This is review is of Madison Live. I have not been inside Madison Theater proper, but was in the attached Live section for the Terror show at the end of this past May. First of all, the staff at Madison Live is very helpful and friendly. This show was crowded and they had plenty of bartenders. Lots of draft options, as well as bottles, and the prices weren't horrible. There's no slant to the floor, so if you're at a packed show, you may want to get up front before the headliner, as it can be difficult to see from the back unless you're a taller individual. The sound quality is good. Terror had no barricade, which is awesome for a 2026 hardcore show. Also, I don't know who all assists in getting together the opening bands for a show like this, but they were good. I expected some lame openers and was pleasantly surprised when this wasn't the case (check out Pure Heel from NY, for sure, and also Retribution and Rules of Engagement). Security was also very cool and conducted themselves the way the best bouncers do: you're unaware they are even there until they are needed. There's an upstairs area as well, a roof spot where they also have bands play sometimes. Go up there for a more spacious, less crowded bathroom than the one downstairs. You can also have a smoke outside, between bands, if you like. I hope there's another good hardcore show playing at Madison Live the next time I'm in town, 'cause I'd love to visit this place again! read more

I hadn't been here in a lot of years, but had a very good experience on my most recent visit. The show I attended was seated, which always makes things more pleasant for an old guy like me. Sound quality and sightlines were good. Should another artist I like come here, I'd have no qualms about returning. read more

This place is great and my favorite venue in the Cincinnati area. Theres always good diverse shows coming thru town here.

Attempting to watch They Might Be Giants. Cool atmosphere but I got tickets in the lower tier. I was first person in for general seating. Got my preferred seat. This is now my view because they allow a crowd to stand on front of the first row of seats. I saw people actually ask the security guards if that was ok and he said yes. I bought a seated tix because I cant stand for the length of a concert. Rude and poor planning. These people block the view of the whole lower tier. I want a refund!​​​​ read more

I've only been to the Madison Theater once and I was there for Tape B, an EDM artist whom I love, and the show did not disappoint. The theater is located in a nice area with many bars and restaurants nearby. I stopped in a brewery and dive bar before heading there and all were in walking distance. The line to get in moved fairly quickly and once inside I went straight to the bathroom and then to the bar to grab a drink before settling in. The restroom was small, but not terribly unsightly and the bar was also small with pretty long lines. Nothing too crazy to report there. I'll also add that my ticket was around $40, which was cheaper than the other two venues I recently saw the same artist at in other cities in Ohio. That's a win. I would definitely describe myself as a pit girl so I made my way down the stairs to get front and center for the show. The sound and production was all really great. All in all, I would totally catch another show here if an artist I love happens to be playing here that I can't catch in Columbus. read more

Great place to see a show! Perfect venue for up to about 1000 people. I thought the sound was great and the three-level former movie theater layout provides a nice "happy accident" by separating the floor space into three distinct areas: Mosh pit, slightly elevated non-mosh pit, and even a bit more elevated "bar level". Bathrooms were clean, and staff was pleasant enough. However, the Madison suffers from a few of the same issues that many live music clubs suffer from: 1. Crushingly expensive drink prices ($16 for a double Jack & coke). At least I was not invisable to the bartenders, maybe because I tip well and am 6'4", I never had to wait for a drink. 2. Strict "Screw you, we're not opening one-minute early policy", regardless of the fact that it was about 15 degrees F outside. Considering that I drove 5.5 hrs on the day of the show to see my favorite band from when I was in college 28 years prior (Royal Crescent Mob), I wasn't going to let anything get in my way. I would gladly come back here again if the situation called for it. read more

