Won lottery tickets to Hamilton. Once we picked up the tickets at will call, we saw our seat assignments. Unfortunately it came with an obstructed view. If the speakers were smaller or floating, we would have seen more. Outside of the fabulous performance, I would say I was just meh on the theater itself. read more

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After experiencing the Hamilton sit-down Chicago production 9 years ago (whoa), it was back to this same theatre for its national tour. I was reminded of the same issues I mentioned in my earlier review, issues that persist after almost a decade. Like many theatres, they make you wait outside (in this case, in the cold), while they get the theatre ready. Maybe they don't want to pay for the workers to be there for too long beforehand? It makes for a crappy experience. You are then funneled inside while security guards bark orders at you, even when all you're doing is trying to find your way inside in a polite manner. Luckily, the guard in our line was nice enough and joked around with the kids. The lobby is tiny, unlike the other major theatres downtown, so that is something to be aware of. There's really zero room to breathe, and the intermission bathroom line snakes up from the basement into the bar line. Luckily, I got there earlier on, but that's a bad experience. The bathrooms aren't that nice, sadly, and they could use extra care. There are a lot of stalls that don't lock, don't have purse hooks attached anymore, etc. Worse yet, the attendants are on a power trip, though they're not quite as mean as others in similar theatres, and the line moves quickly. I just don't appreciate them yelling "up against the wall!" It's a bit much. The orchestra seats were pretty comfortable and even have good sight lines for short people! From what I saw, the snacks weren't as expensive as one might imagine, though not cheap. Frustratingly, there is no public wifi here. What year is it? read more

Came to see Hamilton at CIBC Theatre. What you need to know before going: -Lines start to form on both sides of the entrance -Then the line organizers start to loudly yell that all 4 doors are open so come around to the front -Although all doors are open it's chaotic to get in, not much room once you enter -Have your tickets ready to go and keep your group together -Ladies, there are a lot of steps so choose shoes accordingly -Snacks are available for purchase; candy, popcorn, pretzels -Adult beverages available for purchase -Ladies there are quite a few bathroom stalls however not enough so plan to wait in line -There are friendly greeters to help you find your seats read more

CIBC Theatre - Mezzanine wide view - Performing Arts Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Beautiful theater but does seem cramped. If you are a taller individual you may feel uncomfortable in their seats. I'm short and had an aisle seat and still kept moving around. They do have security. A great place to see a show. This theater feels more intimate than other Chicago theaters. read more

CIBC Theatre - Stereophonic stage - Performing Arts Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

We finally get to see Hamilton - a hugely successful award-winning musical at the CIBC Theatre!  Our daughter did some research before buying tickets months ago, and got excellent seats.  We were on the Orchestra level row J center seats (105, 106, and 107).  Since the stage is higher and very close to the first row, she avoided at least the first 5 rows.  The seats are staggered and I had no problems seeing the performance. Since I am petite, the seats were pretty comfortable to me, and legroom was fine.  As we were sitting in the center seats, no one passed through our seats.  However, I did see that when people squeezed through some seats, the seated people had to stand up to yield, I would imagine space was still tight to go through.   The CIBC Theatre is a historic building; the auditorium is very beautiful.  In this show, lighting and acoustics were great. I also like the rotating circular floor on the stage that allowed great theatrical effects. The ushers that we encountered were friendly and helpful.  I learnt from reviews that the building was small and space was tight, so we used the washrooms in the restaurant before we headed to the CIBC and successfully avoided the long lines.   Needless to say, the Hamilton musical is absolutely phenomenal!  From row J, we could clearly see the performers' facial expressions and action.  The entire cast was immensely talented.  I was amazed that I would love a musical with so much rapping in it.  I was truly impressed that the entire energetic cast had such great ability to memorize all those long and fast-paced lyrics and raps. This was a powerful historical story presented with a powerful performance.  I am so happy that we finally saw it! read more

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I enjoyed the show but the setup of this theatre is a bit odd. You need to do your research before buying a seat. The views from some of the seats are not great at all. If you are all the way to the right or left you may miss some things. If in the upper level the ceiling above could also block your view. There are pillars that can block your view. The show was amazing but the seat you select can really affect your experience. Expect a long line for the bathroom at intermission. The lobby is very very small. So if you want to buy a merch or a drink the area is very tight. read more

