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Adrienne Arsht Center
Category: Arts & Entertainment Performing Arts Performing Arts [Edit]
1300 Biscayne BlvdMiami, FL 33132
(305) 949-6722
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
60 reviews for Adrienne Arsht Center
60 reviews in English
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Review from Vanessa C.
Miami, FL
4/23/2012
I loooove it here, can I just live on the balcony somewhere?
I love the venue, great acoustics. I love the juxtapose between the two venues (this and the Knight Center), the day/night theme is fantastic. -
Review from Lauren G.
Fort Lauderdale, FL
3/27/2012
Great spaces for concerts and theater. Acoustics are awesome.
My only negative comment was the last show I saw "Come Fly with Me" should have had a rating of mature audiences only. Inappropriate for children. Also one of the dance numbers portraited violence against women - VERY INAPPROPRIATE!!!!
Can't imagine that was what the song writer and singer had in mind. -
Review from Laure M.
Miami Beach, FL
1/29/2012
Went to see The Cleveland Orchestra Miami: Bronfman Plays Brahms last night.
The Arsht Center is huge, clean, modern, organized and the staff is very nice. Seats are comfortable and the row in front of you is low enough so you can perfectly see the stage. The sound is good although I was expecting the symphony to be a bit louder.
The only part that bothered me was that it was cold! The AC is blowing all the time and my hands were freezing.
Parking is a bit expensive: $25 for valet and $15-$20 for public parkings around.
Great performance last night, really enjoyed the experience! -
Review from Haronyd M.
Miami-Dade, FL
5/21/2012 1 Check-in Here
I went to last year's "The Sparrow" at the carnival studio theater of the Arsht Center and loved it, so when the same theater company was putting on Death and Harry Houdini, I couldn't miss it. It was amazing! I love that it's a small theater so it feels very intimate, as if you're a part of the show. I'm still baffled by all the magic tricks of the show and the actors were fantastic. I'm considering getting season tickets for this small theater. Totally worth it for all the wonderful entertainment.
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Review from Angelo R.
Miami, FL
5/11/2012
My Review of Death and Harry Houdini at Carnival Theater:
This smaller theater inside Adrinne Arsht Center is intimate and your seated upclose to the actors. No mics, excellent lighting and sound, no stagingl...just raw talent. We saw Death and Harry Houdini at the Carnival Theater and we were blown away about the performance. Amazing cast, musical numbers, props and old skool magic tricks. Its a concise story about the life of "greatest escape artist of the world". We highly recommend to family or group to see this show. The main character was very compelling and believable! We got so immersed with the storyline :) -
Review from Ericstevenc T.
Miami Beach, FL
5/1/2012
Great place to go see an opera or a play
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Review from Monica S.
1/5/2012 1 Check-in Here
Man oh man, what a beautiful experience. Coming to the Arsht Center last night felt much like going to see a show in New York. The surrounding streets bustled with theater-goers wearing their finest. The demographics of the crowd was beautifully diverse and the sub-60 temperatures made it a perfect twinkling Miami night to indulge in some culture.
Making my way through the crowds, I managed to catch the attention of the wonderful employees working Will Call. They fetched my pair of tickets in rapid speed and afterward, we grabbed a glass of wine to enjoy during B.B. King. The staff on duty couldn't have been more pleasant or helpful. And oh right! B.B. King! At 86, the man is still rocking the blues, and while his fingers may not be quite as nimble as they once were, he got by with a little help from his friends... a 7-piece backing band! Together, they didn't miss a beat.
As for the acoustics, the wooden interior makes for gorgeous sound and listening to the performance last night was like Mississippi honey to my ears. I'll still go to fun divey standing-room rock shows, but on nights when I'm feeling like the graduated version of myself, the Arsht is where I'll be. Great for a date and great for times when you're looking for something actually magical in the Magic City.Listed in: Miami Awesome, Miami At Night, Culture in Miami, Live Music Miami
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Review from Ira S.
Miami, FL
5/2/2012
Death & Houdini is a play that is currently being performed at the Arsht Center through May 20,2012. I purchased the tickets a few months ago because I thought that it sounded like it would be a fun show. It was a great show. The magic is as good as a David Copperfield performance. I am surprised that there has not been more notice by the newspapers and media. You should not miss this play.
