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Aronoff Center For the Arts
Category: Arts & Entertainment Performing Arts Performing Arts [Edit]
650 Walnut StCincinnati, OH 45202
Neighborhood: Downtown
(513) 241-7469
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
21 reviews for Aronoff Center For the Arts
21 reviews in English
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Review from Kira S.
5/27/2011 2 Check-ins Here
I love everything about the Aronoff. As soon as I walk inside I feel a little bit happier, being surrounded by that artsy feeling. The atmosphere is nice too...classic and just what a theatre should feel like.
They put on great shows here too. The Broadway series every year is usually the best selections of the season, and they make an effort to get diverse ballet choices in too.
The theatre itself is gorgeous of course. The only bad thing is the top level balcony. Even if you have to pay a little more for a seat, do it. The view from up there is like watching ants perform, and sometimes it's even hard to hear. The next balcony down is like another world, and isn't really that much more expensive.
Here's a relatively new fact about the theatre: you can take your drinks inside with you now. I'm still not sure if this is a perk, or a little bit trashy, but I do take advantage of it. I used to have to buy a glass of wine at intermission and chug it before the show started back up, but now you can take it back in with you and sip during the performance. It's a little tacky, and makes it seem like an arena instead of a classy theatre, but I'm sure it ups their alcohol sales.
If you have a chance to see a show here, GO. The show will be good, and the experience of going to the Aronoff is worth it alone. -
Review from Andi B.
1/25/2012 1 Check-in Here
For all the times I've been here, I cannot believe I haven't written a review. I've been here for rock shows, dance, theater and ballet and every time it has been a great experience.
I even participated in the lottery for Wicked tickets with a friend and though we were unsuccessful, I thought it was great there was a way to get tickets to sold out shows.
Also, picking up tickets from will call is easy. If you need to use the restroom keep in mind the one near will call is often crowded before shows start, you're better off going inside, up the stairs to the bigger restroom.
The ushers have always been helpful directing people to their seats so if you're new, don't be afraid to ask for help.
I agree with one of the other reviews that mentions the small seats, I've often felt like I'm sharing my seat with a neighbor, but ehh it's only a few hours getting friendly with a stranger ;) -
Review from Ken H.
Orlando, FL
12/28/2011 1 Check-in Here
We visited The Aronoff on Christmas Eve for a 1pm performance of The Nutcracker. While I've been fortunate enough to see a couple Broadway shows in NYC, I've never seen a ballet. Not my cup of tea but hey, I'm not reviewing the show.
The venue itself was attractive and could stand up to many NYC theaters. Like many theaters, the seats are very close and tight and the space between rows even tighter. It's hard not to feel as though you're feeling up your neighbors as they wiggle past you to get to their seats.
The drinks being served at the bar looked delicious but I didn't feel as though it was worth standing in the long line. I've heard about snacks being available but I guess I didn't explore enough.
Most of the staff seemed attentive and helpful but I was put off after overhearing one gentleman who was holding the door during intermission, talking to another employee about how the audience must not be experienced in these types of shows because there was applause at the wrong time. EXCUUUSE US! -
Review from Stacey L.
10/12/2011
My family always refers to this performance space as "the barn" because of its massive size. My sister lives in New York and so we see a lot of Broadway performances. None of the theaters in NY are so large! And large does NOT equal good.
Unless you pay for the super-expensive seats, you are so far from the stage that the people are the size of ants. Don't bother trying to figure out what the costumes look like.
Also, I swear they designed the seating with a 10 year old in mind. If you are over 150 pounds or are taller than 5'3" you are going to feel cramped in these seats.
Feel free to buy overpriced food or drinks from the concession stands before the show or at intermission, but drink quick because you can't take it in the theater. I prefer the smaller theaters that aren't so concerned about their upholstery.
Yes, this is the only place in Cincy to see the big name shows and so, yes, I get stuck going here sometimes. I recommend trying some of the smaller, independent shows in town in better theaters. Or save up some money and head to NYC! -
Review from Michele G.
Dayton, KY
12/14/2011 1 Check-in Here
I went to see wicked and it was amazing! Only one thing not so good but can deal with was where the intermission was in the timing of the play. Play started at 8p.m. I had to use the restroom so bad at 10. I was in the balcony but could see everything perfectly. Loved it!
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Review from Adolfo N.
11/20/2011 6 Check-ins Here
As long as you avoid the nosebleeds, you're going to have good sightlines. This is the only game in town if you want to catch the major shows, as it is the home to Broadway Across America. I've caught several shows at all 3 levels, and I've never really hated a seat. Granted, I've never sat in the rear balcony. It's a nice modern venue and it has a lot of nearby restaurants, great location to make a date of it. About the only drawbacks are the long lines for concessions and restrooms, but hey, handle it before the show, and you'll be fine.
