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Segerstrom Center for the Arts
Category: Arts & Entertainment Performing Arts Performing Arts [Edit]
600 Town Center DrCosta Mesa, CA 92626
(714) 556-2787
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
192 reviews for Segerstrom Center for the Arts
192 reviews in English
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Review from Shannon J.
San Pedro, CA
2/5/2012 5 Check-ins Here
If,
I could i would live here i love this place if you want to see great shows and step out of the box and try new things then this is the place you go to. They have great shows almost every week plus its always something differant, from Musical, Dancing, Plays, stage Drama's etc etc....
Here's a tip if your one of those people who finds it better to save your money they park across the street and simply walk over and that way you don't have to pay for parking and you save alittle, well at least until you decide to buy something at intermission. lol
I love this place its just my get away from life plus with student rush tickets it makes it that much easier to come and see a play or ballet or whatever fits your fancy, i mean what else are you going to do with your day off becides sleep.. -
Review from Audrey N.
Huntington Beach, CA
1/27/2012 2 Check-ins Here
OCPAC (Now Segerstrom) has been a part of my life since I was 5 dancing ballet on their stage, to 16 playing viola in the orchestra, and now as an adult and season ticket holder for their Broadway and Dance productions.
Parking is easy, you can either park in the structure for $10 or across the street at the mall for free and walk over. When it's cold or raining, I suck it up and pay $10.
They have a student rush, an hour before most shows and you can get tickets for a good price.
The Samueli Hall is beautiful (I'm a little bias, I work at the Samueli Center for Integrative Medicine). Segerstrom Hall is lovely, the artsy hedges and architecture is always a sight right before a show.
During the summer, they show old broadway movies outside on their lawn, it's free, just bring some chairs, blankets, and a bottle of wine :) -
Review from Valerie W.
Fountain Valley, CA
1/17/2012 4 photos
I've been coming to the OCPAC ever since I was about 4. My parents would always take me to see the Orange County Philharmonic Orchestra that would play monthly. I've also been here for the Lion King, Wicked, and most recently, Cats. It's a pretty ritzy facility and absolutely gorgeous. The staff is okay. They do their job, but I wouldn't say they're necessarily warm. But that's fine, whatever. The venue brings a lot of fantastic tours to OC, which is great for those of us who don't feel like driving all the way to LA.
With that said, however, the Segerstrom is truly a roulette of hits and misses. I never realized this until my recent viewing of Cats. I'm a huge fan of the show, and bought two tickets- one for the opening night and another for one of the matinees. Both turned out to be different experiences.
The first night I was sitting in Tier 1. I had an aisle seat in one of the middle rows. The view was fantastic as I was dead-center. How does that make sense, you ask? Well it has to do with the bizarre layout of the theatre. It's difficult to explain, so here's a picture: http://2.bp.blogspot.c... .......as you can see, it's pretty scattered. So the closer you are to the aisles, the more center you are. There's a seat view program available on their website so you can get an idea what the view is like. It's pretty nifty.
Now for the matinee performance I was in the orchestra section, also pretty dead center. Acoustically, boy did it make a difference. I know it seems strange given that the 1st tier isn't that far away from the orchestra, but I swear sound traveled A LOT better. The theatre is so large and high that I don't think sound travels that far, unfortunately.
But I don't blame it ALL on the acoustics, because the sound system seemed turned down low. The first performance I attended, I could barely hear the overture. It sounded incredibly distant. I was so let down by this, that I actually contacted the theatre and shared my experience. They said they would look into it, and sure enough, it sounded a little louder the second time, but still not THAT loud. On a scale of 1-10, it was at about a 6. I would have been pleased with an 8 (not blasting my ears out, but loud enough to engulf me, if that makes sense). I have never been in the 2nd or 3rd tiers, so I cannot tell you if the sound quality is any better/worse up there. And given that I've only seen three shows here, I can't say what it would be like for other shows. If I ever sit in those tiers, I will update the review. But I can tell you that Wicked was about the same sound level as the second Cats performance. I was a little disappointed in "Defying Gravity"- it just wasn't loud enough for me to get goosebumps.
So obviously, your best bet is to get orchestra seats. They seem to have the best sound quality. But the 1st tier still offers a reasonable view. On another note, the line for the women's restroom was absolutely nuts, but it moves quickly, rest assure you.
Small update: I was reading some costumer reviews of the theatre, and they were all saying that they couldn't hear half of the show from the 2nd and 3rd tiers. What a shame. -
Review from Corina S.
