Hilton Head Island is celebrated for much more than its recreational offerings; it also shares acclaim for its arts and cultural pursuits. The island is endowed with a strong medley of visual and performing arts, including dance, theater, music and art.

Situated in the heart of Hilton Head is the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, a remarkable showcase for the visual and performing arts. It houses not only a theater but also concerts, dance performances and art exhibits. A vital part of the community, this year's season is better than ever.

At the Walter Greer Gallery , the 2,288 square foot art gallery, almost a dozen exhibits are featured throughout each season. Unique and beautiful

paintings, sculptures and photographs grace the gallery walls and floor. There are national and local shows throughout the year including the Gullah Celebration in February, which spotlights South Carolina 's rich Gullah culture rooted in Africa and the plantations of the Old South, displayed in all its beauty.

The Elizabeth Wallace Theater features the Arts Center 's Main Stage with two-level seating for 352 patrons. The theater boasts a working stage, cyclorama, orchestra pit and trap door access for special stage effects. The Main Stage hosts comedy, drama and musicals as well as other gifted actors, singers and dancers.

During the 2009 Presenting Series, the Arts Center will present an exciting year of live performances from pop, rock and jazz to big band, blues, country and classical, acrobats and improvisation comedy, emphasizing that there's something here for every taste.

In addition, the Arts Center annually hosts a series of outdoor festivals including the Community Christmas Tree Lighting in December, GullahFest in February, Youth ArtsFest in March and the hugely popular Family Fiesta Latina in May.

Over seventeen community arts groups utilize the facility, ranging from barbershop quartets to the Hilton Head Dance Theatre's popular production of “The Nutcracker.” The diverse roster of cultural disciplines and events will include art shows, lectures, performances—both amateur and professional, arts and crafts classes, dance instruction and more.