The venue was originally built by the Warner brothers, the founders of Warner Bros. Studios, as a memorial to their brother Sam Warner.
The structure features a distinct French Renaissance exterior and a Mediterranean-style interior design.
The Powers Auditorium stage was specifically engineered for optimal acoustics for orchestral performances.
It is a cornerstone of the downtown Youngstown revitalization efforts that began in the early 2000s.
The DeYor Performing Arts Center is a historic cultural complex in downtown Youngstown featuring the restored Powers Auditorium and the Eleanor Beecher Flad Pavilion. Originally opened in 1931 as the Warner Theatre, it stands as a prime example of French Renaissance architecture. The facility serves as the primary home for the Youngstown Symphony Orchestra. It hosts a diverse range of touring Broadway shows, concerts, dance performances, and community arts programming. The venue underwent extensive renovations to preserve its ornate interior detailing, including original chandeliers and decorative plasterwork. It remains a focal point for the Mahoning Valley’s professional performing arts scene.
The grand lobby, which features original 1930s architectural elements, gold leaf detailing, and crystal chandeliers.
Check the official event calendar before arriving as the center is only open during scheduled performances and events.
Arrive at least 45 minutes prior to showtime to appreciate the historical architecture in the lobby and mezzanine.
Use the nearby downtown parking garages, which are designed to handle high-volume event traffic.
Do not attempt to enter the building on non-event days, as it remains locked and inaccessible to the general public.
Operates strictly on an event-basis; the facility is closed to the public outside of performance hours.
Business casual or dressy attire is expected for evening symphony and theater performances.