Show: MJ The Musical Venue: San Jose Center for the Performing Arts, a.k.a. Broadway San Jose 08/02/25 Matinee Performance 2pm Breakdown: The Musical (SPOILER ALERT?) The choreography, imagery, mutimedia, lighting, sound, costumes & visual effects were wonderful. The performance did not start exactly on time. Many of Michael & the Jackson 5's hits are featured, but due to show length, the songs are shortened. The songs are stitched together with a narrative, and there were a few parts of this that were a little draggy. I almost would've preferred just the full-lenth music selections alone. The play--while upbeat & exciting overall-- portrays Michael as somewhat a victim: A victim of his global success, victim of his handlers who were profit-motivated, and victim especially of his father Joe Jackson who is cast pretty much in the villain role. There is a brief 15-20 minute intermission in the approximate 2 1/2 hr. show. The Venue First time visit for me and the Center did a fine job. The workers--ticketing folks, ushers, merchandise folks--who I interacted with were great. The matinee show was packed to it's 2,600+ seat capacity. And of course with that many patrons, you're unfortunately going to see a handful of clueless one's with no theather ettiquette. Such as, but certainly not limited to, arriving on time, not silencing their mobile devices, holding conversations and blocking entrances & exits to the theater (pre & post show + intermissions), getting up multiple times during the performance, etc. Can't blame the venue or performers for this of course. Add the usual cluster mess when a good portion of 2,600 patrons need to all use the restroom during intermission. But the latter is pretty much standard procedure at most performances such as this. Ticketing & Parking Tips Smart theater enthusiasts would be very wise to look into 2 very favorable ticketing options offered by this venue: Digital Lottery & Rush Tickets. For digital lottery, download Broadway San Jose's mobile app to start. From there, you can enter a day-before lottery to score a pair of tickets at greatly reduced rates (they were $35ea for this musical). The digital lottery option is typically only for evening performances though. For the Rush ticketing option that I used, covering both matinee & evening performances, show up at the box office day of show 2 hrs. before the scheduled start time. When I got there around 11:45am, there were less than 5 people in line and I was able to score a single Orchestra ticket for $40 (inclusive of fees). Same ticket that Ticketmaster was trying to sell on their site for $445! lol. Parking can be a little bit of a challenge here. The closest major garage that most patrons seem to gravitate to is the Ernst & Young or "303 Garage" @ 303 S. Almaden Blvd. It's maybe 150-200 yds. to the main entrance of the theater. It's got some accessibility quirks, and is a $20 flat rate as of this review. This will typically cover you for several hrs. time for the show + exiting. In my case, the rate covered me 7 hrs. from 12pm to 7pm. I puchased this pass thru mobile parking app SpotHero, which charges a small processing fee, but tends to allow for an easier entrance & exit process. You can also pay directly at the garage. Driving in San Jose is akin to driving in Los Angeles for those familiar. So, be prepared for congestion, rude drivers and the frustration overload + ugliness that typically accompanies this. Not the theater's fault again, but just a word to the wise. Also, San Jose is usually known as a great restaurant destination, but there didn't seem to be a plethora of these options within comfortable walking distance to the theater sadly. Conclusion If you missed the relatively short run of MJ The Musical here in San Jose, don't worry. As it's returing in early 2026 to both San Francisco & Sacramento. Check it, it's a winner! read more

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Although I can't speak for the plays and musicals, I love Broadway San Jose's film concerts! So far, I've seen the film concert productions for Across the Spiderverse Spiderverse and Avatar: The Last Airbender. They were both FANTASTIC. The audience is always very enthusiastic, cheering on their favorite characters and scenes. The orchestras are also very passionate about the films as well, earning their standing ovation at the end of the show. My favorite seats are in the orchestra section. Only issue would be parking, but there's a garage about a 5-min walk from the venue that I usually go to. I'll definitely be back again! read more

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Been watching Broadway shows for years from New York to Los Angeles to San Francisco and now San Jose. Love it. Great performances. Can't wait to see a more shows. If you can watch moulin rouge it was simply amazing. read more