Updated - 1/22/2012 2 Check-ins Here
Such a great theater, really there isn't a bad seat in the house, except distance wise, but you will never have anybody's head in your way. Our most recent adventure was CATS, it is disco, but it was cool to see.
Listed in: Adventures with the Boyfriend
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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4/20/2011
It is spacious enough that hundreds of people don't have to stampede to their seats. The way the… Read more »
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Review from Erin N.
I came here to watch Shrek the musical! (it was my parents' idea -______- dude, i felt like I was 10 again) but whatever, Im not a "debbie downer" -- thumbs up for family day!
No, but seriously the Segerstrom Center for Arts is a great venue to watch a performance. The theatre is really clean and the staff is well organized which always takes out of the stress of running late or making sure you are in the right place. They have a small kiosk to order food which was nice. The prices are typical venue prices, but if youre hungry and want a snack they make a pretty mean turkey sandwich. -
Review from Smiles W.
Newport Beach, CA
1/2/2012
I've watched Dreamgirls, Blueman Group, and White Christmas here so far. It has a smaller stage than Pantages. I'm thinking the shows at Pantages might be better with a bigger stage???anyone know? I've seen Fame at Pantages and it was awesome!!!
I HATE how the playbill is like a magazine trying to sell you everything.
Can't help but going back here though since it's so close and they have cheap tickets.
I wish the parking wasn't $10 -
Review from David W.
Updated - 12/31/2011 2 Check-ins Here
West Side Story
Row P3
Student Rush $202 Previous Reviews: Show all »
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8/15/2011
This theatre is great and all ,but I don't like how they've turned the traditional playbill into a… Read more »
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Review from Kelly C.
Irvine, CA
12/2/2011 1 photo
Blue Man Group at Segerstrom Center
Overall
3 Stars
Segerstom Center is a nice clean new looking building. It is located right across the street from the South Coast Plaza. Here is a tip, to save on parking, you can park at the mall and walk across the street. Just make sure you wear comfy shoes.
I have seen the Blue Man Group show twice now. The first time was in Vegas about 11 years ago, when the show first came out and the second time was a week ago at the Segerstrom Center in Costa Mesa, CA. The Vegas production hosts a much larger production, since it is Vegas. The Blue Man Group on Tour was a bit more limited.
I am surprised after 11 years that the show was still about 92% the same. One cool difference was that at the end of the show there is toilet paper being throw in the air. 11 years ago the toilet paper was thrown into the crowd and the crowd had to pick up the toilet paper and throw it themselves. 11 years later, Blue Man invented a machine that throws the toilet paper in the air. There is technology in full effect!
Gold Medal - Human Body Painted Portrait
Silver Medal - Ping Pong Balls in Mouth
Bronze Medal - Alot of Energy
I personally thought the show was average. A couple parts were very cool and exciting, but the remaining parts of the show was nothing spectacular. To sum up the show in a sentence, this show mixes comedy, includes crowd participation while keeping the show loud and full of action.
During the show a man from the audience was chosen to go behind stage. The Blue Man covered the man up in a suit and tied the man upside down. The man was splattered with paint and throw on a wall. After getting abducted with paint, the man was able to keep the portrait of his paint spatted on the wall body portrait. That was the coolest part of the show. I want to make one too!
Another cool part of the show, one of the Blue Man caught over 10 plastic ping pong balls in his mouth. Could of been more or less, but it was a very large number. Can you catch 10 ping pongs in your mouth? Pretty amazing stuff!
The show had loud music and was full of energy. Alot of neon colors and images for your viewing enjoyment.
HAPPY BLUE MANING!! -
Review from Qui C.
11/14/2011
This place is amazing; it was top-notch and brand new. We saw Blue Man Group here this past Saturday and had a fantastic time, of course mainly because of the Blue Man Group, but the Segerstrom venue played a key part. The attention to detail here is superb and the people who work here are also very helpful and nice.
The cost for parking is a tad high ($10), especially for Costa Mesa with tons of parking structures. Also, the restrooms are really dated. It's weird they spent so much money on this place, but couldn't renovate the restrooms. -
Review from Kislev A.
12/6/2011
This review is for the Center as a Wedding Venue.
The place is beautiful, state of the art and the staff are professional and experienced.
* They programmed the lighting with my bride's wedding colors.
* They allowed us to have a rehearsal.
* They allowed us to perform as many vendor walk thoughs needed in order to ensure that our event is as hassle free as possible.
