Arts & culture abound in the Garden State, particularly in the state's rare gem of Morris County. Nestled on South Street in the heart of Morristown, the Mayo Performing Arts Center (MPAC) stands as a beacon for art lovers and music enthusiasts alike. With its rich history dating back to 1937, this establishment has transformed from a movie theater into a vibrant hub for performing arts boasting an assortment of exciting events year-round that features everything from in-person concerts and comedy shows to livestreams and virtual events. Walking through its doors feels like stepping into another world--one filled with anticipation and excitement. My partner and I were lucky to obtain tickets via an online market reseller (the Tickets Center) at Left Orchestra, row P, for last night's performance of Riverdance 30. Upon entering this warm and inviting venue as first-timers with an orchestra and the balcony section, we were greeted by the staff and waited for the doors to open 30 minutes before the start of the show. The bar on the main floor had alcohol, soda, chips, and other light snacks. Our cushiony seats were comfortable, providing a clear view of the stage and a great sound system. The show was a fusion of traditional and contemporary Irish as well as international dance. The music is choreographed with stunning costumes and cutting-edge visuals, bringing its magic to audiences. Prices were comparable to the area and artist. Parking was offered via the online market reseller, and I purchased it. The location was a 15 min walk, and we were okay with that. It was so easy to enter and exit without the congestion. However, the QR scan ticket provided by them was not able to be scanned at the destined location machine. As a result, I had to pay twice. When communicating with this reseller, they refused to refund, as it was a final sale. We had an amazing time and would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a great night out by contacting directly the Mayo PAC and not Tickets-Center. read more

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Last night, my husband and I went to The Nutcracker at Mayo Performing Arts Center. It was a collaboration between the NJ Ballet and the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra (NJSO). We attend NJSO concerts, but this was our first time seeing the New Jersey Ballet. The entire experience at Mayo was wonderful. We drove into Morristown and parked at one of the nearby municipal lots. Going through security went alright and ticket scanning went without a hitch. It was a packed house and very crowded. Ushers helped us find our seats in row J, where we had a good view of the stage. Seats were comfortable, too. The show was about two hours with a 20 minute intermission. There are concessions on both the first and second floor. It was a cold night, so we bought hot drinks to warm up before the show - a $3 hot tea for him and my $6 "snow queen special" hot cocoa (it was worth the $). People working at concessions on the 1st floor were nice and kept it moving. With this kind of performance, the orchestra was in the pit and the dancers were on the stage. MPAC's space has good acoustics. The stage sets and lighting design exceeded any expectations I may have had. Photography and video recording is prohibited during performances, and it appeared from my seat that audience members complied. The Nutcracker was fantastic! It won over two grinches like us last night; we both said how we should go again if it runs at MPAC next year. MPAC surpassed any expectations we had last evening and we hope to see other acts/shows during the 25/26 season (and recommend you do also). read more

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I will say I was very disappointed. The show was great but the control was hard. The lack of reverence was disappointing. I saw the Nutcracker and the performers and performances was amazing. The lack of not letting people enter after the show has started or the eating bags of chips are uncalled for. If you attend know they allow this to occur. read more

Great atmosphere. Workers are great. The place is cleaned, the check is quick. This was my second time there. Saw a comedy "Marcello" and now " Tina". Easy access to parking $10-20. Be advised you have to reserve parking at the church previous to coming to town. The parking at Verizon is $10.00 cash but is worth every penny. From Verizon there is a shuttle that transport you both was to the venue and from. Many restaurants to go to within walking distance. Great!!!! read more

Mayo Performing Arts Center - Had a great time at Tina. - Performing Arts Near Me - Morristown, New Jersey

I always enjoy visiting the Mayo Performing Arts Center (PAC)! Parking is a breeze with metered spots and lots available, making it both stress-free and economical. You can even prepay for parking, so you know exactly where you'll park when you arrive--such a convenience. The venue offers a bar with a nice selection of wine, beer, hard alcohol, and snacks. I highly recommend the soft pretzel bites--they were delicious! Water is available for $3 a bottle. The best part about Mayo PAC is that it's a small, intimate venue, so there really aren't any bad seats. That said, if you can splurge on front orchestra seats, it's absolutely worth it for an even better experience. Ticket prices depend on the act performing, but for a recent Starship show, they were very reasonable: $39, $49, $59, and $69 for premium orchestra. The bathrooms are clean, the bag check and ticket scanning process is quick and seamless, and there are plenty of great restaurants nearby to grab a bite before the show. Overall, Mayo PAC is a fantastic place to enjoy live performances! read more