CIBC Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Came and enjoyed watching 6 here. We had the mezzanine seats and it was quite good. There was a bathroom and concession on the mezzanine floor which is very convenient. Lots of stairs though. I can't imagine an elderly sitting from the mezzanine and balcony floors because there will be lots of waiting for the elevator. Nonetheless, the ushers were friendly, the stage, although small for this show was good, and the sound system is great. Seat sizes were quite pinched. No room to move or stretch. Don't bother taking off your winter coat once seated. You will punch the person next to you. Overall, a great time! read more

CIBC Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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As others have mentioned, the view is moderately obstructed depending on where you're sitting. We were in the middle balcony and it felt like we were looking through a tunnel to see the stage. The singing also didn't seem proportional to the music - very difficult to understand them. Maybe that's just because it was Hamilton and the combination of the rapping, English accent, and music was a bit much. The venue was designed nicely, but it was pretty tight getting out of the auditorium during intermission. read more

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Chicago is known for a theater scene and this little quaint theater is no exception. I've been here throughout the years for multiple shows and the theater is always a great place. From the ushers to the bartenders to the greeters, everyone's kind and help you in anyway. There have been some updates but for the most part that is one of our not-as-new theaters. The show 'The Magical Cirque Christmas' holiday variety show was amazing. Think of a mini circus Soleil; acrobatics, funny props, juggling, engaging with the audience and they had magic in the show. The host was amazing and funny. This is for the family, they had stuff for the adults as well as children. It's about a two hour show but you do notice the time. Is that it was perfect for the show. read more

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I always love this venue! The charm is in the details. Great location! They bring in the best of the best. The drinks are affordable and the views are great from any price point! read more

CIBC Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Overall a good experience but with the show starting promptly at 7 it took forever for us to get inside.i was able to get to my seat before it started but people were still being seated even 10 minutes into the show. I'm wondering if doors could have opened earlier. read more

Chicago is such a great city for theater - you're spoilt for choice! CIBC is just not one of my favorites - the acoustics just aren't very good and that's already a pet peeve of mine. I watched Kimberly Akimbo from Mezz. I got lucky that I could switch a sweat and avoid heads but the seats don't have much incline to clear the tops of heads for a clear view of the stage. I was Row E, FYI. read more

This is an old (and beautiful) theatre! I was buying tix and the online community said Mezzanine is best option for plays to take in entire stage. I concur. Floor seats seem to miss too much, regardless if you are close to the stage. I'd choose Mezzanine for myself every time. But lots of stairs! Keep that in mind. I overheard a lady say she had to take an elevator and they could only fit 4 people. The seats are narrow, so if you are maybe on the larger side, it could be uncomfortable, not to fat shame anyone. The lady in front of me was spilling into her seatmates' seats and she literally had a hard time getting out. I was Mezzanine Right in row C in seat 6. That meant I was three rows back and three seats in (even # seats). Keep in mind anything further right starting seat 8 might not see the things on the side of the stage. Better seats are mezzanine center. I saw the play Clue. ‍ it was based off the childhood game. It was cute & clever script dialogue like when they asked "Who built this house?" The guy quipped, "The Parker Brothers." So lots of funny moments but the play was fast moving and bit confusing. The cast were wonderfully talented actors. The stage scene changes were so fun and well done! (I did have an 11year old next to me and there were some seriously adult jokes in there. ) The show says it was 90 minutes no intermission. It was scheduled to start at 1:00pm. It started at 1:15pm and ended at 2:30 on the dot. So it was only 75 minutes, NOT 90. I saw lots of people (older) and they were struggling to figure out how they could navigate the "steep steps" to get out of mezzanine. No railings in the mezzanine area. Bathroom was outside the mezzanine area and the line looked like the lines when I used to go to Poplar Creek concerts & people drank too much beer. Soooooooo looooooooooong. Glad I opted not to drink anything. Overall, I'd return to CIBC, it did not smell old (like other theatres) and my seat had an unobstructed view. Overall, it was a very pleasant experience. read more

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We've seen many plays in this theatre over the years. Through the many different name changes. One thing remains. It's a beautiful theatre. Regal and majestic are some of the words I would use to describe it. Take the time to look around at the beautiful furnishings. You will feel like you have stepped back in time. read more

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It's an older and beautiful theater. We got tickets to see a musical here recently and the floor seats were great if you're not right in the front few rows. The seats themselves are staggered so someone with a big head or hat can't block your view. The seats are a rich red velvety fabric and the boxes and mezzanine are sculpted nicely with rich red curtains. My one takeaway, and all theaters need to upgrade, are the seats. When the theater was first opened, in 1906, people seemed to be smaller back then. And the seats reflect that. If you're of bigger stature, which much more people are these days, the seats are insanely uncomfortable. They offer seat cushions to help alleviate the issue, but instead of just trying to pack in as many people as possible, how about making the seats more comfortable and let guests know that there is comfortable seating to get more butts in seats that way? Just a thought. Thanks for the cushion! read more

