Young Frankenstein musical production. Strong, beautiful voices. Another full house audience production. read more

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Young Frankenstein was exceptional!! Thank you Mel! You humor is timeless!!! The performers were quite impressive So much energy!

Update! Since my last review in 2022, I've seen RENT (2023), Spongebob Squarepants (2024), Waitress (2024), Jersey Boys (2024), and In the Heights (2025) at Music Circus (UCD Health Pavilion). I generally prefer weekend matinees, but have also done weeknight shows. Due to the circular staging, every seat in the house is a great view. Sometimes the action is in the aisles or overhead! As with Broadway Sacramento at the SAFE PAC, they do electronic tickets as well as paper tickets/will call from the box office. There is a bag check but I'm not sure about the leniency of the bag size policy. There is a courtyard with tables and chairs, but I don't know if you can bring outside food through the gate (definitely not inside the theater). There is a subscriber's lounge for seasonholders before/after the show. Concessions are available, one line forms outside for the window to order near the main entrance, and in the hallway at the other end is another stand if you're feeling like popcorn, soda, Gunther's ice cream, water, etc. @sacmusicals also usually has a backdrop/step-and-repeat photo opportunity with props which is available before, during intermission, and after the show. The snaking queue for the ladies' room may seem like a lost cause, but the tag team of bathroom attendants at the restroom near the main entrance are on top of it to keep everything moving! No less than three staff were directing patrons to open stalls and further led them to an exit door out to the courtyard so it didn't create two-way traffic jams. Props to them, this is not a minor thing! Very efficient, especially with only a 20-minute intermission. Dress code is lax, but if you're dressed for the triple-digit summer weather outside, know that inside they do keep it pretty chilly. Parking at the Memorial Garage is super convenient, reserve in advance to save at least $5. The 2025 season had: Footloose, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Million Dollar Quartet, Hello, Dolly!, West Side Story, In the Heights so far. The remaining shows are Hair and White Christmas. read more

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I absolutely LOVE, LOVE, LOVE Music Circus!! If I could afford it, I'd get season tickets without a doubt! Being a huge fan of musicals and theatre, this venue takes it to a whole 'nutha level IMO. I mean, I've NEVER been to a venue where you almost feel immersed in the performance, with the actors performing IN THE AISLES!!! Like, where else does that happen?!! Cuz I certainly don't know. Not only that, but this venue is so intimate with no bad seat in the house. Seriously!!! I'm constantly amazed at each production, how they curate the stage and change scenery...the costumes and of course, the incredible talent!! I walk away astounded every time. And from that last statement you can tell, I've attended many shows at Music Circus. I've always loved the circus in general, but what made me fall in love with Music Circus was my very first experience almost a decade ago with the show 'Beauty and the Beast'! OMG, I couldn't believe what I saw, especially the costumes!! Being a Disney fan, this has always remained a core Music Circus memory for me, kinda like "You never forget your first"! (Am I right?!? LOL) After that, I attended a show here & there. But in recent years, I've tried to make it a point to attend at least one show a season, feeling fortunate enough in these last 2-3 years to be able to attend more than 1 show in a season. Mostly with the 'help' of a coworker treating me to a show because SHE is a season ticket member and donor! Nice perks come with that, including special VIP seating area pre-show & during intermission serving complimentary non-alcoholic beverages and has several comfy couch outdoor patio seating to lounge in. They also have a private bathroom which might be the biggest perk! lol Last year's lineup (Summer 2024) I could've went to EVERY SINGLE SHOW of the entire season, again if I could afford such things. But THIS year, 2025, I was absolutely THRILLED to see TWO of my all time favorite movie/films come to the stage ("West Side Story" & "White Christmas"), along with the exciting news of a longer season that had shows going into winter!!! Typically in all the years past, Music Circus only occurred during the summer months. In fact, waaaaay back in the day, before my time of attending shows, this venue was really like a circus tent! My oldest sister & dad have told stories of 'the days of old' and when there was NO A/C during those times. And in SacTown summers, that could/would make for some VERY hot shows that were sometime unbearable. Lucky for me, I only started coming after they remodeled to what the theatre is today (yay for A/C!!). Anyways, when I bought my show tickets early in the year, I asked the reason for the pleasant surprise of the longer season. I was told that in the past, the local Sacramento Theater Company would use the venue during 'the off-season', but that they ended up shutting down after never really recovering from COVID. While that was sad news to hear of, I was glad to see MC would have more shows 'all year long' instead. Makes sense to utilize the venue and not have it going unused and idle. That's just not wise and bad business! So, with that, I hope these longer seasons will become a permanent thing and allow more experiences to enjoy!!! For anyone who enjoys theatre, Music Circus is EXACTLY where to go. I've even started inviting friends who don't typically do theatre to come and experience the magic of this unique venue. They never really are disappointed and I don't see how I ever could be either. If you've not been, what are you waiting for? Season schedules typically come out a couple times a year, but just sign up for their emails and you'll never miss it when they come out. What are you waiting for??? GO!!! And maybe I'll see you at a show sometime soon! You can thank me then. *wink, wink* read more