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Review from mercedes m.
Miami, FL
10/30/2011 2 Check-ins Here
I always feel like such a grown-up lady when I go out to see an opera, play or dance performance (ballet...not the kind with the poles). I get to dress up and mingle with other very cultured people.
I went there two weeks ago to watch the Mark Morris Dance Company. The dance and the music was interesting enough to talk about after the fact. A bit Hitchcock theme -but I liked it. There was one set where the dancers crawled the entire song...that one was weird - but still fun to watch. Usually, I leave a dance performance hyped to dance - I didn't feel that with Mark Morris - however, I still enjoyed each set.
The Arsht Center itself is pretty. I suggest you eat before you get there because their refreshments are expensive - they lose one star for limited options at the refreshment stand.
Be on time, because once the door closes they don't let you in until intermission - and for real - turn off your cell phones. For the life of me, I have no idea why the usher had to tell two people to turn off their phones - it was even more surprising that she had to come back three times to tell them again. Really?
The seats were comfortable and spacious (so I have no idea why the woman behind me kept kicking my chair -- she must have been related to the cellphone dummy).
There is valet parking - but I suggest just going across the street and self-park for $10; the distance is the same.
There is plenty of security - and although the neighborhood is dark and dodgy - the police are vigilant - so no worries.
I'm keeping my eyes open for more modern dance performances and may even try the Broadway in Miami series. -
Review from Ertan E.
Miami, FL
2/16/2012
If you share love for the performing arts, you won't be disappointed. Beautiful venue, great performances.
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Review from Jenny L.
Miami, FL
2/14/2012
Beautiful place!
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Review from Teresa K.
1/10/2012 1 Check-in Here
We went to see BB King here. The place is impressively large. There are actually several theaters in the complex. I appreciated that theater we were in really didn't have any bad seats. We had purchased the least expensive ones and although we were looking down on the stage I still felt like I could see and hear everything just fine. Would definitely come back here to see more performances. A really nice venue overall.
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Review from Kathryn S.
Miami Beach, FL
12/7/2011 2 Check-ins Here
The Arsht center really is a beautiful building. But, I believe that was the main intent when it was built. Everything from the lobby to the ceiling was beautifully done, but unfortunately the same can't be said for the actual theater. The way the theater is built doesn't allow for the sound quality to be as great as it should be in the higher seats. I recommend getting seats closer to the stage if you want to hear everything crystal clear. I like the Arsht center but I prefer the Broward Center for Performing arts more.
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Review from Keno C.
3/9/2012 1 Check-in Here
pick your show and get box seats, unless it is a music concert; then you better buy orchestra seats. the barton g venue there is bogus (yes, i said bogus). pricey and you sit on top of your table mates. don't pay for parking in advance; it is cheaper to park directly across the street from the venue.
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Review from Lady P.
Pompano Beach, FL
3/19/2011
I love this place. Every time I come here it's a fantastic experience. It's supremely beautiful. The sound quality is superb. The lighting is gorgeous. The ushers are always friendly and professional. Last night we went to see Jazz Roots: 3 Generations of Divas.
I am subtracting one star over a minor detail that drove me and my friend absolutely NUTS. I'm not even sure if I can properly blame the Arsht for it, but I'm going to write it anyway. DO NOT SERVE SNACKS WRAPPED IN CELOPHANE. There is a bar, and food, and I'm sure some of the snacks need to be wrapped, but some people do not understand the concept of how to unwrap something before the show starts.
Here goes...a giantess with a nest of black curls, a face-full of makeup and wearing a short, tight mini-dress sat with legs wide open behind us while her boyfriend canoodled with her. He kept muttering all night while she kept laughing and shouting in that big-drunk-lady-in-a-bar-room-full-of-Marlboro-smok e voice of hers. And the freaking celophane. She played with it all throughout the performance, and eating whatever was in it. I could hear her chewing. "Haw Haw Haw!" , munch munch much, crinkle crinkle crinkle. All. Damned. Night.
In front of us sat a couple of the exact opposite demeanor. They clapped politely and glared at everyone who got a little too excited, particularly the woman next to them who was clearly a jazz nut and was loving the show to the fullest. She would clap and shout and tap her feet. It was a fun, upbeat show...particularly when the great Dianne Reeves took the stage, not sure how one just sits there demurely like one is in a Protestant church in New England. At least she didn't have celophane........