Mayo Performing Arts Center - Starship concert - Performing Arts Near Me - Morristown, New Jersey

I've seen many shows here since I was small. I've been to symphonies, New Jersey Ballet performances with my own kids, took them to see Fiddler on the roof here, and saw comedian Gabriel Iglesias back in highschool- he was SO funny I almost peed my pants. Great venue and glad it exists read more

I've been to most of the concert venues in NJ, and MPAC is one of the best. Ticket prices here are reasonable, and the place is well run. A recent performance by the Blind Boys of Alabama (gospel group) was terrific, after an insufferable opening act, a local singer/songwriter. The sound quality was excellent, and what is more important than that at a live concert? I was able to score my preferred seats, the first row in the mezzanine for the best sound, and an unobstructed view of the stage. I was also able to do the same for another upcoming show, Old Crow Medicine Show (bluegrass/Americana). I had no trouble finding free parking in one of Morristown's municipal lots, and there are a number of restaurants in the area, although the one I chose was not good. read more

Mayo Performing Arts Center - Blind Boys of Alabama - Performing Arts Near Me - Morristown, New Jersey

This is such a cool venue. Located in downtown Morris Plains, this historic theater is a great place to see a show. We traveled an hour to see a show here; it was definitely worth the trip. There are plenty of places to stay nearby, too. There is a bar in the front and a merch table. Some of the people who work there are very friendly, others not so much. The acoustics in the hall were really good, even under the balcony. We could clearly hear the show and all of the vocals. I recommend seeing a show here if you can! read more

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Very nice venue to see a concert or act. Seats are comfortable and the acoustics are good. The staff is friendly and welcoming.

Very comfortable and handsome theater in Morristown, New Jersey. We found the venue to be clean - the seats spacious enough and the ushers pleasant and helpful. Sound was great as we enjoyed The Beatles Tribute Band "Rain" perform. Perfectly situated with plenty of parking and restaurants. read more

Update 12/24/22: Always enjoy attending events at the Mayo Performing Arts Center. The venue offers quiet a wide variety of events for all ages. Trumpet extrodinare Chris Botti, Musician David Foster, Rocker Edgar Winter, Actor Chazz Palminteri are just a few of the top names that have performed at MPAC. The entire MPAC staff is always very hospitable. I think MPAC practiced excellent safety measures during the COVID pandemic for everyone's safety. For example: Checking for the attendee's vaccination card. Note: MPAC will notify you prior to a performance about any COVID updates, Parking Availability etc.... Looking forward to more events at MPAC! Extra: Morristown offers some great restaurants for pre or post theatre dining. read more

Mayo Performing Arts Center - 10/9/2022: New Jersey Symphony Orchestra warming up! - Performing Arts Near Me - Morristown, New Jersey

Beautiful venue , with plenty of parking all around. Their bathrooms are very clean and the stage is nice , however staff here wasn't friendly at all, they have a few bars between both floors so it's easy to get a drink it their beer is flat and warm :( $10 for a flat and warm beer is simply not acceptable. They seem to have a big variety of performances and some sound interesting, but get your drinks elsewhere and don't expect a warm welcome here .... read more

Intimate setting with many national acts both new & old playing - not a bad seat in the house. Sound is very good! Paying over $50 for "cover" or "tribute" bands is steep, but eggs & milk are close to $10 now; so I'll chalk it up to we are FUBAR any way you slice it. read more

Nice spot for a play or show. Well staffed and friendly ushers. Parking was easy and close by too

No email alert to announce cancellation of a show. Drove to venue, paid for public parking and was told out front of venue that the show was canceled. Would have been nice to at least get an email stating such even if it was an hour before the show. read more