Broadway San Jose - Performing Arts Near Me - San Jose, California

8/1/2025 Friday MJ the Musical 7:30pm show Seat: Section BALR-1 / Row 7 / Seat 17 and 19 Digital lottery ticket price I entered into the digital lottery on Thursday 7/31 for 8/1 Friday show and won a chance to buy two tickets for $35 each. They also have rush tickets you can buy at the box office for $40/each within two hours before the show. For the lottery tickets, you don't get to pick seats. When you pick up your tickets at will-call, that's when you know your seat assignments. They do noted seats might be obstructed. Our seats were 7 rows behind on the balcony but centered to the stage. The balcony is very high up so you get birds-eye view of the entire stage and all the actions on stage, however you won't see clearly the faces of all the performers especially for MJ, when he had his hat on, I can only see the top of his hat. That said, the seats were alright for the price. The show itself is entertaining. Love the dancing and songs of MJ, who doesn't? As expected, they performed many MJ's greatest hits like Beat it, Thriller, Billie Jean, Man in the Mirror, Smooth Criminal, etc...intertwined with his life story from the Jackson 5 to his rise to solo stardom to the "behind the scene" making of his 1992 Dangerous World Tour. All in all, a great show and I'd pay more to sit on the lower level next time. Parking: I parked on the street about 10 mins away from the theatre and walked over. There's no meter after 6pm. read more

Broadway San Jose - 8/1/2025: MJ the Musical - Stage setting - Performing Arts Near Me - San Jose, California

After visiting NYC and seeing Hamilton on Broadway in it's historical glory... I wanted to see another show back home! Many friends recommended Hadestown to me and coincidentally they were on tour in San Jose. I was lucky to grab very affordable tickets. Compared to New York, the theatre was pretty wide. I also felt the stage was smaller, so I found myself squinting at times (from the orchestra). Possibly from the lighting? Sound quality was fine. They have limited food options and a typical alcohol menu. Not outside food/drinks are allowed inside the venue. Be sure to be prepared for bag check when you enter! read more

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Sending lots of love for Broadway San Jose! They desperately need a dedicated line for Will Call though. Every time I've come, the wait has been over half an hour! I get more anxiety here than at the airport sometimes. Lots of unhappy people who've gotten stuck in line because of this and miss the show. Assume you're going to the airport if you have Will Call tickets or want to buy at the airport. read more

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I've been a broadway fan since forever I've seen many of nutcrackers throughout my life here at Broadway San Jose! However, I've also created some beautiful memories watching Cats, Aladdin (2xs), Hamilton, Hadestown, The Temptations, and most recently The Grinch by that stole Christmas!! Every show I've seen here has been spectacular! I subscribed to the newsletter to get up to date info on upcoming shows. Following the social media handles I also was lucky enough to win a show and get tickets at great prices. There aren't the best snack options since you can't eat inside. You can bring any cocktails in the show. We usually enjoy a meal nearby before or after the show. Some of the shows bring some fun surprises we got snow and confetti at the Grinch show last night! Special drink and snack options are available for shows that align with the theme of the show. Parking is a breeze you can park right behind the theater in park river towers, just a walk over the bridge to the easy breezy back entrance. Stick around after the show you could run into the amazing cast members! I do wish the seats would be updated they are ancient and squeaky, however you do have good leg room it's the side room that can be uncomfortable when sitting next to someone but I wouldn't want them closed too long while they do that! I've enjoyed every show so far I personally choose to see a show here vs the SF Orpheum. Using mobile ticket options such as the Ticketmaster app or downloading to Apple Pay wallet will have you in and out fast. Ushers provide great service as they show you to your seat. The convenience of parking and fees are much lower. Don't skimp on your local SJ Broadway I've taken my son as a younger child now preteen, teen kids, grandparent's to see a show and they enjoyed it all! read more

