The historic building now known as the Marlboro Civic Center was built in 1917 and originally called the “Playhouse Theatre.” For almost two decades it served as an opera house and community meeting place. In 1934 the building was remodeled for motion pictures, and renamed first the “Carolina Theatre” and later “The Cinema.” In 1995, after extensive renovation, the theatre was reopened and once again serves as a performing arts center and meeting place for all Marlboro County citizens.