Beautiful, cozy theater with a friendly staff. Always something good playing here and always a great experience. The one-star reviews are unhinged. One star because they didn't get a playbill read more

saw hadestown on tour here and had a great time! super close to the chinatown orange line station. accessible seating has a GREAT view. the only thing is that there's no elevator, so if you have a mobility disability or something else that affects your ability on stairs, keep that in mind. super helpful staff and fun show! read more

Emerson Colonial Theatre - accessible seating orchestra view - Performing Arts Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

A beautiful theater and we watched a fantastic performance of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. Now as for the 2 hours and 50 minutes that we experienced in our crammed seats looking for a way to get comfortable but couldn't - that's when it wasn't fun. I won't say that I won't return to this theater but I've passed on going to other shows because of the seats. I just couldn't pass on Harry Potter! read more

Emerson Colonial Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

This theatre is super pretty! Loved checking out all the intricate details. I went for The Cursed Child and was hoping to grab some Butter Beer but the lines were wild. However, they do have mobile ordering from your seat which was awesome, it just doesn't include any special features depending on what show you are there for. The downside is the seats are not very comfortable. I'm only 5' 5" and I can't imagine cramming in if you are much taller than that. Parking was also a nightmare, we totally should have found a garage a bit further away from the theatre. We parked at the closest one and it took FOREVER getting in there to give the car to valet. Do not recommend that! read more

Went to see Macbeth and had a great time. The seats are a little tight. I attribute that to the historic nature of this building. The architecture is utterly gorgeous and distracting. Acoustics were perfect and you can't really have a bad seat in this theater. read more

Emerson Colonial Theatre - View from the back - Performing Arts Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

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We saw The Cursed Child here last week. It is a beautiful theater that I thought had plenty of great views. My fiancé is 6'1 and really struggled with the seats. Luckily, the people on our left didn't show up. I'm not sure what would happen if two tall people had to sit next to each other. read more

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The theater is gorgeous. And they bring in great shows. But the seats are ridiculously tiny. I'm only 5'6" but my knees are hitting the seat in front of me all the time. And there is barely any room to even put your elbows on the arm rests. read more

Emerson Colonial Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

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This is such a cozy and beautiful theater. We watched the Simon and Garfunkel story here last weekend and it was such a great show. There was a live band playing music and telling stories of the duo over the years and the screen above showed visuals in tandem. Really beautiful music - we had good seats Row P in the orchestra so pretty nice - could see and hear everything really well. In the beginning we got in just as the first song which happened to be one of my favorites - sound of silence - was just starting so we stood in the back for the song to finish before we went to our seats. In the intermission the line for the ladies room was really really long - moves quickly but I still waited till it was actually very short to get in line. Overall really great experience! read more

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Beautiful theatre in the heart of Boston. Across from Boston Common. The inside of the theatre looks like the Palais de Versailles. Great acoustics there as well. Many cafe's and restaurants in the area, easy public transport, and reasonably priced public parking. I loved my first visit there and will go again I hope! read more

This is a beautiful theater! I saw Six and the performance was wonderful! We had seats in Orchestra row A 103 & 104 and I was surprised by the generous leg room. (The two seats to the right of us were not as lucky!) After reading other reviews, I'm glad we weren't in the balcony or dress circle due to their uncomfortable seats & lack of space. The staff were friendly and accommodating. I didn't see a coat check available which was disappointing when attending on a very cold night in December since the theatre itself was nice & toasty. Also, be sure to give yourself time to arrive & go through security. There's a bag check & metal detector to go through before you can get to the lobby. You're able to bring drinks from the bar to your seats but they're served in glasses which you need to return. It was hard to be able to reach the restroom after the performance but that's to be expected somewhat in the rush to leave the theatre. read more

Emerson Colonial Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

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Beautiful old theatre...but that comes with old seats. If you are any bigger than average sized, you may want to reconsider. Im not sure if the seat size is any different in other sections but in the balcony...I wouldn't recommend for a comfortable experience. I'm a short girl, but a bit on the larger side. I am 5' tall and my feet were crammed up against the seat in front of me and on both sides my legs were touching the people next to me. The views definitely are great no matter where you sit, and all the staff were incredible at customer service. But the seats alone would make me reconsider coming back for an event here. read more