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Live indoor theatre performances during the pandemic! Came for the first performance of Hamilton to start off the new season of Broadway San Jose,playing at the San Jose Center for the Performing Arts (CPA). Wife and I have been season ticket holders for the past six seasons. Four levels of tickets for Hamilton:  Nose bleed level 3 at $69, level 2 at $89, level 1 at $119, and President's Circle at $169 for fat cats!   Park Ave closed due to construction between Almaden and Market, with no access to City View parking garage. Show your electronic ticket and get 15% off Scott's Seafood, now on 1st street, 15% off Habana Cuba, and 20% off Sushi confidential. People age 12+ must show ID and proof of vaccination card at the entrance. I made a paper copy from my printer. Unvaccinated people age 12+ banned! People age 5-12 must show a negative covid test result within past 72 hours. People under age 5 banned! Electronic scanning of the QR code ticket on your smart phone for the show. I take a picture of my cell phone QR code. No smart cell phone and you are SOL! Go through a metal detector, but you can keep your keys, wallet and cell phone in your pockets. Cold blustery night, with only two guys in shorts and sandals, one of them a senior with knee high socks and sandals, a fashion faux pax! On the patio are food kiosks, selling beer, wine, $12 chicken wraps $12 vegetarian wraps, by tall cocktail tables.   Everyone has smart phones to take pictures and selfies in their best dressed to the max. Besides, you need a smart phone to bring up your QR code for your ticket to the show, to be scanned at the entrance. Stadium seating with your feet are at the level of the top of seat in front of you.  Up to 78 seats straight across, with no center aisle!   CPA was built in 1972, before modern fire standards.  In a fire, folks in the center will be literally toast! The seats are 21 " wide, and 33" pitch -the distance from our seat's backrest to the backrest of the seat in front of us, compared to 27" sardine seating at SAP, but 42" at Shoreline amphitheater.   You don't have to stand up, to let people pass, as 14" between seat front and seatback of seat in front of us, compared to 9" at SAP. Some people remained seated, turning their feet sideways in the area between the seats. The lack of a center aisle means that it is a long way to the center of the theater from the side entrances, going sideways tippy toe in those high wedge shoes, once the lights dim.   AC keeps the area comfortable. We saw Hamilton in San Francisco in 2019, and now in San Jose in 2021. Wife says it's the same cast of actors. We are in row 14 near the center, compared to row 40 in SF, and can understand a bit more of the rapid rhyming Hip Hop talk. Larger number of blacks and teenagers than normal. Masks required at all times, but the lady next to me manages to sip one plastic glass of wine for the 90 minutes before intermission, all the time without wearing the mask. At intermission,  my wife makes a bee line to the exit, and up the circular walkway, to the ladies room 200 feet away.  Another reason for not wearing wedge sandals or stilletos -tough to run up a sloping walkway!  In seconds, the women's rest room line is out the door, despite 30 stalls. No line for the men. Theater seats 2677 people, or 1338 women for 2 sets of women's bathrooms, each with 30 stalls, with traffic control lady directing.  55 seconds per use, if all 1338 ladies are going to fit in the 20 minute intermission.  Longest line I've ever seen of ladies on the sloping circular walkway, at least 100 deep. One senior lady had to go so bad she used the men's toilets!  2677 people packed like sardines go through two exits.  Social distancing out the window. Quarter mile walk from the far end of the balcony to our parking lot on Almaden and Woz, wall to wall people. Once at the parking lot, 300+ cars have go through one exit, making a left turn. Arrive a few minutes late, and you'll be waiting 30 minutes to get out of the parking lot! Still a breeze compared to getting out of Shoreline Amphitheatre! read more

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Great venue to see live theatre! Plenty of leg room so easier to enjoy the show. Paid parking lot across the street and you can reserve a spot ahead of time read more

Broadway San Jose - Performing Arts Near Me - San Jose, California

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Pros of attending a Broadway show here (vs. Orpheum in San Francisco): Parking - I felt very safe, it's less expensive than SF, and there's plenty of it. We've been to four shows so far with no issue, even with one on a super busy weekend due to the Crunchyroll Expo 2022. (Wow!) Price - It's much more affordable than the Orpheum in SF. Tickets to Les Mis were nearly $100 more per ticket, though I'm not sure why since the same Broadway troupe travels to both locations. I've honestly googled the differences between the two theatres, but nothing comes up. (I've been to the Orpheum 4 or 5 times as well, and still am not sure. ) Location - since it's a 2.5 hour drive to get there, we've always tacked on other things to do beforehand. I appreciate the proximity to restaurants, event center, and little shops are all within walking distance. Better yet, shopping at Westfield Valley Fair mall is just a few minutes away. :) Venue - 4 out of 4 times, we've enjoyed the little "member's only" entrance. Seats are close (front/back) but we've lucked out every time with no one taller than us. Staff has always been friendly but I do notice they're free with letting people in after the show starts. Drinks are pricey but I do like the themed cocktail for each show. Audio assist devices were used for my mom and that process was easy. The overall feel is that it's a bit dated but I never walk out thinking anything negative. Customer Service - Everyone at the venue, from security to ushers to bartenders, have all been pleasant. My only issue was trying to switch from Friday nights to Saturday nights, despite the 2022 prices being the same. I felt like this problem (albeit, my mistake) could've been solved very easily as I called within the first couple weeks of realizing my mistake, way before the season started. I'm torn on renewing because of the distance but the shows themselves, worth the season tickets! read more