Such a fun filled experience attending Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer Musical! You can purchase parking tickets in advance. We parked in the Presbyterian Church Lot. This lot is located right across the street from the Arts Center. Upon arrival, show your purchased parking receipt. The ushers were lovely greeting us and guiding us to our seats. Do know, in the event of having to step out during the show, the ushers cannot let you in until it's cleared to do so. During intermission, prepare for the crowds towards the bathrooms and/or snacks and drinks area. The bathroom and snack line moved rather quickly. Assure to know in advance what your snack choices are as they move in a rapid pace. For this show we sat premium seats right orchestra seating. Each seat is slightly higher then the next to give all an open view. Booster seats are available for the little ones who need the additional boost level view. This show in particular was amazing! Great way to start the holiday season! Characters truly took us on a real life adventurous experience. The special effects such as snow was a nice touch. The full sized Snow Monster was extraordinary! The sing along was my family's favorite! Until next time Mayo Arts! read more

I recently attended my first concert at Mayo PAC, and it's safe to say it won't be my last! The venue is a perfect size. Big enough that they book some pretty impressive acts (for Morristown, at least) and the acoustics are great. Small enough that the crowd doesn't feel crazy. It's not hectic getting in, and there aren't lines for the bar / bathrooms. We saw the Wood Brothers and they put on one helluva show. I really haven't paid much mind to the calendar (granted I don't really get much opportunity to with a baby) and when my husband and I checked the calendar on a whim we were really surprised to see that a few bands we really liked were on the schedule. I do think getting seats in the first half of the main level is worth the splurge, when we walked towards the back the sound was noticeably not as good. There are a lot of kid friendly shows, so I'm excited to take my daughter here when she gets a little older. Overall I'm impressed. Moving away from the NYC area has meant WAY less access to concerts, and it's nice to have something like this right in my neighborhood. read more

I gave them 3 days notice that I had covid and would not attend. I sent copy of test but insisted I get a Doctors note- They wanted me to get out as sick as I felt. Beware-They will NOT work with you read more

Seats were comfortable but at intermission be careful who you are cause I was waiting patiently on line only to be cut by several others with NO EXPLANATION! And my concern was ignored. Is there a different rule for others? Please explain!!!! read more

Great theatre in Morristown, went to see piano man , first of all they need to get rid of the flood lights on stage they literally actually hurt the people's eyes. You can see the people squinting and moving. they don't need these floodlights on , second of all this was an older crowd you need to keep Security inside the theater instead of sitting outside the theater and talking to their friends. We pay a lot of money to see the show an people literally standing in front of you where you cannot enjoy it , for the show itself It was just OK. Nothing great but brought back a lot of memories, they need to definitely fix the flood lighting and they need security in there at all time so people can enjoy the show. read more

We try to see a show every few months or so this time it wasn't so pleasant. A lot of people smelling like pot, which was making me sick and a drunk girl in front of us with whole time, yelling out people like this should not be allowed in there. They ruin it for everybody also the white light shining from the stage blinds of the audience. They were so bright you had to look away from the stage we left early. read more

I love this venue - it's the perfect size hearing great bands right here in MoTown...what a treat! However- both bands tonight and also on Thursday had low mid frequency bump around 150-220HZ which literally wipes out the groove between the bass and drums...when it's some amazing players who I KNOW are playing a great pocket- it can be very disappointing to not be anle to distinguish the low mids and low bass Intensity. Perhaps the room needs a little more tuning!!! Perhaps the soundman cod fight harder to deliver what the musicians are putting out. For example tonoght for Steely Dan there is a mid low bump that obliterates the kock and deifinition in the bass and drums...it's creating a build up that is distracting:-( read more

Mayo Performing Arts Center - @JoeLocke performing at MPAC - Performing Arts Near Me - Morristown, New Jersey

I am always unimpressed by the shows here. I understand that it is community theater and its not supposed to be broadway calliber but it is really NOT BROADWAY CALLIBER. read more

Friendly staff, beautiful theatre! Walking distance to dozens of restaurants! Can pay for local parking lots at the box office. Full bar and updated rest rooms. read more

