Theatre FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions before visiting the Sottile Theatre

WHERE DO I PARK?
Several parking lots and on-street metered spaces are located near the Sottile Theatre. The closest parking garage is around the corner on St. Philip Street, between George and Wentworth streets. Some metered on-street parking is available on surrounding streets and is often free in the evenings. (Please refer to the City of Charleston's Parking Meters page or on the meter itself for free vs. paid times, as they can vary.) We have also included a map showing additional nearby parking garages as well as CofC dining/coffee options that are open to the public.

IS THERE ELEVATOR ACCESS TO THE SEATING AREAS?
There is an elevator directly inside the front doors on George Street that goes to the Orchestra level seating section. We DO NOT have elevator access to the Balcony seating sections. 

WHAT IS YOUR SMOKING POLICY?
The Sottile Theatre is a non-smoking establishment, as is the College of Charleston campus.

ARE FOOD OR DRINKS ALLOWED INSIDE THE THEATRE?
Only bottled water can be brought into the seating area. Concessions are available at most performances and can be enjoyed in the lobby areas before a show and during intermissions. No outside food and drinks are allowed in the building.

WHAT IS PROHIBITED AT THE VENUE?
Weapons of any kind, including pocketknives, outside food and beverages, smoking of any kind, including e-cigarettes, large backpacks, bags, oversized purses, etc. For the safety and security of all patrons, all persons and items entering the Sottile Theatre are subject to search.

WHERE DO I BUY TICKETS?
Tickets for Sottile Theatre events can be secured during business hours in person at the George Street Box Office (44 George St.) or by phone at 843.953.GSBO (4726). Tickets can also be purchased 24/7 at gsbo.cofc.edu/tickets. The George Street Box Office is open Monday-Friday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. and one hour prior to events.

WHAT IS THE DRESS CODE AT SOTTILE?
There is no specific dress code for the Sottile Theatre. However, some events such as opening nights will draw a dressier crowd. Many of our guests enjoy dressing up to go to the theatre, but you will see people wearing everything from casual for a concert or movie to Sunday best or formal wear for theatrical performance.

WHAT IS THE CAMERA AND VIDEO POLICY?
Federal copyright laws prohibit the use of cameras or other recording devices, though some events may allow limited photography. No large cameras or removable lenses are ever allowed without prior permission, and we never allow flash photography of any kind. For further questions, you can contact the Theatre.

ARE CELL PHONES ALLOWED IN THE THEATRE?
Cell phones are allowed in the Theatre, but as a courtesy to artists and other patrons, we ask that you please silence your phones and refrain from using it during performances as it may be distracting to the performers and other patrons.

MY TICKETS ARE FOR SEATS 2 AND 4 - ARE THOSE SEATED TOGETHER?
Yes. In the theatre, the seating is arranged with even-numbered tickets on one side and odd-numbered tickets on the other. If your string of seats is consecutive even or odd numbers, all your seats are in fact together!

HOW EARLY SHOULD I ARRIVE FOR A SHOW/WHAT TIME DO DOORS OPEN?
Lobby doors open one hour prior to each performance. Please allow time for travel and parking. Doors to the theatre's seating area typically open thirty minutes prior to curtain time.

IF I AM RUNNING LATE, WILL I BE ABLE TO TAKE MY SEAT?
Latecomers are seated at the discretion of house management at the first appropriate seating break that allows for the least disruption for performers and seated audience members. In some cases, no late seating will be allowed.

CAN I SEE A SEATING CHART OF THE THEATRE?
The seating chart is available here.

CAN I RENT THE THEATRE FOR A PRIVATE EVENT?
Yes, the Sottile Theatre is available for rental to appropriate organizations for functions. Please contact us via email at SottileTheatre@cofc.edu to discuss your event. For more information on hosting an event at the Sottile Theatre, visit the Venue Information page.

HOW DO I CONTACT THE LOST AND FOUND DEPARTMENT?
For lost and found items, please email or call our Front Office at 843.953.6277.

HOW OLD IS THE SOTTILE?
Construction began on the Gloria Theatre in 1921. It opened on August 20, 1927 to great acclaim and excitement. At the time, it was the largest theater of its kind in South Carolina. It served the Charleston community for over 45 years until its closing in 1975, at which time the College of Charleston purchased the property. The College eventually reopened it in 1990 as the Sottile Theatre, in honor of the owner of Pastime Amusement Company Albert Sottile, who built and managed the Gloria for the length of its lifespan. Visit our History page to learn more about the Theatre.

WHAT WAS THE FIRST PERFORMANCE AT THE SOTTILE?
On opening night, audiences were entertained by the silent film After Midnight, starring Norma Shearer, which was accompanied by organ music. The Gloria Theatre, given its extensive furnishings and details, impressed patrons during its opening reception, and continually provided movie entertainment for Charleston residents until its closing in 1975. Visit our History page to learn more about the Theatre.