Review for Erasure concert 7/28/18: Great sound quality and volume. Great crowd control. What is new since my last visit is an airport-style security check going in. which is understandable in the times we live in now... so allow extra time when entering the theater. The staff was nice, but the security person by Row AA kept walking behind us (we were standing) and shimmying down the row to get to the other side. She did this about a dozen times, it was really weird to have someone squeeze behind you multiple times. Erasure was insanely awesome, BTW. read more

What a beautiful venue! I recently went to see a comedian for a Saturday night show. The place is very old, with lots of exhibits about the history. The walls and pillars and ceilings are all very ornate and beautiful. I do think the venue could have communicated a little better about parking beforehand. They also told us to show up for "lining up" at 6:30 for an 8:00 show. And the event wasn't even sold out. I don't blame the venue for that, I blame the bookers or organizers or whoever. But just something to keep in mind. Every attendant or cash register person we encountered was very friendly. This is definitely a special place! read more

One of several beautiful theaters in the area, The Chicago is mostly used for concerts rather than stage shows. Acoustics vary greatly from one show to the next. Sarah Bareilles was a bit muddled, but Ingrid Michelson was the best concert audio I've ever heard. The "backstage" tour, which doesn't really go backstage was an hour of fascinating information with a very interested guide. Highly recommended. One tip: The mezzanine has very poor sight lines. The best seats are the fourth row of the balcony, because there is an aisle that runs in front of them at a lower level, and no railings to block the view. Much better that even the close seats in the orchestra. read more

Chicago Theatre - Lobby - Performing Arts Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Wonderful experience at the box level, here! We had an excellent view of the stage, and the process of entering was easy and swift. The bars were nicely dispersed throughout the mezzanine and the bathrooms were clean and uncluttered. I appreciated the spacing between the boxes given the pandemic, and it was a pleasant experience finding our seats with a very polite usher who guided our way. The only downside was that the mask requirement seemed to fall by the wayside once we entered. I imagine it might be much more uncomfortable with floor or balcony seats given how close seating is. Would return only if in a similar seat moving forward. read more

Chicago Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

As someone who enjoys tours, I just happen to run across this tour of the Chicago Theatre. This daily tour is at noon (double check on the time - subject to change). You can purchase the tickets ahead of time or you can just arrive to purchase a ticket. The tour began in the lobby, which incredible. The tour guide told us about the history of this theater and he was very knowledgeable about this historical building. From the lobby, we went inside of the actual theater. We had toured on the Orchestra Level, First Balcony and then onto the Second Balcony. Before we stepped onto the stage, we were able to check out the original organ. What can I say about standing on the stage? WOW. The the stage area, we checked out the dressing room for the star performer. The most incredible part of this tour, you can see all of the signatures of the stars that had preformed at this iconic theatre. The tour was about 90 minutes long - very educational. Highly recommended tour to do. read more

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The iconic Chicago Theater! Also a popular picture spot among landmarks in Chicago with tourists. I remember this is the first theater I watched a broadway show, Beauty and the Beast when I was in elementary school. Over the years, this theater has hosted many shows and concerts and they even offer a historic tour of the venue. I recently made my way here to see a favorite comedian and although it's been years since I've last been inside the theater but I was still in awe and amazed with the interior and design. It is a bit outdated and can use some renovations but I really love the rustic and vintage feel to it! read more

Chicago Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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There's not really much to say about this historical / legendary venue other than that it's incredibly beautiful. Be sure to arrive a bit early before your show so you can really take in the architecture / decoration of the main room. I've seen both Conan and Kathy Griffin here and look forward to going back. read more

An absolutely beautiful theatre! Honestly my favorite theatre in Chicago because of the intricacies in the interior design and the wonderful acoustics! Any seat is a great seat to listen from (not always to see lol). Would definitely recommend seeing a show here! read more

Went to see the grinch. Very front row, no one sitting ahead of us. I would recommend spending a little more for the front row. Beautiful experience. Say so close you could see the grinch sweating. read more

The Chicago Theatre is a gorgeous, classic venue right downtown on State Street and they do a really good job of bringing a variety of different types of performers--from comedians, to bands to full-blown plays/musicals. It's also a massive theater, probably one of the largest in Chicago. Despite it being so large, there's really not a bad seat in the house (and I've sat on every level at some point). The acoustics are fine and the seats are a decent size and comfy enough. It is a very old venue, so the only restrooms are on the basement level so be prepared for a couple minute walk and several flights of stairs if you have to go on a bathroom run! They do have plenty of concession carts on the various floors and offer a selection of snacks and both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. They also take credit card so no need to pick up cash beforehand! I ended up here 3 times in a month timeframe recently and had very different experiences each time with the security (full metal detector and bag search). The first time, I got there 15 minutes before the show and breezed in without a problem, but I suspect that was because the show only seemed half full. The second time, the line to get in was wrapped around the block and very slow moving. It took a full 30-40 minutes to get through security and to our seats and we didn't even get in until after the scheduled start time (the show ended up bring delayed, though--probably because of the security line). The third time, I was there right when doors opened and walked in no problem, but I heard there was a pretty long line closer to start time. Moral of that story, be sure to allow plenty of time to get through security so you don't miss any of your show! read more

