I LOVE THIS PLACE!! It's full of history (including ghosts!), great ideas, SUPER fun photo opps, and fantastic shows. The range of performances is incredible...every genre of music, and speakers, and movies. It's wonderful! Pros: the architecture the history the art and beauty of the inside the friendly staff the photo booth! the plentiful bathroom stalls the excellent schedule of events! Cons: the seats are sometimes broken. Bring a sweater or jacket to sit on, for comfort no elevator no AC Note: ticket office is open only one day a week, plus during events. SO: to avoid the service charges, try to go in then! Otherwise, you'll be purchasing on ticketmaster, with fees. read more

Kalamazoo State Theatre - Boo! - Performing Arts Near Me - Kalamazoo, Michigan

I've been to hundreds of shows here, my favorite place in Kalamazoo! They pull in some great shows, you won't be disappointed

They were having a concert outdoors, they moved it inside due to the rain but it was mighty humid inside. Great duo singing. read more

Kalamazoo State Theatre - Great duet. - Performing Arts Near Me - Kalamazoo, Michigan

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The State Theater is an icon in Kalamazoo; hosting big acts in an intimate setting. The theater was built in 1927 and still has all of the charm and ambiance of that era. Each time you set foot in the building, you step back in time. Acoustics are pretty sweet when listening to a musical act and the sound system allows even far reaches of the huge auditorium to have a great experience. The lighting is pretty cool too and you feel like you're in a castle. I spend the first few minutes every time, looking around and just taking in the architecture! The front office works hard to keep acts coming to our town and offering fairly reasonable prices helps to keep the locals coming in. You can see everything from musical acts, movies, comedians, and whatever else the patrons demand. Several small bars are scattered throughout the lower and upper lobbies and they are always serving local beers and wines along with a few snacks; all at reasonable prices. In the end, you are sure to have a great time whenever you visit this historical icon in downtown Kalamazoo. read more

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This beautifully restored old theater is a great place for concerts, as well as theatrical events. There is truly not a bad seat in the house. While the outside is not much to marvel at. The interior is spectacular. Check their schedule and give them a try. read more

We had a great time at the Almost Queen tribute band show . It was our first time at the state theatre. Seats are nicely angled so the people in front of you don't block your view. It's beautifully ornate inside and we were surprised they served alcohol. Sounds system rocked! We could hear all the spoken words plus the music was crips and clear. Hoping to do something like this again! read more

Kalamazoo State Theatre - State theater - Performing Arts Near Me - Kalamazoo, Michigan

The most unique theater I have ever been to! I grew up doing to Warren Miller Ski movies, Pink floyd laser light shows as well as too many concerts to count here. I love how they have not changed this place at all! You still feel like you are outside in the open air enjoying a show. I do miss the clouds that used to float across the night sky from back in the day but other then that it is a magical place. It was a nice change that they would ID you for alcohol outside the venue before going in so that the lines are not long inside for concessions. The domestic drafts seem reasonable at $6 a beer. The bathroom lines still are crazy long during intermission but that is anywhere. read more

Kalamazoo State Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Kalamazoo, Michigan

Compared to other venues of its size and kind (the Michigan Theatre in Ann Arbor being one example) the State Theatre is criminally underused. I often wondered if the owners were using it as a tax shelter, i.e., minimally use the facility while deriving maximum tax benefit. There should be something happening everyday at this venue. The acoustics are amazing and the sight lines are fantastic. (However, I have a couple of things I am not in love with: The seating - the seats themselves, and the space between rows - is so tight that if I don't sit at the end of a row, I am miserable. The seats should have been replaced decades ago. And while I love nothing more than an overpriced plastic cup of Bell's Amber Ale, I think I prefer alcohol free shows now.) Acts that I've seen at the State Theatre: Bob Dylan, Iggy Pop, Tori Amos, Michael Hedges, Rickie Lee Jones, Buddy Guy, Leo Kottke, Pearl Jam, Soundgarden, Smashing Pumpkins, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Chick Corea, Gary Burton, Pat Metheny, Bobby McFerrin, Cowboy Junkies, Ani DiFranco, Bela Fleck, Koko Taylor, Midnight Oil, Peter Case. read more