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Review from Jessica K.
Cincinnati, OH
7/29/2011
The first and [so far] only time I've been to the Aronoff Center was to see The Nutcracker back in the winter of 2009 with a few friends. The theater itself is centrally-located, so parking and overall accessibility is a breeze. There are a ton of restaurants and bars around this part of downtown Cincinnati so grabbing some drinks or a quick bite before or after a show is effortless.
The look of the place is pretty fantastic. it looks ultra-modern on the outside (with a slight art-deco twist, as to play up on the prevalent 1920s architecture and decor of other buildings and venues in the area), but inside it is a standard theatre: cushy seats, large stage, great acoustics.
Surprisingly, to compare this to some large city theatres I've been to (such as NYC and Boston) is actually fair! Aronoff is totally in the big leagues! -
Review from ANN L.
5/3/2011 1 Check-in Here
My First time at the Aronoff. Everything went so smoothly. We had easy parking, easy entrance, and easy to find seating.
The person in front of me blocked the main part of stage, but I switched seats with my taller boyfriend who had no problem at all.
The Cincinnati Ballet was really talented. The last part was so sexy good. Over The Rhine played their love songs and it sounded awesome. The lighting was nice.
I really liked that you could take a glass of wine in with you to enjoy the entertainment at the same time. -
Review from Angela C.
1/19/2011 1 Check-in Here
The Aronoff will always be a special place for me since it hosted my law school graduation ceremony. It's a big, lovely theater, and I've enjoyed many a show there, whether it's a musical, comedy show, or other performance. It's nicely located in the heart of downtown, with plenty of places to eat and drink within walking distance. It's just about a block from Fountain Square, and there are plenty of parking garages in the area.
While the Aronoff doesn't necessarily stand out to me among other large performing arts centers, it is a wonderful building. When you walk in, it is clean, well-kept, well-staffed, and you feel just a little bit fancier for being there. There are snacks and drinks available for purchase, but as others have said, not exactly the most reasonably priced, as any theater. I've thought about this for a while now, and the only thing I don't particularly like about the Aronoff is the color scheme: specifically, the sea foam green. I think this is just me.
All in all, support your performing arts center! The Aronoff is a great place that hosts many great shows (most of the Broadway greats). It's worth a splurge or two.Listed in: Downtown 'Nati Nights
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Review from Leena V.
1/19/2011
The Arnoff Center is a pretty nice and cozy performance hall. It features an upper and lower level; drinks and food may be taken into the lower level, however, it seemed as though such items were prohibited in the upper level. There were a great many volunteers and staff members available to help guide patrons to their seats; while this was quite helpful, some persons may have had a bit of an issue with their eyesight and were unable to correctly read the tickets in order to guide us to the correct seating which resulted in misdirection.
The entrance to the lounge provides easy access to the theatre and the lounge itself does not have a claustrophobic feeling due to its open floorplan. I did not particularly like the color of the lounge since it was a seafoam green which reminded me of a Barbie Mermaid movie or hospital, but at least it was light and bright instead of dim and depressing.
The performance hall itself felt spacious and easily accessible with adequate entrances. The seating allowed for unobstructed viewing, which was important for me, since I am short and always end up sitting behind someone taller than me; even with staggered seating this always proves to be a problem. The acoustics were good and the lighting from the stage was nice, although the parts of the show I watched, Burn the Floor, which by the way, was fantastic, hurt my eyes because it had some flashing lights that hit my eyes at just the right point. The seating was comfortable.
Although the theatre is not elaborate, it does not need to be because what you come to the theatre for is the show, not to look at the theatre itself. I suppose if I were to come for an orchestra concert or some similar event where visually speaking, not much is going on, I would enjoy a more decorate theatre, such as Severence Hall in Cleveland, but the Arnoff Center is definitely suited for Broadway shows and allowed me the pleasure of watching Burn the Floor in a place where distractions were few. -
Review from Julie B.
3/8/2011 1 Check-in Here
I've experienced everything from TedX Cincy to ballet to rock shows and art exhibitions at the Aronoff. Wonderful to have such a venue in the heart of downtown within walking distance of everything including easy parking.
The accostics of the Aronoff are not Music Hall worthy but are very good...the venue serves it's many purposes well.
One very good thing I like is accessability. As someone with a handicapped person in her family if I want to see a show and take them with me I can do so at the Aronoff which often isn't the case at other smaller venues around Cincinnati. -
Review from Alex S.
11/25/2010 8 Check-ins Here
Here's what I love about The Aronoff - it's downtown! I know that may not be something to celebrate, but trust me, it is.