So far watched 2 musicals and would say I had a great time at both. I got orchestra seats for Hadestown and the seating was phenomenal. Though I was still pretty far from the stage, having everything at eye level really makes you feel apart of it. I was in the balcony for Les Miserables and would have to say the show was great but hated the seating. I got the cheapest seats so I was all the way to the side (on the 2nd row with no one in front of me). Wish I had gone closer to the middle bc when they let people in, the ushers shined the flashlights right into my eyes and I couldn't pay attention at all during those times. The people coming in also had their phone lights on too shining it down to find their seats which was kinda annoying. One of the ushers also yelled at me to put away my phone like 10 min before the musical even started too. Overall though, my experience was nice. Security was pretty easy to get through (though there was some miscommunication about water bottles) and the waiting area didn't have much seating but I was able to find somewhere to sit as I'm always there early. Excited for the the rest of the musicals in this season. read more

Watched Hamilton & Waitress here! And hopefully many more to come! The indoor is a little unorganized, very limited bathroom access wish there were more! The seats are pretty crowded and it's a little hard to get by when people are already seated, but it's normal. The views are pretty good and it's good that a lot of people are attentive and helping out before the show. read more

Broadway San Jose - Performing Arts Near Me - San Jose, California

I had the chance to visit Broadway San Jose since I got tickets to Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Our show was originally scheduled on a Tuesday night, but was canceled 3-hours before the show due to COVID concerns. Luckily, it was fairly easily to reschedule our tickets and we actually got better seats than the original show. Parking around the area was ample, we parked at the parking structure for the SJ convention center and walked one block to SJ Broadway. There were people checking vaccination cards and reminding patrons to mask up, definitely helped us feel safer given the close proximity of seats. The venue was on the smaller side but it was clean, and had a cool circular ramp to go to the upper floors instead of a staircase, so was very accessible as well. Only thing was seating, we sat closer to the edge so part of the stage was hard for us to see. But the seating itself was spacious with lots of legroom. Staff was very friendly and helpful in directing us to our seats. I vaguely remembered reading Charlie and the Chocolate Factory as a kid, because if it wasn't for that I might have been taken by surprise by some of the plot and darker humor. The show did a great job of remaining faithful to the story, yet sprinkling in humor to keep the mood lighthearted. Although the story of a poor boy realizing his dreams of becoming a chocolatier was heartwarming, the stereotypical caricatures of some of the other characters did give me some pause. The thick accent they adopted for the characters also made it personally difficult for me to understand many of their lines and songs as well. Overall it was still an enjoyable experience bolstered by nostalgic memories of the book. read more

My only complaint is the way tickets are sold and it doesn't look like there are options to avoid fees that seem as out of control as the tipping culture. A "Service" fee of $10 per ticket then there is a "processing" fee of another $5. What is this service fee and what am I paying for? Shouldn't the processing fee already be included? Can someone explain to me other than "it's just a fee everyone pays"? When you have special promotions, sometimes tickets are $30 but then now the fees come to 50% of the ticket price which doesn't make any sense. I know it's all expectations but I would rather the ticket prices just be inclusive of all since it's mandatory. Well, I suppose it isn't mandatory because we just won't go anymore or become very selective to the shows rather than a casual night out. Charging $15 for an online self serve fee? What e-commerce site gets away with that? read more

Wow ticket master will charge me double the price to put the seats together I will definitely dispute this to Amex this is a scam when you can not even see or select the seats before you purchase 4 tickets!!! read more

Attended Les Miserables there on Sunday Oct 22 for the 6:30pm show. The show was great and all the performers were outstanding...at least what I could hear. The sound mix was terrible and most of the time you could barely hear then singers voices because the music was WAY too loud compared to their mics. Most importantly, there were two ushers (one male, one female) working on the "even numbered seat" side of the balcony that were talking to each other LOUDLY during 60% of the show. Also, after the "14 minute seat hold" period ended at the beginning of the show, they let approximately 20+ people in late who were then scrambling for 5 minutes in front of everyone trying to find their seats. While those of us who were on time missed an entire song. It's a shame that what could be a great thing seems to be (according to other reviews too) ruined by terrible employees. read more

