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    ACT - A Contemporary Theatre

    4.5 (111 reviews)
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    Updated 2 months ago

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    Urinetown stage
    Eva M.

    Just like 5th Avenue Theatre, the ACT theatre is a long time institution to the Seattle theatre scene. They produce their own shows and commonly cast locally. Come here often enough and you'll recognize a few actors. The ACT contains two theatres within, the larger Goodman Theatre and the smaller Falls Theatre. Two different shows can be performed at the same time. I have had mixed experiences with the shows I've seen at the ACT. Some are a bit too ambitious, some are just weird, some are perennially popular like the Christmas Carol. Today's show is "Urinetown", a humorous and sometimes cheesy musical with likeable actors and the entirely show-stealing "Little Sally". Parking is on your own dime. Plenty to choose from in the area. Be sure to have $3 handy to buy a chocolate chip cookie. It's one of the best theatre cookies. The water fountain is functional dispensing cooled water, saving the world from some plastic.

    Nicole Y.

    What a cool theater! I saw choir boy! Not mad at all about the steamy shower scenes! But back to the review. Lol. The Theater is amazing. I had no idea that they offer a limited number of value seats as low as $5 pr ticket and these were not obstructed view seats! The seating in this theater is so cool. Every seat has a great view! I highly recommend.

    Jim P.

    What a fun way to see "A Christmas Carol" ! Seating up to 400, there is not a bad seat in the house. With me being vertically challenged, it is not unusual to have a view of the back of a head, not an issue here! The theatre is in the round with the play in the bottom of the bowl. Fantastic acoustics, amazing ceiling, architecture and stage props. This Sunday matinee experience was beyond all my expectations for a local live production. I definitely will return to the ACT for other venues! Many dinner spots nearby for the "after show" experience into the late night. I also enjoyed seeing the young people working to assist in seating before the show.

    Choir boys
    Ryen M.

    I really enjoy the intimate setting this provides. My husband and I have been to two shoes at two different theater rooms. The one pictured we saw Choir boys was amazing. The boys had incredible voices was definitely a bit adult of you don't mind full male nudity for your children then your fine otherwise bits definitely an adult show.. the staff are really nice when we went one of the vendors was from a local winery the two gentleman were the owners cannot wait to visit it. I do think it's pretty silly they still wear masks but that's small they offer them when you walk in.

    Kirstin H.

    Interesting theater space in the heart of downtown Seattle. It's a pretty intimate space best described as a black box theater, and has two floors of seating. Parking is a nightmare though, so arrive early to troll the streets.

    yankee tavern
    Tom B.

    Well, it all depends on the play you're attending whether you'll like the theater, right? But if you want to go to a play, just go. ACT is a fantastic facility with a great large-theater approach to what they put on the boards. They know they have to sell a lot of tickets, and they program their plays accordingly. They commission plays. They premiere plays. They develop playwrights. They hire locally and nationally. They cast locally and internationally. They develop talent that goes on to significant careers in bigger markets. They also attract returning talent from big markets, and retain great talents that just like being where they are. Sometimes the plays they choose can seem a little tame, but, overall, every season has several things worth checking out. For a big place that really wants to draw as many theatergoers as possible, that's a great testament to their ability to be fresh and interesting without misfiring too often. In terms of the theater itself, you can't ask for much better. Huge attached underground parking garage, right on a million bus lines. Great small theaters with interesting seating. Awesome high-ceilinged upstairs theater in the round, with sets and lighting always to a high standard. I've seen many very moving and funny plays here through the years, and will support ACT as long as they keep putting up such good productions. I highly recommend seeing something here no matter how experienced you are as a theatergoer. I will caveat this by saying that Seattle has dozens of theater companies that are more experimental/avant-garde than ACT; ACT is aimed at a somewhat more mainstream audience given its size. But it's consistently entertaining and often hosts genuinely great productions.

    Mark O.

    ACT is a fabulous theater company performing in a wonderful performance complex. We've seen a couple of World Premiere plays here that were as good as anything I've seen in New York, LA, San Francisco, Chicago or Ashland.

    Front row is close in the Allen theatre. Go with rows 2 and up.
    Lindsey T.