Fun venue! Very spacious with a good layout so everyone could see the stage. Refreshments were offered at the bar. Bathrooms easily accessible. Great first time. Saw the cirque dreams show which was fantastic! Check it out if you haven't already! read more

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Absolutely love this theater for seeing a show! There is not a bad seat in the house. I recommend getting there a bit early if you would like to have a drink or two, since once everyone gets in, you would be waiting in a VERY long line for drinks at any part in time. The staff does try to make sure they lines are moving quickly, but it is such a large venue, it is hard to keep everyone flowing. Also the restrooms for the facilities were well maintained! read more

My first time visiting the Chicago Theatre was for a live Podcast taping of Lovett or Leave it, and I had a great time. The venue was great about sending a few reminders about the show 48 hours in advance, which was helpful to make me start planning ahead. Even with security, the line moved very quickly when me and my family arrived, and there were plenty of staff to help us find our seats. They were selling alcohol and snacks on each level, and we didn't have to wait very long to be served - plus you can take the alcohol in to the venue which is a huge win. There truly isn't a bad seat in the house (we were pretty high up in the balcony) and the acoustics are great. It goes without say that this is also an absolutely beautiful and unique building that I would love to roam around during my free time. I can't wait to attend more shows here in the future. read more

Chicago Theatre - Beautiful - Performing Arts Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Lovely venue that is brimming with history! I visited for the first time yesterday to see Julie Andrews discuss her career and promote her book. The architecture inside is so grand and the theater itself is easy to navigate. I also adore the marquee. When I arrived, I was a little overwhelmed by the line but it moved fast. The staff were super effective in making sure that the line moved. The only downside is that they don't allow outside food. (I was carrying leftovers from dinner and had to toss them. Bummer!) Nonetheless, I had a wonderful evening and would like to take a tour of the building in the future. read more

Unbelievable venue with great views and a lot of unique seating. One of the best around.

Saw Nora Jones here in May 2017 and it was a good show. The vicinity was clean and staff was amicable. read more

Chicago Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

We attended the (sold out!) Sinbad show on February 16, and the seats we had were good, and close to the stage main floor in aisle 1, row B. However, on this cold February night the theater had not been warmed up sufficiently. Many of us kept hats, gloves and hats on during the show. There was a cold draft blowing from our side of the theater through the show. Despite the great performance by Sinbad, the cold air detracted from our overall enjoyment of the evening. Also, when arriving, despite our early arrivals, about a half hour early we had to wait a considerable time outside at the doors while small groups were funneled through metal detectors. On a cold night it would have been better to let patrons come in a roped in area of the vestibule and set up the metal detectors further inside. Overall, a cold night experience at the Chicago Theater! read more

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My family and I had a great time at "'twas the night before" great show! The Theatre was clean, easy to navigate and manageable lines for food and snack. Service was great and friendly helping us were to go. read more

Majestic, old-fashioned theater in the heart of downtown Chicago. Whether you live in the city or you're coming in from the suburbs, I suggest you take the train to Millennium Station. It's only a few blocks away, practically visible from the entrance to the station. This is infinitely easier than trying to drive --and find a parking space-- in the Loop. The place is huge. I usually come here for comedy shows, and this place brings in the big names. I have seen John Mulaney, Hasan Minhaj, and Iliza Shlessinger here. They do other shows too, I'm sure. Music, theater, whatever. But that's less my scene. Sadly, you can pretty much see Trump Tower right from the entrance of the Chicago Theater. But it's the heart of the Loop, so you can also see and get to just about anything else. There are hundreds of restaurants in the area, chain or otherwise. If you go to Millennium Station you also easily connect to either the red line or the blue line of the CTA. You're only a few blocks away from the Thompson Center and Daley Plaza, and only a few blocks away from "The Bean," (if you're a tourist). My only complaint about the theater itself is that if you crane your neck back, and look at the ceiling above the farthest rows from the stage, you can see that the paint is somehow deteriorating and falling from the ceiling somehow. The beautiful, majestic theater is in need of some repairs. read more

This is a fantastic place to see a performance. Great site lines and several concession stands. The architecture is amazing. Definitely this place should be on your bucket list of places to see in Chicago. read more

There isn't a bad seat in the entire place. Went to see Jim Gaffigan "The Fun Tour" here, and sat on the Main Floor 2R, Row E...they always have perfect acoustics, and large TV's to make sure that everyone gets the full experience. As far as the ambience, well the theater speaks for itself. It's beautiful with old Victorian accents and architecture that rivals any beautiful church or European Building. The lights and old marquee outside are amazing Chicago staples and landmarks and just add to the overall experience. I've sat in the balcony and the Row AA, here for Cirque Dreams Holidaze and everytime it's a great evening. read more

This is a really cool venue. It's antiquated but still very cool. The bathrooms are all the way on the first floor so get ready to walk if you are upstairs. Speaking of upstairs, the boxes are very cool. They are comfortable and the sound is amazing. Just a reminder to some: if you are there to see a live band don't try to shush other people. LIve music is meant to be enjoyed. Now if you are there watching a live performance of "The Taming of the Shrew" that's a different story. If you shush the wrong person you're going to be very disappointed. Parking is expensive but you can use one of the apps and find a deal. read more

I might have given this 4 stars had I not been on the 2nd floor balcony. Wish I got to experience the 1st floor but from the looks of it, they filled the front row with folding chairs... So I don't know how great it is down there either. Anyhow, upstairs the seats were Uber small, there's no leg room, the 5 steps up or down were very steep (or did I just had a lot to drink?). I sat on the very first row of the balcony (seat 209) and you would think I would have a pretty decent view... Not really, I totally relied on the projector screen to see what's going on in the show. Nonetheless it was a great time as I saw my number 1 favorite comedian Russell Peters. All worth the agony of no space. read more

Chicago Theatre - RusseLLLL - Performing Arts Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

This is a beautiful building and makes you want to take a pictures of all the hallways and rooms. I came here for a standup comedy show and was pleasantly surprised to see that you can clearly see who was on stage from really any angle/seat you were in. Food/Drinks were allowed and if it is your first time here, the workers are happy to show you to your seat. Your legs can get a little cramped if you are taller. Bit of a limited selection of drinks but they have your main go-tos. Popcorn is available but don't expect your movie-theatre-large popcorn bag. read more

Chicago Theatre - Ceiling in main show room - Performing Arts Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I love the Chicago Theater! They have a wide variety of shows to choose from, comedy, music/concerts, etc. I used to love browsing their website to see what acts they had coming next. We have seen Martina McBride and Jerry Seinfeld. We would have seen more, like Chris Rock, Jim Gaffigan, etc, but unfortunately we moved out of Illinois before we could. There really isn't a bad seat in the house as it's a smaller, more intimate venue, definitely not one of those coliseum or stadium deals. Alcoholic beverages, sodas and snacks are sold in the concession areas. Architecturally, it's stunning and very well kept up considering how old it is. It's located right in the city so you'll have to park in a parking garage and walk over, which can be brutal in the freezing winter months, but it's totally worth it. read more

Chicago Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Awesome theater! We came to see comedian Ali Wong and had a blast. The theater is in a great location on State Street near Wacker Drive and the riverfront area. It seems to be a little smaller theater than some of the others around, but it has a lot of intricate details in the architecture and has a lot of charm. Apparently, the Chicago Theatre was the first large, lavish movie palace in America and was the prototype for all others... according to the Chicago Theatre website. read more

Beautiful theatre inside with a large auditorium. The seats were not very comfortable but wider than most older theatres. Leg room wasn't too bad. We saw Carol Burnett. Her performance was showing film clips from her shows and answering questions from the audience. It was very informative about her career and so sweet to see her. She actually did her famous Tarzan call! She talked for about two hours with no intermission. read more

Chicago Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Fantastic time watching the "Michael Carbonaro show live." It was our first time visiting and seeing a show at the Chicago Theaters. It was a really great experience. read more

What a hair raising but also exciting experience I had when graduating with my masters at The Chicago Theatre! It was so great and so surreal and even stressful (what now?) And I had a great cheer team and a great weekend in the city! read more

Chicago Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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This is a beautiful theatre. The seating is a bit steep with little leg room and I'm 5'3" so I can't imagine a taller person being comfortable for a long show. The bathrooms are pretty dirty. I used it prior to the start of the show and it looked like it hadn't been cared for since the day before. There's a decent amount of snack and beverage options but I'm sure that varies show to show. Pack lightly, as I wouldn't recommend bringing any bags in with you. Security screening checks all bags. There is also a coat check which helps since the seats are so tight. read more

Nice theater. But, they leave it up to the customers to enforce their rules. The rules clearly state in many banners around the place, that taking videos and holding up the freaking phone is not allowed. Then, there's the announcement right before the show, that the artist doesn't allow using video devices, etc. But, the ushers do absolutely nothing about the dimwitted morons who block the views of the people behind them with their stupid phones. Not going to spend money on this place again. read more