Saw a great show, totally disliked staff and theatre policies. They took our clear bottle of water and forced us to pay $5 for one of their bottled water and I almost missed part of the play waiting in line for it. When we left, we stepped past one set of doors in the lobby after the show, then realized we passed the merchandise. We stepped back in to be immediately confronted by security and told no re-entry was allowed. Seriously? Like we didn't even make it to the street! I'll see a performance somewhere else if possible next time. It's a beautiful theatre, but those things really can ruin someone's experience. read more

Was a good venu the play was great the cast amazing. Easy in and out. The place is so cute love the old styles and want to know the history of this building. read more

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Nice quaint downtown Chicago theater. Pretty interior and historical. Smallish and intimate. Seats were cushioned but not big as this is an older theater, and it's warm and cozy. Bathrooms had marble inside the stalls. Parking is either metered on the street for about $7 per hour near the area or use spot hero to look for a good parking deal at a garage. read more

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Theater host great shows. I have previously came here for 1776, Six, and Boop! I really appreciate the sound system in the theater sometimes sound can be a little muted however that was not an issue for this theater. I have sat in orchestra and also in regular balcony and also an upper balcony and sound is never an issue. Where I lower the rating is on the bathroom situation. they only have one set of bathrooms in a basement and the line is absolutely ridiculous. Therefore I recommend you go before your show or after your show. I also noticed that the steps were very steep and I was concerned for the accessibility for some of the elderly patrons. Overall a very nice location I would recommend to avoid upper balcony as I had a hard time seeing this show. I actually am going to have to go see that show again cause i'd like to be able to see some of the particulars. read more

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For those who know me, I love the theatre, period. At one point I wanted to study theatre when I was a teenager. I love all aspects of it. As I got older living in NYC, I even volunteered at a local theatre. I describe this theatre as beautiful and elegant. It reminds me of what theaters ought to look like. This afternoon, Joseph and I went to the matinee showing of Betty Boop. I admire this character. I think she symbolizes the fun, flirty, smart, and feminine ideals of the 1920's female . So glad we get to see this character come alive on the theatrical stage. We arrived at the theatre at 1:10pm. We saw a large crowd waiting to enter. What excitement! The sea of audience included the elderly, the young professionals, and those who wanted to explore this cultural icon. Come see "Boop!" at the CIBC. read more

CIBC Theatre - Betty Boop matinee! - Performing Arts Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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I didn't even realize that this was my 3rd time here because the theatre name has changed so many times. It's had some name changes, but that's the only thing that's really changed, because it continues to be a charming little theatre. With worn seats, vintage tiles, and old surroundings, it takes you back in time. I love the intimate feeling that you only get in a small theatre. We had seats in the 7th row which was perfect. -I didn't need my glasses. Was very thankful that I grabbed my travel scarf that I'd left in my car from a recent trip though. It might have been 90° outside but it was freezing in the theatre. If you get cold as easily as I do, come prepared read more

I went to go see Hamilton in this theater and the view was just not good. (The show itself was amazing, though.) I was in the Mezzanine towards the back and I could not see the show at all unless I was literally in the aisle. If you sit further back than the first few rows you will not be able to see. There is barely a slope to the seats so all you see is the people in front of you. Since I was in the back I was going to stand during the show, but even then I couldn't see. The levels are barely spread apart making the ceilings to the seats very low. If you stand up the ceiling covers the stage due to the little slope. There is also no lobby to the theater. When you are waiting to be let in you will be outside pretty much on the street. Its not very safe so keep that in mind. The merch sellers were also very rude. If you don't know exactly what you want before you get to the stand they will push you aside and take the next person. They weren't nice with us at all. Overall it was a terrible experience and it sucked because I was actually excited for the show. Pretty much they need to redesign the theater and get new employees. read more

I really enjoyed watching The Kite Runner here! The theater is beautiful and it's small enough that every seat is a good seat except the far left or right seats on the first few rows (blocked by speakers) read more

