SIGNIFICANT UPGRADES UNVEILED AT DOMINION ENERGY CENTER AND ALTRIA THEATER

(RICHMOND, VA - SEPTEMBER 16, 2025) - Carpenter Theatre at Dominion Energy Center and Altria Theater, two of Richmond’s most exciting entertainment venues, have announced significant improvements aimed at elevating the audience experience. Local venue representatives of Legends Global, the premier partner to the world's greatest live events, venues, and brands, unveiled the $2.5 million completed project, which included exciting lighting, audio, ticketing, entry, and elevator upgrades.  

 

“This endeavor reflects our commitment to Richmond’s arts community, our resident companies, and especially our patrons, with the goal of providing a pleasant, safe, and convenient experience,” Chris Dudeck, general manager of Dominion Energy Center for Legends Global, stated. “These innovative and technical upgrades to the venue will both enrich the quality of performance and attract top artists, encouraging a Richmond stop on national tours.”

 

The historic Carpenter Theatre unveiled a new, top-of-the-line audio system and upgraded theatrical lighting controls. The new sound system replaces the former 16-year-old PA system with a German engineered high-resolution audio platform designed by d&b Audiotechnik® and scaled specifically for the size of the 1800-seat venue. This system also includes one of the newest Yamaha® audio mixing consoles created for the complexity of today’s performance set-ups.

 

Additionally, the state-of-the-art lighting control console installed at Carpenter Theatre allows technicians more creative control, while simultaneously providing complimentary support of the modern lighting systems used by touring productions.

 

Steve Sweet, Senior Technical Director for Legends Global affirmed, “The new audio and lighting systems at Carpenter Theatre are more representative of today’s concerts and production needs. Performance technology has come a long way in recent years, and we are so excited to be able to offer promotors and artists the newest and the best.”

 

Dominion Energy Center’s patron elevators also underwent renovations and are now fully modernized with the replacement of all mechanical hoist-weight components and interior cab features.

 

The Carpenter Theatre and Altria Theater are now using OPENGATE® frictionless security detectors, technology in place presently at Chesterfield County Schools. Combined with the new bag policy and the use of Alvarado UltraQ Portable Pedestal ticket scanners at both theaters, will enhance safety and speed up entry times at both venues.

 

Dominion Energy Center is home to the Carpenter Theatre, the Libby S. Gottwald Playhouse, and Bob & Sally Mooney Hall. The center is home to Richmond Performing Arts Alliance and resident companies, including Richmond Symphony Orchestra, Richmond Ballet, Virginia Opera, and other performing arts organizations, such as Cadence and Richmond Shakespeare theatre company. Dominion Energy Center presents over 100 performances annually and reached 110 thousand tickets sold in the 24/25 season.

 

“We are thrilled for the unveiling of the new state-of-the-art sound system at the Carpenter Theatre,” said Abbi Haggerty, executive director of Richmond Performing Arts Alliance. “This upgrade represents a major investment in the experience of our audiences and artists alike. Whether it’s a performance by one of our esteemed local resident companies or a renowned touring production, this new system will ensure that every note and word is delivered with exceptional clarity and precision."  

 

As part of ongoing initiatives to support the arts community, Legends Global donated the former PA system from Carpenter Theatre to Gallery5, a not-for-profit organization in Richmond. Gallery5 offers a diverse array of programming, including art exhibitions, musical performances, comedy, burlesque, film screenings, dance, spoken word, and theatre.

 

The new bag policy for both venues area as follows:

• No bags larger than 12in x 8in x 6in.
• Backpacks, boxes, laptop bags, and briefcases will not be permitted.
• Diaper bags and medical bags are exempt from policy and subject to search upon entry.

 

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About Legends Global

Legends Global is the premier partner to the world's greatest live events, venues, and brands.  We deliver a fully integrated solution of premium services, including feasibility & consulting, owner’s rep, sales, partnerships, venue management, hospitality, merchandise, and content & booking. Through our white-label approach, we keep our partners front and center while leveraging the power of our global network: over 450 venues, 20,000 events, and 165 million guests annually.  To learn more, visit us at www.LegendsGlobal.com and follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram.