the Center opened in December 2002 and now serves Johnston County and the greater Triangle area, just a short drive from Raleigh. The venue's 600-seat auditorium features a full stage with theatrical lighting and professional audio, a 12×16-foot projection screen, and an LCD projector, making it a natural fit for concerts, stage productions, film screenings, and large-scale presentations. For social gatherings and celebrations, the 4,000-square-foot Lobby Gallery offers exposed antique brick, an atrium-like openness with four overhead terraces, and rotating monthly exhibits from local artists — accommodating up to 350 guests for receptions, cocktail parties, and dances. Complimentary WiFi, table and chair setup, and free parking are included with all rentals. Two catering kitchenettes — one with a commercial refrigerator and ice machine — support outside caterers, with no restrictions when proof of insurance is provided. The venue is wheelchair accessible.