Kalamazoo State Theatre - Isolde said she held Michael Hedges' hand when he was in the hospital being treated for kidney stones. - Performing Arts Near Me - Kalamazoo, Michigan

I cannot say enough about how much I fell in love with this theatre! I traveled up (way up) to see my guy and catch the GSBG shows after Thanksgiving. For once in my life I didn't do a full research review and dissertation, based on Yelp reviews, so I didn't know what to expect. I had heard from from friends, it's intimate, it sounds great, it's beautiful, etc. but was still blown away with just how ornate the State theatre is. The details in design can be seen throughout the venue on the stairways to the ceilings, and of course inside the actual theatre. Like my friend used to say- that's Theatre with *re, if ya know what I mean. Aside from its beauty, the acoustics were also pretty great. As typical in these older venues, there's a richness to the sound that you can't get in any newer venues. We sat in the center balcony and it seemed that there wasn't a bad audio spot anywhere upstairs. The views from the balcony were also pretty spectacular. What's even better is that you still feel a connection with the band due to the size and design of the balcony. Very much looking forward to more shows here in the future when back in area. read more

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This is one of my favorite venues, simply because it's so cool. The inside reminds me of the Mexico ride at Disney World. The ceiling and walls make it look like you're outside underneath the stars. Of course the outside has the retro marquee, which I love. I have seen both general admission and seated shows at this theatre. I bought seats in row BB, thinking they would be towards the middle of the main floor area. Nope, they were right up in the front! It was a nice surprise. Beer prices are average for a music venue, $7-$8 for a craft beer. Security can be hit or miss; the security guards usually stay out of peoples' way but at the last show, I saw a woman's phone get shoved almost out of her hands. I know that photo/video rules are usually up to the performer, but there were lots of other people around her taking photos and filming as well. Pro tip, go up to the balcony level to use the bathroom; the women's restroom on the main level only has 2 stalls. Sound quality is pretty good, I've never noticed any issues with sound. I would recommend hitting up Tibbs brewing (right next door) beforehand for a beer. If your favorite band or artist has a show here, I highly recommend you check it out! read more

I love attending concerts and events at the Kalamazoo State Theatre. What a grand old lady. I feel like I step back into time every time I walk through the doors. The interior is absolutely astounding and beautiful. The acoustics are very good and they have invested in top of the line equipment. Our latest concert, we sat in the 2nd row from the stage in folding chairs they set up for larger events and I also think to curtail dancing in the front, which is fine with me since this bugs me when I pay good money to see and hear a band, not watch people dance. The ladies bathroom on the 2nd floor is huge. The line was very long during intermission, but it moved quickly. The lines to the food & beverage also move pretty fast. The longest wait is to enter the building if it is a sold-out crowd. I wish there was a way to speed this up, especially when it is a cold night. But I completely understand the security measures they have in place. Kalamazoo is proud of the State Theatre and rightfully so. read more

Kalamazoo State Theatre - The view behind us (main floor, row BB) - Performing Arts Near Me - Kalamazoo, Michigan

I had the most fun I have had in FOREVER tonight! I won tickets to see "Take me to the river" concert. And this was my very first time at Kalamazoo State Theatre, definitely not my last! This concert was SO upbeat, amazingly fun and full of talented people! The singers had such amazing voices! I couldn't stop recording videos lol When we walked in, the atmosphere was SO exciting! I was geeked to see the performance just as much as I was to take pictures of everything! The stage was beautiful, the photos on the wall, sculptures and seats were classic! Such a great feel! It looked like a gorgeous sky with beautiful stars! I can't wait to try another concert or play here! The concert itself had some amazing music, awesome people and there we're even some hilarious jokes! Had me dancing, laughing and smiling the whole time! Everyone at the venue had such a great time! They even had some food, drinks, beer and after the concert you got to meet the band and get autographs! Definitely will be back and highly recommend ! read more