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Swung by CIBC with friends to watch the Kite Runner Broadway show. To summarize my experience, it was chaotic and confusing. We entered quickly and they checked our tickets relatively quickly too. After checking in, they announced that everyone from the balcony will be moved to the mezzanine floor. We had to go and exchange our tickets from one of the staff members. She took ages to figure out where to seat us. Moreover, she couldn't even give the three of seats together. The seats were numbered oddly too. We also had to climb three floors to get to where we were supposed to be seated because the elevator was broken. I was very disappointed with the way they handled everything. I had a back problem and my friend had leg cramps and ofcourse we were wearing heels. We did have drinks too and they were great and the bartenders were very friendly as well. The kite runner show however, was tooooo good. read more

CIBC Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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There's nothing better than a grand old theater. Located in the heart of the Theater district, it is easy to get to. Parking lots and garages are nearby but expensive. Taxi, Uber, subway and city bus are all very convenient. I like that The grillroom is directly across the street. Nearby is Italian Village so it's easy to grab a bite before a performance. The restaurants always create cocktails to match the shows. Cute idea! Staff at this theater are super helpful. We had 3 people offer to show us to our seats. The t-shirt lady and security staff were great also. Seating is comfortable. but the stage is a little high. So the first 4 rows might not be ideal. We sat about 8 rows back and it was very good. read more

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The staff is awesome,Anita gave us seats on the main floor because my friend was worried about going upstairs.Such a good show! read more

CIBC Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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I've enjoyed several Broadway shows here but the latest was "Chicago" and "Six." Both shows I would recommend! I've sat on the main floor, the mezzanine, and balcony. They mezzanine seats were the most recent and had no leg room. I'm only 5'3 and my legs were super cramped so I feel bad for anyone tall. Long plays would be brutal if you are taller. The upstairs women's bathroom is also on the smaller side. They sell candy, wine, soda and water before the play and at intermission. There's a large upcharge similar to movie theaters but I usually find it worth it. Overall it's a clean theater and the staff is friendly. Most seats you are going to have a good view of the performance, even balcony. Main floor has definitely been my favorite experiences though. Sign Up for Chicago Broadway emails and you'll often get promo codes for main floor seats. read more

CIBC Theatre - View from mezzanine seating - row d, seat 6 - Performing Arts Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Visited with my family to see Boop! The Musical. The show itself was phenomenal, great stage presence. The music was good and the colors were vibrant. The theater itself was ok. The elevator was not working so to the stairs we went and boy was there a lot of stairs. Luckily, I was sitting near family because those seats were pretty cozy (but doable). Overall a good time. read more

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Located near Monroe and State Street, this Downtown theater was beautifully appointed with vintage detailing. I love the high ceilings, chandeliers, marble bathrooms, and huge audience area. A Magical Cirque Chrismas was playing. Lucy the host was sweet, vampish, magical, 1960s sultry woman, and comedic. Audience participation was interactive and fun. The acrobatic performances were amazing with a Christmas theme. The bathrooms on the lower level were large enough to accommodate the women in the audience. Some staff were wearing masks. The elevators are small. The lines to the refreshments were long. It's best to go early and as soon as you get into the door. The seats are already assigned so there's no rush. The show starts on time and there was intermission. read more

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Won the Chicago Broadway lottery and scored discount tickets for On Your Feet, the story of Gloria and Emilio Estefan. The show was held at the CIBC theater which is one of my favorite theaters because it is centrally located and the interior is beautiful. There is usually a concessions stand inside, but I've been able to bring in my own water and snacks without anyone making a fuss. read more

My wife and I both surprised each other with Betty Boop, BOOP! The musical ticket a week apart. So we been to this theater twice literally in the past week. It's a beautiful theater. It's tall and constructed in more of a vertical space than wide. I mention for handicapped and accessibility needs, I'd get the usher to help in advance. Their elevator is pretty limited to 4. So there's stairs. Boop! Was fantastic. Jasmine Amy Robert's vocal gave me chills. The supporting cast was amazing too. They had fun set transitions and had great use of the space from a technical point of view. Even the partially obstructed seats aren't that bad. We had center mezzanine which had great views and also sat front left mezzanine the first night. Older shorter tighter seats. So bulky will make you and adjacent theater goers uncomfortable. Use the coat check. Be extra comfy if you're big and tall. Intermission bathroom break is long. Go before. Typical theater etiquette tips. Awesome experience. read more

