What a great venue. Intimate but still big enough to really get a crowd going. Loved having the option of seats vs standing. Solid acoustics. The snack/bar area is limited but not a deal breaker for me. Parking was tough, I wish I would've read reviews before heading there, being totally unfamiliar with the area I was a bit nervous to just park on a random street. We were able to find a spot within a few blocks walking distance. read more

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Rio is a great place to see a show in Santa Cruz. And they get some great names of performers I really want to see. Plus, I love a seated show (versus standing for three hours). But, beware the bait and switch. You pay a premium for shows here and they'll switch the venue to something less inviting (and standing room only) without giving you the option for a refund. Don't worry... if you have a coveted (even more expense) Gold Circle ticket at Rio- they'll throw in a free poster at the new venue. Tsk. Tsk. read more

You're going here because the concerts are amazing. They're great musicians that you can see right up close that atmosphere is a really quaint there's not a lot of people. It's always a good time. I love the ambience too. read more

Been here a couple of times to watch a concert. The hard part is looking for street parking. They don't have a parking lot. Make sure you get an early start for your event. Our last vist, was to watch the White Album, a local Santa Cruz Beatles tribute band. They are soooo good!!! The Rio Theater hands down was the best venue we've listened to them to date. We've seen the White Album three times. Historically this is a former single screen movie theater. Still kept in it's natural form. I love the old bathroom with tile walls. A charming concession stand to the right as you walk inside. Chairs are not the best, but what I'm sure keeps the ticket prices lower without major renovations. Support this local gem and enjoy the music. read more

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Nice place to see a concert. Small enough to have a good view anywhere. The staff is nice and helpful. Would like there to be a full bar and more stalls in the women's bathroom but overall a good experience. read more

We saw Lewis Black there during his last concert tour a few months ago. It is a converted older movie theater. However the seats were comfortable. The staff was great and it was a thoroughly enjoyable evening. There is no parking except on the street. We were able to find parking in the nearby residential area, but that could potentially be a problem. read more

Rio, be transparent about your policies. It's October 2022. Vaccines have been readily available since 2021. Almost two years. The state of California isn't requiring masks at this point. Airports aren't. Airplanes aren't. I've been vaccinated. To surprise me with a mask requirement after I walk into a small theatre is not okay. Reminder, masking isn't required by the city, county or the state, and the Rio theatre policy on their website states they recommend masks but there's nothing stating it's required. After I walked in, I was offered a mask, I assumed it was a gesture of hospitality so I can grab one if I wanted. I thanked the staff and said, thanks, I'm vaccinated. They said it's required. I was surprised and said but I was told it's not required. I gave my tickets to a couple of students and hope they enjoy. I'm not adhering to ridiculous/ surprise requirements. Masking is by choice in non healthcare facilities at this specific point in time, and I 100% absolutely respect the choice of peoples who still want to wear a mask. Rio, be transparent about your policies. If you're going to make it required for entry like I'm walking into a hospital, say so on your website and/ or ticket. read more

Rio Theatre - General theatre policy. Masks are highly encouraged. It does not list them as a requirement. - Performing Arts Near Me - Santa Cruz, California

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Rio theatre was rather warm than expected. Also, there were people smoking cigarettes, and the awful dreadful smell was all over the lobby. I could have not tell whether it was inside or outside. It was a very strong of a smell, making it hard to catch my breath when all that was inhale and smelled was the cigarette smoke. Having a mask doesn't always help, just a bit harder, and it doesn't help those who have or suffer from chronic condition or respiratory illness like me. It would help if the policy they have in displayed "No Smoking" was enforced more strictly. Visited on 10/21 read more

Rio Theatre - Name of establishment in neon letters "Rio Theater" - Performing Arts Near Me - Santa Cruz, California

