The Great Aunt Stella Center

The Great Aunt Stella Center occupies a neoclassical building in Charlotte, North Carolina, originally constructed in 1914 as a church and added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2005. The building retains its original Italian stained glass windows, a pipe organ, and a circular sanctuary that reflects nearly a century of architectural character. Named after the great aunt of the philanthropist who acquired the property in 1997, the center reopened as Charlotte's alternative performing arts, cultural, and community gathering place. The Sanctuary accommodates up to 400 guests for ceremonies, concerts, and conferences, offering a baby grand piano, a pipe organ, and state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems. The Cafe seats up to 150 guests for receptions and social gatherings, with a built-in dance floor and kitchen facilities. Together, the two spaces suit a range of events — from non-denominational weddings and musical performances to literary readings, corporate meetings, and community events. Self-Help, a community development organization, has operated the venue since 2002 with a commitment to maintaining its historic character and affordable access.