* The staff were gracious, kind, professional, funny, nice, experienced, knowledgable, flexible (to a point).
Due to an issue that had nothing to do with the Center itself, we were able to hold a wedding ceremony at the 4th Floor Argyos Terrace and the cocktails at the 4th Floor Lobby... for a super duper low price. Super low. Ridiculously low.
They have a lot of restrictions, as all beautiful venues do. But ours had extra restrictions as, due to how ridiculously low our rental fee was, we were only restricted to the 4th floor of the center. Guests enter the front door, escorted directly to the 4th floor, excorted directly to Leatherby's afterwards. No dilly dallying and wandering about.
But the crew that performed this task were wonderful and the guests did not feel at all like prisoners being herded, more like VIP's being guided... Except from one person. His heart is in the right place and he is doing his job but I don't think he has the same amount of people skills as the rest of the team. I had so many complaints about this buy, both from vendors and guests. And that's a shame coz he did so much for us...
* He found a space for our photobooth at the Ground Floor Lobby even though our contract says we cannot use that area at all.
* He allowed the bride and groom to hang out on the 3rd Floor so they can hide there after the ceremony even though we weren't supposed to be there, per our contract.
* He pointed out an overly intoxicated female guest to me to make sure she gets taken care of.
Anywho... That's pretty minor and I hope the bride and the groom didn't hear the complaints coz overall, I think this place is great. Worth the $6K you all have to shell out? Totally. -
Review from Sandy J.
Long Beach, CA
11/16/2011
I took my daughter to see Junie B Jones today with many of our fellow homeschoolers. Our group was an hour early so that we could get good seats. We were organized and quiet and did everything they told us to do. However, the ushers were unfriendly, even down right rude and yelling at us to sit down. I and many other parents found this interesting since our group of homeschooled children were well mannered and quiet compared to the other children that had been bussed in.
When it was time for us to leave. We were the last group escorted out since we were in the 2 front rows. The front stage manager (who I will not name) yelled at us because we were not sitting down waiting our turn. To be honest it was the grown ups that were not sitting. The lady proceeded to yell at us like we were unruly children and actually stood there waiting for us to sit down so that she could ask us to stand back up and exit the theatre.
I got the impression from a different lady that introduced the show that the tickets were comped by Target and that we ALL needed to send them a thank you note for our tickets. This is not the case for us, our group had to purchase our tickets.
I'm really disappointed with the way the we were treated by the front stage manager. Again I will not post her name but if you would like it feel free to email me and I will tell you her name directly. Her actions towards us really almost ruined the experience. Is this how you get people to stay away or do you want them to come back??
I cannot say that I will never return to this theater because the show was really cute and that was why we were there. But I sure hope that if we do go again that we are treated with more respect. -
Review from Partridge V.
Burbank, CA
1/2/2012
this review is for the facility itself. Many reviews say "state of the art"....but i will give my negative opinion.....when i go out to spend money, I expect to pay for comfort and convenience, and this place offered neither!!!!
From what I can tell, it's new and clean, but I did not have an unobstructed view with an average sized person sitting in front of me! The height different between our row and the row in front of us seemed like it was 3 inches. Any action in the play that was right in front of me, was obstructed by a person's head...and we were sitting in row "J" I was probably only inconvenienced 5% of the time, but for tickets that are 5x times more than movie tickets, i was NOT impressed with our seats! I had to sit straight up, and suck my shoulders in, just to not rub the person next to me....(i've been more comfortable on Economy plus!)
And the bathroom situation sucks. Not enough toilets!!!!!!!! Anyone who thinks this place has enough toilets is crazy!
I'm sure the actual show was ok, but I was too buzy belly aching over a poorly designed seating hall. Every seat should have an unobstructed view!!!!
seemed like the row length was the entire lenght of the theater! 50 seats across with no column breaks? if you are sitting right in the middle, you potential have to cross 20-25 people to get to your seat???? really? that is state of the art?
Will never go back to Segerstrom...."stadium style" movie theaters are more comfortable!
I say "not good for kids" only because of the seating situation!!!!! Kids will not "understand" not being able to "see".....Small children were bouncing in their chairs in the theaters, probably because they could NOT see!
most people loved this place...but i didn't! -
Review from Mimi C.
