Ballroom
The 8,800-square-foot Palais Royale Ballroom is sure to dazzle you. From the polished hardwood floors to the 35-foot ceiling, featuring an elegant crystal chandelier and gilded with gold-leaf, you will be swept away in its grandeur. The tall windows draped in lavender velvet provide natural light to the space. And, the original musicians’ balcony overlooking the ballroom offers a breath-taking view of your event as well as provides the perfect place for unique photo opportunities. This space can accommodate well over 850 guests for a standing reception, or up to 650 for a sit-down wedding, banquet or meeting.
Amenities
You’re not just booking a venue, you’re booking a suite of services and amenities to make your event a unique and extraordinary one. From start to finish, you’ll get services above and beyond that you won’t find anywhere else.
Morris Performing Arts Center
Lobby
The Morris Grand Lobby is the ideal location to start your event. Corinthian columns, French cameos, the original 1920s terrazzo flooring, and beautiful gold domed ceilings are just a few of the European elements that make this space so stunning. The lobby is a perfect host for cocktail receptions up to 500 or banquet functions up to 125 guests.
Theater
The Morris/Leighton Theater isn't only for unforgettable shows! The theater is perfect for many types of unique events from corporate functions to weddings on stage. The historic theater, which has been restored to its 1920s grandeur, boasts 2,500 permanent seats on two levels and state-of-the-art sound and lighting. The stage can accommodate groups up to 175 for all weddings, banquets or meetings.
Granada
Tucked inside the MPAC, the Granada is an exclusive and swanky space with a style rooted in the great age of theater. Lined with lavish leather seating and a full bar offering handcrafted beverages, this space provides an unhurried atmosphere.
Jon Hunt Plaza
The Jon R. Hunt Plaza has become the hub of arts, culture, and entertainment in downtown South Bend is located across from the Morris Performing Arts Center. Stunning sculptures and a pristine fountain create a unique outdoor setting for your next event. From cocktail hour before your event to banquets to weddings and wedding receptions, the Jon R. Hunt Plaza provides a versatile space to celebrate many different occasions.
Raclin Murphy Encore Center
The Raclin Murphy Encore Center is a contemporary extension of the Morris Performing Arts Center’s historic legacy. Three distinct spaces—the Lobby, the Equity in the Arts Event Center, and the Lounge—offer dynamic, elegant settings for memorable events.
With direct access to both levels of the Morris, the Lobby provides two floors of flexible space and smooth circulation, accommodating receptions of up to 200 guests per floor. The Equity in the Arts Event Center is ideal for more intimate gatherings and includes built‑in A/V capabilities and a rotating exhibit of local artwork. The Lounge delivers a sophisticated atmosphere with a built‑in bar and a private balcony overlooking Jon R. Hunt Plaza.
Lobby
The first- and second-floor lobbies of the Raclin Murphy Encore Center provide a contemporary, light-filled complement to the historic Morris Performing Arts Center. With convenient access from Michigan Street and direct connections to both Morris levels, these elegant spaces are ideal for receptions, business functions, pre- and post-show gatherings, and special events. Designed for flexibility and seamless movement, each level comfortably accommodates up to 200 guests per floor for reception-style events.
Equity in the Arts Event Center
Located on the first floor of the Raclin Murphy Encore Center with private access from Michigan Street, the Equity in the Arts Event Space is a flexible, well‑appointed venue ideal for meetings, presentations, and community gatherings. The room features a built‑in screen and projector, integrated A/V capabilities, two adjacent family restrooms, and a convenient kitchenette. A monthly rotating exhibit of local artwork adds an inspiring and dynamic backdrop. The space accommodates up to 50 guests.
Lounge
Located on the second floor of the Raclin Murphy Encore Center, the Lounge is a warm, stylish gathering space well‑suited for intimate receptions, VIP experiences, private meetings, and smaller wedding‑weekend events such as bachelor gatherings or sendoff celebrations. The Lounge includes a built‑in bar, modern and comfortable seating, and access to a private outdoor patio overlooking the Jon R. Hunt Plaza. Offering a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere, the space accommodates up to 40 guests.