Reviewing the venue, not the act or the surrounding neighborhood. It *sucks* if you're on the lower or most of the upper balcony. For some reason the theater has a small floor space in front of the lower balcony seats. People leave their seats and stand there, 100% blocking the view of paying customers seated in most of the balcony. My party spoke with staff, who did nothing about it. Seats below the balcony, in front of the stage, might be OK, but if you're going to see a show here, be prepared to not be able to see anything from most of the balcony, other than the very very top level at the rear of the theater, because you will not get to see the stage AT ALL thanks to people standing in front of you. Having said that, the acoustics were good, so if you get a seat on the floor, you would probably have a better experience than we did. I might be willing to see another show here, just not from the balcony. read more

Another venue to enjoy local and international bands. Saw The Castlecomer which was a riot!! Cute Blokes, great style, that had me dancing!! Always a good time!! Hope to see them again! Madison theatre on a scale of 1-10 for overall acoustics it would be a 5. They offer just drinks here and it's limited on craft beers/bourbon. It's alright, had a good time! read more

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This is my third time attending the Madison Theater. Seen Modest Mouse and The Killers in 2005 (believe that's close) and recently An Evening with Billy Corgan of the Smashing Pumpkins a couple of days ago. This was an intimate show so it was seating. The venue itself is not so big but love the building. Historic and has so much character. There are two floors. Since it was general admission, my Mr and I decided to go for the balcony seating. We really loved the view and great quality sound. They also have great selections of craft beers. We had Voodoo Ranger IPA and New Belgium Dayblazer. Both at reasonable pricing. They also sell wines and mixed drinks on the bottom level. Parking- we parked one block away in a parking garage for only $7.00. Staff was super friendly and easy to get in and out of. You do go through security which I found safe. Bathrooms are clean. One near the balcony and bottom level. For the price we paid for the tickets was worth going to and overall a great experience. We really enjoyed ourselves. read more

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Went to see a local band I really like. The place was very clean first off the negatives to buy ticket online was more expensive than buying it at the door which I didn't understand and I told them about it and they just shrugged their shoulders.. secondly there's only about 18 spots to sit down in there so if you don't get there super super early you don't have a spot to sit down. They do have a nice full bar that serves alcohol liquor but no bar food like pretzels chips sandwiches burgers or anything like that. Supposedly they have $5 movies through the week seems like it'd be a good deal to go check one of them out I would definitely come back to this place it was a nice place. read more

Great place to see a concert. Venue was clean, restroom line was short, staff was friendly. Crowd for the most part actually listened to the musician. read more

Madison Theater - Todd Snider - Music Venues Near Me - Covington, Kentucky

This is a terrible venue in which to see a band! It's an old movie theater, so the building is narrow and the stage is far from the balcony. Even the artists complained about how far away they were! They said it reminded them of Bogart's, which is never good. If you sit upstairs you can't see the stage because people fill in all the standing room in the mezzanine. It's also not heated or not well. The staff fight with each other in front of patrons and don't seem to know the rules of the venue. They told us we had to go out of the venue to buy merch and then didn't want to let us back in, even with hand-stamps! Totally disorganized. There are many music venues in town and I will never be going back to this one again. read more

Possibly the worst venue I have ever been to. Every show I have ever been to has been oversold, can't believe this place had not been shut down for breaking fire code. read more

This is an awesome place to watch a show. It's standing room only, but you're so close to the stage, no matter where are are. The bar is easy to get to, and quick service. Great place for a concert. I will definitely go back! read more

This was an amazing venue to see a show/concert!!! Absolutely coming back here! Such a cool atmosphere.

