DAC is a Community Venue

Built in 1927, the Hocker Motors Building (later occupied by Pat Murphy Motors) is one of a few remaining post-Victorian commercial spaces in Durango. Slated for demolition in 1996 to make way for a municipal parking lot, the City of Durango and Durango Arts Center partnered to purchase and restore the 14,000 square foot building into the community arts center, venue and gathering space it is today.  Each year, DAC is proud to serve as a professionally managed, dynamic facility for the benefit of over 50 businesses, individuals and community organizations and their performances, film screenings, concerts, fundraisers, workshops, classes, art parties, and other special events. 

Within the Durango Arts Center is the Barbara Conrad Gallery, Dorthy C. Bickel Dance Studio, Community Arts Theater, Art Library, and Education Studio. These spaces are available for rent to community members and community organizations. DAC Members receive discounted rates for the dance studio, education studio, art library, and gallery. Non-profit, education and commercial rates are available for rentals in the theater. 

All rentals are done on a first-come-first-served basis and are not secured until a signed contract, rental deposit and damage deposit have been received.     

• All rentals are required to provide a Certificate of Insurance prior to their event.
• All wine, beer, and liquor must be purchased and distributed by DAC Bar Staff.
• All rentals are required to review and sign off on the Rules and Procedures.

The DAC offers Box Offices Services to theater rentals with completion of the Box Office Services Agreement. Additional fees do apply for Box Office Services. The Box Office is open Tuesday-Saturday 10 AM – 5 PM at 802 East Second Avenue in Downtown Durango or by phone at 970.259.2606. Tickets are available 24/7 on our event list page.

Food and Beverage

DAC maintains a liquor license and bar in the theater, and all alcoholic beverages must be purchased through DAC.  DAC provides a modest kitchen space to support outside catering (DAC does not currently support food prep).

Durango Arts Center Rental Info Packet

For facility rental details and pricing, download the DAC Rental Info Packet.

To request dates, click the button below.