Longstreet Theater

The Longstreet Theater is a 312 seat arena located on the campus of the University of South Carolina and is considered a campus landmark.  It was built along the lines of a Roman temple, and was originally designed as a chapel and auditorium before the Civil War.  It did have its share of problems though before it was even completed.  The roof was blown off twice, it had poor acoustics that could not be fixed and its completion was two years late.  Despite that the building has quite a history.  It served as a military hospital during the Civil War and the state legislature met there after the war.  From 1870-1887 it was an arsenal and armory for the inspector general of South Carolina.  Then, because of its acoustical problems it was converted to a science facility in 1888 and then a gymnasium in 1893.  It was in 1976 that the building was remolded to an arena theater and it finally had found its destiny.  It is now a four story building with a circular stage surrounded by seats.  The sound system and stage capability add to its versatility.  Today it plays a major role in the University’s College of Arts and Sciences theater and dance program. 

The Longstreet Theater is named for Augustus B. Longstreet.  He was a controversial jurist, writer and ad educator who served as president of South Carolina College from 1857-1861.  However, he is most widely known for his collection of sketches, Georgia Scenes that are based on his experiences in rural Georgia as a young lawyer.  He had his sketches published in a volume and have been enjoyed by many people.  These sketches are considered a important contribution to Southern literary humor. 

Many visitors to the University of South Carolina will visit the Longstreet Theater for one of the many wonderful productions performed there.  A convenient place to stay of you’ll be visiting the USC campus and the Longstreet Theater is the Courtyard Columbia Downtown at USC.  At the Courtyard Columbia you’ll enjoy wonderful accommodations and the convenience of being located right on the USC campus.  In addition, you will also be close to many of the popular areas in Columbia.  Our staff will help make your visit to the area extra special.  The service we provide is exceptional and that combined with the wonderful amenities we offer in each room are sure to make your stay a pleasant one.  Check us out online and make your reservations today.