Emerson Colonial Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

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I saw the Mean Girls Musical here a few weeks ago. It's located across from Boston Commons and the Public Gardens. Parking is limited street parking or the Boston Common Garage. The sercurity line was quick, just a metal detector and a quick bag check. The theatre is a bit smaller compared to the opera house and not as nice, but it was still a pleasant experience. The staff was nice at direct us to our seats and they showed how much time was left until the show started on a timer which was convenient. We got the vip experience and got access to their ambassador lounge. It's a private room downstairs with some tables, a bar, musical posters on the wall, and a bathroom. Each guest got a free alcoholic drink, pretzels, and a cookie. I wish they have more than one bathroom because everyone was lining up to use the one toilet. The Mean Girl's musical itself was not that good. It falls flat compared to other musicals that I've been. They basically just copied the original movie with small modifications. read more

very cool ambience . the Harry Potter Cursed Child show was absolutely amazing. However it's worth noting that if you taller than 5'10 you MUST book an aisle seat or you will be in deep pain. I am 6'5 and had to negotiate w the ushers to get an aisle seat. Excellent experience once I got the aisle. read more

Emerson Colonial Theatre - If you are over 5'10" you absolutely MUST book an aisle seat. I am 6'5 and was in extreme pain in the dress circle seat b115 - Performing Arts Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

Overall a very pleasant experience with a few cons. We went to see Harry Potter and the Cursed Child which was amazing!! The theater was beautiful and full of history. Staff were strict but helpful. Bathrooms are very small, leading to long lines. Hallways are crammed so it is shoulder to shoulder most times. Seating was very tight. I am 6 feet tall and if I didn't have an isle then it would be extremely uncomfortable, so if you are tall or have knee problems, sit on an end seat in the orchestra. read more

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The shows (Mrs.Doubtfire) was great. The theatre is a beautiful old theatre. Bathrooms were very clean. The bars were everywhere and had some good options for beverages. The seating however leaves a lot to be desired. If you're over 5 feet tall, you're going to feel cramped. The seats are tiny with absolutely no leg room. I'm 5'10" with arthritic knees that can't be in a bent position for extended times. I stood for the second half. So if you want to enjoy the show in comfort, make sure you're a tiny person as the theatre was not made for us average sized people. read more

No playbills, no apology either. If I'm shelling out $100 for a ticket I want a print playbill, not some cheap postcard with a QR code. Worst theater in Boston! No legroom and the staircases are super rickety and scary. The wang and opera house are WAY better. read more

The seats were made for small people. I'm an average sized man and to say the seat was cozy would be an understatement. An airline seat is wider. The legroom was also an issue. No room to stretch your legs out. We visited in June and it was hot inside. I was expecting it to be brisk because most venues blast the AC to make up for all the body heat. Not here. Getting in and out was super easy and the staff were all friendly. Going through security took a minute or two include waiting in line so no complaints there. Bar tenders were great and prices were fair. read more

I've had better experiences at this theatre since my original review. The orchestra seating isn't too bad and you can usually see the show regardless of your seat. They have a system where you can order drinks to your seat. They lack ample women's room bathrooms compared to the orchestra house. read more

Emerson Colonial Theatre - See my review. - Performing Arts Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

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Beautiful theater. The last and great pre-broadway performance of Queen of Versailles. What killed the joy? A balcony seat that does not qualify a seat. Sitting three hours contorted is an insult to human anatomy. As a 6 footer, I was cramping, but even kid's cannot sit comfortably. read more

For the love of G--, please give more leg room in dress circle first row. This was my second time here in a similar section. Think twice about purchasing seats here. It's a medieval torture box on knees and legs. Painful after the first 20 minutes. Seriously, I had to take a shoe off to get my foot in the space, I'm average in foot size woman's 8. -------------------- Btw the show was great. The Girl from the North Country. The theater is decorated in original 1900 style when it opened. The 2nd floor offers a wine bar and snacks. Very beautiful theater. read more

There to see a great movie from the 1980's. Got there early to make sure we could arrive with someone who has time to walk to their seat. Helpful staff showed us our way. Comfortable atmosphere and comfortable temperatures in the room. Felt at ease. Definitely returning! read more

Emerson Colonial Theatre - I got to meet Alan Ruck. - Performing Arts Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

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Saw Six The Musical this weekend with the Ambassador Lounge add on that allowed early access to the theater, a speakeasy-like lounge for drinks and snacks, a private restroom and place to leave our coats. Highly recommend adding that to the evening's experience . Also loved Charlie, who directed us to the lounge and to our seats. He was lovely! read more