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It was really cool seeing a concert this weekend at the State Theater with several people who hadn't been to the venue before. My friend Sarah, from Lansing, said she never seen a concert at such a small venue and absolutely loved the intimacy of it. It's really cool when artists make great use of that intimacy like OK Go did in their incredible show on Sunday. The band members asked questions of the audience and make sure to call on people in the balcony, too, which made it feel like we all had the best seats in the house (even some of their confetti machine output made it to the balcony). That we're all in it together vibe was further facilitated by the band recruiting the entire audience as musicians via turning our phones into instruments to the use of an OK Go ap, and the band inviting an audience member to strum a one-stringed guitar during the final encore (a cover of Blur's Woo Hoo) while about a hundred kids bounced around the stage. The architectural details of the venue never cease to delight, and I've been very happy to see them incorporate a great recycling program for the cups their drinks are served in. Food and drink prices are also fairly reasonable here ... Slightly more expensive than your average bar, but much less expensive than the movie theater or most concert venues. read more

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I'd attended a couple of shows at the State Theater previously, but they had been "in & out" situations and hadn't really gotten to "see" the theater itself. That all changed when I recently attended a Yelp event held at the State! Before I get into the theater itself I have to mention the little smudge on the experience. The building entrance was manned by a slightly overzealous employee/volunteer. I'm never one to besmirch someone for doing his or her job, but this guy being difficult just for the sake of of stubbornness. He had a small crowd of us at the door and refused to allow us entry until 4:30p. It was 4:26p. Then at 4:30p he still held us up waiting to hear from our tour guide, even though this was all previously setup. Sigh. Anyway, once we mucked our way through that, we were led upstairs. That's where the tour began. If you've never been to the second floor of the theater, you are missing out. It is beautiful. The decor immediately made me think of the heyday of theaters in the 1920s-30s (well at least what I've seen in movies. I'm old not ancient!). The molding and architecture was fantastic. For as old as the building is, it is still in really good shape. The tour took us backstage and underground and we got to see organ blower (stop it) which is still intact. Climbing the narrow stairways, one could imagine the hustle and bustle of opening night for a production! We also were told a harrowing tale of the tragic fire in the early 1900s in Chicago. That incident is primarily the reason for all of the fire safety innovations in the theater. I love the history and beauty of the State Theater. I'm glad that it was preserved for generations to relive memories, and to make new memories. Other than the initial "toe stub", the theater staff are all fantastic and professional. You can tell they are passionate about their work. If you haven't gone on a tour of State Theater, jump on the next one you see! If you have yet to visit the theater for a show, what are you waiting for? Maaan! read more

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Attended the Ok Go Video Tour Concert here, and was really impressed with this theater. Originally built in the 20's, it's one of the last "Picture Palaces" left (go see the wikipedia entry for more info). The inside of the theater is beautiful and opulent - the decoration has a spanish design and it's simply beautiful on the inside. They've got a nice full bar, with a few different micro brews on tap - they make pretty good mixed drinks and the Rum & Coke's I got were on the strong side (which was good for a rock show!). They also serve Popcorn that was a bit over salted for my wife's taste, but it smelled great. All of the options are of course ridiculously overpriced, more or less expected for concession stands. Only downside of this place is that seating is a bit tight (as expected for a theater nearly a 100 years old) and the entrance to the aisles from the lobby hallway are a bit steep - people that have trouble walking will need to watch out. They've also got a nice big parking lot about a block south that you could book when you bought tickets, or pay for when you drove up (which may change depending on how many prepaid sales they made I'm assuming). Ok Go sounded/looked great - great acoustics and the stage/seat setup was perfect. I'll definitely attend again if there's another artist that books an event here. read more

Went to see Bert Kreischr Saturday night. Great show! But really State Theatre....no air conditioning? Couldn't wait to get out of the State Theatre Sauna. I will never attend an event there again no matter who is there. The Kalamazoo State Theatre just sucked. read more

I love the State Theatre it fun to get to go to events here in Kalamazoo, not have to travel to GR or elsewhere to get to see plays, musical acts, movies or anything else they have to offer. I've been going there for over 30 years and I'm just as excited each an every time I get to go! Thank you Kalamazoo for keeping this wonderful place open and running!! read more

So I've never seen a concert or a show here, but I have come for two of their special movie screenings. This place has a cool historic vibe. It's so beautiful inside the theater, it makes me feel like I am somewhere that's not Kalamazoo. They do not have any shows here in the summer because they don't have air conditioning. Such a shame they can't get more use out of this fabulous space. Winter season brings holiday movie showings and B-list or old-school music performances. Given the size of the venue, the acts here seem to feature people or groups I haven't heard of, or artists that were popular 20+ years ago. The theater looks wonderful for being 90 years old; props to the owners to keep it in great shape to make it a functional venue. read more

