Pleasures for the five senses

The Smithfield-Selma area and all of Johnston County surprise those who would believe that people in smaller communities have little appreciation for the arts. To the contrary, a high level of cultural activity flourishes in the Smithfield-Selma area.

The Johnston County Arts Council serves as an umbrella organization, fostering and promoting the arts in the county. It is charged with distributing North Carolina Grassroots funds in support of the arts.

The Paul A. Johnston Auditorium, on the campus of Johnston Community College, is a beautiful, 1,000 seat theater with state of the art sound and lighting. It’s 3,300 square-foot stage is one of the largest in the state.

A Performing Arts Concert Series is held annually in the Paul Johnston Auditorium.The series features celebrity concerts, ballet, opera, Broadway plays, military bands, and local shows. The auditorium is also used for forums, conventions and group meetings. Its large lobby can seat over 300 people for banquets and other functions.

A popular local theatrical group is the Neuse Little Theatre with some 100 members. Located in “The Hut” on Smithfield’s Town Commons, the group is over 35 years old and performs four productions annually, including musicals, comedies and dramas. This picture promotes the theatre's recent production of Steel Magnolias.

The Johnston County Chorale is another arts organization featuring local talent. Founded during the 1970’s, its 50 members present Christmas and Easter concerts and a spring pops concert.

The American Music Jubilee in Selma delights audiences every weekend with an evening of "Southern hospitality, great American music and side-splitting comedy." This Branson-style production features musical delights including '50s rock 'n' roll, classic and contemporary country, gospel and a stirring patriotic tribute.