What a wonderfully beautiful theater this is. They have 3 different levels and the theater is ornate. Every where you look there is some piece of ornate decoration. We thoroughly enjoyed the show, it seemed like there were no bad seats in the house. The seats were very comfortable and you definitely do not feel cramped as in some older theaters. We saw the Champions of Magic and the show was tremendous. With every magic trick or illusion it got better and better. I will definitely like to see other future shows at this theater. read more

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went to see Harry Potter and the cursed child. first time in the colonial theatre and was shocked how nice and clean it was I felt so welcomed and loved the painting and chandeliers. Also barback alex is amazing and very kind. read more

It is agonizing seeing a show in this theater! The lack of any legroom makes it both painful and impossible to enjoy a show here! We simply stopped going. I don't know who thought this was acceptable but you have warned! read more

This review is posted as a warning to others before they purchase a balcony seat at this theater. The view from this seat, B9, in the theater is fine. This was the only saving grace of this balcony location. See the photo. I have never experienced a more uncomfortable seat for a performance. The seats are narrow (I am 5'11" slim, and I feel sorry for those who are wider), and there is no leg room. I could not sit with my legs straight. Thank goodness that I was able to angle in front of my wife for part of the show. But for most of it, I was incredibly cramped. My legs and knees were sore, and my feet were numb when I exited after the 2hour45min performance. I will never do this again. It really distracted from the wonderful performance of the Queen of Versailles. And by the way, getting down to the seat, and up from the seat to exit, is a steep climb. There are rails, and you will need them. There is minimal room to walk past the other patrons, who had to stand and inhale for us to reach our seats. read more

Emerson Colonial Theatre - Nice view of the show from seat B9 balcony, but incredibly uncomfortable - Performing Arts Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

No Leg Room in Dress Circle. A friend and I saw Into The Woods in March and sat in F 13 and F 15. Laughably uncomfortable seating. Narrow seats and impossible to sit without angling your knees off to the sides. Otherwise beautiful theater and the show was good. I've sat in the orchestra section in the past where there is adequate leg room. read more

The Colonial Theatre gets five stars for the history alone! It's the first place an audience ever saw Oklahoma! before it revolutionized musical theater. (If you care about that sort of thing, do take one of their behind-the-scenes tours so you can admire the table Bob Fosse danced on, etc., etc.) The recent renovation is just beautiful-- thankfully Stephen Sondheim himself publicly objected to Emerson's ill-advised plan to turn this gem into a dining hall. That said, it's true that legroom is severely limited, especially upstairs. It's noticeable even if you're short. And it's true that the staff gets a bit scattered sometimes, sometimes opening the doors late or struggling to get people to their correct seats. But... historical treasure! Wonderful new productions! Gorgeous decor! read more

Emerson Colonial Theatre - Entryway. Isn't it pretty? - Performing Arts Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

This venue is great. I've sat in all areas and I'm short & the views are great. Live coming here because the shows they have are always amazing and the staff is wonderful. read more

***Tall/Big people be aware: the seats in this theatre, though comfortable, are very close together. Attempt to purchase an aisle seat if you can*** Leg room aside, this theatre is stunningly beautiful and historically significant. From the ornate fixtures to the grand staircase, the Colonial is a gem in the Boston theatre scene. read more

Emerson Colonial Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

I saw Six the musical which was phenomenal, acoustics/ambience are great and I recommend everyone go see it but I am here to talk about the theatre which is beautiful, yes. I had seats in the Dress Circle which are only accessible by stairs, be mindful of what heels you wear. It gave a great view of the stage but if you are tall (I am 6'2") then your knees will be upset with you and if you're on the larger side (I am a size 22/24) then hips will be upset with you. Take this information however you need. read more

Emerson Colonial Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

Recently saw Mean Girls at the theater. Paid over $100 for the tickets only to find out when we got there that our seats had an obstructed view which we weren't informed of before buying the tickets. Contacted the theater the next day about it and was told unfortunately we don't know how they will set up the show so we don't know the stage setup. Asked for a refund and was told no. My opinion is if you are going to see a show there call and make sure you don't have an obstructed view. Very disappointing. I will not be spending my money on a venue that has no regard for their customers. read more

Legroom As Bad As United Airlines Coach Seats A beautiful and ornate theater in very good condition. The service was friendly and attentive. The wine and beer were pricey but at least available. But the seats were just horrible. Our seats were in the Dress Circle- which is code for lower balcony. I'm 5'10" and it was impossible to sit without forcing my back deep into the back of the chair and even then my knees were crushed with the ridiculous legroom. When this theater opened in 1900 the average height of men was 5'7". Even then, these seats would have been way too tight. read more