Updated - 12/18/2011
love all the shows that come through here. :)
took mum and the in laws to see "irving berlin's white christmas"
they loved it cuz the musical was so professionally done
and reminded them of their childhood. enjoyable for all ages!!
sound system is also very amazing here.
structure parking is $10 .. and sucks getting in and out.
if it's not raining, do park over at south coast and walk the .25 miles.
oh --- xmas/holiday weekend shows are suppper packed.
couldn't do the buy nosebleed and still get good seats this time around.
methinks i will have to look into their season packages.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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8/29/2011
This is breathtakingly beautiful hall to watch a musical. =))))
It's super easy to access to.. just… Read more »
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Review from Rett L.
Huntington Beach, CA
11/14/2011
I've been a season's ticket holder for the past 2 years and when I recently found out that my company was relocating me to China I hardly expected that I'd be stuck taking a bath on my unused tickets. But sure enough, the box office wouldn't even give me a partial refund.
As someone who has watched the patronage of the Center decline in the past 4 years I'd think they'd do more in appreciation of their season's ticket holders. It makes my decision of whether or not to renew when I get back from Beijing that much easier.
Off to Craigslist... -
Review from Trishia P.
Long Beach, CA
Updated - 11/20/2011
The Blue Man Group show is awesome and I'm glad they picked Segerstrom to visit! As I mentioned before, beautiful and modern venue. Staff is friendly and efficient. All seating options are great here...
I have to say the best part of the night was the lighting of the large tree in the OC Performing Arts Center. Pre-show I had a Boudin Bread Bowl at SCP where I parked and walked over the unity bridge...
I was able to catch a glimpse of Christmas Carolers and a large crowd as they watched them sing the classic holiday carols with a glowing Christmas Village backdrop. I think Boudin had provided the warm drinks of Hot Chocolate and Hot Apple Cider spiced with cinnamon. It was a great way to enhance our experience on our way to the Blue Man Group.
When we returned to cross over the unity bridge, the Christmas Tree was tall and lighted and ready to start the holiday season.
BLUE MAN GROUP + GOLDSTAR VALUE + HOLIDAY CHEER + BOUDIN BREAD BOWL PRE-SHOW! = AWESOME!!Listed in: Slice of the OC, ROCK ON!
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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10/4/2011
This review is for the Segerstrom Hall where I saw the San Francisco Ballet perform Romeo and… Read more »
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Review from Lisa E.
Huntington Beach, CA
1/10/2012
Went and saw the Blue man group. I loved this show. Unique, entertaining ,and some great humor also. I would definitely recommend this show.
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Review from Anne Q. T.
Tustin, CA
9/20/2011 1 Check-in Here
It used to be that when we go back to New York it was to see a show at one of the kazillion number of venues that make New York such an awesome place to visit. Additionally given the choice between LA and OC venues, we used to choose LA because we like to think we miss the grit and energy of a city.
Only recently have I started to appreciate all that's great about the Segerstrom Center for the Arts - convenient South Coast Plaza location, comfortable seats, decent intermission refreshments, and ample parking.
And Segerstrom can host them all from Russian ballets to Broadway musicals to D-list comedians. In the writing of this review, I find myself letting go of past prejudices.
I may even be ready to commit to season tickets - as long as they're in Orchestra. -
Review from Chloe k.
Huntington Beach, CA
Updated - 10/4/2011
Went to see the San Francisco Ballet. Pretty costumes and great performance. I was in Tier 1 this time and I liked the view a lot better.
Valet is $20 :(
Will call is pretty fast. I like how classy it is inside. Makes me feel like a rich kid when I take the Maserati here.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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4/28/2011
This place is so pretty on the outside. Its right across from SCP. But it has a crapload of stairs!… Read more »
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Review from Roger B.
Lake Forest, CA
9/20/2011
Today I stopped by the box office and plunked down 400 bucks for tickets to the ballet. Now what's th e big deal your ask? Nothing except that as I was handing out the cash my daughter was being harrassed by a "security guard" for... Get ready for this... Taking a picture of the building... The outside of the building... From the public open plaza!
According to the the rent-a-cop the whole block is private property (which i suppose it is except for the streets and sidewalks) so taking pictures of the buildings is not allowed without prior written permission!
Way to go SCFA. No better way to reinforce the OC's image.
BTW... What if someone takes a picture from the PUBLIC sidewalk 50 feet away?
I will refrain from expressing my opinion of whoever thought that up... And they say government is nuts...
Let me elaborate - on the plus side the more photos of the 2 buildings are out there the more publicity the center gets and after several thousand dollars wasted away on horrible seats and lackluster acoustics in the new hall i know first hand it could use the positive publicity. On the minus side just how enforceable is that? not to mention that "good will" thing... -
Review from Amanda P.
