The Forrest is a great theater to see a show. One down side, is the bathrooms are all in the basement. If you are upstairs it is a trek to them. Great sight lines and the decor is great. The upstairs is steeper than I was expecting. read more

Terrible venue. The seats are ridiculously small and close together making the show and endurance test. Even with a seat on the main floor you have to climb very steep stairs to use a restroom. Ensemble Arts should drop this place. Paying steep ticket prices are an awful venue is a big turn-off. read more

I went here with a group of friends to see the Clue play. It's a nice theater and very clean. The staff were nice and helpful. We were in the back and still could see and hear the play perfectly fine. I'd definitely go back for another show. read more

I was on theatre kick the last couple of months and I entered every lottery I found for play tickets. Well the old saying "reading is fundamental" is definitely applicable here, because I surely did not pay attention to the fact the play was in Philly when I won the tickets. Lol. No worries though because bestie and I just looked at each other and said: "road trip!". When the day arrived we headed to Philly, a drive we have done multiple times for different events. However, on this Saturday in March we were fighting the elements. It was torrential downpours, and I swear we were driving in a monsoon the whole time. Luckily we left early, which allowed for the extra hour the weather added to our ETA. We arrived just before the curtain call, the theatre wasn't crowded at all, plenty of empty seats. The Forrest Theatre is gorgeous and quite quaint. A smaller theatre which makes almost every seat a good seat. While unlike most of NY theaters I'm accustomed to, not only was Forrest smaller, the ushers were much more pleasant. Even the whole intermission bathroom run, was ran with such ease and organization. The play The Girl From The North Country was riveting, with both memorable performances and musical numbers. A group of travelers from different circumstances all cross paths at a guest/boarding house. The wife of the guest house owner was great comedic relief. The show closed the day after we saw it (3/10/24), but check it out if it comes to your city, or if you make the same mistake I made a city close to you. Just A Note: Random Fact: Bob Dylan wrote and recorded a song by the same name. (#RandomSnappleFact) read more

Forrest Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

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My mom and I went to 1776 a couple of weeks ago at Forrest Theatre and had a good experience! The theater was average in its bathroom and bar options (number, proximity) compared to most theaters I've been to. But the theater is beautiful! They had a few technical/audio issues during the performance we caught (mics going out mid-song), but otherwise it wasn't a bad place to catch a play or a musical! The 1776 performance we caught was fantastic! read more

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This place is beautiful! We recently saw A Soldiers Play and the production was incredible. The venue is rich in history and the architecture is gorgeous. The only reason I deducted a star is that the seats in the orchestra are small. If you are plus size, it is a tight squeeze so be prepared for that. Luckily no one sat on either side of us so we had a bit of breathing room. read more

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It's a beautiful venue but very inaccessible if you have a disability. I don't know how you would be able to get a seat if you had a wheelchair. If you're older or have trouble walking there's no elevator, just very steep stairs. When sitting in the mezzanine, I was very uncomfortable. I'm 5'11" and average weight but the seats are very close together so I got to know my neighbors a little better than I'd hoped, and the rows are so close together my knees have a linear mark this morning from the back of the seat in front of me pressing against them for two hours. It's less room than an economy airline seat on the cheapest airline imaginable. I would still go back because the ticket was very affordable and sometimes it's worth it but if you're larger or have mobility aids you should know that before you go. The orchestra may be better, I'm not sure. read more

