80's renovation process, seating was reduced to 334, making it quite an intimate venue. The Temple also has an orchestra pit, which is utilized by musicians, but can be covered to create a larger stage. Because it was designed for vaudeville, the acoustics are superb - highlighted by an ornate painted tin ceiling, and audience members have a good view of the stage from every seat. In the spring of 2012, the Temple unveiled a brand new concession and restroom area. The Temple is a cultural center and the top year-round attraction in Lee County. The North Carolina Shakespeare Festival, the Red Clay Ramblers, The Kingston Trio, the Glenn Miller Band, Count Basie, Mark Wills, The Embers, and Nantucket (band) are among the artists who have performed at the Temple Theatre. Today, The Temple Theatre Company produces seven Main Stage shows per season ranging from musicals to dramas, with each show running for three weeks. All the actors are paid professionals brought in from across the country. The Temple Theatre is also a Comedy Zone venue, and has hosted a number of high-profile stand up comics in recent years, including Jimmie Walker, Carlos Mencia, Jon Reep, James Gregory (comedian), and Pauly Shore. Special events at the Temple range from pop concerts to dance recitals. The Temple attracts patrons from the Research Triangle, the Piedmont Triad, and the Sandhills areas on a regular basis. In all, around 40,000 people visit the Temple each year. All funds raised during the annual fund drive go to the maintenance and operation of the facility (utilities, insurance, equipment, security, etc.). Production expenses come from ticket sales, sponsorships, grants, and advertising. The Temple Theatre is a non-profit organization. The full schedule of events at Temple Theatre can be viewed at http://www.templeshows.org. Current Staff Peggy Taphorn as Producing Artistic Director Gavan Pamer as Director of Education and Associate Artistic Director Ravenne Pantoja as Marketing Director John Wampler as Technical Director Tabitha Whitlow as Business Manager Patrick Holt as Facilities Manager Jonas Rowland as Production Stage Manager Board of Directors President: Bill Gross Vice President: Secretary: Justin Smith Treasurer: Shay Benton Dr. Mindy Deason Marlowe Terry McMillian David Morse Dr. Karyn Rahn References External links The Temple Theatre National Register of Historic Places Theatres on the National Register of Historic Places in North Carolina Colonial Revival architecture in North Carolina Art Deco architecture in North Carolina Theatres completed