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I enjoyed a wonderful night with the first run of White Christmas at the Broadway at Music Circus. What a great cast and performance, and the music (singing) was beautiful. It's a great play, to set off the holiday season. I was surprised to find the only actual Christmas song is White Christmas, because the play is about two servicemen, Army buddies, who develop a song and dance act during World War II, to entertain their battle-weary fellow GI's, and the find success as a top-billed professional duo. It's a really cute play, and my absolute favorite character was little Susan Wavery, the General's granddaughter, who was not even the focus of the play. I loved her, and wanted to see more of her. No photos of the play allowed, of course. There was a Photo Booth inside the gates, before entering the building, with complimentary photos staff took from your own cell phones. There were concessions inside, for popcorn, candy and drinks. read more

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Tonight, I went to see Hair on ASL night. Amazing show! A little weird, but full of energy, feeling, and great music. I liked it a lot. The interpreters? So good. Clear, big signs, matched the actors' emotions perfectly. Easy to understand every part. I sat Door 4, Row P, two seats from the aisle. That's the best spot if you want to be close and still see both the show and interpreters without turning your head too much. Behind Row P, near the aisle, views still looked good. Probably even better for some people since you sit farther back and can see everything in one view. Some Deaf people didn't know about the ASL access. Staff helped them move closer to see. That made me feel proud and welcome. Next ASL night, I'll be there again. Loved it. read more

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I went to go see Young Frankenstein and had the absolute pleasure of talking to a young woman working concessions with long brown hair and strikingly gorgeous blue eyes. She was just the sweetest and made my night after being stood up by my date. I absolutely adored the show but I truly appreciate your concessions workers especially this girl. Thank you! read more

Broadway at Music Circus is "ALWAYS" an extraordinary date night experience. We enjoyed 'In the Heights' last night. From the easy access from the ample parking lot across the street to the plentiful array of first class dining within walking distance, this a a perfect night on the town venue. read more

Broadway at Music Circus - Not a bad seat in the house. - Performing Arts Near Me - Sacramento, California

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Amazing theater. We recently saw west side story and it was phenomenal. The set, actors, orchestra and lighting were all next level. It's amazing how quickly they can offer new sets regularly. Only feedback was how cramped some of the seating was, and lack of bathrooms. read more

Recently saw Jesus Christ Superstar. It was amazing! Great performance! Vocals, dancers and acting all top notch! Intimate setting and comfy seating. Parking is challenging so arrive early! read more

Music Circus is such a wonderful Sacramento tradition. I grew up attending shows with my parents, I worked for the company for a while, and now I take my daughter every summer. I have seen dozens upon dozens of shows over the years, and they're all outstanding. The round stage makes it such a unique theatre experience. I can't recommend it enough! read more

Broadway at Music Circus - Performing Arts Near Me - Sacramento, California

We saw Footloose and had a wonderful night. I went with my husband, who is Deaf, and we were both so impressed with the visual production. The staging and lighting were fantastic, and the energy from the cast really pulled us in. They also had interpreters, and I have to say, we love the team they hired. It makes such a difference when access is done well. The popcorn and snack options were a nice little bonus too with everyone being so friendly at concessions and when looking for seats. We'll absolutely be back for another show. read more