Went to the Indigo Girls show last night with my wife. This was our first visit to the Madison Theater. I was a bit worried after reading the reviews about the staff not being friendly and the service at the bar being slow. I have to say that I thought the staff was friendly and the service at the bar was very good. I thought this was excellent, since the show was sold out. We enjoyed the venue. We were right in front of the stage. The Indigo Girls put on a great show. We will come back for shows in the future. Plenty of free parking close by was an added bonus. read more

Madison Theatre is one the best places to see a concert in the Cincinnati/Northern The staff is phenomenal and always makes you feel welcomed. Good views of the stage from any level! Security is thorough, but still friendly and welcoming. read more

Madison Theater - Madison Theatre is one the best places to see a concert. The staff is phenomenal and always makes you feel welcomed. Good views from spot. - Music Venues Near Me - Covington, Kentucky

It's refreshing to be at a venue that doesn't smell like a fart and look like a dirty college apartment basement . Brand new venue that still smells new . Minimal wall clutter . The stage is raised so you can see everyone playing . Sound is amazing . They do have a bar . Street parking rite out front of venue . read more

Madison Theater - Music Venues Near Me - Covington, Kentucky

The only thing preventing a 1-star review is that the acoustics at this venue are above average. Live music sounds pretty good here. But that's it. The place is a dump. Sight lines to the stage are atrocious, especially from the balcony. An inexplicably placed railing forces you to stand almost everywhere in the balcony to obtain an unobstructed view if the stage. And seats? The balcony seats consist of folding chairs and a bunch of purple and teal countertops and swivel chairs clearly...I kid you not....salvaged from two or three Taco Bells . The staff are overly self-important. The place has a musty odor throughout, explained by a quick look at the numerous water stains on the ceiling. read more

It's always hot,moist,and stinky. I must say you out did yourselves for The Testament show. Was the heat on? It was miserable. Your carpet smells like beer,sweat,and vomit. read more

This theater is pretty great, acoustically, but don't expect to actually see the band (we were there for Fitz and the Tantrums). The seating is first come, first serve, which is fine, but people crowded up by the stage rendering those in chairs unable to see. I found a spot on the balcony, and they took away all of the chairs, other that those that were fastened in place. Everyone crowded at the balcony rail, so no one behind them could see for all but the last row of the tiered balcony seating. Beer service is pretty quick and there were a bunch of selections in various types. Bring cash for faster service, as there is a minimum charge to credit cards. The line to get in is a three step process, but that also moves quickly. The layout is hard to navigate, as the stairs for the balcony are actually in the bar space next door. The venue is pretty hard to see in, even when the lights are up. The bathrooms could use a serious remodel, but as least they were clean. I wish I could tell you what the show looked like on the stage, but I was never able to see. I am not fighting multiple rows of people crowded at the rail for a better view. Also, the opening act was not advertised at all, so until he said his name after the third song, I didn't know who we were hearing. I love Fitz and the Tantrums, but this is not worth the $28 plus fees I had to pay. I'll probably pass on another show at the Madison Theater. read more

A phenomenal concert by Gregory Alan Isakov and band at the Madison on November 16, 2019! We were in line an hour before doors and found a nice spot on the rail. The crowd in the pit was pleasant and friendly. Unfortunately, the venue's ridiculous attempt at managing the number of people on the pit area was to trap us there for an entire evening. You were not permitted to go to the bathroom, bar, or merch table and return to the pit area. We could not leave our spot for over 3 hours! If you left, they would let another person down. What utter stupidity!!! All they would have to do is stamp your hand or give you an colored wrist band! But clearly they ruined the night for those that had to leave the pit and were unable to return. They seriously need to get this FIXED or sell pit only tickets. read more

I visited the Madison for the first time last night to see Janelle Monae and Of Montreal play. The good part was that both acts were amazing and the venue was great as far as sight and sound (the vocals could have been turned up a tad, but it happens). The bad comes from a very unpleasant staff that did everything to try and make the night miserable. Bartenders who refused to take customers for 10+ minutes. Security that threw a guy out for throwing water (rightly so), but when an actual fight started, they did nothing. Also, they charge for water at the bar which I find silly and money-grubbing. After the show ended, the patrons had been standing outside the theatre for about 8-10 minutes and were then told that the police would come and start arresting people for loitering. That doesn't seem like a good way to thank the people who just supported your venue. The venue itself is great and lovely to see shows in as stated in the other reviews, but the staff really needs an overhaul. read more