Emerson Colonial Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

I saw Hannah Gadsby here; the theatre was absolutely stunning and the show was amazing. However, while I understand the historical nature of the space, the extremely narrow and steep balcony needs to be addressed in some way. It should at the very least be clearly communicating to people when purchasing tickets that the balcony areas have extremely narrow walkways between rows and are extremely steep. I experienced vertigo while attempting to reach my seat in the top balcony and lost my balance, falling down onto the row in front. While the fellow attendees and staff were very helpful and kind, it was still a painful experience. read more

This is a beautiful old theatre. But it is old. The seats are extremely cramped. If you are above 5' then you will have trouble with the leg room. We recently went to see the Queen of Versailles, which was a great show. Unfortunately my friends and I were so uncomfortable and in pain due to not being able to move our legs - at all - during the first half, we left during intermission. We just couldn't stand another minute in those seats. Very disappointing. read more

Saw Moulin Rouge here a couple of months ago and I loved this theatre! It has recently been renovated reopened, I believe, for the first time in several years with this show. The set design matched the grandeur of the theatre perfectly. It was definitely one of the more "WOW" staging experiences I had at the theatre recently. I walked in and my jaw dropped! The seats were fairly comfy, for a theatre. My husband and I do a lot of Broadway weekends and know that legroom in a historic theatre can be scarce, but here it wasn't too bad. It wasn't spacious but it wasn't sardine levels of discomfort. We sat in the mezzanine left and the view was excellent. I know a lot of people complained about the temperature in the building but we were here in late July and didn't have any issues. And I'm a sweaty mess that always runs hot. Lobby was tight but again, no worse than some NYC broadway theatres. Sound was a-ok and the show was spectacular. Overall, a good start to a new life for the Emerson. read more

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The show was probably excellent -- however we were unable to go. The 1 star review is a warning about taking the "insurance." I was ill for weeks before the date of the show and unable to attend. I filed for a refund with accompanying medical documentation. Secure refunds (Colonial's insurance provider) insisted that I had to provide medical receipts for the DAY OF the show. This was stated nowhere in their terms and conditions. Their terms and conditions stated: "Incapacity of the Ticket Holder caused by Accident, Bodily injury or Sickness or a personal medical emergency before the Event." After going back and forth numerous times and getting nowhere -- my cousin (Harvard educated attorney) wrote a two page brief explaining why my situation fulfilled their terms and conditions. They immediately approved the request. Absolutely ridiculous that it had to come to that. Next came getting the actual refund. Secure Refunds is located in the UK and claim that they cannot issue a refund to a credit card. The refund had to be wired to a bank account -- which resulted in a $15 fee. This process took from my first refund filing on February 21 until receiving the refund on April 21. Without legal intervention it never would have happened. read more

Came here to see "Moulin Rouge" and I have to say, the theater itself felt a part of the show with its opulent design. It's really gorgeous inside. Not sure how it is for the ladies, but the men's room had plenty of capacity and even when I visited during intermission, there wasn't a huge line. Seats were a little tight, but not as bad as some theaters on Broadway in Manhattan. The only problem was there was no air circulation. It was like being in a sauna for two and a half hours. Even if they're not going to turn on the AC, at least get some fans to keep the air moving. I liked the show a lot but would have enjoyed it much better if I weren't dripping with sweat the entire time. read more

Emerson Colonial Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

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TIME TO RENOVATE Seats are terrible. Sound system needs to be updated. no enjoyment in going to the theater read more

I have been to numerous shows at the Colonial and always had good experiences which is why they are getting two stars but today's experience was so bad that I felt I had to review. I bought tickets to Kinky Boots the first day they went on sale, almost a year ago. When the usher took us to our seats, other people were sitting in them. She asked to see their tickets and they had hand written tickets on a piece of paper. We had printed tickets. The usher told us we would need to speak to the manager, Jen. The usher walked us up to her and explained the situation. Instead of apologizing and immediately fixing the problem, Jen told us she need to talk to the box office. I will admit, I lost my cool with Jen. She came back later and told us she needed to go down and get the other people to move before we could sit. She did move them and we got our seats about half way through the opening number. This is UNACCEPTABLE !! If I can look online at their website and see what seats are available, then how is it that the staff at the Colonial is unable to see this and give hand written tickets and seats to seats that have already been sold? There is no explanation for this that will be acceptable to me. These tickets are expensive and to miss part of the show due to their incompetence is just not okay. read more