You've bought your (overpriced TicketMaster) tickets, and you enter this bejeweled vaudeville/movie/musical palace, to be amazed by the beauty and old opulence designed to enhance your experience by architects who wanted everyone to feel like they were special. Every inch of this place is gorgeous, and it's a joy to visit. And then the reality hits once you go to sit down: The seats are hard as a rock. They're old, narrow seats designed for skinny, little 1930-era bodies. There's very little padding. Did people have arms or pelvises back then? How are two modern people supposed to sit next to each other and be comfortable? Forget it. Just sit back, relax, and pray you don't get muscle Charley horses from being compressed into narrow seats, narrow aisles and non-existent seat padding. read more

What a majestic and ornate theater. We came here to see Cirque Du Soleil's T'was the Night Before Christmas and truly enjoyed the experience. My daughter, who just loves Greek mythology was so excited to see all the statues and ceiling paintings. She was amazed by the ornate gold decorations. I wasn't sure what to expect from the show since it was in what I thought would be a small stage. I was so wrong. They did an amazing job of fitting everything seamlessly into the available space. Only complaint is the cost of the concessions. $5 for a super duper small cup of popcorn. It makes the movie theater prices look cheap in comparison. read more

Such a beautiful theater and a Chicago staple for sure! The marquee is awesome and will make you feel like a fancy theater-goer (even if you're just seeing a comedian or rock concert). I've been here a number of times. Most recently I've seen Sebastian Mantiscalco, Andrew McMahon, Kevin James, and the I Love Lucy musical. All were (very different) spectacular shows! I can honestly say there's not a bad seat in the house. I've sat in the back row on the first floor, up in the balcony, and like 5th row from the front and they're all great seats. It's a theater that fits a ton of people but feels like a smaller more private show. The inside of the theater is gorgeous as well. Crown molding, pretty lights, the works. They have bars on a couple different levels and bathrooms on the bottom and top floors too. The Chicago Theatre seems to always get a lot of great acts, so I highly suggest snagging tickets if there's a show you'd like to see! You won't regret it. read more

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Lovely older theater but the service was definitely lacking. We were just told where our seats were rather than being shown to them read more

Chicago Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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This is one of my most favorite venues in Chicago. Beautiful staircases, warm lighting, and even a little historical display in the lower level. I've seen Fleet Foxes 3 Times there now and I think it's THE perfect venue for a band like that -- lots of space in the sound, but still has perfect clarity. Snacks and beer are what you'd expect for a venue, but they had a pretty decent selection of beers. Good local craft brews, and your popular domestics. Seating is fairly comfortable, they're all fold down seats but they have a big cushion so if by chance you're at a show that requires a lot of sitting, your butt doesn't end up asleep after an hour. read more

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What a beautiful venue ! First time here for me and my son and wow ! What a Fantastic show ! We went to see Alter Bridge and had a Great experience! The sound was awesome and the venue was great to look at. Had front row loge seats in balcony and could see everything . I am coming back to see tedeschi trucks band in a few months and cant wait !! Will definitely be back at this Great theater !! read more

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The Twas The Night Before was an amazing show like many of the cirque shows. It starts out as the story about a father and daughter during Christmas time. The show was filled with dancers, aerialist, and acrobats. The costumes and musical scores were very entertaining. I especially loved the dancing and prancing deer with cute costumes doing acrobats with the rotating rings. It takes extreme coordination and timing to jump through hoops. Sometimes acrobats jumping eight or nine foot tall hoops. The father was an arialist who used a hanging light to gyrate several feet high to amaze the audience. One of the girls used lighted hula hoops that created illusions that the hoops were floating in mid air and created a great light show. Of course there were a pair of aerialists doing complex dancing in the air. These experienced performers made simple yet complex tasks look effortless. This troupe should be very proud. Tip: Come early to find seat and get comfortable. Exit through side stairs to avoid rush of crowd. read more

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Been to the Chicago Theater a few times now. Always a pleasant experience. Beautiful architecture. Easy access. Plenty of parking in the area. The only negative I found this past Saturday when we were there for Britt Floyd. Young female bartender on the second level gouging prices and we almost believe she didn't ring up our sale. When we questioned the price she handed us a fake receipt. There are clearly posted drink prices on the bar. What we ordered was domestic $8 beer and an IPA $9 posted prices for $17. She told us it was $20. When we questioned she said well that's the price and handed us some receipt. Funny the same round we purchased downstairs when we first arrived before going up was $17 just like it was posted. Gouging is no way to get tips. read more

I have been here to watch shows through the years and it is always a great venue with a rich history. Ambiance the red seats and interior of the building give off a very regal look with comfortable searing. Staff there are always a good number of employees available who are ready to direct you to your seat or to show you where to go. Food I never order the food and the drinks are not the strongest.It is to be expected since they don't want any pandemonium. read more

Chicago Theatre - John Mulaney - Performing Arts Near Me - Chicago, Illinois