Broadway at Music Circus - Footloose Playbill and popcorn bucket from Broadway Sacramento Music Circus - Performing Arts Near Me - Sacramento, California

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Amazing venue! The stage and props were perfect. I was amazed to see the live music for the musical was tucked under the stage. The staff was energetic and brought the classic Footloose to life. I highly recommend all musical lovers to make a trip to this venue. Buy your tickets today! read more

Broadway at Music Circus - Here for Footloose. So beautiful and the cast is so energetic. - Performing Arts Near Me - Sacramento, California

Great first time experience at Broadway at Music Circus. I saw Jersey Boys, it was so good. I had an excellent third row center seat which was worth the price. Also was able to prepurchase parking, so convenient. There doesn't appear to be any bad seats in this venue. Great audio sound, very organized for seating and curtain call intermission reminders, no one up and down walking past throughout the performance. Actors and singers on stage, in audience and rotating stage with raised platforms, great sound. I can't wait to come to this venue again. read more

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We go every year and love it. West Side Story was phenomenal! I was blown away by the actors and their voices. Best so by far! read more

Broadway at Music Circus - The stage is set! - Performing Arts Near Me - Sacramento, California

We had such a fun time here for The Music Man. It was our very first time coming here and we were surprised by how big it was and the set up outside for popcorn, drinks and snacks- so fun! Inside there are more opportunities for concessions and the seating is all around the central stage. They also have screens that are used to add to the production. They don't allow photos or videos of the performances but the use of the central stage was so cool and they're able to rotate it to add to the movement and experience. I would say there isn't a bad seat in the house. We'll be keeping our eyes out for more opportunities to stop in and enjoy more local productions. read more

This is a smaller venue than the other Broadway theater. The stage is in the center and the seating is all around. They don't sell merchandise for the shows at music circus. They do have snacks that you can take inside the auditorium such as popcorn, candy, and ice cream. The seats are at a small slant so if someone tall sits in front of you, you may not see much of the show. The isles are really small/narrow too. One thing unique about this theater is the four screens around the auditorium. The shows use them occasionally. For "Rent" the screens were used to show Mark's movie he was working on. For "Cinderella" it was used to show the dragon. read more

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First time at this venue & it won't be our last. We had been here before when it was outdoors & vulnerable to the hot Sacramento summers so it being enclosed with the nice convenient AC that we take for granted was truly a godsend. My wife had seen on a GoodDay video about a Carole King musical with the name Beautiful & that it was. She was fortunate enough to nab two tickets at the end of the row aisle not far from the ladies room on the very same day as the event. Woohoo! It appears any ticket anywhere inside this venue is wonderful bc the actors & actresses don't stay at one side for your viewing! We parked in the structure across the street & just barely made it in time for the musical bc of the heavy traffic going into the lot. We were lucky we didn't get hit by any oncoming cars that jumped the lines as well. Thank goodness I found a space on the second floor so leaving the lot was very easy and way less time consuming. By the way this venue is now called UC Davis Health Pavilion. A venue worth revisiting absolutely. We watched a couple in front of us savoring a Gunther's ice cream sammy & some people who picked up 50/50s! YUM! We had already eaten so wasn't interested in eating any snacks but they are readily there for purchase as well as popcorn & drinks. Be aware you must be seated in your seat before the performance starts or you may not be seated there for awhile or not until intermission! Get there EARLY! We have learned that lesson at a different venue in the past! read more

Broadway at Music Circus - Performing Arts Near Me - Sacramento, California

We love coming here for plays. We are so fortunate to have theatre in the round. I've been coming since I was a little girl. Back in the day when everyone dressed up to attend. I love that there is now air conditioning . So much more comfortable on hot Sacramento evenings. The quality of the productions are amazing. read more

Wow! What a great venue to see a play. My first time here to see Elf the musical. Fantastic actors and the sound was top notch. Add an event to your list soon. read more