Great Concert Venue! This is the perfect spot for an intimate concert experience. We went to Gary Allan and he rocked the house! You feel up close and personal with the Stars. So happy he chose a smaller venue for this tour. We will definitely keep Kzoo State Theatre on our radar for future shows. read more

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We had the chance to see Ok Go video live tour and it was our very first time there. We were very surprised by the architecture that has been very well kept and the stage area. It reminded me of Greece and I am so glad to have had the chance to see kalamazoo state theatre. The seats are very thoughtfully designed so everyone can get a good sight of the stage performances. The staff members very pretty friendly when they showed us to our seats. read more

It's a beautiful venue with good acoustics. You can buy your tickets on Friday or Saturday directly from the box office and avoid the plague that is Ticketmaster. Staff is helpful. Can get drinks and snacks to enjoy during the show. read more

This theater is absolutely gorgeous! We have been for home free shows 3 times here and the experience isn't perfect logistically but its consistent. I'll explain, if you haven't had the honor to see a show at a theater of this age. A lot has changed in event standards since 1927 when this building was built and much of it airing on the side of expected safety. If you are a last minute ticket purchaser and/or experiencing an event here on a budget and find yourself in the balcony section.... it's beyond narrow seating. The seats are original, comfortable but simple (aka no cup holders) this begins the inconvenience of getting and having a drink here. The stairs are narrow and varying sizes, the lighting is basically always dim so if you decide to wear heels or you are afraid of heights or even if you feel held back by your age or disability these facts will leave you uncomfortable. It may sound like a very negative complaint but we brought my 71 year old mother in law this past weekend and once she made it up 2 flights to get to our level she then had to climb these steps to our row and once she sat down she refused to drink at all trying to avoid leaving for a bathroom break. There's no railing. At all. I feel this poses a great hazard in an emergency or evacuation scenario. This is the only reason this venue does not get a 5 star. Preserving the historical integrity is very important of course but this is a matter of safety. Beyond all this, the restrooms are tiny so lines are insane... if intermission isn't long enough you could honestly be trapped in line missing out and doing the pee dance. The bar is EQUIPT but small and pricing is to be expected. $3 water bottle $5 minimum for non alcoholic options... $8 beer $9-12 for wine or mixed drinks. They have popcorn but don't expect food. Which for most isn't a thing because with a 8pm show we have always had dinner prior to a show anyways. The light and sound design and quality is on point and the staff is very polite and helpful. Don't bring a large purse in also they have manned security entry and now only allow bags 8X5X2 inch inside. Normal rules and regulations otherwise. No large cameras either. Bottom line, know what your getting into and enjoy whatever show you paid to see. It's beautiful but maybe avoid the balcony if the previous description does not work for you. The view is solid for $40 seats though... read more

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A beautiful old theater, the ambience is worth the price of admission to any show you see here. Marvel at the ornate architecture as you enjoy a concert or a movie. This venue has upped it's game in the past couple years by including some specialty programming outside of the typical concerts seen here. About once a month they have been presenting classic movies with fun additions including cocktails themed to the movie, photo opportunities with characters from the movies, and preshows that tie into the movies. read more

Very cool Kzoo hotspot. Visually, the architecture is amazing. Very old, restored building in the heart of Kalamazoo. Was in town for something else but managed to snag a last minute ticket for Kevin James. Awesome. Also, this is a very smoothly run operation. Security it top notch and very polite and helpful. I was impressed with everyone I encountered. Felt very comfortable there, by myself, before, during and after. Definitely recommend. read more

What a fantastic gem of a theater tucked into downtown Kalamazoo - a historic spot that has been beautifully restored. I've only been to one show here thus far... The Swell Season... which was an incredible show, but I digress... I was super impressed by the inner beauty of the theater. I felt like I was transported into some quaint little town in Italy or something. Our seats were in the mezzanine. My one complaint would be that the theater seats are really close together. I wedged into my seat and my knees were touching the chair in front of me, so definitely no room for people to shuffle past... everyone has to stand to let people pass. But, it was a beautiful theater with beautiful acoustics and we had a fabulous time at the show. I would definitely go back. Oh, and since it's downtown, you - of course - have to either find street parking or park in a parking garage. read more