    Update: After visiting several other venues in Seattle and coming back to ACT three times, it is hands down my favorite theatre in Seattle. My review below sums up many of the reasons why, but I will just add that the patrons at this theatre are very well mannered (no talkers or chewers), the seats have such a great incline that even shorties can see, and the bathroom never has a wait. Theatre wasn't as cold on subsequent visits so it must have been a fluke on my first one. I still wish you could take beverages inside but I'll take this theatre over the others any day of the week! Also, we had an event pop up and needed to change ticket dates. Really easy to do! 5 stars all the way. Previous: Wow, I was so impressed with the acting and special effects in A Christmas Carol. It's been one of the best shows I've seen since moving to Seattle. The children were just as amazing as the adults. It was really superb. Although there was no intermission, the 90 minutes flew by. Our seats were on the front row, and personally, I thought it was a little too close for comfort. I would say row 2 or 3 if you like being close. Really, even the last row I wouldn't mind. It appears to be all good seating. There was some street parking right outside the theatre and a garage right next door for $7. The negatives to this place were: 1) it was FREEZING inside. Dress in layers! Most people kept jackets on. 2) they only allow water bottles in the theatre (although I read online differently; perhaps each show is different?) 3) the ramp getting up to the theatre was pretty steep. It's 3 floors and some older folks were struggling getting up and down. It was pretty rough for some of them. I didn't see an elevator but I would call and see if you're someone who might need one. This performance has made me want to be a member. I have one more show this season so I suppose that will be the deciding factor. I highly recommend seeing something there. Although the show was 5 stars, I am deducting a point for my negatives. Having a drink and several layers of clothing during a freezing 90 minute show makes a world of difference!

    Trista H.

    I organized a group event for 13 people for Ham for the Holiday's. What an easy venue to work with. Group tickets had to all be purchased in one transaction. Since my party was over 10 people, the service fees were waved. Discover is an accepted form of payment when purchasing tickets. Parking can be found at: WA State Convention & Trade Center Garage Cost: $6 after 5pm and $7 during the day Payment Options: Cash and Credit Cards http://www.wscc.com/ Our show started at 8pm and the doors opened at 7pm. Theatre doors open at 7:30pm. At 7pm a lobby consisting of a full bar and snacks is available. Cash, Visa and MasterCard are accepted forms of payment BEFORE the show starts. At intermission, cash is the only payment accepted. You can pre-order/pay for additional drinks before the show and your drinks will be available for you at intermission, allowing you to also bypass lines. Drinks are allowed in the theatre; however, no food is allowed. This venue doesn't have a bad seat. Sound is great too. Thank you ACT for a night full of endless laughter and holiday cheer!

    Katy H.

    Blown the eff away! I sat on this review for a week because I couldn't even come up with words to describe my first experience here. And yes... I know, I've lived here for 4 years and haven't been to the ACT theater until now. Shame on me. And shame on YOU if you're not making plans to visit soon. The variety you get here cannot be compared to any other theater company in the city. We're lucky to have lots of great shows but ACT has all of the variety that 4 entire theaters have, all under ONE roof! ACT's history (and the history of the building) fascinates me. Did you know this old building was a giant gentlemen's club back in the day? Just think... I walked through a building that for decades was closed-off to women. Well, MOST women ;) The molding and small details of this historic building remain much the same. I love how it was important that during the remodel of this building to outfit it with various performance halls, they wanted to keep the charm and history in tact. Aside from the awesome array of shows that ACT offers throughout the year, there's also an equally awesome opportunity to catch them ALL for a discounted price. The ACT pass (much like a Netflix account) costs a fee every month and with the pass you can see ANY play you want for only $25!! Even plays that otherwise cost $55 a seat are only $25 if you're an ACT pass holder. What a fantastic deal! Additionally, if you bring a date or friend who isn't a pass holder, they still get a discount because they're attending with YOU. So even knowing someone with an ACT pass is a perk. I almost feel like I'm being paid to see shows here. Such good deals, such great theater.

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    Nice venue. There's a bar with some prepackaged snacks available. No hot food available.

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    Page 1 of 3

    Ask the Community - ACT - A Contemporary Theatre

    Review Highlights - ACT - A Contemporary Theatre

    There are 4 theaters within this theater, but I've only been to the Theater in the Round to see 'A Christmas Carol'

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    Paramount Theatre - Seeing & Juliet

    Paramount Theatre

    3.8(612 reviews)
    0.2 miDowntown
    $$

    I came for a an orchestra concert here and had a great night. The acoustics are excellent --…read moredialogue and score came through clearly and evenly, which made the performance immersive. Seating is comfortable for a long show, with good sightlines from where I sat. I also enjoyed the outdoor areas -- nice spots to hang out before the performance and a pleasant pre-show atmosphere. Staff were friendly and helpful throughout. One improvement: there are no elevators, which can be difficult for those with mobility issues.

    The touring production of The Phantom of the Opera at Paramount Theatre was absolutely fantastic…read more The cast was incredible, and the production itself deserved a much better audience environment than what the theater allowed. Unfortunately, this was one of the worst theater etiquette experiences I've ever had. During the first act, a man seated behind us repeatedly sang along during the performance. When I politely asked him to stop, the person next to him sarcastically pointed at the stage and said, "The show is over there," while the behavior continued. Around us, multiple people talked throughout songs and scenes, and later in the evening I even saw someone openly filming the show on an iPhone. I eventually had to leave my seats (Main Floor 2, Row G) and speak to management because the disruptions were so bad I couldn't focus on the performance. The only solution offered was seats in the very back of the orchestra. By that point, the experience was already frustrating enough that it took a while to calm down and enjoy the show again. What's most disappointing is that this is the SECOND time I've experienced terrible audience behavior at this theater. I previously saw Back to the Future here and dealt with nonstop talking during that performance too. I attend theater regularly in Southern California at Segerstrom Center for the Arts and also frequently see shows in New York City. Ushers there actively monitor audience behavior and quickly shut down disruptions. At the Paramount, it felt completely unmanaged. For the prices being charged -- around $350 for my tickets through Ticketmaster -- audience members should not have to deal with talking, singing, and filming throughout a Broadway performance. Amazing production. Extremely disappointing theater management and audience control.