Having undergone a $3 million renovation in 2001, Covington's Madison Theater is a fine mid-sized venue to see bands perform. Capacity is similar to Chicago's Metro, at about 1200 concert goers, but while bands like the Smashing Pumpkins and Liz Phair started out at Metro, the types of bands you can expect to see at the Madison are bit more mainstream alternative rock, more in line with those that gig at House of Blues. Sight lines and sound are generally good, although the balcony is pushed so far back that it's easy to end up feeling like you're watching the concert on TV. There are 3 full service bars (2 on the first floor, 1 in the balcony) and you can also order food from the Backstage Cafe next door. read more

Madison Theater - Madison Theater - Music Venues Near Me - Covington, Kentucky

I would never go to an event here again. Went to see Neutral Milk Hotel there and was not very happy with this venue. First all tickets were will call and they didn't give you an actual ticket. We had two people back out so it was difficult to sell and we lost the money. They also wouldn't let you go back outside until the first band was almost over. If you are a smoker it may be an issue. The worst part is the security there. They are incredibly rude and yell at you for no reason. We would ask a simple question and they would scream at you. They did say they were not affiliated with the theater. The balcony is nice if you want to see, but you can't stand at all or stand near the edge or they scream at you. We really couldn't see and the sound wasn't great. We paid a lot of money to see this show so I was really disappointed. read more

I recently went to a concert here that I believe was totally oversold. The band was awesome but there were WAY too many people packed in here. Part of the problem, I suspect, is that their maximum capacity is based on filling the bar & front area. Well, that was the case this time as the entire area from the front door (and bar area) all the way to the stage was packed with people. Good thing there wasn't an emergency because it was a stampede waiting to happen. Think twice about going to an event here if you're intent is to actually enjoy the music. read more

Madison Theater - Music Venues Near Me - Covington, Kentucky

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2014 Bosom Ball We were here for the Bosom Ball ( I had also been here for a concert previously as well). I think the first thing to note is that there are parking lots and a garage within walking distance. We parked in a lot about 2 blocks away and just walked to the Theater. I had printed our tickets at home and had them in hand to be able to get in. We arrived about 630 and even though I would not say there was a line (8 or so people) there were two staff member outside putting on wristbands and for whatever reason, that was taking forever, they were doing that before they took your tickets. During this time there were 2 people under 21 trying to use tickets and they were told they were not allowed to do so, so I think that lead to some of the confusion. Please print your tickets and have them ready to go, also - make sure you know if it a 21 or older venue! I mean, I felt bad for them not being able to get in, but, make sure you know all the details of any even you go to. As soon as you walk in there is a coat check to your right - that is awesome - especially in the cold weather - nominal fee and come on folks - leave em' a tip, please :-) Once inside the Theater was turned into a Pink Room! It was very pretty. There were a couple of vendors set up with samples and a photo booth where you could pay and have your photo taken. We purchased a couple of drinks, beer and wine only, from some friendly bartenders. No food here, so make sure you eat before you get here. We then went to look at the silent auction items and find a place to stand (This was a standing room only event). The place ended up being packed! That was great, I am very happy for the turn out :-) There were four acts on this night, Katy Tiz, Alex & Sierra, Mary Lambert and O.A.R. The sound could have been turn up a bit, and it was a little muffled. I know it is an older venue but a few upgrades would make a huge difference. The stage is fairly small and intimate, which is great, but a sound upgrade would be amazing. Overall a great night, I am just writing the review based on the venue itself, the sound and the overall venue not the event. PS...Bring Cash! read more

I attended the Gregory Alan Isakov show on November 16 and it was the worst concert experience I've ever had. It was incredibly OVERSOLD. I couldn't even get onto the floor so I couldn't see or hear. I was stuck by the bar where other people would not stop talking. I heard they weren't even letting people on to the floor - how can you sell so many tickets that you can't let everyone in attendance on the concert floor?! I left after half an hour and a waste of my money. I will not be going back here. read more

