Sponsored Content

Raleigh’s Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts receives prestigious international award

The International Association of Venue Managers (IAVM) recognized the Center for dedication to excellence in operation, service, professional development, and safety.

Sponsored by
Photo 1: Aerial view of a neoclassical building with large columns and a green roof, surrounded by lush trees and a clear blue sky, conveying a peaceful atmosphere. Photo 2: Grand building with illuminated columns and a majestic facade at night. Raleigh Memorial Auditorium is lit in blue, creating an elegant and inviting ambiance. Photo 3: Aerial view of a classical building with a green roof and grand columns, surrounded by lush trees. The sky glows with a soft pink and purple sunset.

The MMC’s full upcoming schedule through Spring 2026 is on their website now, featuring plays, ballets, comedy shows, concerts, and more.

Photos courtesy Flyboy Photo & Media

The International Association of Venue Managers recently honored our local Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts with the 2025 Venue Excellence Award.

Given to just five venues annually, this prestigious award honors venues that exemplify operational excellence, safety, professional development, and service to the community.

“We are honored to receive this amazing recognition from IAVM,” said General Manager Michelle Bradley. “This award puts an international spotlight on the passion our entire team shares for creating unforgettable experiences for our community.”

The center originally opened in 1932, and has undergone several upgrades in the last year that contributed to their success. The improvements include converting unused lobby space into The Lounge, an elevated hospitality area available as an upgrade to all ticket holders, not just donors or subscribers.

The Martin Marietta Center has also recently amplified focus on diversifying programming, increasing community impact and revenue, while consistently providing rich cultural experiences to both our community + visitors.

The Martin Marietta Center’s full 2025-2026 schedule is out now on their website.

Get tix + witness excellence

More from RALtoday
In case you hadn’t noticed, Raleigh’s growing in a big way, and some mixed-use developments are set to transform downtown + Midtown in 2026 and beyond. Here’s what you need to know about three major developments.
Discover the top Raleigh business podcasts, voices, and local resources our readers are tuning into — from must-listen interviews to expert insights.
Visit The Magic of the Fourth Ward: A Journey Through Time and Culture at the Martin Marietta Center to learn more about this vibrant neighborhood destroyed by urban renewal.
Microsoft, the world’s No. 4 most valuable company, will bring a data center to a large parcel in Person County.
Explore all 308 acres of Dorothea Dix Park and its top landmarks, history, and more.
The long-awaited Texas burger chain will make its debut next month in Wake Forest, and Raleigh’s location will open two weeks later.
The Canes sent five players to Milan for the 2026 Winter Olympics, and five of them are coming home as medalists, including one gold medalist.
From curling to ice hockey, you can train just like the world’s top athletes without leaving the 919.
Songbird will open later this year with local produce-driven cocktails, mocktails, and bites.
With flavors from chef + co-owner Saif Rahman’s culinary journey, this fast-breaking meal offers new tastes for Ramadan.