I've been to the RIO theater in the past when it was a theatre, showing "Top Gun". Yeah, I'm old. It's an old theater. Older than the "Top Gun" movie. In the recent past (2013 and on), I've seen Colin Hays, Mike Nesmith (that was a great show, I am very happy I saw him perform since he's now gone to Rock and Roll heaven) and Todd Rundgren on stage . All very cool shows, pre-pandemic. I should see if I have some older pictures to load on Yelp for those shows. Last Friday, I went with my friends to see "The Fab Four", a tribute band dedicated to the Beatles. It was a great performance. No problems with the audio. We were three rows back, had a great view. I should mention that they do not serve alcohol. If you wanted to get your drink on, do it before the show. And, while you're having that drink, consider using the restroom afterwards at the restaurant, There's three stalls for the woman's restroom. I did not see a handicapped stall. Long lines before the show, long lines during intermission. Consider your bladder ahead of time. I also observed a line going up the stairs for the men's room. Probably a similar situation. And, yes, this was an older crowd. This is an area for improvement. I'm sure the management is aware of this aspect. Masks are recommended but NOT required, as of September 2023. read more

Came here to see the English Beat, show start at 8 pm. Had to hear it from another patron that the band wouldn't be going on until 9. There was no announcement from any employee or the band. First and last time coming here and may be the last time I see the English Beat. Very disappointing. read more

Rio Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Santa Cruz, California

Interesting to read the bad reviews that complain about late starts: perhaps most people don't realize that this venue is often rented by promoters and that they would be the ones to complain to if a band starts late - not the Rio. And complaints about the Rio happily taking money... again, they rent the place to promoters.... who take the money. And for those of you who complain that it is an old building.... of course it is! That's it's charm. And it is well maintained - I'll bet most people didn't know the condition it was in when it was bought by the current owner. It is one of the cleanest, well kept businesses I have encountered. And to that person who came in one morning after a show to retrieve his sunglasses... he was so nice... the owner let him in (I was there in conversation) .... he got his sunglasses, said "thank you" and left so happy.... and then went home and wrote a real nasty letter/review. What's wrong with some people? The Rio is the gem of Mid-town, and Santa Cruz in general. Quality shows, the best sound engineers in the area, and the nicest staff. It's belligerent, whining complainers that cause the trouble. read more

I'm amazed that a venue that only recently demanded that people wear masks and show vaccination status can exhibit such control - but if those same people are standing in the aisles and blocking sitting people suddenly they say they don't have any control over them! Oh the irony. I paid $100 to see Los Lobos but only saw people's backsides. Many of the patrons were elderly and/or disabled and not able to stand - nor did they pay to do so. Very disappointed in a venue that I have been going to for many years for allowing rude people to stand in the aisles and just shrug their shoulders when many people were complaining. Bad business ethics all around. read more

They have to thank Oyunna's next door for the 4th star as for whatever reason, this place does not serve tasty adult beverages. WTF? Save your seats and head next door for some drinks before the show... I've been coming here over the years for films and shows but recently I saw 2 shows in 2 weeks and thought it was time to write a review. The Rio is an old theater that hosts lots of events including live music. The promoter does a great job booking really great acts all year round. I got to see Warren Haynes (Ashes and Dust) where it was a full house and Leftover Salmon where there was more room to breath and both shows rocked! For Salmon, we paid the extra few dollars to get "gold circle" tickets and were able to sit 2nd row and enjoy a killer show with a great vantage. I noticed that for Haynes, the gold circle area was a lot bigger. I guess they sell as many gold circle tickets as they can then rope off the appropriate amount of front row seats. It's usually only a few more dollars and well worth it. I already mentioned that they don't serve beer and for the life of me I can't figure out why? Live music and booze are the epic combo and I can't imagine the countless dollars they are NOT making because of it. They do have some small concessions like chips and cookies, coffee and tea... You should plan on getting to the Rio an hour before your show as the line goes down the street and seats are first come first serve. The gold circle line enters on the left side so you won't have to wait as long to get in once the doors open... Folks are pretty good about respecting a saved seat before the show so get in early, save your seats with a jacket, and head next door to pre-heat... Enjoy the show! read more