We went to see an African circus show. I had bought tickets when they had a special. It had a great start but it was not great. The theater is very nice but the seats are a little tight especially when two men have go sit next to each other. During intermission we had an old man arguing with another guy who was taping the show with his iPad. He just wouldn't let it go and eventually went to mgmt. we ended up leaving at intermission the show just wasn't for us. But we will be back for others ! read more

Mayo Performing Arts Center - Opening of show - Performing Arts Near Me - Morristown, New Jersey

@Nicole. Shame you left at intermission. You missed the lions, tigers and zebras walking on a tight rope, two lions were playing a drum and the zebra dud a double flip summersault. Amazing ending. read more

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First time in many years for The Mavericks show last Tuesday and was pleasantly surprised how well the facility looked. Staff was very friendly and helpful, especially Bob in the right orchestra side. Bathrooms were dated and small, could use an updating. The Mavericks crowd sure love to dance, so bring your boogie shoes and don't expect to sit much for this band. The sound was excellent and lighting superb! Parking could be a problem BUT for $10 you can park directly across in the church parking lot, well worth it. read more

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Great venue for shows. Always great shows and pricing is less than half of New York City. Parking at meters is only about buck. read more

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Very nice venue with friendly staff. My issue is their covid policy. So I can't bring a purse, have to be masked the entire time and stopped by a police officer to show my vaccine card but they can fill every seat and I literally have a stranger on my lap for 2 hours? I was expecting space between the seats but that would inconvenience them, not me, and yes I'm aware of the rules the city of Morristown has in place. If you can make me check all the boxes before entering a show I dropped $200 on to attend at least give me the illusion of safety and space inside the venue. read more

5 for venue 5 for staff abd 1 star for continuing to use wasteful plastic cups that were meant to be refillable and now because we of COVID they can't. Time to protect the environment people. Get GREEN. read more

Mayo Performing Arts Center - Plastic cup that they can't refill. How many do we need to take home or throw away in the "recycle" garbage - Performing Arts Near Me - Morristown, New Jersey

Went to see Man in Black last night. Saw him four years ago and it was great. Dancing girls, full band and all. Last night was awful and I was embarrassed we brought friends and told them how great he was. Left early. read more

What a great place to view your favorite performers! Centrally located in downtown Morristown with every kind of eatery you can imagine. You can take advantage of a full meal beforehand or a few drinks or something as simple as a frozen yogurt just a few feet away from the building. the tickets were reasonably priced (We saw Foreigner) and the seating is arranged as such that you have a wonderful view from every seat. We were up in the balcony and I could still see the performer's faces. The people that work there are extremely helpful getting you to your seat. I wasn't thrilled about the headline performers starting at 9, when the tickets state the show begins at 8pm. There was a warm up act but I don't care for that. I have been to several concert halls over the past few years and they all seem to do the same. I have to remember to arrive late next time! The hall itself is clean, orderly and my favorite part now... THE BATHROOMS WERE CLEAN AND MAINTAINED ALL EVENING!! even after the mad rush at the end they really didn't look bad. read more

Mayo Performing Arts Center - Performing Arts Near Me - Morristown, New Jersey

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In the center of Morristown with easy parking. The theater has about 1300 seating between orchestra and balcony. Box office is right when you enter. We got there at 7:50 for an 8:00 pm performance and they started right on time. We sat in the very back and would have like to be closer to really see the performers a little better. I think from middle to front is best seating. Saw Chita Rivera and Tommy Tune, which was a well done show. read more

How fortunate are we to have such a vital cultural institution bringing such fine performances to the community! Very happy we have such a gem in our area! read more

Mayo is such an easy night for a concert! No tolls trying to get there (i.e. city concerts), parking is cake, awesome restaurants and bars are surrounding the venue, they sell booze in the venue, theatre is small and all seats are pretty good! I liked how you can go in and out of the venue at will throughout the concert. We sat in row M which was pretty good but next time I am going to shoot for the first few rows. We saw Rob Thomas who put on a quacktastic show....really really good show. We parked in a garage right by sushi lounge and ate there. Before 7 (i think) many apps were half price and it was a perfect five minute walk to the venue. Nice bonus is the venue validates your parking garage ticket so parking was free. Overall super easy nice place to see a show! read more