11/18/2011 1 Check-in Here
What is there to say that hasn't already been said? Beautiful theater, professional staff, excellent shows. Prices are high, but I can usually find discounted tickets through things like Goldstar, and they're often great seats. Parking is in a nearby garage and costs about $10; it's relatively easy to get in and out. We've seen lots of shows here--Grease, Avenue Q, Rent, the Blue Man Group, and I'm sure there's something I'm forgetting. It's always a good time. Just try to avoid paying full price.
Listed in: All the World's a Stage
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Review from Jaz'min Q.
Los Angeles, CA
8/17/2011
Bought tickets for my daughter and niece to see Mary Poppins at this theater. I had to leave a review that was on the bad side. Not because of the show, but because of the workers that I came into contact with at the theater.
Good Points:
Mary Poppins was amazing. The dancers, performers, actors all incredible. Stage design and overall production was magical and almost as good as the Lion King but better than Shrek. If you have a chance to see this play I say go for it but do not go to this theater.... well, that is if you are not a Caucasian.
Parking was good, close and $10 bucks. The architecture was modern and beautiful. But the people....
Bad Points:
I hate to use the word "racist". I am not a fan of pulling that card, making that accusation or being that shallow. But I will say that I felt the tension at my being the only African American in the building that I came into contact with. Every usher, concession stand attendant and person otherwise that I came into contact with looked at me like I had eyes on my forehead. They were cold, would not smile and greet me as they did the other guests. I really felt out of place but kept a smile on in order to not give the children any inkling that something was wrong. Even my 5 yr old niece asked me, "did we do something wrong, TT? why was the lady so mean to us?" referring to the person that greeted us at the door when we came in and asked for directions. She was so hesitant, it was as if she was going to tell me that I had to go in the colored entrance around back.
The employees here are unwelcoming. If you are of ethnic decent, do not go to this theater. Over 200.00 on tickets and I feel like I was shunned. -
Review from Tommy S.
Anaheim, CA
I went here with 10 of my friends to see the blue man it was wonderful had a lot of fun uncle Tommy
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Review from Janet B.
Pasadena, CA
12/4/2011
Just saw the Dec. 4 ,2011 Johnny Mathis performance ----at 76 years he looks
fantastic and still has that versatile voice. Combined with the gorgeous
Segerstrom Center of Arts, this was a memorable evening. -
Review from Candy S.
11/23/2011
I love watching musicals. I can't get enough of them. I watched Peter Pan 360 and The Lion King here. The Segerstrom has a very beautiful theater and the people here are very professional. The parking lot was about $10 and not a far walk to the theater. After watching one show, they send you invites and news to upcoming shows. I really appreciate knowing what they'll have next. Plus, they give you a code to purchase tickets before the seats are released to the public. Very big plus.
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Review from Candice K.
Irvine, CA
Mary Poppins was supercalifragilisticexpialidocious! The 8-year-old me screamed out in pure elation while the me now marveled at the prancing performers and the extensive planning that must've gone into creating the magical stage sets.
My partner was clearly deprived of a childhood, as he had never seen the 1964 movie. That being the case, I could tell why he wasn't as enthused about an evening at the theater. But by the end of the show, I could see he enjoyed himself somewhat. Time enjoyed is time not wasted!
For everyone who's never been to Segerstrom Hall before, here are some notes:
- Get here early, at least half an hour early but preferably 45 minutes to an hour.
- Parking is $10 in a parking structure, CASH ONLY. The people who take the money and give you a ticket will direct you where to park and which direction to walk to get to the hall.
- If you have pre-printed tickets from the Internets, then don't bother standing in that very long line. If you walk past that line to the doors, you'll see that the line is actually waiting for the box office. In other words, those people are either 1. will call, or 2. "rush," which is for people who don't have tickets who want to try to buy the remaining seats in the house that night on sale.
- Drinks and "gourmet" snacks are provided for a price. You cannot bring any of the drinks (except for bottled water) into the actual theater, though, so you'll have to drink it before the show starts. I think you can sneak in the snacks, but please don't. I don't want to listen to you rustling through a noisy plastic bag for your candy and chips while I'm trying to watch a very expensive show!
- A bell will ring to indicate that all the doors to the theater are opened.
- You can pre-order drinks for intermission so you won't have to wait in line for it.
- During intermission (18 minutes), the second-floor bathroom will be packed with a line out the door (obviously, this is for ladies). Just walk up one flight of stairs to the third floor and enjoy a no-line bathroom!