The Arsht is wonderful. Some of the people however....not so much. -
Review from Liz R.
Miami, FL
1/5/2011
I love the Adrienne Arsht Center! From its architecture, to its design, everything is beautiful and very accessible.
Both my musical and Arsht Center cherries were popped in this monumental occasion. I had the pleasure to see my very first Broadway musical here, Spring Awakening, with fellow Yelper, friend and Broadway fanatic, AC.
We took the metro, then the mover and I was surprised at how accessible the Arsht Center really is, especially coming from el Kendall. Smoooooth sailing.
The Center is gorgeous inside. From the top floors, you can see down to the lobby area and the black and white marble/tile floors make out silhouettes... uber cool. And the Miami view?? gorgeousness!
Our tickets were pretty far - we got the affordable tix, no complaints here- but we were able to see the play without problem. The acoustics are great and the view too. You don't have to sell your first-born in order to enjoy a nice play at this schnazzy venue, which is great for us peasant folk.
At intermission, I was going to have their jumbastic and delicious brownie but AC graciously offered to share hers.... Holy delicious brown goodness! It was well worth the $3 or $4!
The concessions guy was sooo friendly and helpful, as well as the rest of the staff.
All in all, a great experience! Can't wait to go back for new Broadway plays and other shows!! Send my regards to Adrienne. -
Review from Karina G.
I absolutely adore coming here to watch anything. The structure is gorgeous both inside and outside. This place does not even look like it belongs in Miami.
If you need to eat before, they just opened a restaurant on location just for that reason.
This theater is not that big so, for the most part, every seat is a good seat. The last couple of times I have gone my seats were amazing! -
Review from Vivian L.
12/20/2010
The place is beautiful. I walked in and looked up and was in awe at the beauty of this place & I wondered why I had never been til now. I went to the opera house for the nutcracker. It was a good performance. The seats were comfy and from where i was it was a great view. I was on the 3rd tier, first row.
Now the only reason I didn't give 5 stars was that when it was time to leave I went to go get my car & had my mom & grandmother wait so I could pick them up (my mom has athritis & my grandmother is frail). Well the cops blocked the street so I couldnt get to them. I had to tell them to meet me at a corner & I busted a u-turn on biscayne bl where I had a word with the officer blocking the street. He said the reason why they do that is so the valet people could run back and forth to get the cars from the lot across the opera. Whatever..I think its stupid -
Review from Philip B.
10/11/2011
Love going to the Ziff to watch world class Broadway performances and for anything else as well. The Knight Concert Hall is the other building and the acoustics in both buildings is great as well. I've seen everything from Wicked to Stuffed and Unstrung and everything that I've ever been to at the Arsht Center has been amazing! It's well worth the price!
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Review from Wajima A.
Miami, FL
4/23/2011
The first time I came to the Arsht Center for the Performing Arts
was last year on St Patrick's Day, for WICKED. It was an amazing experience over all. This place is beautiful not only does it have a magnificent view of the bay but the architectural design in itself is fascinating. The building is a brilliant work of art, craftsmanship is impressive, and to get to experience the mother of all musicals in it was the best part of the night. Everyone was kind, the ushers helping us find our seats were pleasant, our seats were amazing, even from the third floor. Parking was very easy to find right across the street for $10.00, and the highway is pretty close from the Arsht Center so getting home was a breeze. -
Review from C T.
2/20/2011
Nice venue. Watched Clay Aiken's Tried & True Concert here. Fantastic!
Will call box office is not the same as the box office at Adrienne Arsht. I had to walk over to the Opera House to get my will call tickets! Not sure why? -
Review from Bryan O.
Pompano Beach, FL
3/20/2009
What a great facility, absolutely beautiful outside & in. Had the pleasure of checking out the Celebrity Chef series with Tom Colicchio last night, thanks to our kickass CM Maria!! It was very cool to meet her and Eve, who also attended.
This place is spectacular and yet intimate. For those of you who haven't seen the Celebrity Chef series, I've only seen this one, but it was great. Colicchio was about as down to earth as a human could be.