All the kids from small to tall and young to old. We went to the production of Cinderella when a little was in town. It was well done a good take on the classic with a sprinkle of current times. Theses interjections of whim and humor made for a truly entertaining time. The seating in the round is truly nice and absolutely enjoyable. It's been an institution for year. Way back to when it was an outdoor venue. Thank goodness for the major upgrade. A very enjoyable venue and so comfortable. Hosts a variety of events and is certainly worth seeking out for a broadway experience. read more

Broadway at Music Circus - Performing Arts Near Me - Sacramento, California

This has to be hands down my favorite performing arts venue in all of California. I have been seeing shows here since the age of 10 and I can truly say that every experience is just as great as the last and the theater is getting better with time. Not only is the actual design of the theater beautifully unique, but the layout is very practical. I love the concessions they offer: soft drinks, alcohol, candy, popcorn, ice cream, etc. The staff here is always so warm and welcoming. Restrooms are all very conveniently located between each section. Even on a hot day in Sacramento, you can count on this venue to keep you nice and cool inside. Now for the shows, they're all incredible. Many cast members are straight from Broadway productions and tours so you can almost always count on these musicals to be near perfect. There's never a bad seat in this theater. My only recommendation is the closer you sit to the stage, the better the experience. I've sat in every section and can say that the North is my favorite but like I said, every section is better than the last. I will simply never get tired of attending shows here and I always look forward to coming back. read more

Broadway at Music Circus - 4th row at Carousel in 2022! - Performing Arts Near Me - Sacramento, California

I attend theatre shows in New York and San Francisco regularly. Sacramento's theatre rates as high as those other productions whether it's done by traveling groups or local artists. I love it. read more

I love Broadway at Music Circus! I almost don't want to review because then more people might attend and tickets may sell out. They put on 6? shows each summer season. Shows run 1 week and there's one week off between shows. It's much more affordable than the Golden 1 Center Broadway on Tour tickets. This is not a touring Broadway production, but rather a Sacramento-based run. Most of the performers have been on Broadway and many of them repeat throughout the season through different shows and roles. The theater is unique in that it's set-up as a ring around the center stage. There is a full orchestra in a "pit" below the stage. They do a WONDERFUL production despite not having the traditional large-scale sets of a normal stage. They have stagehands and really clever transitions to change set pieces like furniture around and utilize some LED displays around the theater to provide more of that environment. Performers utilize even the aisles as part of the stage. It really makes you feel much more close and involved in the performance. Even the further seats are still incredibly close and there really isn't a bad view or seat in the theater. They offer snacks like cookies and popcorn as well as various drinks at several concessions around the theater. There are a number of bathrooms really well-placed and cleanly maintained. There is a nice courtyard out front to gather and hang-out while you wait for the show or during the intermission. They allow you inside about an hour before the performance. They often have a small photo-setup to take a selfie with some props related to the show which is fun. They do announce when the show will be beginning and when to find your seats. Overall, I really love this venue. I find myself coming to at least 3 shows per season here and have often debated just buying the season tickets. read more

Love the round stage. Have season tickets. Last night we saw Josepgh and the Technicolor Dreamcoat.

I've been here plenty of times before. I'm not a musical theater person but from time to time they have good shows. Today is 42nd Street and so far so good. Their subscribers lounge has its own concession stand and bathrooms. It quite convenient before and during intermission. Expect high prices for drinks and snacks. Bring your own water bottle as they sell $5 bottle water. It's a scam if you ask me. Lol! read more

Broadway at Music Circus - 42nd Street celebrities. That's right! IT'S ME!!!! Muahahah! - Performing Arts Near Me - Sacramento, California

Sunset Boulevard at the Sacramento Music Circus is terrific. The group dancing, with its music and song action is wonderful - it gets your foot tapping and head moving (not just me, but the person sitting in front of me). The juxtaposition of scenes from the movie and the plot of the musical are unique and great - cars driving in the rain, closeups of the Joan of Arc face - WOW!!! Costumes are exquisitely beautiful. The singers are terrific and play well to the audience. The voices are amazing - Max Max Max. Kudos to the under-the-stage orchestra. My girlfriend thought the conductor was faking it. She kept saying "holy s___" when we finally checked out the orchestra pit after the show had ended. This is a must see show. My two favorite musicals are Phantom of the Opera and Miss Saigon. Jersey Boys comes in third. And Sunset Boulevard is fourth. read more

