The Long Center facility is lovely. But who engineered the design for the parking garage that it shares with Palmer Auditorium? The traffic going into the garage gets backed up because several lanes of traffic need to funnel into 1. PLUS there are police officers stopping traffic from entering the garage because pedestrians who just parked their cars in the garage need to walk across the lanes of traffic going into the garage. Did nobody think that this might be what. . .a bottleneck before and after an event? It took us over 40 minutes to exit the garage after the event - unacceptable! read more

the BEST spot for great times. Sound and Cinema on Wednesdays and Austin Symphony Hartman Foundation Concerts in the Park on Sundays. what better way to watch bands and movies then in the beautiful scenery of the Long Center. sweeping views of downtown skyline and always meeting new friends. rally your friends, pack a picnic, bring some wine (no glass) and a blanket...and you're set! they also have food trucks to purchase food from- a great way to try new spots and free water (most times) brought in by a sponsor. I love the Long Center and appreciate what they do! read more

Long Center - Sound and Cinema! - Performing Arts Near Me - Austin, Texas

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be aware before you purchase tickets from these people. They do not give you a full refund of what you paid if the event is canceled or postponed by them. read more

I have been negligent in writing a review of the Long Center, and I have no excuse. It opened, coming off of the Palmer Event Center, about 2008 or so. Long, long ago I used to sit where it and the Skyline is now, to watch car races through the streets in the area, and also saw concerts here for all kinds of music, including the old Palmer and outside. Yes, the acoustics are good, especially classical and opera. Country and Western really shine and have a BIG soundstage presence. Blues, ya betcha! Plays ditto. Vicious hard rock does suffer from the sound bounce from the back that is common with enclosed venues and for that I recommend the Skyline part. Parking is outstanding, but can be confusing getting out at night with all the headlights. There are a number of food and drink options, over-priced compared to a back-street taco truck, but convenient. If you are in one of the balconies, you may want to take a small-compact set of binoculars. If you sit up in the last row, top, you will not be able to understand words of hard rock, and other loud music. Start moving down and it gets better and better. I also do not recommend extreme left or right, (duh), but if you are in the center, potty breaks can be difficult without stepping on people. All in all, a good concept, usually works, but be a bit flexible. Go to the website and see what is the latest on what you can and cannot bring in or do (as I recommend for any venue). I also recommend arriving early, so there is no stress. Massive events can have some crazies, so you don't want them to ruin your good time. read more

The times I've been to the Long Center, it's been for events being held outside the Long Center. Finally, I ended up going inside the Long Center for the Star Wars Marathon hosted by the Alamo Drafthouse. The seats were decent along with the view of the stage. The staff were helpful in getting patrons to their seats. There's limited snacks at their concessions which the line tends to go by quickly. They sell fruit and cheese for $10 which is pretty pricy. Then you have to pay $8 to park at their garage which is next to the Long Center. read more

http://www.austinsymphony.org/season/june/index.asp#cip Check this website out for the schedule of FREE CONCERTS at the long center! read more

Beautiful venue and excellent, efficient workers. Came to see David Sedaris and thought the whole thing was very pleasant. I used to work in a concert hall as an usher, so I am very attuned to the role of the staff in a venue such as this. Everything was seamless, they were organized, accommodating, and helpful. The venue itself is very modern with a classic hint. Lots and lots of seating. The seats were pretty comfortable, which is saying a lot since I have a bad back, although there isn't a lot of space on the sides. To be expected, not a big deal. It's kind of annoying to have to pay $7 for parking (I hear it's being raised to $8, according to posted signs), but at least they have plenty of it. What can ya do? read more

I spent so much money on tickets to see the Nutcracker and I had to leave during intermission because it was so hot in this venue! The parking assistants were rude and it was unclear as to which area to park in to get to the correct venue. I'll drive to Houston to see it next year before I will ever return to this place! read more

this review is for the Rollins Theatre at the Long Center. Just saw Little Shop of Horrors here - omg! Soooo much fun. and what a chepa date! A ticket was only $15 bucks (our two glasses of wine cost more, ha) It's general admission, so if you want to be the first though the door, go for it (just get there maybe 10 minutes early and hang out near the entrance to the theater) but wherever you sit you have a great seat. It's a teeny theater but makes the show seem larger than life! We were front row and Seymour actually spit on me (awesome!!). If you don't want to ruin the fantasy, don't sit that close though, cuz you can see the mics, the wigs...everything. but to me, it made it that much more impressive. What a show. For this particular performance I wish Audrey 2 (the plant) was louder, but then again I like to ROCK so might be just me. Acoustics overall were great, after all you are so close to the actors on stage and the mini orchestra (which is off to the side). I would highly recommend seeing any performance here - I felt like I got a New York Broadway experience at a thrift store price. (well, except for the booze. If you would like a pre-show cocktail, have it elsewhere - drink prices were astronomical. read more