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Came to watch the World-famous-popovich-comedy-pet-theatre From the outside the Rio looks small and retro. I didn't mind really. The surprise was waiting for us inside. The theater is actually spacious and has comfortable seats. Excellent view of the stage wherever you sit is a big plus. Absolutely clean inside and great helpful staff. The ticket booth that sits outside the double doors to the theater is so small and looks like it would only fit the guy that was it there. This is where retro truly resides:) As most every reviewer commented. Parking is a tad difficult. So set some time just for that and you will be fine. It's a busy stretch of steet but we found parking right next to the theater. For empty stomachs there's a really good burrito place next to the theater while you wait in line to get in. There's two lines to get in. One to buy your tickets and the other one to get in. I mean you buy your ticket and you fall in line again to get in. So it's best if you and a friend can tackle the two lines simultaneously. Ticket booth opens at 6 pm for a 7 pm show and door opens at 6:30. read more

Rio Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Santa Cruz, California

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Parking was fairly easy and I loved the venue. Staff was pleasant and helpful. Ladies restroom is on the main floor men have to go upstairs. They had beer and wine and La croix with some snacks but I would recommend eating before hand. The theater has comfy seats and it was a pretty intimate show. For sure will be back if another artist I like is in town read more

The Rio, a classic independent theater of the highest rank. In a world where big box corporate theaters (you know all the names) control most of the market share and popular culture along with it, independents are few and far between. I've seen Warren Miller here a few times when I've missed it at home in San Francisco. The theater has an old school "how can this place still be in business" kind of vibe. The have concerts and comedy shows as well as movies. One screen and limited hours, I always love the opportunity to come here. I remember when the Capitola Theater closed it's doors and the drive in closed it's screens. I was fortunate enough to go to the last showings at both locations, I hope The Rio never is forced to go down that same road. Santa Cruz is lucky to have this place. read more

Rio Theatre - Warren Miller 2014 - No Turning Back - Performing Arts Near Me - Santa Cruz, California

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This venue gets an eclectic range of acts including everyone from Flamenco guitar master Al Di Meola (@alDiMeolaMusic) to Mandolin master @David_Grisman. On 12/2/16 darkwave pioneer Peter Murphy (@PeterMurphyInfo) did an otherworldly set for a 1/2 full house. It was a little disappointing that more of Santa Cruz did not turn our for his show on a Friday night. Peter Murphy gave his all and we are grateful for the performance. Artists we need to come to Rio include * Suzanne Vega (@suzyV) * Emeliana Torrini (@EmilianaTorrini) * José Gonzalez (@_JoseGonzalez_) * The Weepies (@TheWeepies) How do we get them into the lineup? Tip: There's plenty of free parking on side streets around the venue. Lock 'em up! read more

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We saw Travis Tritt at this vintage theater last week. For an old theater I was pleasantly surprised at how roomy and comfortable the seats are! Also the sound quality was pretty outstanding. The line into the theater moved quickly. I love these smaller vintage theaters as they make for a more intimate experience. Would be back! read more

Rio Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Santa Cruz, California

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Travis Trittt concert was great. There are not to many singers can play and feel comfortable with their audience and sound great. The Rio was a great venue small and homey. read more

Rio Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Santa Cruz, California

We have come to this venue on several occasions during the years. Usually to hear a concert. One time fora continuing education class on neurology, the mind. Comfortable setting. If it's a concert there is usually a three tier seating: gold circle, silver and general admission. This time we went to see Deva Premal and Miten. Sacred Mantras. read more

Rio Theatre - Roger McGuinn - Performing Arts Near Me - Santa Cruz, California

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Cute little neighborhood theater. I saw Jesse Cook here on a Sunday night. The lines were long but moved fast. The place is a little bit run down and no alcohol served. I came for the artist not the theater, so..... read more