- Buy your tickets through a deal site like Goldstar. You'll save half on tickets. I personally got my orchestra seats half off via a Disney promotional e-mail, though. If you're expecting VIP-level seats in the very front-and-center of the theater, though, enjoy paying your non-discounted $135. I was quite satisfied with my $35 seat (regularly $70+).
- Get seats in the orchestra section, and use their site's camera shots to look at the stage from different angles. I was fortunate--and quick--enough to secure a pair of good seats, which were actually quite centered. My partner and I sat in Q28 and Q29, and while that may sound far, we could view everything very well.
- Don't forget to bring your glasses for the best viewing experience possible!
As far as the theater itself went, staff was very friendly and professional. Space was clean. Floors were carpeted and plush (even the bathroom floors). Overall, it was a fabulous experience and one I definitely recommend if you have the money to splurge! -
Review from Gwen L.
Irvine, CA
I really like this place. I think the place is pretty inside out. The interior is very modern with lots of mirrors and very spacious.
I went here to watch "Wicked" the musical an it was phenomenal. The seats were good and the sound system were very clear.
We parked at the South Coast parking lot on Bristol and walk over so that we didn't have to be stuck in traffic afterwards. The snack bars sells gummy bears for about 4$/bag and I think they sell alcohol for the adults too.
I love the place but I wish the women restroom were bigger with more stalls cuz there were a line during intermission. No bueno. It's good cuz they have these notifying bell rings every 5 min interval in the 15 min break but it doesn't really help if u still have to wait in line for the bath room....
Aniwayz.nice place to watch some nice musical -
Review from Michelle M.
Walnut, CA
7/30/2011 1 photo
Went to a Mary Poppins showing.
The place itself was a little more old-fashioned (kind of like early 90's atmosphere). Restrooms were clean -- always a good sign! The staff was pleasant but not completely warm-welcoming.
The stage was a good size. Nosebleed seats may be harder to see any facial expressions or such particulars. Acoustics were good. Seats and aisle way are spacious and comfy.
Parking is $10 next to the center. Many people also park at South Coast Plaza and walk over (it's right across the street).
**Students get student rush discounts an hour before showing! Call before and ask if they have any student rush tickets and they will give you the best available seats for the day's show for a discounted price. Definitely a plus to nearby OC students!! -
Review from portable m.
Pasadena, CA
5/8/2011
Am not sure how to review this since I've only been here for one performance and in the third tier of Segerstrom Hall. Should I compare it to LA's Music Center? I really don't know.
Am only writing this review because I highly encourage you to enjoy a live classical performance, be it an opera, a ballet or whatever else. it is a really nice experience. And if you don't enjoy the show there's nothing to be sorry about, there's always people watching. Not all people, but most do dress up coming here and it really is a joy lookin at the glamour.
I'm not going to hold a durian up to your nose, I do, however, encourage you to dress up. think of it as paying it forward, in the sense that people have respected the silent rule of this being an eye candy experience, thereby respecting your eyes' viewing pleasures, so, why not do the same for them?
dress up, or don't, eitherway come here. -
Review from Teresa P.
5/8/2011
Came here to watch Wicked a little while ago, and was super impressed with the architecture and lighting. Quite a sight in the evening.
Totally didn't know what to expect since it was my very first musical, so I was wowed out of my seat. Tons of fun for a rare date night out and a good way to impress someone!
Walked around and checked out all the tiers for the view. If you can get tier 1 or 2, go with that. The view definitely doesn't seem to be much worth it higher up unless you have crazy good vision. -
Review from Crystal C.
Orange, CA
3/30/2011 2 Check-ins Here
I've been here to watch a few productions. Last week I saw Wicked, and I've also seen Phantom of the Opera and Rent here in the past few years.
I usually park in the structure connected to the Segerstrom Center just because it's a shorter walk compared to all the other options. You do have to pay, but I'm usually running late so it gets me to my show on time. The only downfall is everyone leaving the structure at the same time. So if you're stuck on the 4th floor, the line of cars probably won't move for a good 15-20 minutes. You can also park in the structure across the street or at South Coast Plaza (free).
Segerstrom is an AWESOME venue. The way it's laid out, you can pretty much get a great view from any seat in the audience, even Tier 2 or 3 levels. I was on Tier 3 for Wicked and Rent, and on Tier 2 for Phantom of the Opera, and I had a perfect view of the stage. The only thing that could block your vision is if the person in front of you is leaning forward in their seat.