I'm trying to review the building itself, and not the actual event I went to (which was fantastic). Best I can say is that this place is laid out great. Looks super and has a killer air conditioner, important for all your muggy summer days! I would have an event here (if I thought I could actually pull enough people, hint: I total could). read more

Went Friday night to see the Smothers Brothers. Brought my two children, 12 and 16 (big Smothers Brothers fans), and my parents. Firstly, the Long Center is beautiful. They did a wonderful job renovating. Everyone was friendly and gracious. At first. At our show, the Austin Symphony played for 30 minutes (wonderful), then we had an intermission, and then the Smothers Brothers came on. Now, my father had been feeling a little under the weather, so about 15 minutes into the show, he excused himself. 10 minutes passed, 15, 20. My mother, worried, left to go check on him. Another 10, 15 minutes passed and still no sign of either of them. Getting worried myself, I sent one of my daughters to go find out what was going on. Another 10 minutes pass, the show ends, and my other daughter and I gather everyones belongings and go in search of our missing party. We find them in the lobby, looking miserable, conversing with one of the ushers. Apparently, the rules state that if you leave the performance for any reason, there is NO RE-ENTRY back into the theater. I was incredulous when I found out what happened. The usher (I think she was the head usher) showed no sympathy whatsoever. I said, "So, let me understand correctly...if I am 8 months pregnant, and just need to run to the bathroom, that's it? Too bad?" She replied, "Yep." I saw no signs stating this rule, and although when my father exited, he was told he could not return (he had no choice but to have to leave) my mother was given a confusing statement about the door locking behind her, and my daughter was told nothing. I can understand *to a point* not wanting to add distraction to the performers with people leaving and returning, but seriously? It ruined what was to be a memorable night. Well, it WILL be memorable, but for all the wrong reasons. I did not spend $156 on tickets to have more than half my group watch the show on TVs in the lobby. read more

Been waiting 25 minutes just to turn into the parking lot and I'm still not in because they only have one entrance open to the parking lot for an event for children under the age of five that scream in the car! read more

We arrived early for the Asleep at the Wheel with Willie Nelson event last night and found parking easily. Access to the Long Center is easy. Parking for one event of a few hours is steep - $7.00, and $16/$18 for valet parking. Lots of ushers available to assist you in finding your way in - and we were directed to the elevators right away. Finding our seats was easy, all the ushers in the Orchestra seating area were friendly and helpful as well. During the event, I was happy with our seats. I'm pretty short, and usually affected by taller people seated in front of me. All was well until a couple came in late, and was seated directly in front of me during the performance (after they announced that late-comers would not be seated during the actual performance. This was done over and over again, by the way - maybe the rule wasn't made clear to our ushers??). The late-arriving couple in front of me was upbeat and happy, and started swaying back and forth to the music. Fine, except that he was tall-ish, and everytime he moved one way, his head completely blocked my view. I hate to be a complainer, so I didn't say anything to them, just sat sideways most of the time so I could see. Apparently there was a "rule" regarding picture taking during this event that wasn't communicated to the audience. Many people on the floor and in our area were taking still photos and video taping (using cell phones and cameras) during the entire event, but we were told it was not permitted by our usher - a nice enough man, but a bit bumptious for my taste. Unfortunately, the rest of the audience didn't seem to get this message - they continued to film and take pictures - with flash - throughout the event. My camera was set with no flash, and it's not such a great camera that any of the performers would be in any danger of losing money were I to attempt to sell the pictures I got. Ok, I can understand the "rule", but why didn't they inform EVERYONE at the start of the show, in the advertisements for the show - anywhere? The handling of this kerfuffle was what really bothered me, and pretty much shot my impression of the venue. Yeah, it's nice and all, but had drawbacks that will keep me from attending again. I'm glad I didn't spend full price for the tickets - Groupon, half price - because if I'd spent full-price, this review would have been worse. read more

Recently attended an event at The Long Center for the first time. Interior was perfectly fine and well suited for the purpose, but nothing out of the ordinary. The outdoor paved area surrounded by columns and green space overlooking downtown was dramatic, and enjoyable I was very impressed by the outgoing personalities and courtesy of the staff. There was a helpful member of staff at every turn, each one smiling and greeting, and seemingly genuinely interested in ensuring an enjoyable experience for patrons. The consistency of friendly helpful attitudes was startling! Great venue - hope for a soon return! read more