Not sure why so many people are reviewing the performances they've seen at Broadway San Jose and not the theater itself. Pros: The tickets are actually affordable There are some really good shows that come through and it is super conveniently located Not sure if this credit belongs to the theater, but even if you don't win the lottery for cheap seats you still get a code for heavily discounted ones. Cons: It's in desperate need of a renovation. Everything is in disrepair, the floors are chipped and it's just outdated in general. Not fun, retro outdated, but the carpets have tears outdated. Their sound system is bad. Just got back from seeing Wicked and one of the cast members' mikes stopped working on more than one occasion. There was also a weird buzzing at one point early in the show. There's only one bathroom for the entire theater. Since there's no middle aisle the ushers can't do anything about people acting inappropriately. The men behind me where eating chips from the LOUDEST bag imaginable the entire first act. People would periodically check their phones. So inappropriate for a Broadway show. Will I be back? It's the only option I have to see a show so yeah, but I definitely wouldn't say it's a nice theater. read more

Broadway San Jose - Waiting for Wicked to start - Performing Arts Near Me - San Jose, California

I'm giving up on Broadway San Jose after being a faithful season subscriber for almost ten years. Let's break this review into two sections: Season Subscriber Treatment and Operations. Season Subscriber Treatment My tickets tend to land on opening night. Opening night of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory was cancelled. This was allegedly due to COVID, but I wouldn't be surprised if the set didn't show up (as has happened in the past). Rather than affording subscribers the courtesy of a *simple* ticket exchange, subscribers were issued credit that could be used to buy tickets for another performance. When I discovered that the credit issued to me could not replace my two tickets anywhere in the theatre on any night, I called up subscriber services to help rectify the situation. I didn't think that a subscriber should incur extra charges on tickets for a cancelled performance. The woman I talked to was not helpful. I appreciate that this person was probably locked out of any options according to the computer, but I was beside myself that she was not equipped to make it right for me, a faithful subscriber. If she couldn't manage a simple ticket exchange for another night without additional charge, the least she could have offered me were a few complimentary drink tickets to help smooth things over. I told her that I was able to find plenty of tickets on Goldstar for any night at drastically reduced prices. "Goldstar? Is that a third party service?" she replied. In the end, I had her issue me a full refund of the tickets to my credit card and ended up saving money by going to Goldstar for orchestra tickets. BSJ literally lost money over this. This is not the experience I have come to expect for someone who has been a season subscriber for almost ten years. Pro Tip: Anyone who wants to see TOOTSIE on the cheap can check out cheap seats here: https://www.goldstar.com/events/san-jose-ca/tootsie-tickets. My second complaint is the operation. Over the years, I have found myself leaving the theatre more frustrated than anything. Patrons have gotten more unruly and distracting during performances and the ushers are not far behind. I've lost count of the times BSJ's ushers have let bus loads of people into the theatre after the show has started -- effectively ruining some opening numbers and putting a damper on the rest of us who bothered to show up on time. The ushers will let boat loads of people into the theatre during the show, then bark at those of us trying to get pictures of the drop at intermission so that we can advertise shows on social media. It's very off-putting. It's regrettable. I have always looked forward to my school night Broadway San Jose tickets. It was always nice to have the "next show" to look forward to. Unfortunately, they have just become a hassle. From now on, I'll be buying tickets à la carte from Goldstar for the shows that are worth the hassle. P.S. I have communicated all of this to General Manager Gretchen Feyer, Marketing Manager Tina Chang, as well as Subscriber Services and have not heard back from them. read more

This is a nice, clean venue. Small enough that basically all seats are good. the staff is the right mix of friendly and enforcing the rules so that all can enjoy the event. Only drawback is that bathrooms are kind of hard to find and are smallish - so plan on waiting during breaks or take care of business ahead of time. Order your snacks and drinks ahead to save time. read more

Went to see Green Day's American Idiot on Wed 6/5/13. Got my tickets at will-call no problems that was good. We had Orchestra seats Row 14, seats 6-12, middle of theatre, center. They were good seats, except of course I had a tall person in front of me, oh well. Bring earplugs for AI! It's really Loud, I think I'm slightly more deaf because of the volume. Seems actors were shouting more than singing. I only recognized a few of the songs: American Idiot, Holiday, Boulevard of Broken Dreams, Wake Me Up When Sept. Ends. Lots of cussing, some sexual scenes, no nudity. Only 1hr30min, NO Intermission so use the Bathroom before seeing the show! Now thru Sunday, June 9, 2013. read more

Broadway San Jose - Performing Arts Near Me - San Jose, California

Within 10 minutes of emailing (due to coronavirus-related issues), I got a personal response from the General Manager, who helped me and followed up with me. The customer service is incredible. Thank you Gretchen. read more