Only slight downside was that we had pay $15 to park in a quasi-attended lot across the street. The parking price seemed a bit steep, but then again, it was on some pretty prime property, so it's all good I guess.
I highly recommend this place for events, just a great place. -
Review from Eve C.
3/25/2009
I've had the pleasure of attending several events at the Arsht Center, the most notable being several installments of the Celebrity Chef series. The Arsht Center is a gorgeous building that is very easily accessible from all major thoroughfares.
The auditorium itself is stunning. Gorgeous blond wood all over. There's stacks of balconies spanning 3 sides of the facility, and a large floor/orchestra area. There's even some seating behind the stage, which I thought was for those theatre-in-the-round performances, but was advised by someone wiser than I that it was for the orchestra to sit during musical-type performances.
Parking can be a bit of a hassle, especially if you valet and have to deal with the mad rush at the end of the evening's performance. Other options are the outer lots (not so "outer" at all!), which will run you $15. You can always try your luck at the meters near the Metro Mover station, but in my experience, those are always the first to go! -
Review from Michael S.
Coral Gables, FL
3/17/2009
What a disappointment. I would say this city deserves better but I guess you get what you deserve.
The design and location of these buildings is terrible. From the highway or the air they look like two turds on either side of Biscayne Boulevard. While other cities are building performance centers that are architectural marvels and worth visiting for the experience of the buildings themselves, Miami ends up with the dregs of the design world. These buildings are an embarrassment. No one would travel to see these buildings. The best thing about them is that they are buried in the middle of nowhere and not on some prominent piece of land where we would need to look at them, say, every time we went to Miami Beach for instance.
The layout is horrible starting with the automobile drop off areas. They are minuscule for buildings of this scale especially the drop-off at the concert hall. The lobbies are almost nonexistent. All of the spaces feel cramped. The only time I felt remotely comfortable was at a small performance in the studio theater when the rest of the building was empty. And the plaza, what a brain damaged idea, a plaza split by a highway. A plaza with no activity at its perimeter. A dead hole in the city.
And the performances.......... a cooking show???? -
Review from Patty G.
10/21/2010 1 Check-in Here
Wow! I had admired the Adrienne Arsht Center from afar since it was built, but had never set foot inside. I must admit it is as beautiful inside as it is on the outside. The structure of this building is amazingly gorgeous.
My hubby and I went for the Miami City Ballet opening night. There were many attendants who were very helpful when we needed to be guided to the bathrooms or to pick up our tickets. Ushers were very nice and helped us find our seats quickly.
The only thing I noticed that did not match this place were the bathrooms [on the first floor]. They seemed sub par [aka. they looked cheap] to the elegance and beauty of this building. What happened? Ran out of funds for the bathrooms?
The parking was perfect, we parked a block away in the parking garage [the very colorful one, can't miss it] for $5. I saw that there was $15 parking just outside in a parking lot but... really, for walking a couple of more steps you can get it $10 cheaper!
Can't wait to go back for another performance!Listed in: South Florida Favorites
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Review from Ted B.
Fort Lauderdale, FL
3/29/2011
Recently came for the Ballet to see Romeo and Juliet. The show was beautiful, and my date was overly impressed with the architecture of the building.
We chose to come to a matinee because good seats were still available and it worked out great. We had great seats and I didn't break the bank over them.
I'm always impressed with the quality of shows the Arsht center is able to provide South Florida. -
Review from Lisa Marie A.
Miami, FL
2/17/2009
This place is phenomenal. Ignore all the complaining of the parking, location, design, blah blah blah....its worth coming here and its a beauty of a place. Its such a shame that Miami is not a cultured city (nor is it a sport city-but thats a different topic of conversation).
Also, in response to Ivonne-Marie's obviously ignorant remark about it previously named the Carnival Center....this place was not named after the cheapest cruise line....it was all because of Ted Arison, the founder of Carnival (as well as The Miami HEAT). He's the reason why this place ever came into existence, it was named Carnival Center in his honor...to dedicate a man who fought so hard to bring a performing arts center to Miami, he's also responsible for bringing the New World Symphony and the National Foundation for Advancement in the Arts (aka, NFAA) into existence....he was a true lover of the arts...so it was only natural to name the building after his most beloved company...Carnival. -
Review from Carla L.
