This theatre, named after philanthropist and arts lover Doris Duke, opened in
1990 as the Studio/Theatre. Designed to complement the other buildings on the grounds, it is a flexible performance venue with stage and seating areas. Large doors at one end of the performance space open to reveal the natural atmosphere and were included to mirror the barn doors of the Ted Shawn Theatre.

The theatre is used for performances of Festival artists Wednesdays through Sundays every week of the Festival. See below for a listing of the 2009 Festival artists performing in the Doris Duke Theatre and click to see a video clip and more in-depth information about each company.