Saw Rock of Ages last night. The show and music were RAD!!!! Our seats were BITCHIN' - 4th row, aka the "pit" offered us an intimate and up close interaction with the cast of the show. Only complaint - not enough room to get up and dance! If you like big hair bands - Bon Jovi, Poison, Whitesnake or pretty much any 80's band you will love this show! Oh, forgot to mention Journey too! Excellent performance by the cast! Would definitely see this show again! "Don't need nothin' but a good time....and it don't get better than this!" read more

Broadway San Jose - 4th row from the stage at Rock of Ages. - Performing Arts Near Me - San Jose, California

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We purchased a 3 show ticket. First show is Rent. Great production, very talented singers. Can't wait for the next show, King and I then Jersey Boys. read more

Broadway San Jose - Performing Arts Near Me - San Jose, California

Broadway San Jose is nothing compared to Broadway New York. I went to see Wicked, and one of the singers messed up For Good, I'll never forget this. They were both singing and they landed on a chord near the end, and one of them didn't hit her note correctly so she slid her voice up to the right note. Eeeeek! The theater was pretty empty so we scooted over to better seats. There wasn't much legroom and there's definitely not a lot of proxies, but for the smaller theater and the smaller amount of guests, I guess there's not a need for many proxies - in New York, if anyone's using their phone, the proxies come over and shine a flashlight on the person and tells them to stop. Anyway, I don't have too great an impression of Broadway San Jose; I'll probably not come again and just wait when I go to New York again. read more

Awesome! We went here for hamilton it was the best my only problem was that there isnt much leg space and the people in frontvof me were tall but that was your fault read more

I thought I wrote a review for this place.. WTH... I heart Broadway San Jose. Jeff and I had made a resolution 3 years ago to see more shows and this place has definitely helped us fulfill that goal. There is not a bad seat in the house, there is tons of parking nearby and even when the Sharks are playing we are able to navigate and get to our show with time to spare. The staff is super friendly and helpful when ordering tickets and the day of the show. So far we have seen: Cats, Riverdance, Avenue Q, Stomp and this year we are also planning on seeing In the Heights :). read more

Just watched the musical Wicked! Can't say enough good things about the cast, sets, talent, and costumes. All the special effects added to the story and the overall enthralling production. The best way to watch a Broadway show locally. read more

Love the shows they are all amazing! But the people working there are awful. I come with my 91 year old dad and we have been season ticket holders for 4 years now. I understand that they need to search people now for weapons and such, but when you start harassing people for the leftovers they bring in from dinner. Or smelling the contents of your purse, I think things have gotten a little out of hand. The guy was so rude to us! And also they have given us a hearing assisted device for my dad twice now with no batteries in it. Then started arguing who to blame it on. Not sure if we will be renewing next year. read more

Been to many shows here over the years but today was my last. Basically, like being in Germany. Having to line up while employees shout that you needed to show your papers...photo ID and vaccine passport. After that humiliation, you are forced to go through a medal detector, have your personal belongs screened as more employees scream at you to wear a mask OUTSIDE which is not required. Of course you must obediently wear your mask for the entire 3 hour show. You can pull it down to eat or drink...it's all a fraud and everyone knows it. It was one of the worse treatment and experiences I ever received from any business. Like being in communist China. Shame on San Jose Performing Arts for treating their patrons with such hostility and disrespect. Hope more people walk away. read more

I typically attend Broadway shows in San Francisco and New York. I've been to a few shows in San José however I always leave unimpressed for one reason or another. I decided to give Broadway San José a chance since we wanted to see Come From Away. I purchased tickets and originally had seats in the 4th row. A few days later, I received a small refund from Ticketmaster but no notification as to why. Last week, I looked at the digital tickets a bit more closely and saw that our seats had been changed. Now we were in the 14th row and I realized that this is why I received the small refund. I've never had the experience where seats are changed without my knowledge. If the original seats were no longer available, I should have been contacted so I could pick out different seats. Ticketmaster was worthless and unhelpful. They contacted Broadway San José on my behalf and told them the situation to inquire about a refund. Of course, the refund request was denied. I was able to sell the tickets through Ticketmaster for a fee. Lesson learned! read more

This is one of my favorite places to see a Broadway show because its 15-20 minutes from my house and parking isn't a hassle with at least 2 different lots that we park at depending on how busy it is that day. Over the years, the quality of shows that stop here for their tours has really improved to the point where you can see just as good a show here in terms of sets, costumes, and actors compared to what is playing in San Francisco. We've never been season ticket holders but my mom and I see about 3-4 shows a year with the most recent one being Finding Neverland (fantastic musical!). I also like that for some shows they will make signature cocktails and food items related to the show. They did this for Little Mermaid as well as Wicked and Phantom of the Opera. It just makes for a fun time out. If a show I want to see is playing here and in San Francisco, nine times out of ten I will be choosing to see it here. read more