Once I had to exchange my tickets for a different performance date, and I was on the phone with customer service and they were very helpful. I also changed my address, so they easily cancelled the tickets that were already on the way to me and sent me tickets for the new date. They didn't give me any trouble at all.
When you order tickets online, you start getting priority offers for other shows. This basically means that you get to order your tickets before the general public. I was able to get tickets for Rent and Wicked months ahead of time, and I pretty much got first pick for seats. :) I'm not sure if there's any difference in price, but it's definitely helpful for large productions like Wicked.
When you're outside between the parking structure and main lobby entrance (somewhere on the bridge I guess) take a look around and above you. The architecture is just absolutely breathtaking. -
Review from Jenn G.
I recently went to Segerstrom Center for the Arts for the very first time to go and watch Wicked with a bunch friends.
Wow, this theatre is huge! There are a bunch of stairs everywhere. Before the show, we took the elevator but afterwards this is an almost impossible task because of the amount of folks. The stairs aren't high but there are many...haha can we say stairmaster workout ;)?
The theatre itself is beautiful. It's very classy and has an elegant feel to it.
Inside the stage is front and center and the seats surround the stage in a roundabout way aka opera style
Watching Wickend here was awesome! Great sound! Cool visuals! I had seats in the tier 3 and could see the entire stage and the orchestra.
This place was packed on Sunday afternoon - quite a good indication of an awesome show and a popular place. There is a downside to going here when it is packed. Getting out of the parking structure can be a hassle. My friends got stuck for a bit trying to get out.
Nevertheless I definitely recommend checking out a show here.
Catch Wicked if you can! It's only here till April 3 :).Listed in: Venues Galore!
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Review from Steena V.
Bakersfield, CA
7/30/2011
Definitely my favorite theatre. I watched Wicked here this year. I gotta say, I was very impressed! This place has amazing architecture, cozy seats, pleasant staff, and it's near everything!
Did I mention, I've been dreaming to see this musical for YEARS, and the guy i'm dating practically surprised me with this whole Wicked weekend getaway. Definitely one of the best weekends of my life! Thanks Segerstrom and Wicked! :) -
Review from Jamie A.
6/24/2011
There is not a bad seat in the house. We were in tier two and could see the stage perfectly. Tier 3 was to the top left of us and it didn't seem like that big of a viewing difference.
We were late, so didn't get food or drinks there, but the place was comfortable and not stuffy at all. Guests were all polite. Some people dressed up, some didn't. Everyone seemed respectful and didn't talk during the show (Cuban ballet). The bathroom line got a little long at intermission, but other than that - I had a wonderful time at this venue.
Parking is $10, but really easy to get in and out of the garage. You can walk across Bristol from Sears if you want to avoid the fee. Also, there is a strange traffic circle that can disorient you if you aren't familiar with the area. I was like I am 1 min from the freeway and why don't I see it!?! I made a wrong turn, lost 10 minutes of my life. Oh well. -
Review from Sue P.
Pasadena, CA
8/8/2011
Bought last minute tickets to see Mary Poppins. I was able to get orchestra seats in the center section near the middle. The show was much better than I had expected. The dancing and special effects were great!
This venue is very modern. It's much better than the Redondo Beach Performance Art Center.
The ladies room was spacious and clean!
It was Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious!
Parking was not a problem. We parked in the South Coast Plaza parking lot near Sears and Maggiano and walked aross the street. It was a very nice walk. Saved $10 parking fee. Also we won't have the hassle to get out of the traffic jam.Listed in: Misc
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Review from Jen T.
4/22/2011
Watched Wicked for the first time here for my birthday!! Not only did I love the show, but the concert hall was pretty nice! Of course the center would be right across from South Coast Plaza.
The seats were pretty comfortable and there was a lot of leg room for me to walk straight ahead instead of climbing over people. It was pretty clean. I think the building looks a little odd from the outside, but for some reason..I am liking the structure.
We just parked at South Coast and walked across . No big deal...a little walking doesnt hurt at all. Saves me and the manfriend a few bucks!
I am going to book me some more shows in the near future! Cant wait!
enjoy! :) -
Review from Priscilla G.
Los Angeles, CA
7/4/2011 1 Check-in Here
3.75 stars.
Saw the National Cuban Ballet.
We were in the nosebleed section along with all the other students that needed to see a performance for their theatre class. Thank God I had my glasses on, we were pretty high up.
The ushers were very helpful and friendly.