A Sacramento treasure has been ruined with the installation of scaffolding and ladders around the stage at UC Davis Health Pavilion/Music Circus. "Not a bad seat in the house" no longer applies, as the posts and ladders obstruct the view of the stage, and there are now MANY bad seats (including my own season ticket seats)! Broadway Sacramento's seating chart for the UCD Health Pavilion still shows an open stage - now a gross misrepresentation. Broadway Sacramento has an obligation to its patrons to update the seating chart for UC Davis Health Pavilion to show the permanent installation of this monstrosity and to designate the affected seats as "obstructed view," as is done in other entertainment venues. read more

Usually a very pleasant experience, however, went to see West Side Story this past Saturday and there was no air conditioning and it was over 100° outside. There was no explanation and unfortunately it made viewing the show very uncomfortable. However, the show itself was wonderful. read more

Saw Million Dollar Quartet at The Music Circus in Sacramento Saturday. Absolutely fantastic!!! Love the Music Circus, would recommend everyone check it out!! Great acoustics!! Not a bad seat in the house!! read more

I love this venue and have been coming to it for years. The experience is unique, as the stage is circular in the middle with seats on all sides -- think circus-ring. The performers come down the aisles and sometimes perform from them as well. There really are no bad seats in the house. There are usually 6 performances done each summer, with each show running for a week. Each season usually has a variety of different shows -- some classics, some more modern, some funny, some serious, etc. there is usually at least one that is geared for kids. The venue sells a variety of different snacks. They sell Gunther ice cream, ice cream sandwiches and freezes. They also sell a variety of candy, popcorn, chips, nuts, etc. The have a full bar --personally, I recommend the frozen margaritas. They also sell water and soft drinks. The one thing about this venue is that you need to be there early. Once it starts, they won't seat you for the first 10-12 minutes because the cast is in the aisles and getting to the stage. Parking can be difficult and can take some time. Also, if you park I. The lot across the street, getting out at the end can take awhile. read more

We love music circus! The venue is so unique in that the seats are arranged circularly. I've seen beauty and the beast, singing in the rain, gypsy, and a few others here and enjoyed every single one, especially gypsy. They try to make it an immersive experience with the actors coming into the crowd. I've seen broadway at the convention center and always preferred the music center which felt more engaging and affordable. They also have "$35 under 35" tickets that I think now you can buy if the show hasn't sold out yet close to showtime (used to be different rules prior to pandemic). There are cheap city garages around for parking as well as lots of restaurants like chando's tacos around. Overall, so excited that shows have returned! read more

I love the round stage perspective and it brings such a unique opportunity to see musicals differently than before in a more personal venue

The venue and the shows they put on, are spectacular. Parking is easy with many options close by for parking garages and surface lots. Even in the middle of summer the AC is strong and keeps everyone inside comfortable. They embrace the circus vibe with a variation of food and beverage options outside before you enter. Everything from chicken wraps to smoothies to popcorn and frozen treats. There is absolutely no bad seat in the house so don't feel like you need to find a particular seat or section to enjoy the show. The performance is geared for the circular presentation and every seat feels included. the restrooms have a decent number of stalls but lines can get long during the shows that have intermissions. The added advantage to the location is proximity to restaurants - we were able to sneak over for various meals after each performance we've seen. Pro tip - MANY of the shows are performed with no intermission. Plan snack and restroom need appropriately. read more

Impressive ADA friendly venue! I've had the privilege to see many Broadway productions in person in multiple cities - NYC, London, San Francisco and San Jose primarily. As my vision is diminishing, especially my night vision in low light settings/ indoors, I grew very weary going to any theater performance for the past 3 years. Who wants to risk tripping and falling down the steep red carpet stairs full of other patrons? It was my first time at the UCD Health Pavilion Music Circus yesterday and it won't be my last! The venue has so many handicap ramps, minimal & manageable stairs with clear indicator on the edge of each staircase. I was at ease walking up to my seat and enjoyed the absolutely delightful show: Beautiful - The Carole King Musical on Broadway. There were so many senior showgoers yesterday @ the 2pm show, many in wheelchairs and post the show I even spotted 2 blind ladies with their 2 guide dogs. I had a foolish question asking them if the 2 dogs were able to stay with them the whole time, duh...of course :) I am glad the staff offered audio description device (my first time borrowing one and still takes some getting used to..) And one of the Beautiful shows they offered American sign language. If you are visually impaired like me and loving theater/ art/ anything, give this place a shot! Continue doing what you enjoy doing and stay happy. read more