State theatre is a small intimate venue I am going there tonight for a post Thanksgiving Greensky bluegrass show I like this theatre because you never feel disconnected from the entertainment no matter where you sit and because you never feel lost in the crowd even at a sold out show which tonight I know it will be the multiple bars and tap selection doesn't hurt either go check it out fellow yelpers and friends. read more

Beautiful venue! We went to a comedy show here and it was so much fun! The venue is easy to find and the staff are friendly. I looked at reviews ahead of time and appreciated Katy C's pro tip of using the upstairs bathroom as there are so many more stalls. Thanks Katy! We sat in the upper lever and although the performer looked tiny from our section the sound was great! We really enjoyed being here! read more

I went to the State Theatre for the first time to see Nightwish. An amazing, wonderfully, enchanting show indeed. I know the theatre itself added the concert. With the Beautiful sculptures, pillars, art and various drawings. It seemed to draw your attention right to the stage. An A+ for such captivating art, which not only covered around us, but also above up. The ceiling which even had a few lights twinkling from the blue painted sky. Gave the effect that we were really outside. The staff greeted us with big smiles and were happy to show us to our seats. I really loved the sound, pitch perfect. At this venue, I didn't have to worry about a reverb, people walking in front of me blocking my view. And even on the balcony, we still had such a great view of the stage. Concessions were easy to get, merch wasn't in the walk way, and the seating was comfortable. But to that, I can't really say for sure, as I was standing up cheering most of the show! I am indeed smitten with this venue and cannot wait until I get another chance to go back. read more

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Mr. MVP and I have been to the State Theatre three times for comedy shows - Mike Birbiglia, Paula Poundstone and Lewis Black. We like the State Theatre because the tickets are typically reasonable and because it's located downtown it's close enough to our house that even Sunday evening shows are not a huge deal for us. We NEVER buy our tickets online through Ticketmaster because that adds nearly $15 or more in fees. Mr. MVP physically goes to the State Theater box office window and pays for the tickets where there are never any fees. During the Paula Poundstone show, we sat near the front in the folding chairs. We thought this would be a great idea because sitting closer for my hearing problems with someone like Paula who tends to mumble, but it was actually a huge mistake. The front rows of folding chairs are enormously uncomfortable. The Paula Poundstone show was just okay and after two hours we were ready to leave and what made it so much worse was the truly horrible uncomfortable chairs. Sit a few rows back in the regular seats and your back and hips will thank you. For Lewis Black we procrastinated and could only get tickets in the balcony. We both knew that Lewis Black was loud, but we were unsure if I would be able to understand him once he started ranting. Thankfully sound travels fairly well in the State Theatre, so my hearing issues were not really a huge issue with this show. Our seats were really not too bad either - in the balcony on the far right in the second row. At the very least we did not have the problem of the dreaded folding chairs. One problem that the State Theatre does have is that it's old and so if you are larger than me (5'5 and 127 pounds) the seats are probably a smidge tight. Mr. MVP is a little over 6 feet and stocky and he FITS in the seats very firmly. His knees hit the seat in front of him and his elbows rest squarely on the armrests. He has absolutely no room to wiggle, where as I have quite a bit of room to breathe. Team VP does not drink and the reason why we pick venues with alcohol to take our business is because that is where the shows we want to see are playing. We deal with a lot of stupid inebriated people, but the State Theatre does a pretty good job of keeping things under control. The breaks between warm up comic and headliner comic so patrons can refresh their alcohol and popcorn supplies could be shortened, but I appreciate we live in America and people cannot make it more than two hours without food or beverages. **This is simply a humanity rant and nothing about the State Theatre, but we have had to endure the most irritating seat-mates at the State Theatre. Men especially who clap each and every time the comic says anything, even non funny things, then they kick the back of our chairs in hysterics. Also college aged boys who chat through shows. I blame this ill behavior on alcohol. read more

Love this venue! Saw Jonny Lang there sat, (10/9). Every seat is perfect, and the acoustics are surprisingly well engineered. Wonderful setting for an artist like Lang, one who becomes very passionate, and musically intimate with his audience. A bit macabre on the interior, the exterior is what you'd expect from a small-town movie theater to be like from maybe from thirty years ago. Yet, it's function is perfect for small venue concerts like Lang. Will definitely be going back! read more