FTR Suckas!!! =D SPAMALOT on 15SEP09 - Thanks to Connie and the Staff at Broadway San Jose for allowing some Yelpers and guests to attend the SPAMALOT Premier Opening Night! so so... * Performance - was so so. I liked the movie better... * Acoustics - terrible on the edges of the orchestra The San Jose Performing Arts building has nothing on the California Theatre or San Francisco's Orpheum or Golden Gate Theatres. Over all a 3 star venue with 5 star titles. As it was my first time to the venue I was not curious to see more of the theatre or spend additional time wandering around inside. Did not like the fact that onsite parking was NOT available for this venue. Had to park across the street at Cityscape Plaza Parkplatz for $25!!! 5 STARS for getting to see SPAMALOT the musical courtesy of Yelp. 5 STARS for the pre-play appetizers at MORTON's Happy Hour 5 to 630PM! Always look on the brightside of life!!! or youtube... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zKhEw7nD9C4 read more

Sons first Broadway experience for his birthday to see the Bluey play, it was my my 5year old, 1 year old, husband and I. Not a child friendly experience for our first time going to a children's play. First interaction with them was at the door when going through the security check and they told me I needed to pour out my water bottle that was for my baby's formula. I let them know the water was for my sons formula and she said I need to pour it out and get water inside. I asked "you have free filtered water inside?" And she just pushed my diaper bag at me and said never mind it's fine. So trying to avoid any bad experience on my kids birthday, I move on only to be told at the door we aren't allowed to go in because we didn't have a ticket for our 1 year old, I was shocked. A manager was quick to whip out a phone of a screenshot to show somewhere on their website that says "all ages need tickets", when I went to purchase tickets their website redirected me Ticketmaster where I made sure to check the age requirement for tickets, nothing saying 3 and under needed tickets. I had to purchase another ticket or miss out on my sons birthday experience. As I was leaving I hear multiple other people talking about it, they made people with literal INFANTS buy tickets. Don't know about anyone else but I won't be giving them my money again I'll drive to SF instead. read more

Spamalot!!! Yes, I said spam... I watched this the other day courtesy of James n Lynette and Kevin my very special date for the night. He did not want me to put out though I offered. lmao The show was nice, not something I'm used to like other venues in other cities but again for what it was, and where it was.. it was good. I like them more for the potential shows that will hopefully now be showing at this venue. Kudos to Broadway SJ! read more

Spamalot. sPaMaLoT. SPAMALOT! I didn't realize that this was a debut showing for the Broadway San Jose Company... I have seen shows in the past, but I thought this one was really well done (other than the fat line that caused the show to be late...but whatever thanks to Connie C. getting the tickets to us prior, we got to skip the line...thanks again Connie :) !! ). I'm not gonna lie, I liked Monty Python's Holy Grail movie, but I really thought the musical was impeccably done. The timing was perfect, the music was good, and the whole play was just really well executed. If you are a Python fan this is a must see. It was definitely the most laugh out loud comedy musical I have ever seen, and they improvised making a lot of pop culture/silicon valley specific jokes. I [heart] live theatre. If you get a chance, go see Spamalot!!! read more

Foremost, thank you Connie. Last evening was my first Yelp Elite function and my husband and I enjoyed ourselves very much. Broadway San Jose did an excellent job performing SPAMALOT, even though they started a half an hour late. Our seats were in the balcony, 5th row, which gave us a wonderful view of the whole stage (as a thespian myself I enjoy watching the staging and transistions of the shows, the seats gave me a great vantage point) and the acoustics were good. Oddly, although I spent most of my life on a stage, this was my husband first theatre experience! He loved the musical and laughed almost the whole way through. As a pretty big Monty Python fans we found the script to be so well written and in true Monty Python style, even to the point of keeping the jokes very current and poking fun at both Kanye West and Serena Williams. The venue itself probably needs a little work. The color scheme is drab and dated. The photos of past performances are nice but too few. The concession stands seem to be pretty well stocked and the new addition of "adult sippy cups" is a cool idea, however the person behind me hand one and I found her rattling her ice around quite distracting. As far as parking goes, bummer there's none on site and they do not validate. We were able to find a lot with a $7 max charge just 2 blocks away on San Carlos and Market. I believe the South Bay to be lucky to have Broadway San Jose performing at the Center for the Arts and I am very much looking forward to seeing more shows from the company. side note: yea! for my 100th review :) read more