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    Garbage 10/15/25

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    (10/15/25)

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    Benaroya Hall - Hilary Hahn

    Benaroya Hall

    4.3(211 reviews)
    0.3 miDowntown
    $$

    The thing I like most about Benaroya Hall, not even touching on the great programming, like the…read morelive Fantasia performance that we saw last year, is its lovely hillside situation. From its entrance street, it's inviting, warm and unprepossessing like a city bistro or an off roadway theater, but once you enter, you realize how vast and stunning it is. And you can certainly see that from down the hill too. I wish I could come here even more. I also love how you can reserve your intermission drinks ahead of time. Amazing.

    We visited Benaroya Hall to attend a presentation by a National Geographic photographer on the…read moremigration of the monarch butterfly. It was fascinating to learn what he endured to capture the butterflies' journey from the United States to Mexico. The theater itself is beautiful and well maintained. The lobby feels elegant, with tasteful décor and plenty of great spots for photos. Parking is convenient, with ample paid options available in the garage. The staff truly stood out--they were friendly, welcoming, and eager to help. They offered tips on nearby restaurants for dinner before the event, pointed us toward the restrooms, and let us know where to find coffee and snacks. The bathrooms were clean, and the seating in the auditorium was easy to navigate. Overall, it was a wonderful experience, and Benaroya Hall proved to be an excellent venue for an event.

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    Benaroya Hall - Troupe Vertigo

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    Ukraine Slavic United Choir - , Prayer for Ukraine

    Benaroya Hall - Main Performance Hall.

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    Seattle Rep

    Seattle Rep

    4.4(79 reviews)
    1.4 miLower Queen Anne

    What a nice venue! Right in the Seattle Center- I've walked by it so many times but this was the…read morefirst time seeing a show. The venue was super clean, loved the bar and snack area with lots of seating. Bathrooms were well maintained and lots of staff around to help and answer any questions. The show we saw was very good. The cast were so talented and to be honest I'm not a huge play person but I really enjoyed this show! Would love to come back and see what else they have.

    I LOVE when there is a play that I want to see and it is at Seattle Rep. The whole place is just…read moredivine. The workers and volunteers here are top notch. Super helpful, and you can tell they are choosing to be there. I feel like they are always excited to answer my questions and bursting with energy and enthusiasm about the current production. This last time I went, Theresa helped me find my seats and the last thing she said to me was "you are going to love this, you are so lucky!" It just made me feel so good about the whole experience. They usually have a cocktail and mocktail that are themed after the show, which I think is so cute. This last time I was there, they were offering mini Molly Moons ice creams and chocolate covered oreos from Seatown Sweets. Love that they incorporate local offerings. This is a really special place filled with special people and I love coming here.

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    Seattle Rep - Quixote Nuevo marquee

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    Can Can Culinary Cabaret - Dinner with the Show

    Can Can Culinary Cabaret

    4.3(735 reviews)
    0.4 miDowntown
    $$$$
    Locally owned & operated
    20 years in business

    Had a great time. From the moment we walked in, we were transported by the ambiance and lighting;…read morean escape right in the heart of Pike Place. We were served appetizers and drinks before the show. The coconut shrimp were fantastic, and large. I found the Clown Car almost impossible to drink because it was so sweet, but honestly that should have been expected. The absinthe is also fantastic. Now to the show! I was impressed by the caliber of entertainment. The announcer brought so much energy and humor, and brought in the crowd in just the right ways. The dancers were fantastic; basically the entire 3 hours was choreographed down to each step. My favorite number was the mermaid and sailor one. The singers were also good. A lot of fun and great for an event like a birthday or bachelorette.

    This place was pretty interesting. Met my aunt for brunch and they have a pretty solid wide variety…read moreof breakfast and lunch things on the menu. The staff were super cool and attentive. I think they have a room for shows and dinner too if you're into it. I had fried chicken and beignets that come with a spicy honey butter that was excellent. Spread it all over the chicken and you'll be happy. The beignets were a lil too firm for my liking but powdered sugar and syrup cures all. Definitely an interesting spot to hit if you're staying in the pikes place area. I'm sure it's fun to see a show too.

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    Can Can Culinary Cabaret - Main stage

    Main stage

    Can Can Culinary Cabaret - Chicken & Beignet

    Chicken & Beignet

    Can Can Culinary Cabaret - Dinner with the Show

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    ACT - A Contemporary Theatre - theater - Updated May 2026

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