We came to see the Hamilton musical at the Forrest Theater on the last weekend showing and had the best time. It was so good, and so worth the hype. In terms of the theater itself, it's your typical old school Broadway show/musical theater. It's old but it adds to the experience, and wouldn't be the same without it. When we arrived outside the theater a few minutes before the show, there was a long line (not unusual) but it moved quickly. The ushers and the staff at the theater were all very nice and helpful. The seats here are narrow, but the theater does offer a coat check, so you don't have to hold on to your coat or stuff it under your seat, which is nice. There is also a staff member who walks around selling drinks and snacks which is very convenient for people who are already seated but still want to get something to eat or drink. As I said, this is an old theater, so it's not surprising that the toilets in the bathroom don't flush as well, and the water pressure from the water faucets seem to have a mind of its own. The water either comes out very weak or comes out without being turned on. It's not a big deal, as long as the bathroom line is moving. Let me just say the bathroom line situation was very well kept under control! Shout out to head usher Tanya Heath! Tanya Heath was the head usher for the Hamilton musical at the Forrest Theater, who had went viral on the internet because she came up with a system to keep the women's bathroom line moving and managed to get all 200+ women in stalls before the 15 minutes intermission was over. I was pretty excited to see her in person and being there to witness her in action after reading about her. I hope her legacy continues even if she's no longer around since the Hamilton musical has ended. Overall, this is a fine theater, and I would definitely return if they're showing a play or musical that I want to see. read more

Forrest Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

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The leg/knee room in the upper levels is atrocious. But the sound system and view from the seats is fine anywhere in the house. The seats in the Orchestra have a lot more room, so would recommend getting those seats. Furthermore, there are no elevators, so you have to be in the Orchestra if you have any mobility issues. The staff of the theater was very nice. The bar area is large and the staff there is very friendly. The stage door is very well hidden, but we did eventually find it. The theater is very conveniently located to the train. And there are several parking lots within a block that are not excessively expensive. read more

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The theatre is very clean and the staff is friendly and helpful getting you to your seats. This was my second time coming here and I saw Hamilton with my boo. The first time we saw Cats which was a really good show. The seats were really good, although we were high up we had a good view of everything down below and we didn't miss out on anything. As far as the play- Hamilton was amazing!! Now I know why there was so much hype about it. A story about war, and love with rapping and singing- can't get any better than that! I'm so happy I had to experience this show with my boo- i literally was going through so many emotions watching this play.... wish I had packed some tissues because I needed it at some points. The acting was incredible and the singing and rapping was superb. There was a scene where there was a mock rap battle in a courtroom and to me that was one of my favorite parts of the show. read more

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My family and I went to see Beautiful Noise today at the Forrest Theater. My mom had some health issues both before and after the show. The staff bent over backwards to accommodate my family. I can't thank you enough for how kind and caring you all were. I wish you and your families a great Holiday season read more

The theater itself is outstanding. It's beautiful, and the acoustics are great. The ushers are very helpful. The 2-star deduction is for the highway robbery of drinks and other concessions. You charge $18 for a glass of Barefoot wine? Gross, and no thank you. $6 for a bottle of water? How is something like that affordable for the average person? Absolutely, terrible. Be sure to hydrate and imbibe before stepping into the theater, lots of great restaurants and bars nearby. read more

25 years ago and a lot younger, I attended Miss Saigon here and the seating was so devoid of legroom in the balcony that I suffered knee pain for several weeks afterwards. Because of that I refused to go back all these years. But then Hamilton came to the Forrest and all I could think of was, I can't miss this. So I took the train into the city and down to the box office to pick up the ticket and even though the box office opens at 12:30 when I arrived I was told by 2 cashiers they would not sell tickets until 230 which left me with two hours to kill. Sadly, My reunion with this old theater wasn't starting off on the right foot. So $96 later(skincare products because I had to kill two hours and I wasn't going to take the train home) It was 2:30 PM and I left with my ticket for next week in hand. The moral to this part of the story is just pay the $30 processing fee and be done with it instead of going to the box office. They want that extra $30 and they are going to get it. The following Saturday once I sat in my seat for the play, about 8 rows back I was pleased. The orchestra seating had ample leg room. The views and acoustics were beautiful. read more