Don't waste your money on the "gourmet turkey sandwich" unless you are straving...which I was =/
As others have noted, the acoustics could and should be better. Hello, Walt Disney Concert Hall called and told the Segerstrom to suck it!
Moving on, I'd still love to come back. We'll see what the '11-'12 brings... -
Review from Jordan D.
Just went here this past saturday with my girlfriend to go watch wicked with her. I have to admit though, this place was really a site to see. The night I went parking was 10 dollars cash in the garage and the bar inside was cash only so make sure you have a good amount of cash if you plan on drinking inside. I did see people parking at southcoast if you plan on parking for free I guess, but it is quite a walk.
Ive been to a few places like this to see other musicals or to see orchestras and this by far is probably the smallest place. But to me it was a good kind of small. Not like those places that if you get "bad" seats you need binoculars. If you sat all the way in the back you can still see completely fine and still enjoy the show. The layout of the overall theater was very well thought out.
I was a little bit reserved when I heard the show would be in Costa Mesa when I didnt even know the OCPAC existed and lets face it, Costa Mesa isn't really the first place you think of when you go see a musical/play/show. But like I said , it is an extremely nice place.
The show itself was pretty amazing i've seen musicals like west side story and annie and the man of la mancha and hands down this one was the best. The crowed was for the most part more of the boujie (sp?) type dressed in their super expensive suits/dresses but I mean it is orange county and the show is only here for a month. Felt a little out of place, but realized later it didn't matter as long as me and my girlfriend were enjoying ourselves.
I'll def be looking more often now to see what types of shows are performing here from now on, caz hey it beats driving all the way to LA/or Hollywood, when there is a perfectly nice place nearby. By no means are you downsizing because its close. I would put it on the same level as a lot of other performance theaters.
GO SEE WICKED ITS ONLY HERE FOR A MONTH!
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JordanListed in: Places good for date…
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Review from Laura S.
Orange County, CA
1/28/2011 1 Check-in Here
Facts:
-Park in the structure - $8. I wonder what the valet is?
-Have will call tickets? You MUST enter through the bottom entrance (not the bridge through the structure).
-Water is $3 and is the only drink allowed in your seats (you can't take your beer there).
-Flask it up. They don't search. But don't bring something you have to mix because, like I said, only bottled water is allowed in the seating area.
-Tier 3 in the front area is pretty cheap, and the view isn't bad. It looks like just about anywhere in this theatre has decent view of the stage.
-goldstar.com - sign up for that shiz. I got my tickets half price through them. They send out local weekly deals for stuff going on - love them.
That might be just able all you need to know. If you aren't a pro at wearing heels - don't wear them here. Lots of up and down and all around and the chances of falling are great. Beware.
***We saw the HAIR show - and wow - very cool show. I especially loved the nudity and the language, and of course, the message.*** -
Review from Lily L.
3/28/2011 1 Check-in Here
Beautiful venue! Came here to see Wicked over the weekend and was surprised at how many people it can accomodate (~1700 people). And surprisingly, leaving the parking garage afterwards wasn't as terrible as I anticipated. Leaving the auditorium and squeezing your way down the stairs was actually worse. Also if according to the website tickets are sold out, check third party sites since they probably bought out tons of seats. We ended up doing that and were able to get tickets a few weeks beforehand.
$10 cash for parking in the garage. ALSO VERY IMPORTANT: you can't bring drinks (besides bottled water) into the theater.. this was the mistake my bf and I made, as well as many others hovering next to the trash bins, trying to chug our wines as nonchalantly as we could 10 minutes before the show was to start. -
Review from Cemone K.
Irvine, CA
4/28/2011 1 Check-in Here
Great Venue, saw Wicked, Russian Ballet, and Lion King here.
Still like Pantages better though because you get a good view no matter where you sit. And its a beautiful theater with history.
This theater is definitely more modern and architectural. Inside, its more tall than it is wide, so you can see the whole stage but its much higher up when you're in tier 2 or 3. Anything past tier two is too high for me, but those will be the cheapest tickets unless you buy early. The staff at the window are VERY helpful, every time I have purchased tickets they have worked with me to help me figure out the best seats for the best price. They also know about when price changes go into effect (the closer to the show, the more expensive the tickets get) and always give me the deadlines. Dunno if they're supposed to do that.
Location is great, parking is easy, and its walking distance from a lot of restaurants in case you want to grab dinner before the show. Thats one thing Pantages does NOT have. Sign up with their email and you can get priority offers!
