I've been to the Imperial twice, each time to see a ballet. Last year we saw Swan Lake and had seats up in the second balcony aka furthest from the stage. This year we got seats in the Mezzanine section to see The Nutcracker. I'd have to agree with another reviewer, there isn't a bad seat in the house. You can clearly see the stage and hear everything well no matter where you sit. It's an intimate setting, you will be close to the other patrons. I only wish there was enough space to accommodate an orchestra, I think that would've truly enhanced the performances.
Nevertheless, the theatre has a lot of old charm to it and the staff has been consistently helpful and friendly.
Both times I've gone, it's been an early Christmas present for our daughter, who is under the age of 5, and in love with ballet. A little advice to other parent's who may be doing the same:
1.) Choose an afternoon performance, not only will you save some money but you'll be attending with a lot of other parents and children too. It's a wonderful way to teach your child about the importance of the arts and how to conduct oneself in that setting...without expecting perfect behavior. Let's just say, the first show we saw was an evening show and another patron was not impressed with my daughter's outward excitement during the opening of Swan Lake. Someone told my husband and I we were "bold" to bring her...eh, she was very well-behaved overall.
2.) The line is incredibly long for the women's bathroom. It's a small bathroom and it makes me wish they would remove the vanity section and add in some more stalls but I understand renovating historical sites are challenging and costly.
3.) Definitely stretch your legs during intermission! They do have concessions and vendors selling novelty items. We've made it a tradition to buy an ornament each year and by buying during intermission, you can just leave after the performance...unless you like large groups of people descending upon you to buy something or leave the theatre.
Overall, it's a great experience and affordable. I love how the performers will often pose for pictures with the children too! The experience is one I will cherish and I know my daughter will too (who is currently spinning around and making up her own choreography in the living room). read more