Situated on the banks of the Halifax River in historic downtown Daytona Beach, the News-Journal Center is the perfect venue for medium-scale musical and theatrical performances, as well as conferences, graduations and other mid-sized events. The News-Journal Center’s interior pulsates with contemporary flare, providing a dramatic and dynamic environment, whether your event is for business or pleasure. This multi-level, multi-stage special event and live concert facility offers an imaginative combination of technical design and soft elegance that makes it one of the most engaging venues in the area. It is the perfect locale for private events and exclusive red-carpet parties. Daytona State College is committed to providing our community high quality entertainment and educational experiences in this unique downtown venue. The entire theater is equipped with state-of-the-art theatrical, communication and data technology. We welcome the opportunity to host a diverse array of cultural partners, artists and organizations, both established and emerging. From cocktail receptions to catered affairs, corporate meetings or performing arts, the News-Journal Center sets the stage for your next event. The facility features three main venues: Davidson Theater: A proscenium-style venue that is intimate, yet grand in style. It features seating for 850 guests, an orchestra pit, fly tower, digital sound boards, computerized lighting and dimming, and excellent sight lines from every seat. Gillespy Theater: This 250-seat venue offers a thrust-proscenium hybrid style design that literally places the stage amidst the theater’s seating, allowing the audience to surround it. This space also has a wire tension grid that allows for greater lighting flexibility. The venue is perfect for chamber concerts, children’s theater, lectures, meetings and presentations. Grand Lobby: The Center’s lobby area itself may be ideally suitable for your next event. The multi-level, glass-enclosed atrium provides panoramic views of historic downtown Daytona Beach and the Halifax River, a spectacular setting whether it be a formal gala for 500 people or an intimate gathering of your closest friends.