The Pavillion's Premiere Showcase Of Dramatic & Musical Theatre! SITREP What dynamic series of shows to enjoy in the theatre-in-the-round format, allowing we patrons to see Broadway-level musical productions here at the Wells Fargo Pavillion ("Pavillion"). https://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/broadway-at-music-circus-sacramento?select=0QCmtqByQaPqoDwymJSwfQ&userid=3mNz5nQFTIBQm0oU5mBR0w THE SETUP To enjoy "Broadway", one need only get tickets for - or subscribe to the The Music Circus Showcase 2018 for the entire season - to enjoy a veritable awesome schedule of Broadway Classics: And with outstanding entries - past & future - such as Gypsy, Mamma Mia!, Steel Magnolias, When We Were Colored - to just name a handful - the theater has a schedule to please many! https://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/broadway-at-music-circus-sacramento?select=FXvmb_5OatmU4kFcN_8Lpg&userid=3mNz5nQFTIBQm0oU5mBR0w THEATRE SETUP = Truly not a bad seat in the theater - "in-the-round provides" for greater opportunities for people to be close to the stage since seating surrounds the stage, rather than being "tunneled" in one direction from it. https://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/broadway-at-music-circus-sacramento?select=DYmiPS5Ip-1GUWdqsxGKzQ&userid=3mNz5nQFTIBQm0oU5mBR0w * Large bathrooms and concessions available * There is a parking structure right along H Street, with it's entrance on 14th Street, and exit on 15th Street. There is also a light-rail station @ 12th & H Streets. THE LOWDOWN Broadway at Music Circus is your ticket to a great time! read more

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Theater in the round is always wonderful. Bathrooms great and easily accessible. Like that there were options for snacks but lord they were expensive! $5 for a bottle of water and $5 for a bucket of popcorn read more

What a fun venue! I came to see "In the Heights" here and loved the circular center stage. It provides a good view from every seat in the house, and you really feel like you're immersed in the show because the actors move not just on stage, but throughout the entire venue (up the rows, to the back of the room, etc...). The show overall was fantastic, the actors were great, the sound quality was good, dancing was on point - I really enjoyed it! If all the shows put on here are as good as this, I would certainly come back to see another production! The venue in a relatively convenient downtown location with lots of parking options nearby (paid lots close by and neighborhood parking if you're willing to walk a few blocks). Also, there's plenty of food and drink options inside the venue, as well as out on the patio so you can get some fresh air during intermission. Prices are high, but that's to be expected at these types of venues. The one downside I can think of is that there seems to be limited bathroom stalls (especially for the ladies room) because the line at intermission wraps around the building. But luckily, there are attendants inside ushering people through to make efficient use of the minimal number of stalls there, so the wait isn't too terrible. Seems like most people made it through before the end of intermission! read more

Broadway at Music Circus - 10% off local restaurants with your ticket stub on show day! - Performing Arts Near Me - Sacramento, California

My friend and I decided to purchase season tickets this year. We both love musicals, and had seen prior shows at Music Circus. So far, we are both pleased with our experience. We loved the entire production for Shrek, and enjoyed the dancing in Oklahoma! We are looking forward to the remaining shows for 2019. The staff at Music Circus are very friendly. The bartenders are very nice, and pleasant in answering questions. Also, the ushers are helpful and do very well with a crowd of people in a relatively small venue. My only request is an additional popcorn station. The line is always super long!! I suppose I could get to the venue earlier to wait in line, but it would seem more efficient to have popcorn available somewhere else around the venue as well. read more

Their security won't provide assistance when a person is assaulted and bleeding in front of them. They are quick to turn you away and say they cannot help you. read more