Forrest Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

The Forrest Theatre is an absolutely beautiful Theatre. I came here to see Hamilton, so I was surprised that I have never been here before. Hamilton was so good!!! The seats had very little leg room in the isle. It was worse than an airplane. My knees were over the person's seat in front of me even though my back was to the back of the chair. Also there were long lines to the bathrooms. I went all the way from top floor to the first floor and was directed into the basement. I'm in shape so all of those stairs aren't a big deal, but I couldn't imagine people with limited mobility dealing with this. This really can't be changed, but be aware of it. The staff I interacted with were really nice and helpful. read more

We watched Hamilton here and really enjoyed it, and the theater itself is pretty good. It's not a large venue, which is nice in the sense that there are a lot of good seats, especially on the balcony. We got great seats in the front of the balcony, so it was a great experience from that perspective! On the downside, it's an older building, so the bathroom is quite small. The room was very narrow, so it was hard getting in and out. Hard to make any change to that, though. read more

The Forrest Theatre has been around since 1927, their signature signage "FORREST" visible from down the street in either direction. The Forrest offers a beautiful, classic interior in which to enjoy shows. Street and garage parking is available. I caught Broadway's "Mamma Mia" here, a feel-good comedy featuring the music of ABBA. Our balcony seats were perfect, making it easy for us to see and hear the cast, and the rotating stage. Even if we were in other seats, I suspect the acoustics are solid enough that they would carry to every corner of the auditorium. Recommended if you want to see big-name shows in Philadelphia, and for a reasonable price. There's usually a healthy crowd before a show, so arrive early. read more

Forrest Theatre - Exterior (photographed by Dave Hong) - Performing Arts Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

I now understand why theatre-goers jump up from their seats at the final number of Hamilton. Yes, they are applauding the performance but more likely, they can't wait to restore feeling to their lower limbs that have become numb from sitting in the Forrest Theatre's tiny seats. I used to be 5'9". My spine has compressed but my legs are still long and I could not find a comfortable position even in the aisle seat. It was painful just to see my 6'6" son attempt to wedge his extremities into his miniature seat. During intermission, I never did get to the end of the serpentine line to the 16 stall ladies' room which was locked at the end of the show. God bless the security officer who upon seeing my blue eyes turning green, graciously allowed me to use the hospital facilities. Philadelphia doesn't deserve to host a run of a show of Hamilton's caliber in a venue that, while beautiful and charming, is ill-equipped for modern patrons who shell out hundreds of dollars to be entertained. They don't deserve to have their comfort and health compromised. It's impossible to enjoy anything while subjecting oneself to the level of misery served up by the Forrest Theatre. read more

Beautiful Theatre and great location! It's right across from my favorite restaurant, Xiandu Thai. We saw Hamilton, what a fantastic show! If you need to use the bathroom it is all the way in the basement so go straight down during intermission if you need to go. The employees there do a great job of helping everyone to get in line and go in and out of the bathroom so everyone gets a chance. The line is extremely long though so be warned. read more

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As with all older theatres, its hard to keep with current times. Despite the Forrest being reserved for 'newer' Broadway shows, I personally prefer the Academy of Music due to the intimacy and location. The Forrest is more spacious, but I feel that if you are not in the center section, you lose a portion of the side stages, which I dont see with the other theatres. Overall, still a fantastic venue, but I think there are better venues in the city. read more

Beautiful venue for a show. The lobby was a lovely sight to marvel at while we were drifting in line to our seats. We were on the front row center of the front mezzanine, which was a fantastic viewpoint for Hamilton. I felt very comfortable with the space and leg room. However, my biggest beef with this theater is the insane lack of bathroom stalls for women. I get it, it's an old building, but wow - just don't drink water the entire day because unless you are by an exit and make a sprint for it at intermission, you are not making it to the bathroom and back within 10 minutes. It was a madhouse at intermission. I thought it was bad before the show (~10 minute wait), but the lines were unreal (and the ushers made it very clear that the show was going to start up promptly, regardless of matter how many people were still waiting). read more