We went to watch Yann Tiersen at the Rio Theatre today.. While Yann Tiersen has unquestionably mastered the ability to communicate something deep and powerful through sound, the Rio Theatre is most definitely not a worthy place for someone so talented. The acoustics are awful. As you get off the highway approaching the theatre, if you've never been to Santa Cruz, you'd be shocked at how pseudo-suburbia it seems. And yet, finding parking proved somewhat difficult.. The theatre itself seems to be an old movie theatre cum venue for live shows. It's not too big, and the old theatre seats are used for "open seating" during performances for those who don't want to stand directly in front of the stage. There's a decent incline in the seats, but sitting closer to the center usually means you'll have to tilt your head a little to the left/right to get a good view. There is no alcohol served inside. At all. No actual food, either, unless you want cookies and chips. (There is, however, a place next door that serves about, uh, 7 different types of wines.) The crowd was lackluster.. It was the first performance I'd attended that was made up of people who seemed to think they were above applause or making noise. Right in front of us, there was a lady who literally stuck her fingers in her ears for 5 whole minutes as her friend shook his head. Two guys behind us were talking loudly. It was so disrespectful how so many people just up and left within the first hour. And even worse, that so many opted not to wait for his encore. Yann Tiersen has changed his music style - even if you were expecting to hear his older stuff, you have to respect the genius behind all that beauty enough to at least LISTEN to whatever it is he's feeling inspired to do at present. He does incredible things with his violin. (The horsehairs kept snapping off with how quickly he was playing his violin!) Also, Typhoon (the opener) wasn't bad, either. They sold their CDs from $5-$15, depending on what you could afford. Anyway, Yann Tiersen is BRILLIANT. The Rio Theatre, however... not so much. read more

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I've seen a few shows at the Rio. The Waifs, Erin McKeown and Cesaria Evora come to mind. But the sound quality is HORRIBLE. They get some good acts here, so why don't they invest in some better sound equipment, or so something to help the acoustics? I see that Lila Downs is coming there soon, and as much as I love her, no way am I spending money to see her at the Rio. Please do something about the sound! read more

What a great intimate venue! Went last night to see the Squirrel Nut Zippers and had such a great time! Sat in the 2nd row. There was plenty of room to stretch out. Seats were comfortable. Hospitality was spot on. Great sound, which is important for a concert and they even had 2 dance floors set up. Tickets were reasonably priced. Doors opened at 7 pm. No outside food or drinks, but they do sell water, coffee and tea. read more

Just got home from seeing Travis Tritt. The show was great and the venue was nice and intimate and small. However, the staff really needs training on how to interact with people. They really left a bad taste in my mouth. There's always going to be one that's a little bit more loud than the rest of them and they really treated the situation badly. read more

I came here for the first time last night. Because I knew it would be general admission, I got there early enough to enjoy choice seating. People were civilized out front while waiting. The people running the event that night were great about coming out and letting everyone know what time to expect to be let in, what isn't allowed inside (no food, alcohol or bottles) and what not. I was kind of expecting some jerky attitude from the staff here, in part because of some of the reviews here and in part because I am used to other event staff elsewhere being curt or rude. But hey! This is Santa Cruz, you know. Relax and go with the flow! The staff here was super friendly and that made for a nice surprise. I saw a spoken word show so I can't really comment on the acoustics. They were fine for my event, but I can see how music shows may not be what one would expect. This place probably doesn't have the budget for top notch speakers and equipment, and maybe the interior structure doesn't compliment sound so well, so you have to accept it for what it is. I've been to enough concerts with bad sound, so I probably wouldn't be too bothered by it. The show last night was extremely enjoyable. Very intimate. And the audience was great! Coffee, tea and water are the only drinks you can buy inside, but you can certainly get your drink on before or after the show someplace nearby. Abundant parking on the surrounding side streets. I think a place like the Rio is a gem that you have to experience in order to appreciate, something you can only find in Santa Cruz. I would definitely come back for another event. read more

I love old school theatres. My wife and I saw The Ryan Adams at the Rio and appreciated the layout of the space and acoustics. The view was completely unobstructed no matter where you sit. I would come here again to listen to other bands. read more

Small theater in Santa Cruz that has various music events, movies, and other special events throughout the year. We went to see Antsy McClain and the Trailer Park Troubadours here one New Year (2012). We've seen him a few times and always a great time. read more

Rio Theatre - Rio Theater in Santa Cruz puts on a variety of events throughout the year. - Performing Arts Near Me - Santa Cruz, California