I'm a big art guy. I like galleries and music and theatre and just going out for a night - but usually all of these things are in driving distance. I have to get into car and find the theatre and find parking and then get out and walk to the theatre and I hate it. I know these are the words of a snob who moved into Over-the-Rhine so he didn't have to drive anywhere anymore, but dammit, I moved into Over-the-Rhine so I didn't have to drive anywhere anymore!
But The Aronoff? None of that. It's in a beautiful location right downtown and I walk passed it all the time and when I see a show there, it is just what I want from a night out.
You walk into a beautiful lobby and pick up your tickets and then mull around with others before the doors open and you go find your spot. There is a ground floor and a balcony and there really isn't a bad seat ... some are farther away from the stage, but the sound is nice wherever you go. The acoustics in the theatre really are beautiful.
Ticket prices can be a bit expensive, which isn't really their fault since the show sets the price; it's just worth pointing out. Like all theatres, though, the drinks and food is WAY expensive, which is something they set, but it's kind of to be expected (doesn't make it right, of course, but to be expected).
And then the show gets out and you're downtown! You can get a drink at The Righteous Room or some food or anything like that. You don't have to get right back into your car if you drove and you don't have to drive if you live there like I do. And I do and I love it. -
Review from Beth D.
6/26/2011 2 Check-ins Here
This was my first visit to the Aronoff even though I have lived in the area for years. The decor is elegant and modern. Drinks were available. I had decent legroom in my seat (unlike at Taft). It really is a beautiful theatre. It is in a great location, because it is surrounded by many eateries that you can visit pre or post show. They get have some great shows at The Aronoff, so I highly recommend it. I am sorry that it took me so long to pay it a visit.
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Review from Amy G.
Cincinnati, OH
11/30/2010
We attended a 2pm matinee of Young Frankenstein.
We enjoyed the show at this venue. The staff is pleasant and helpful. The bathrooms are clean and well lit. And plentiful.
We like the bars too. We could take our adult beverages into the theater to drink during the show.
Cincinnati is lucky to have such a great entertainment venue. Not a bad seat in the house and the sound was good. -
Review from Peggy T.
Liberty Township, OH
7/28/2011
I absolutely love the Aronoff, but I specifically wanted to give a HUGE THUMBS UP to MENOPAUSE. My sisters, myself and my mom went to see it last night and we never stopped laughing from the time it started to the time we left. I for one will attend again with new friends next time it is in town.
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Review from Jordan C.
Cincinnati, OH
8/7/2008 2 photos
The Aronoff Center for the Arts is another gem of the Queen City, playing host to Broadway shows, other musical and theater performances, and other great shows like the Last Comic Standing Live Tour coming in October. The Aronoff Center is a state-of-the-art facility that is headlined by the 2,719-seat Proctor and Gamble Hall. I've seen several musicals in P&G Hall, while I have also been to one performance each in the medium-size Jarson-Kaplan and smaller Fifth Third Bank Theaters, and each is really nice. From the great acoustics to the comfortable seating, each theater is perfect venue for watching a variety of shows and performances.
Having Broadway shows and other performances downtown is really great and it always make for a fun night out on the weekends, especially with all the nearby restaurants The Aronoff is also home to the Weston Art Gallery, while it offers meeting and reception rooms, and there is available rehearsal space too. The Aronoff is really a special place in town and I highly recommend gong there at least once, even if you're not into the performing arts. I, for one, am a HUGE sports fan, but I've been to several musicals downtown and have really enjoyed each one. -
Review from Jason B.
Batavia, OH
7/31/2010
Every decent sized city has some type of venue where various performing arts productions can take place. A venue that does not limit its capacity to just a certain type of performance. A venue that can play host to the theater, ballet, opera, concerts, lectures, and other such productions. In Cincinnati, that venue is the Aronoff Center for the Arts.
Designed by famed architect Cesar Pelli, whose buildings can be seen all across the world, the Aronoff opened in 1995. The Aronoff consists of three performance spaces. Proctor & Gamble Hall, with a capacity of over 2,700 is where all of the large-scale productions take place. Jarson-Kaplan Theater can seat 437 for smaller shows and speaking engagements. Fifth Third Bank Theater is a 150-seat studio theater that can play host to performances looking for a more intimate setting or can be used for meetings, dances, and other social events.
Additional, non-performance spaces include Rehearsal Hall, Green Room, Founder's Room, Center Stage Room, and a three-tiered Lobby area that is quite stunning. The Aronoff is also home to the
Alice F. and Harris K. Weston Art Gallery which features both regionally and nationally touring art exhibits. With a season that lasts throughout the entire year, it is really quite impressive what this city and this performing arts center has to offer.