Madison Theater books good bands sometimes, and the actual physical structure of the place is really nice. The staff are absolutely terrible. It's like they WANT you to have a bad time, and try to find ANY reason to kick you out. The security just starts stuff with you if they so much as THINK you're breaking a rule. I've been several times, every single show I see someone get kicked out for damn near nothing at all. And the bar tenders are rude and slow. If your favorite band is playing, then go and try to avoid the staff, otherwise, forget this place. read more

I went to Madison Theater to see Young the Giant. The show was sold out so, naturally, you would expect a ton of people to show up. Apparently no one told the bartender, because he was freaking out at the crowd around the bar every time I went to order a drink. "why do you kids only ever pay with cards!?" "i can't charge a credit card for one drink! Why would anyone want to pay $2.50 with a credit card?!" "we're too busy to serve water!" Are you kidding me? Are large crowds not expected at this major metropolitan venue?! How about you ask for another form of payment instead of going off on everyone who tries to pay with a credit card. Or here's a thought, offer to open a tab, like any other decently operated alcohol sales establishment. I understand that some places have a minimum purchase amount for credit cards, but this guy serving drinks was absolutely flummoxed by the fact that most people don't carry cash these days. Welcome to the future, buddy. Maybe put up some better signs that explain your crazy credit card rules before getting upset and yelling at everyone. And too busy to serve water? Get over yourself. I think its close to being illegal to deny water to someone at a bar, especially someone willing to pay for it. This was the bald guy working the bar on the left as you walk-in. Zero customer service skills and a proper jerk. The music was awesome, though. read more

This can be a great place to see a show, even a really crowded one. Not sure if the tables on the main level are gone forever, but they were on my most recent visit. However there are plenty of tables and chairs up on the balcony if it is open for the night. I enjoyed a great show from the balcony, with superb sound, and great view of the entire stage. Plus there is a bathroom and bar halfway down the stairs to the main floor that never had any lines. I look forward to more shows at this location, especially now that it is non smoking. I just wish they would replace the old moldy carpet that has probably been there for 10 years or more. read more

Charming, classic, an icon of the neighborhood. It's small, and on the older side. However, whatever it lacks, it makes up with heart and charm. I've been to a number of events here and I think it is a nice venue. There are bar tables to dine at, a large bar, and a big screen. It's a little small for bigger events, so keep in mind it could be packed. I recommend showing up early. read more

I've always enjoyed myself at each show I've attended at Madison Theater. From bluegrass to indie punk to stand-up, this entertainment venue books many famous and up-and-coming acts from around the U.S. I've experienced the theater's three floor layouts: club (standing room only on main floor), cabaret (tables and chairs with dance floor), and theater (rows of chairs). This flexibility allows Madison to adapt to the audience and artist that will be using the venue. While artists and promoters can request non-smoking shows, many do not, making Madison Theater smelly and suffocating. Also, the carpeted floors are well worn from cigarette burns and stale beer spills. Nonetheless, Madison crushes Bogart's ambience and Southgate's acoustics. read more

Aside from the Southgate House (which is closing at the end of 2011), this is the greatest venue in Northern Kentucky. The stage seems very grand and the lighting is incredible. The bottom floor has three different tiers of seating/standing so you aren't behind a sea of people (everyone hates that one tall person who is standing right in from of them at every show). Usually the top tier has seating. The second tier will have seating depending on the show, and the bottom level is usually standing room only. The bar and bathrooms are on the top floor (and sometimes they sell food, but I have never had it). There is a balcony overlooking the stage too, so there is plenty of seating that can see the stage. The venue often gets national acts to play (Spoon, G. Love, Iron & Wine, etc) and will get the top acts of Cincinnati to play as well (Pomegranates, Wussy, Heartless Bastards, etc). The bands don't always line up with my interests, but the do get a good mix of people and I go here a couple of times a year. I imagine I will go here more when Southgate House closes its doors. read more