I'll be generous and give them two stars, they book some really cool acts here. Parking kinda sucks in this neighborhood on the weekends. No food. No booze, not even beer and wine. The Security Oaf takes his menial job waaaay to seriously. The crowd generally sucks at the shows I've seen here. A couple of years ago Katie and me got put on double secret probation for drinking beer and generally having a good time. Yep, they expected us to quietly sit with our hands politely folded in our laps at a Robert Earl Keen show. That's beyond stupid. Listen folks, this is NOT the Opera it's twang bangin' Country. Get over yourselves already. Fast forward to last night- Herbert and me went to go see Todd Snider. (I bet you can see where this is heading) On the way there I warned Herb about the lame crowd, the double secret probation, the mouth breather that works security and the fact that we needed to keep our pocket beers on the DL. Sure enough at the beginning of the show we managed to upset a couple next to us and they had the oxygen thief Security Oaf come over. He poached Herb's beer but not mine (I was in super stealth mode). That's OK fat boy I finished mine, went out to the Jeep and got us another round. All this didn't go unnoticed by Mr. Snider. He went into a tirade about "Folk Nazis" and it was a thing of beauty. The couple behind us that up until this point were disgusted by our very existence were clearly uncomfortable when we both turned around and gave them a look that said "Yeah he's talkin' about people like YOU". That earns the other star. I'm way more fun than this place. read more

Recently had the good fortune to come to Rio Theatre to see LINDSEY BUCKINGHAM & it was a wonderful evening from start to finish Small theatre - holding a mere 675 people, we knew we were in for an intimate evening As we were walking to the will call booth, I literally bumped into Lindsey - they were waiting for the backstage guy to open the door.....roops! Seats were pretty comfy & views were decent - given we were so darn close & the venue itself is so small, you're guaranteed a good view Sound was nice & loud but not overwhelming as can tend to happen at these smaller venues Water & drinkys sold in the lobby, bathrooms were standard. Liked the Golden Circle option so we didn't have to wait in the GA line after already waiting in the Will Call.....but would have been nice to provide a print at home option so I wouldn't have to wait in line at all Regardless, would totally come back to Rio - nice excuse to spend the evening in Santa Cruz & great music is the perfect icing on this cake! read more

I had never been to the Rio before so I had no idea what to expect. Now that I've been through the experience I'll share something's that I noticed. First of all the ordering process for the tickets will be waaaay easier if you do it all online and have your tickets mailed to you because if not you will have to stand in the will call line and depending how popular the show your seeing is, it can be a bit long! Then stand in the actual line to get in after you get (or already have) your tickets. If you have a gold circle ticket, you will not have to wait in the line to get in! Score! Just go to the front of the line and show them your ticket. If you can afford it I definitely recommend getting gold circle. Just save yourself the headache of endlessly waiting in line. Parking was a little crazy but there was a good amount of side street parking still available 45 minutes before show time. I will say that nearly everyone who worked that night except for the girl in the will call booth was in a crabby mood. I mean at least act like you want to be there! Im here for a good time- don't kill my vibe with your sour faces! They definitely need to do a overhaul in the ladies room. 3 stalls for a packed house with plywood doors that don't even lock?! Nonsense! Also it kinda sucks that they don't allow drinks in the theater. It would be nice just to have some water with me during the show! I thought it was weird that no one introduced him. I know we all know who we were seeing but still just a short "were pleased to welcome ...." woulve been great. It needed a hype man to kick things off & would've made the energy in the room that much better. Pretty much just ran up stage and started playing. The show itself was fantastic and completely worth the hassle. Bottom line if your seeing an artist you really love your gonna have a good time! read more

UPDATE: We went to see Beck last Sunday at the Rio. The show was amazing, and the sound was fantastic. The usual "Gold deck" area was open space so you could get close to the stage if you wanted. However, someone needs to give the usher staff permission to develop a back bone. In the seated area there were two very tall guys who refused to sit down and were blocking the view of at least 20 people. When we complained to the ushers, we were told they couldn't do anything. Huh? It took an audience member's up close and personal beratement before they sat down after about the 3rd song. I'm sorry, I'm not going to pay a ticket price to a theater to have to police other people's bad behavior or look at the back of someone's head for part of a performance. read more

The bouncers and will-call lady were gems! so sweet and welcoming. The energy is great, it's a good place for a date , or a nice outing with friends! Its pretty packed, but I am also here on a Saturday night. THE ONE BAD THING I have to say is DO NOT PURCHASE PREFERRED SEATING. We spent more money on seats so we can get a good view of the band and to be honest we didn't get anywhere near the stage. I asked an Usher and they basically said "fend for yourself sweetie". I'm sorry I am a 5'2 girl with a squeaky voice come on read more

