The extravagant, award- winning renovation of Jefferson High School in Roanoke, VA has created an exceptional venue for artists from around the world.

The painstakingly finely-tuned Shaftman Performance Hall is beautifully appointed, with superb acoustics and state-of-the-art technical equipment.

SHAFTMAN PERFORMANCE HALL -- once the school auditorium -- opened in May 2001. It was modeled after a popular 17th century “shoe box” English opera house design. Consistent with the goal to be a first class performance facility Shaftman Performance Hall has outstanding acoustics and boasts rich, elegant finishes and decorations. The performance hall chairs are made of cherry wood with plush velvet cushions. The balcony, loges and chandeliers add to the spirit of an old world opera house.

Shaftman Performance Hall was the finishing touch to the transformation of the old high school into Jefferson Center and a multipurpose cultural community center. The scope of this cultural attraction is rarely found in a metropolitan area the size of Roanoke, and is a model of the success that can be achieved when local business, government, and nonprofit organizations collaborate to improve the lives of the community’s residents.

Jefferson Center is the perfect place to host your event or enjoy one of ours! From the lavishly renovated Shaftman Performance Hall to the dramatic and elegant Fralin Atrium, and Fitzpatrick Hall, Jefferson Center is designed to provide the community with a gathering place it can cherish, embrace and enjoy. Live performances, theatre, and musical productions, receptions, meetings and seminars as well as art shows in the Gallery are all at home at Jefferson Center -- a first-rate venue for classical and contemporary events.