Now I've only seen the lobby and Proctor & Gamble Hall, so my experience at the Aronoff is admittedly limited. But what I have seen is quite impressive. The hall itself is spacious, beautifully maintained, and expertly designed so that every seat (even those in the upper balcony) provides a commanding view of the stage. The seats are comfortable enough and you cannot help but feel high class as you enjoy the featured performance.
The staff is tremendous. Always polite, friendly, accommodating, courteous. I remember one year when I was attending the annual production of The Nutcracker, an usher intercepted me as I was heading towards my upper level seat and informed me that there was plenty of room in the lower balcony and that I was welcome to take a seat there. Free upgrade. Not too shabby.
Not a great deal of negatives here. Ticket prices are always on the high side, but that should be expected for a venue like the Aronoff with the type of productions that are featured. And as the Aronoff is located downtown parking is always tricky. But, that's about it.
The Aronoff is a great venue. If you have a significant other this is a great place for a date. If you have kids and there is a family show, it is a wonderful opportunity for some quality family time.
Mahalo, and enjoy. -
Review from Alexandra K.
Cincinnati, OH
The Aronoff Center for the Arts is an arts powerhouse in the city of Cincinnati. It's relatively new building have been constructed in 1995.
When Broadway tours of big productions come to the area, you can find them here. They normally perform in the larger of the three theaters, The Proctor & Gamble Hall. The medium size theater, the Jarson-Kaplan Theater houses many varieties of performances from local arts organizations such as smaller theater companies that don't have their own space. The School for the Creative and Performing Arts also uses this space from time to time. The smaller theater, the Fifth Third Bank Theater, is a tiny black box space that offers a cheaper rent for the even smaller theater companies. I've seen several great shows here by Clear Stage Cincinnati. They also rent this space for meetings and conferences.
Sometimes on the north west corner of the building there is an art installation hung in the lobby. I've seen some pretty cool things walking by. -
Review from Christoffer M.
Cincinnati, OH
5/28/2008
It's pretty hard to imagine what this city's culture was like before the Aronoff Center came. It has only been downtown for a little over a decade, but it's so integral to the arts of the area, its impact can't be overstated. Now we get Broadway shows, major musicians, and basically anything major that tours America. Where Playhouse in the Park generally attracts the new theatre acts, the Aronoff offers space for more classic stagings, be it drama, musical, dance, or concert.
The complex itself remains fantastic, between the large yet not cavernous Proctor and Gamble Hall (seats around 2700), the warm Jarson-Kaplan Theater (around 500), and the intimate Fifth Third Bank Theater (150). This variety of venues provides for a variety of shows and continual opportunities for outings.
It's tough to find a bad seat. Seeing Wilco at P&G Hall last year, we were stuck near the top, and still the sight was fine considering the distance. Acoustics aren't designed for rock shows, but they were still good. -
Review from Kathleen H.
Independence, KY
10/31/2010 1 Check-in Here
I love going to the Aronoff. They always have the best shows. The sound is great and there is hardly a bad seat in the whole place.
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Review from Jen C.
11/21/2010
Wow, I didn't expect to find a decent theatre hosting productions in Cincinnati. Thankfully I was very wrong! Went on Friday night to see Young Frankenstein with my husband (such a great show; but don't know what the guy in front of me was thinking to bring his 4 young daughters to it...didn't he know of all the inuendo in the show....oh well). Anyways, back to the center. We had seats in the Orchestra section which were great, we were towards the middle and my view was not obstructed by anyone! I am 5 ft 3 so the fact that I could see without looking at the back of someones head says a lot for the seat arrangment in the theatre! It is a newer theatre, so it's not an ornate and beautiful place but it is very nice nonetheless. As far as crowdind, I didn't feel crowded during the intermission or leaving the theatre which is always nice. And the bathrooms..ahhh what a pleasant surprise, they were big and clean; can't ask for more in that aspect. The lobby was the usual for a theatre, a booth saleing the show paraphanelia, a coffee bar (I didn't try it), mixed drinks, and a little wine bar (served Sterling read and whites, not great). The only thing that I don't like about it, they allowed people to bring drinks into the theatre and food; the guy next to me was slurping his drink and rattling candy in his pocket. Really at a theatre dude? Go to the movies if you want that; have a little bit of class. But I will pin that on the guy not the theatre itself. And the other thing, ahhh, people don't dress for the theatre here. I did and I made my husband and there were a few people here and there all dressed up, but the majority weren't. But that again isn't a reflection on the quality of the theatre, it is just a personal annoiance to me. So the Aronoff theatre gets 5 stars, good production, nice setting, nice employees and volunteers. Will not hesitate to buy tickets at this venue in the future.