Finally! I got to see a show here! It's only been what, 4 years? Anyway, saw Rogue Wave last night and quite enjoyed the show immensely. Even though the show was really fun, I agree with many others regarding the acoustics in the Rio. They pretty much suck. That said, the ambiance is cool, there's plenty of floor space, assuming the show isn't sold out, and for old farts with babies like me, there's ample seating for those who don't want to stand with the huddled masses in front of the stage. I don't know if it was the nature of last night's headliner, but the crowd and settings are really quiet. People just seem really chill. The atmosphere felt more like a live act at an intimate coffee shop or the Attic than a real concert venue. I'd definitely see more shows here. read more

Normally at the Rio, "Doors open at 6:30" means the doors will open at 7:10. Sure, that's super annoying, particularly in rainy, cold, or hot weather, especially considering that tickets are usually general admission, and that means people line up hours ahead of the declared door-opening time, but hey, at least you have time to run to the bathroom (and after standing in line for 2 or 3 hours, you *will* be running), buy some water and chips (that's about all they have in terms of concessions), maybe check out the merchandise, and still get back to your seat around the time the show starts. For the last show I attended, Straight Outta Oz, "Doors open at 6:30" meant that the doors opened at 7:45. It also meant that the show was already in progress before we wound our way around the block and into the lobby. I was told that the promoter made the decision to only start 15 minutes late, but I didn't get an answer to why we were kept outside so long. It's really a shame that so much is lacking in customer service at the Rio, because the venue itself is nice and intimate (though lacking stadium-style seating, so your chances of having a blocked view are high). If someone you really, really want to see is playing, I suppose it might be worth standing in line for hours in whatever kind of weather (as long as you don't mind the possibility of missing a song or two), but I think I've stood in my last ridiculously long line for a ridiculously long time to see (most of) a show at the Rio. read more

I am torn between A-OK and Yay I'm a fan! I went to the Rio for my first and only time last night to see Andrew Bird and had an enjoyable experience so am sticking with Yay I'm a Fan for now. Of course Andrew Bird isn't some sort of rager concert either. * The theater was well lit, nothing too fancy but not chintzy. * The stage was enormous * The gold circle ticket holders don't have to wait in the GA line (awesome) and get to choose from awesome seats up front. * For a seated venue, the seats were comfy. * If you wanna step outside, they trust you enough to give you a stamp on your hand to come back in, nice. * I liked that the staff were older, organized and polite. I don't need the staff to be young to trust that they are capable of doing their job. * This venue has that laid back easy-going vibe like the Mystic in petaluma. - where the mystic has this place beat though is serving alcohol. I didn't even think to look for drinks at the Andrew Bird show last night but I know I would have been bummed if I had. - I think this venue has a lot of potential to fill the gaping hole in the "music scene" of santa cruz if they could get more current acts to play there. which may require booze. - the women's restroom is reminiscent of an elementry school bathroom, low stall doors, only cold water taps. - parking seems like it may be an issue here (thankfully, i walked!) read more

Sitting down or standing in front, this charming venue is great for shows. Find some street parking, slip down the street to a nearby bar beforehand if that's your thing, and then relax and enjoy the music. The Rio feels surprisingly spacious, so it tends to lose some intimacy with the band. I want to say there's no photography allowed, but my pictures of The New Pornographers' recent show tells me a different story. read more

I've seen Cocorosie and The Civil Wars here. once with no seating in the front and then a theater/chair set up. both times were really amazing. good sound and very intimate. its 420 friendly if everyone else is smoking. parkings not bad, on the street. only wished they served some booze read more

Management: Your folks who run the front have confused over 30 people in the last 30 minutes with what where you should stand in line. The venue looks very established, so this shouldn't be such an issue. Not coming back. Only came for Jake! read more

Really disappointed that they did nothing to enforce masking during the recent Fab Four concert. "Ushers" were seating people without masks and no enforcement attempts were seen. Won't return since they do not respect the health of their patrons. read more