I have been to countless shows in this historic, cozy theatre. The sound is always fantastic, seats quite comfortable, the staff very helpful and friendly, and the bars well-stocked. Any performance here offers a great seat no matter where you are sitting. I am very pleased with the variety of artists and shows brought to this establishment! If you haven't attended a performance here, it is a MUST. read more

Just saw Kansas Point of Know Return tour. Nice venue, courteous staff, sound was good, but too digital. Crank up the guitar amps, coming back to see Micheal Schenker Group. read more

Great staff at a beautiful and historic place. They're actually closed in the summer because they're so old that they don't have a/c! Note that the space can get pretty toasty on a warm day. They had a really cool free kick off party this fall. I also came here to see the Lala's Burlesque show and had a great time! The space is big, but also feels very intimate. The whole experience from the moment you walk in is unique. Bonus: I love that they have craft beer on tap and in bottles instead of just domestic. read more

The staff completely worked with the needs of my significant other whom is in a wheelchair.... They accommodated us even though our tickets were for the balcony. The theatre manager came up to check on us to make sure we were both comfortable. We have never been taken care of like this in any other venue. We both appreciate the work that was done for us to have an enjoyable evening together as we celebrate both of our birthdays. read more

Please get some air conditioning! That was brutal to sit thru with such tight squeezed seats and seriously it was well over 100 degrees in there. For over $200 price tag for the concert (Bert) he was hilarious but damn people (owners), if you invest in some A/C you may improve your attendance much more. read more

I just have to share my experience with you. I was going to a concert at the State. I have a disability and it's difficult for me to walk, but I get around. I arrived in my wheelchair and was planning on just putting it in the corner and walking to my seats. Staff at the theatre asked if they could help. I explained my situation and before I could finish, Lisa said no, " let me see what I can do". I told her that that was not necessary. She insisted! I explained that I was with a group of 6, and I would be fine, please don't make a fuss. She again insisted,and said give me just a minute. Just then Keith arrived and asked to help, with in just minutes these 2 arranged better seats for all of us! I just want you to know,how they went above and beyond! Without being asked. Lisa and Keith are the Greatest! I can't thank you both enough! It means a lot to me. The concert was Great and we had a wonderful time. We definitely will be returning to the State Theatre in the future. If you see Lisa or Keith say hello and thank them for being kind to other 's. Mike V read more

Booked tickets to see a long time favorite, Mary Chapin Carpenter, in a small intimate venue. The old theater is exquisite. Mary Chapin entertained wonderfully as expected. However, the goon like security staff and venue management were reprehensible. Apparently the artist had requested that no photos or video be taken. Fine, that is her prerogative. But, no announcement was made before the show, and the only signage I saw was later in the ladies room. When my husband pulled out his cell phone to take a photo, he was rushed by a security guard who attempted to intimidate by standing directly in front of him, leaning into his face, and shining a flashlight directly into his eyes and indirectly into adjacent audience members. Overly aggressive and unnecessary given that the audience was a subdued, primarily middle aged cohort. When we left the venue, I asked for the security manager, to voice my complaint. He told me to speak to "Nick" the venue manager. Nick, who by the way refused to provide his last name, or a business card, proceeded to tell me that if I had an issue with security, I needed to complain immediately, not 90 minutes later. And also, I needed to speak with the security supervisor who had just sent me to him. Wth? I even pointed out the particular security guard and called him over so there was no mistaking identity. One of 2 things is going to happen in the future if they do not reign in the security staff. They will either lose audience, because no one expects that disrespectful treatment, or they will end up with a lawsuit when the security staff happens to step 1mm further over the line, and actually hurts someone. read more

Fantastic, clean, historic and wonderful venue! Sound quality is great, staff is very courteous and it's always a treat to come here.

Gorgeous. So, so, gorgeous. Saw Primus here, and it was amazing. However, there are only 2 stalls in the main floor ladies room, so it meant waiting every time I needed to use the bathroom. read more

Old school restored theatre. Had the privilege of seeing the Ramones on two of their farewell tours, Kathleen Edwards, and the Indigo Girls. There was a VERY short line to the mens restroom at the Indigo Girls concert. read more