Fantastic show (Hamilton). Rating the theater - beautiful interior. I don't think there is a bad seat in the house as far as sound and visibility. We were in the mezzanine and the leg room was amazingly horrible. I am not a big guy but could literally not move my legs. Tortuous. Bathrooms were tiny and crazy long lines but no issue there. Concessions expectedly overpriced ($7 for a bottle of water). I'd return but the show, not the theater, would be the draw. read more

Great night!! This comfy theatre with a friendly staff gave us a night to remember. No need to say is that the play was fantastic (Hamilton) but the staff made it even that much more better. Temperature in the theater was great, concession stands were quick and they contributed to a-thoroughly great night at the Forrest theater. read more

Forrest Theatre - Ready to enjoy our 34th Anniversary!! - Performing Arts Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

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Overall a pretty nice theater. I was there yesterday for a Saturday matinee of Cats and it was amazing! I recommend you bring a jacket because I, personally, was cold sitting still. Just a warning: they have you show your ticket when you get into the theater and when you get in the area where your seat is (ex- mezzanine.) My party consisted of an adult, teenager, and two elders. The tickets were digital on the adult's phone so we had to run back and forth from the orchestra to the mezzanine showing our tickets (we were split up because the elders couldn't walk up all of the steps to the mezzanine.) Anyway, the point of that was to say it's easier to print out tickets if the party is split up. So I would probably recommend this theater. This is because despite any trouble I had, overall it was pretty nice. read more

One of America's oldest theatres, very well staffed with attendants, almost any seat in the house offers a good view. While the seating is comfortable, they seem a bit narrow and too close to the person sitting next to you. The theatre is beautiful, not as ornate as many I have seen but the lighting and molding are something that calls out to you. The restrooms are either on the lower floor or on the second floor, no restrooms are on the main entrance floor and orchestra sections, no matter which restroom you choose the lines will be long. The large lobby offers a full bar and snack concession which we did not partake in, so I can not comment on pricing or service, but those who did looked satisfied. What I loved most was how they helped to solve a problem with an elderly man and his daughter who were frantically trying to get folks to switch seats ( which became annoying and we did offer to switch with them, but they did not like our offer ), so an attendant who overheard our trying to help came up with a solution of my taking her end seat and them taking our seats and then placing a chair with a nice cushion next to my aisle seat so hubby had a place to sit. We tipped him five bucks and it was worth every penny just to keep her mouth shut! A little "Hush" money goes a long way... We were here to see Jersey Boys and this theatre was perfect for the performance. read more

Forrest Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Far and away the best part of the Forrest Theater is that no matter where you're sitting, you'll have a clear view of the stage. There are no pesky columns or large bannisters, and rows are staggered significantly so nobody's head is in your way. On top of that, it's a beautiful old theater, worth visiting just to check it out. We were here last night for Book of Mormon, which was as wonderful as everyone claimed. There were only a few frustrating aspects of the venue - one, it was really hot. Granted, with a full house and sitting near the top of the old building, I sort of expected it, but I think they still could have turned the air up a bit higher. Two, there are not nearly enough bathrooms to accommodate all the ladies during intermission. I bolted as soon as the lights went on (highly recommended strategy) and managed to be at the front of the line, but there were only 3 stalls on the second floor and so pretty much everyone else was not so lucky. read more

Forrest Theatre - View from the top - Performing Arts Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

A long overdue review for the theatre where I saw my first ever musical performance, And like most people coming out of my era it was Cats! But coming back to enjoy an amazing production of The Book of Mormon provided me with a SERIOUS blast from the past that needed to be recognized, And while I've come a loooooong way where honing my musical exploits is concerned since I've listened to the songs of Rum Tum Tugger, I got to see how Forrest Theatre still holds up as a timeless treasure. While I still consider Walnut Street Theater to be the king of the classics; and revel in the more independent productions that spots like Painted Bride, Curio Theater Company, and Azuka Theatre host, Seeing Book of Mormon proved how the Forrest is still the king of hosting the major upcoming big name musical theatre productions in Philly. And while it does showcase a lot of the same flaws that come with housing bigger name productions like uncomfortable seats, overpriced libations and snack items, and overcrowded restrooms during those brief intermissions; the quality of shows that it provides always manages to make all of those experiences worthwhile. Even when you're caught singing along to the fact that someone still has... Maggots in their scrotum! read more