Came here to see Fun. It was a great concert! I thought the Madison theater was a nice little venue. The set-up of the room is a bit strange though. It starts as a normal bar and then in the back you suddenly see the stage and realize there's about 3 different levels of height. People try to move to the front, but actually the best place to stay is right at the end of one of the levels. We ended up at the end of the second level and that was a great spot: close enough to see everything, but not too claustrophobic with too many people pressing against us. The liquor checks were thorough, it was my 28th birthday night and I didn't carry my ID (I still don't have that habit, having moved here 6 months ago...), so I got no wristband but 2 huge black crosses on my hands to make sure I wouldn't order alcohol (really?!) - no bad word about that though, better to be following the rules I guess! The sound was pretty good I thought and the audience was amazing, very very excited and singing along with all the songs! Will definitely be back when there are other bands I like. read more

I adore the Madison Theater. This cute little retro venue add so much charm to Madison Avenue in Covington Kentucky. The theater was redone a while back, and since then, it has been come to be known by Cincinnatians alike for the various events that take place. The theater's outside is beautiful with an art deco marquis and neat blue columns rising above. The inside is also super nice after the renovation. There are bars on either side as you walk in and a pool table in the middle. The second area is a seating area with little tables and chairs and then you descend down some more stairs onto the wood floor below the stage. The balcony is super nice and has a glass (maybe plastic but looks like glass) railing that wont obstruct your vision of the stage. I've seen several great concerts here. The first show was a local band called Homunculus. My favorite show here by far was a Cake and Gomez concert that completely rocked my socks. I've heard rumors that the Madison has been hosting wresting events. Can anyone debunk this for me, because I couldn't bear that space going to waste! read more

I used to hear so many things about the nightmares of booking a show and the unreliability of the owners that it took me years to make it to this seedy looking space. If you haven't noticed, the quality and diversity of performers at the Madison has improved tremendously in the past year. I believe the new bookers also book for 20th Century Theater in Oakley. Reverend Payton's Big Damn Band was on the bill. I had to work at 7am the next morning but caught the first half of their set. The sound was great, the band was fantastic and the lineup was perfect. We arrived very early and spent a good part of the evening switching it up between freezing our butts off in the theater proper and sneaking to the bar area where we were allowed to smoke. The inside of the theatre is simple deco and beautiful. If I wasn't so busy I'd probably end up seeing more of the roots, blues style tunes they showcase these days. read more

A smaller, 2 level place to see live music. Although, I've been there a bunch of times and the balcony has never been open. Depending on the show, there are either tables and chairs with an open dance floor in front of the stage or all open. If it's a popular show, they tend to oversell the tickets, which can make things crowded. There are 2 bars, which helps with getting a drink quickly. Sound is good. Space is a little 1980's, but it works. Easy place to see a good show. read more

Madison Live is the smaller venue right next door to Madison Theater. Very clean, no weird smells, there is a bar. the bathroom is renovated and my husband called it the "cleanest bathroom he has ever been to at a rock concert". Easy street parking outside. Overall I had an enjoyable experience in this more intimate venue. read more

Perhaps it's the original charm that resonates even in music that reflects the modern times, but there is something so great about a 20th century one-screen movie theater that has been transformed into a 21st century music venue. I've only been to Madison Theater twice: once for Method Man and Redman (actually, I didn't even stay for much of Meth & Red because it was a weeknight and I was there to see a friend who opened for them) and more recently for Cincinnati treasure, Walk the Moon (side note: if you've never checked out their album I Want! I Want! you are really missing out). The acoustics are great (though I will say that, at the most recent show, the mics kept spiking in the first set, which wasn't ideal) as well as the lighting. With a capacity of about 1200, this venue enjoys the unique feeling of a sizable crowd with defined intimacy, and I think that is one of the more pronounced highlights this venue has to offer. read more