I sat in the front-freakin-row (the Orchestra) at a Saturday evening Rock of Ages show and it was amazeballs! But really, the tickets were $27.50 each, which is a steal for a Broadway show and though I've seen a lot of musicals I've never sat in the front row. I was worried it would be difficult to see the stage (hence the ticket price) but it was fine and we had so much interaction and eye contact with the performers that I felt really involved in the show. They have a great season lined up this year. I also saw Cats here last season and that show held true to the original. Lastly I bought the tickets only 2 days before the show and had no problem getting them. (I checked the cheapest tickets for the Broadway show in SF and they were double the price.) Tip -- pick tickets up at Will Call! It's free and located right at the entrance. Bring your ID and purchasing credit card. Bravo to Broadway San Jose for bringing affordable, accessible and quality shows to the Bay Area! read more

Pros: * Cheaper than San Francisco theater. * Pretty good sightlines even from the cheap seats. * Laid back crowd. * Aisles wider than SF, more legroom. Didn't have to stand up to let latecomers pass to get to their seats. Cons: - Seats need more padding, could be cushier. - Usually have to wait 1 season for the same show to travel south. - Not convenient to BART or other public transport. Have to drive. - Located in a business district with nothing really open during a Sunday matinee. - Could be more convenient to restaurants. Restaurants in the immediate area not open. Ate at San Pedro Square, a bit over 1/2 of a mile away. Note: European-style theater with no center aisle. This is both a pro and con. Pro because there are more seats front and center, making for fabulous sightlines. Con because seats are a long way from the aisle, which can annoy your fellow theatergoers if you have to leave your seats in the middle of the show. read more

Last week I got the lucky chance to see the Lion King and it was so mesmerizing. Going into the play, I didn't know what to expect. Past Broadway productions I have seen were Avenue Q and Book of Mormon. Both were great in different respects, but this was a Disney story-line so I was unsure. Boy I was SOOO SOOO happy that I got to see this. The creativity behind the costumes, and how the told the story was told, were both beautiful. No spoilers, but my favorite would have to be the opening scene (especially the elephant) and the grass costume later into the play, which was so inventive. Also surprisingly, it was funny and that made me enjoy the play even more (A joke about Frozen was even made haha). About the venue, I like this more than the San Francisco Orpheum theater. The lobby is much more spacious and easily accessible for those who are disabled. Whether you have a seat on the floor or balcony, the view is great everywhere. Also the staff were very nice and informative if I had a question about anything. It never felt cramped, unlike the orpheum theater. The seats are comfortable enough. Personally when I get into story- I don't notice it how cushy my seat is. And there is plenty of leg room if people need to pass by or if you want to manspread. Best of all, as a female who has to constantly endure long bathroom lines, the bathroom situation is great. In SF, there's few less stalls and its super cramped. In San Jose, they had someone directing the bathroom traffic for the females and the line went so quick. This makes ALL the difference during a short intermission and a bunch of ladies in standing in front of you. Also the water fountain has a lot of pressure, so press slowly or you shall have a wet shirt after intermission. Overall I'd recommend seeing a play at this location! Parking is easy too and not expensive by nearby lots. My guests and I all enjoyed the theater/play and went out for a bite after since its right by downtown San Jose. read more

Thank you Connie! Thank you Connie! Thank you Connie!!!!! This is our third year of having season tickets to this theater. Although, for this show we got kick ass seats from the lovely Connie! Seriously, these were the best seats I've ever had for a show, and it was awesome! Last year the local theater company went bankrupt, and a lot of us got screwed out of a few shows. It was also really sad to see it go under having been in business for over 70 years. Onward and up...... Broadway San Jose took over, and is now bringing touring shows! It still sucks that the local people are out, BUT, I'm thrilled the theater is being used again. I've been to other theaters, (New York, San Francisco) and I have no complaints about this one. It's a little old, and slightly shabby around the edges, but somehow, totally lovable to me. My husband had seen Spamalot in NYC, and although the production he saw had some well-known people in, this one held it's own. I didn't think I'd like the show as much as I did, (I know next to nothing about Monty Python, but didn't think it was my kind of humor.) I LOVED the show!!!! The actors, lighting, costumes and orchestra were fantastic. I'm really looking forward to this season's shows. This was a great way to kick off the new season! read more