I love the theater but honestly when I'm treated poorly it makes it very unenjoyable. After I was ushered to my seat someone randomly came up to us and asked to see our tickets. She then confirmed to Katanya that "we were okay". I mean what the hell?! We were ushered to our seats! It's not as though we snuck in. I didn't see anyone else's tickets checked. I'm assuming I wasn't dressed well enough for her? It's sad when a tiny bit of power goes to someone's head. I won't bother coming to this theater again. Plenty of others in the city. read more

They make you buy $5 souvenir cups and pour beer into them...so yeah be ready for $13 bud lights! Otherwise get there 15 min early at least. Great customer service and friendly staff! Had a great time and great view at the Book of Mormon! read more

I love this theater. Shut Up and Dance has been held here the past few years, and they're hosting part of the Broadway Series shows coming in the next few months. The entry hall has all of the gorgeous ornate design you would expect of a theater of this age. Once inside, there really isn't a bad seat in the house. It's small enough that you can be up in the balcony and not afraid of missing things happening on stage. The seats are a little tight, or so I'd imagine they would be for someone not 5'1"; for me it's just fine ;) It's in a great area too. A little removed from Broad Street, so that you have some less touristy options for dinner, but still in the thick of things so you have your pick of after-theater drink spots. read more

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I went for the first time to watch the Book of Mormon. I've seen many shows, this one by far is my favorite, I seriously didn't stop laughing so hard the entire play. Keep in mind it is not for everyone though, especially those who get easily offended, if you cannot stand some explicitly, political and religious jokes, then The Book of Mormon is not your cup of tea! The makers of "South Park" well done! Three and half Yelps! read more

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$134.00 for FOUR drinks. 4 DRINKS! If you pay $134.00 you get 4 drinks. Let me be clear they are SMALL drinks. This is not a review of the shows! I think I missed the first part of the show because I was so shocked I just spent $134 ON FOUR SMALL DRINKS! The prices were not posted and the bartenders were clearly uncomfortable. read more

Nice theatre although the seats are quite cramped. Yes i know that's pretty typical but there's definitely more room at the Academy. Went here to see Avenue Q a while ago and it was hilarious! Highly recommend. 3 stars is due to the super high heat in there...totally got dehydrated while watching the show which was super uncomfortable considering my tiny seat, all my winter gear plus both my neighbors. I would still go back but now i know to bring a small coat... read more

Was recently here to see Book of Mormons and this was our first visit to this theater. Overall a very lovely theater and all the employees we interacted with were friendly and pleasant. We were down in the orchestra level and did not see what it was like up in the mezzanine, but there didn't appear to be many seats at all that would have possibly had an obstructed view. Downstairs is a large open foyer area where you can get drinks and this is also where the restrooms are. During intermission, much of this was taken up by the line to the women's restroom! Overpriced food and beverages are available for purchase. The one thing I wasn't overly fond of was how close the rows are and you don't have a whole lot of leg room as a result. Where this was also an issue is when people arrived to the show late and were being seated, it was often easier if everyone got out of their seat while the late people made their way to their seats. Very frustrating and disruptive to those who showed up on time and are trying to enjoy the performance. But all in all, I would certainly come back to see another performance here. read more

