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Bringing Live Music to Downtown: The GDS Connections Behind The Pyrle

Bringing Live Music to Downtown: The GDS Connections Behind The Pyrle

When the Triad Stage theater closed down, a group of investors, including Will Stewart ’05, Durant Bell ’98, and GDS parent Arthur Samet, saw an opportunity for a new beginning. They purchased the building with an ambitious vision: to create a world-class live music venue in the heart of downtown Greensboro. The result is The Pyrle, a beautiful new space for live music.

The Pyrle officially opened on February 27, 2026, and has quickly become a downtown anchor, drawing visitors week after week with an eclectic lineup that includes hip-hop, R&B, bluegrass, metal, and dance music.

The GDS connection runs even deeper. Grainger Stewart ’10 crafted the bars inside the venue, including an intricately designed centerpiece bar that has become a visual landmark of the space.

The Pyrle team’s vision extends beyond concerts. By drawing visitors to downtown Greensboro, the venue is strengthening the broader ecosystem of bars, restaurants, and businesses along Elm Street, proving that community-minded investment can transform a city block into a cultural destination.

A bustling urban street scene with a historic brick building, a marquee theater, and traffic passing by on the road.
A brightly lit stage with a large neon sign and various lighting equipment, surrounded by a dark auditorium with seating areas.
A dimly lit, elegant bar with a curved, wooden bar counter and shelves filled with various liquor bottles, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
A lively rock concert scene with a band performing on stage under vibrant, colorful lighting and smoke effects, surrounded by an enthusiastic audience.