10/29/2008 2 Check-ins Here
The center is absolutely gorgeous, and the service was flawless!
Even outside the Valet Crew treat you like royalty and it seems that everyone there is absolutely thrilled to see you. I couldn't have felt more welcome if they had tried.
Once in, Steven said it was not a sold out performance and since it was our first time showed us to a private box so we could experience it.
I can't wait for another show!
Note.. if you suffer from Vertigo the upper tiers are NOT FOR YOU! Keep it in mind when purchasing pictures. -
Review from Bertha G.
Miami, FL
7/28/2008
Last night we went to see the Miami Libre Show at the Performing Arts Center. The set is super cool! The seats are covered with a hug stage and the set is created on top of that...so you are "sitting on the stage" for the show. The seating is cabaret style...and you order cocktails and lite appetizers from the guayabera wearing servers.
The music is amazing!! The dancers and performers are great!! And the Tiempo Libre Band, which has one a grammy already....is hot!!
Don't forget to order a Miami Libre Cocktail. It is a Cuba Libre with Jupina in it - made with 10 Cane Rum, Coke and Jupina. AWESOME!! -
Review from Martin O.
2/24/2009
I attended a technology conference here in February 2009 - what a great venue for a conference. Every seat in the auditorium is great; the wi-fi connection was good (for a tech event, most of the participants have their laptops on during the presentation); the sound system was good and the bathrooms were clean.
For this event, you could park in the big lot just North of the Carnival Center. It was free! -
Review from Stephanie L.
Miami, FL
5/5/2010
I love going to the Adrienne Arsht Center. This statement goes with a context obviously and for me going to the AAC means BROADWAY SHOWS IN MIAMI!
Fanatics like me would pay their fair share of dollars to see an amazing show. Lately, I went to see Wicked twice and Mamma Mia with fellow Yelper A.C. We had a blast!
Seriously, both venues (Ziff Ballet and James Knight concert hall) are nicely decorated, with good sonority and a decent view from every seat (even though third and fourth tier are not recommended if you suffer from height issues). I must admit that there are some down points even for good seats. The sound is way too loud on the first rows due to the proximity of the orchestra.
On the good points is the impeccable service. I also love the food they sell...brownies...pop corn... yummy!
The outside architecture of AAC is quite amazing. Both buildings are very noticeable from the I95 and 395 and at night it looks like two giant spaceships landed in Miami ...Awesome!
As mentioned by Ivonne Marie C. it seems that the people in Miami do not dress properly to go see a performance. I was surprised that there's no policy enforced, but I guess it is the price to attract larger crowds to the Arts. -
Review from Kevin N.
6/6/2008
Went here to see the Cleveland Orchestra as a part of a Case Western reunion. We had some really interesting seats, sitting in the Choral Risers. I really liked sitting behind the orchestra. The sound was amazing and it was fun to get to watch the front of Franz Welser-Mst rather than the back of him.
The problem I have with this concert hall is that is feels soulless. This is not a feature I look for in most buildings, however, a large concert hall for classical music played by one of the most pre-eminent orchestras on the planet (even if they are on loan from Cleveland, OH) should have a little more to it, a feeling of awe when you walk in. But this is missing from the Knight Concert Hall.
The valet parking service was abysmal. It takes forever to get your car back after the event. If you can park nearby, do that instead, otherwise, you will be waiting for a good while. -
Review from Tim F.
2/27/2010 1 Check-in Here
Went here today to see the They Might Be Giants concert at the Knight Concernt Hall. What a great venue and a great performance from a band which has successfully repackaged themselves as family friendly entertainers.
Very nice box office staff found our tickets quickly and ushers made it easy for us to find our seats, which were right behind the orchestra pit. However, upon entering the main chamber it is pretty clear that there is not appear a bad seat anywhere at the orchestra level. The sound system is terrific and the center is clean, modern and well thought out. The seats were actually quite comfortable as well
There is plenty of parking nearby and several restaurants within walking distance Great place to watch a concert, play or opera. -
Review from Sabrina L.
Doral, FL
7/21/2010
Being that a friend was coming from out of town, I decided to take her to see a play part of the Hispanic Int'l Festival. It was my first time visiting this venue and won't be my last!