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Just attended "Girl from the North Country. Billed as early Bob Dylan songs for its musical score. It's much, much more. Set in a Boarding House in 1933 Duluth, it returned me to my time in Hibbing MN. And spending significant time in Duluth. In early 1980 areas in huge St Louis County boarding on huge, cold Lake Superior on the Iron Range was again in its own depression. The Taconite (High Grade Iron) shut the mines. This Musical perfectly portrayed a myriad of very talented singers playing the varied personalities depression brings on. Yes it's dark. All of them are in distress from all the monetary & mental & alcoholic ills. That's life. The themes of folks pulling together, trying to survive & even clinging to each other with love and compassion should uplift you. It's American history played with pathos & song. By the by, for my seventy years, 5th generation Chicagoan this old Theater is a work of Art and Function. Promote it! read more

Beautiful theater in the city of Chicago. Tight seating to be aware of for your body type. Snacks and drinks are available for purchase.the productions of boop was Amazing! Amazing talent from the youngest to the oldest! I enjoyed the whole show! read more

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Last night, I visited the theater for the first time to see Boop! The show was amazing, so if you have not had a chance to go, please put it on your to-do list. Regarding the venue, the theater was nice, but, there were a few big issues that impacted my experience. First, our seats were on the third floor. However, the elevator was out of service. I have arthritis in my knees and taking that many stairs at once it's problematic, but nearly impossible going down. The second issue was that it was uncomfortably cold in the theater. Luckily we had coats, so we stayed wrapped up in them, and I even wrapped my scarf around my head to try to get warmer. It was very uncomfortable. The staff at the theater were very nice and offered assistance before you even asked. On the website, the theater recommends several options for parking. We chose the Inland steel building parking garage as it was literally a one minute walk from the garage to the theater. This was literally the smallest parking garage I have ever seen in my life. The few spots that they did have were small, many of them close to a column or a wall that made it really nerve-racking to try to park in. If you are going to the theater and there is bad weather, I would definitely suggest this parking garage but if the weather is not bad I would suggest parking elsewhere. Overall, a good experience. Before I purchase tickets again, I would definitely call and make sure the elevators are working. I'm also planning to email the theater to provide feedback about the temperature. read more

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This is a beautiful old theater. Really good seating through the theater. Wonderful sound system. The lobby is small and underwhelming but a great experience overall. read more

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The CIBC theater transports you back into the past with the beautiful architecture. The show was amazing and the staff were world class. read more

CIBC Theatre - Show - Performing Arts Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Just saw Boop! the musical here. EXCELLENT SHOW!!! Very high quality and well executed production. Nice storyline which was very engaging and entertaining, there was no part of the show that was slow or boring. I would highly recommend it. The seating in the theater was nice and was very classy. Bathrooms were clean and the bar was well stocked. read more

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It's a beautiful old theater and I'm glad broadway is back. It is on the smaller side so it gets crowded pretty quickly with little room to move about when entering and exiting a show. The souvenir stand line is right when you get in so occasionally people are blocking the way when you're trying to get your seat. I love that some shows occasionally have backdrops before going in but the lighting isn't that great. Depending on where you sit you may or may not have a good time. I would not recommend their limited view seats. Pay the extra for a regular seat because limited view in this theater is actually limited view especially if the set has a second level you'll miss everything going on there. I've been to numerous shows there. There a plenty of parking garages around to find decent parking maybe like a block or two away. Grabbing a bite to eat before or after the show there are some restaurants around. It's not as big and grand as the other chicago theaters but it still gets the job done. The bathrooms are on the lower level and this building has a lot of stairs. They do have an elevator but the wait time for it can get very long. read more

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This is a pretty nice theater. I've seen several shows here and overall haven't been too disappointed. The only negative thing I will say about it, is that there does seem to be a large number of obstructed view or limited view seats. Those seats do cost less than the ones around them, but there are quite a few of them. I've sat in an obstructed view seat on the floor in the orchestra-R section in row F. I couldn't see a fair portion of the right side of the stage. I don't think I'd necessarily recommend getting the obstructed view seats unless it's the only option for your budget! read more

It was okay. And the show was great. This was our first time at the CIBC Theatre. We were seated in the balcony so it was a huge haul up many flights of stairs to get to our seats and there was still another level to go. We bought bottled water part way up the stairs. The balcony ladies room was on our level and the men's room was at the highest level. At intermission, I saw that they had an elevator and made plans to take it down after the show as we each have a leg/foot ailment and stairs are the worst - up or down. Taking the elevator down was a bit of an experience. While we were first in line, there's a process the elevator operator uses to take people down. She starts at the top floor and continues to return there until all are down, then she moves down a floor and repeats the process. I guess it makes sense. It just seemed odd having her stop at our floor a number of times as she ferries the top floor people down. All in all, it was an okay experience at the CIBC but not amazing. read more

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