Mayo Performing Arts Center - I dare say it doesn't get much more intimate that this! Thank you Rob T for visiting our seats - Performing Arts Near Me - Morristown, New Jersey

MPAC is a really nice small theater in the heart of Morristown. I've been to town a couple times to have a bite, but just recently saw my first performance at the venue this fall. We went to see a solo acoustic show and this was an excellent venue for that. In fact, after his opening number, the performer said to the crowd, "Aww, this is a such a cute little theater! It's like a doll house." True story. You can look elsewhere for the venue stats, capacity, etc., but it's a beautifully maintained, intimate theater with an orchestra section and a balcony, which is divided into a lower and upper section. There is no mezzanine section separating the two. The sight lines and acoustics are great, and our seats in the near orchestra were fantastic (though not cheap). There is a full bar in the downstairs lobby, as well as a slightly smaller bar upstairs. Lines downstairs were pretty long, but moved reasonably quickly. Prices are elevated, as expected, but they give a good pour. Overall, the vibe is upscale and professional, but doesn't feel stuffy. I follow their show listings, and have noticed a number of interesting and varied programs on the schedule. I'm sure I'll return for something sooner than later, and Morristown is a fun place to hang out for drinks and a bite, regardless. MPAC is definitely worth checking out, particularly if you're a live music nut like myself! read more

When I found out Weird Al was touring and stopping in Morris town, I decided then that I had to go. The place itself isn't that big. It isn't small by any means but of all the venues I've been to out was on the smaller side. The people there where super friendly, I hadn't finished a drink I had as I walked inside and my sister bought a pound of yogurt pretzels in Penn station on her way here and they didn't make us throw them out either. The seating with this particularly show had the top of the screen obscured on stage on the back section of the balcony. I don't blame the threader as much as use buying late tickets and the stage crew for not checking. All in all I am defiantly keeping an eye out for more shows at the mayo threader. read more

Mayo Performing Arts Center - Performing Arts Near Me - Morristown, New Jersey

First time here seeing Jim Breuer on 10/28. There is no real parking lot devoted to the venue. Instead, you have the option of parking at several municipal lots or the parking garage. We opted for the Verizon lot which was about a five minute walk. This wasn't a problem for us on the crisp fall night, but would definitely suck if it was pouring rain outside. The venue has really comfortable seats, unlike most other venues I've been to of this size. From our row in the orchestra section, we could see and hear Jim perfectly. There was a short intermission between the opening act and main act, to which the line at the ladies room grew very long (as usual). There's plenty to do before or after the show, as Morristown is a very exciting little city. There are many places to eat nearby within walking distance. You can easily have a fun date by seeing a show at the MAYO and grabbing food nearby. read more

Mayo Performing Arts Center - Performing Arts Near Me - Morristown, New Jersey

Excellent venue to see a show.... Very pleasant and friendly staff.... They now have a shuttle bus that will take you the Verizon parking lot as well as the other parking lot down the road. No complaints at all... read more

Mayo Performing Arts Center - Performing Arts Near Me - Morristown, New Jersey

1,000 seats on the main floor and 300 more in the balcony so even if you're in the last row up top (and believe me I've sat in those cheap seats lol) you'll have an unobstructed view of the stage and won't need to watch a big TV screen to see the performers. I started coming here when it was the COMMUNITY THEATER: rescued, renovated and revitalized by the Morristown community so the rebranding as mayo still doesn't feel right to me. My little town really hops on theater nights so if you want a drink or a meal before the show ya better come *early*. Free parking is available if you don't mind the brisk 5 min walk to town hall; paid is easy just put your sled in a municipal garage for about $5, or reserve a prime spot thru the theater in my church's lot right across the street for $11. Draft beer choices at showtime and intermission: coors light and Yuengling, $8. Mixed drinks $10+. No Yelp there are no gender-neutral bathrooms, and yes there's a line for them at halftime. Everything comes here: dance, classical music, comedy, ballet, rock, jazz, etc. I've seen mostly music: America, Credence Clearwater Revisited, Kansas, ZZ Top, Peter Frampton, Gordon Lightfoot, Joe Jackson. read more

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