The play took place in one of the smallest theaters, right underneath the Prelude by Barton G restaurant. Great play, awesome view and sounds. The staff was also very nice. -
Review from Michelle C.
Miami, FL
Updated - 12/23/2008
Okay, second time was much better.
The first time, I went to see the Wizard of Oz and it was in the smaller theater. This time, I went to see Alton Brown in the main theater, the Knight center.
The theater is beautiful. And set up better than its smaller sister.
The service is wonderful, but that wasn't what I was complaining about last time.
Definitely more food choices. I don't know if they added them since I went last, or if there was always more offered at the bigger theater. The pita and hummus platter was good, and the veggies in the veggie & dip platter were fresh and crisp.
I still want hot food options. I could still go for cheaper prices.
Better. Still room for improvement, but much better.Listed in: Artsy Fartsy
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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10/30/2008
Food & Drinks.
That is the main reason for the bad review.
1) Premium drinks should not cost $14 and… Read more »
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Review from Jennifer R.
Miami, FL
3/17/2009
It is important to support the arts in this city and I am very happy that we have such an amazing facility that houses performance arts events.
I have been a season opera subscriber since the FGO moved to the Arsht Center 2 years ago and have enjoy many ballet performances (e.g., American Ballet Theater and Miami City Ballet) in the Ziff Ballet and Opera House.
You know that we have the state of arts performance house b/c the Arsht Center can put up operas that Broward is not able to due to technical specs and stage needs.
And much kudos to Lisa A.'s remarks, thanks to Ted Arison for bring more culture into this boorish town.Listed in: 5 Stars in my eyes (Miami…
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Review from Gustavo A. L.
Orlando, FL
10/30/2008 2 Check-ins Here
We should be very proud in Miami of having a place like this- It is clearly apparent that they have been working hard to address the issues that came up when the place first opened - I.E. Lack of parking, long waits for the valet parking and more- T
heir customer service is flawless- virtually everyone we came across from the ticket booth to the ushers were phenomenal. Not only they were very polite and happy to give information but they actually walk with you and show you ... WOW!!
The acoustics are fantastic and we had the good fortune of seating in one of the boxes for the show and it was very comfortable and the view was fine, even though we were quite high up -
There are free tours of this place throughout the week and I strongly recommend you visit and tour it - it is really good - If we can only get the crowds to start coming it will be a great landmark for our Magic City. -
Review from Janelle B.
Miami, FL
12/28/2009 3 Check-ins Here
This is a great facility! Its design is stunning. I've been to several events at the AAC and have sat in different areas. You can see the stage and the performance clearly even from the very top!
Becoming a member of their mailing list was one of the best decisions I have made as far as entertainment. The brochures and booklets that are mailed out are very useful. -
Review from Cynthia M.
Miami, FL
12/8/2008
I've now been here three times to see a symphony, musical and opera all at the Ziff Opera House. After weighing the pros and cons, I think this place averages three stars.
Pros:
1. Beautiful
2. Great selection of quality performances
3. Affordable good seats
4. Efficient and friendly staff
Cons:
1. On Friday and Saturday evenings -- horrible traffic. So you feel like you should leave as if going to the airport for an international flight. (I will have to try taking the metromover next time).
2. The nosebleed seats (4th Tier) are horrible for sound and feeling engaged in performance. So, splurge and get the 2nd tier.
3. Incredibly long lines at concessions so you only get to sip your over-priced drink once or twice before running back to your seat.
4. Incredibly long lines for elevators to upper levels
Overall, I'm sure there are ways to overcome some of these cons, but I'll have to be creative. Like maybe next time I'll take the metromover and pack snacks in my purse for the intermission, or go on another night of the week. -
Review from Carlos R.
Miami, FL
5/12/2009
Facilities are beautiful, parking is easy. DON'T valet.
For the larger facility, I would say that the 4th tier is very far from the stage. Would only sit up there again if I was going to something where visuals were not important.
Prices for drinks are very high, but I guess it's to be expected. Maybe take a flask and make your own concoctions ;)
Someone else commented that folks should have a little more respect and dress accordingly. I agree, but I will say, that even in NYC, folks go very dumpy to broadway shows.
As a community, we should feel lucky to have such a nice facility and have the oppotunity to see the events that come here.