Ladies beware... the Forrest Theatre has *very* limited bathroom availability. I recently spent the entire intermission in line and still didn't get a stall. During the same time, my husband used the men's bathroom and got drinks with plenty of time to spare. I spent the 2nd half of Hamilton (at $200 a ticket no less) extremely uncomfortable. Even worse - having tried to convey this experience to Forrest management several times - it's clear they couldn't care less about how they accommodate their female patrons. Shame on them. read more

When choosing seats don't be afraid of sitting too close. We were in seats H5 & H7, which were great, and I believe that the people in the front were not too close either. I was skeptical of the side orchestra because the center was $100 more per ticket. However it was great. I would avoid the last 5 closer to the sides because some of them seemed too far. If you're tall enough to be uncomfortable on small planes you're going to have your legs fall asleep here too. Get an aisle seat, and you'll be fine. We arrived 15 minutes prior to the play and were able to get through the crowd and to our seats in under 3 minutes. At intermission, and prior to the play getting concessions was under 7 minutes even though the line was long. Concessions were wildly overpriced, but what theatre isn't? The line for the bathroom at intermission was expectedly long, but very fast. Also I'm not sure about the other parts but the left orchestra had doors that opened to the outdoors at the end of the play, which made for a fast exit. It's an attractive, clean theatre with beautiful historic details. This would probably be a three, but on a theatre scale where the seats are always going to be too small etcetera, it's a solid 4. read more

Forrest Theatre - Great view from seat H5. It seems like it's possible to be too far to the left and right so I would avoid the last 5 side seats. - Performing Arts Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

This is a rating for the theatre not a show. We were here last weekend for Hamilton. You have got to be kidding me with the drink prices. Glass of wine and a kettle and tonic for over $60. Two drinks. I guess shame on us for not asking the price (which none are posted anywhere). But really? I've been to many shows in NY and never experienced anything like this. If you go - ask "how much" before you buy anything. read more

This is a historic theater and the seats are comfortable enough to last through any show. My only complaint would be the concessions. No prices were posted anywhere and I paid $76 for two cups of Barefoot Cabernet, which I know is a $11 bottle! If I'm paying that price per cup at least give me quality! Other prices for candy etc were standard ($5 for a big bag of M&M's) but when you know your wine you shake your head when hit with that price per cup for Barefoot wine! read more

I was here years and years ago when I was a wee child in 7th grade. I saw Phantom there. It was a great production with great acting. Seats were good and sound and lighting were well done. read more

Just saw Book of Mormon- very irreverent yet honestly entertaining. Pros -The theater is exquisite, preserved in it's original style. Go to mezzanine during intermission to take pics. For best ticket prices look at the seating chart and buy individual seats, cheaper than getting two next to each other. All the seats have a good view of stage, but some have a hand railing or minor obstruction that requires repositioning in your seat. During Book of Mormon they gave out free bottles of water , though that was not announced- be sure to ask at concession stands. Yes. You can take drinks to your seat. Cons- NO leg room. If you are a man I would get a aisle seat, at least you can stretch out in the aisle. I am 5ft, it was a bit tight but my neighbor was 6ft and he looked like a hobbit in his seat. Also the beer is $13.00, soda $10.00- sure you get free refills of soda but not worth it. Ladies- the mezzanine bathroom is only 2 stalls, there is a bathroom on bottom floor that had lots of stalls. But during intermission my friend went next door to Wendy's, bought a soda and peed (no wait). There is also a DD next door. 5 stars because of the ambiance of theater, 2 stars for concession prices , leg room and long bathroom lines. I average to a 4 Star review. read more

Forrest Theatre - Trying to do a selfie during intermission because of the ornate ceiling and stage. - Performing Arts Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

A beautiful large venue! It's difficult to get in and out of the building though, which makes it somewhat terrifying to me re: fire codes and escaping, however, even in the nosebleeds we had a decent view of the show. I love that some of the broadway stuff is coming here, since I like eating in this neighborhood before a show as well! Maoz is a favorite, and there's plenty of other things just a half/block away as well. read more