My darling Long Center, I adore what you're about: making music and events accessible to the people of Austin. But I don't love the experience I had today. As an outdoor event, I assumed my dog and I would be welcome. We were asked to leave the "terrace" (come on, guys, it's just a patio) and go to the lawn which had no shade. The event was advertised as free, but I paid $7 for parking, then was asked $5 for each demonstration, and the booths I was able to visit before our forced exit demanded money. Please be more clear about your dogs unwelcome policy on your website, and don't call an event free if I can't do anything but write with sidewalk chalk for free. read more

Saw the Colin Mochrie & Brad Sherwood show here the last week and had a great time. The venue is really nice, quite new and easy to get in and out of. The seating is good as even from the back, it's not too far away to still have a decent view. There is definitely more legroom here than in a lot of places, and definitely more than Bass Concert Hall and the Moody Theatre, so that is a plus. Good location right near Lady Bird Lake with a garage next door for easy parking. Nice venue. read more

We was Revolution (a new tap dance like Stomp I guess) at the Long Center the other night. The building was really nice. Not too big, but not small either. The outside "patio" has an awesome view of the Austin skyline. Parking at the structure was easy to get in and out of, and it's really easy to find. I wouldn't have any problem seeing another event here, as it was a truly hassle-free experience. And the show itself was pretty good too! read more

Theater is ok, parking is terrible, just spent 25 minutes waiting on the line for the parking. Management could have multiple cashiers, not just two, pay after the concert... sooo many things can be done to speed up the parking. So many people waiting... read more

Went to the Skyline Event and I have to say that there are very few places as cool as the Long Center. Whether you're inside the beautiful building or walking about the outside area, you can't go wrong. Although my review is centered on an event here, I have to say that the success of it all had to do with the location. If you get the opportunity to attend anything hosted by the Long Center, jump on it immediately. You'll be happy you did. read more

Saw David Sedaris at the Long center last night. The building is beautiful! Parking was tough. Both entrances to garage had long lines. We parked up in the neighborhood. Recommend planning ahead for parking (get there early or park somewhere else). Had cocktail bars set up outside of enterances. Can grab a drink and take into theatre if It has a lid! I will definitely check the schedule so I can go see more shows here! Great for a date! read more

My first experience here was seeing David Sedaris do a reading in April. A last-minute decision, I was up in the nosebleed section yet still heard every word clearly. I was also treated to spectacular views of downtown from the top floor. Having recently moved from a much larger city, I was impressed that Austin has a facility of this caliber. read more

Since we're from Round Rock, we usually have to book a flight down here to South Austin, but for any moderately large event, this is the place to have it at. The place looks new and modern and we've been here twice - once for my wife's teacher of the year award and another time outside for the Trailer Truck Tuesdays. Plenty of space and a great view of downtown Austin! read more

A beautiful theater that manages to feel intimate wherever you sit, but has surprisingly uncomfortable seats for a place where patrons regularly sit for a couple hours at a stretch. I thought it was just me until my husband complained the last time we went. I've taken to carrying a seat cushion with me to lessen the discomfort, although that also sadly lessens the elegance of attending events there. read more

Saw Man of La Mancha last night. Beautiful venue. Roomy seats, good drinks and friendly ushers. The production was amazing. We will be back. read more

The Long Center blew it by adding chairs as the show had begin in the front row for a family of 4. Us and others, that paid top dollar for row 3, really could not see the performance. Just disappointed that my son could not enjoy the 2nd Act with the cash spent. read more

Slow valet, super expensive drinks, but good seats even on upper level. pretty standard theater

I've been here a number of times for outdoor concerts, indoor films, and parties. It's a lovely facility with a lot to offer. It can be a bit cold in there for the event spaces, so bring a jacket! There are indoor and outdoor spaces available for parties, and we made use of both on a lovely autumn October day. This is a fantastic place for events, and there is a parking garage right by the venue. Overall, a fan! read more

Amazing sound quality and beautiful view of the city skyline.

Nice theatre, the stage was easy to see even from my seat in the back. They open the doors for seating 20 min before the preformance, I had gotten there early and snagged one of the few benches in the lobby. read more

Gorgeous building, but my first time here the entrance confused the hell out of me. Also, definitely not enough ladies restrooms. Took all of intermission just to stand in line. They have a lot of interesting performances, and I'd love to go back again to see something. read more

This is an excellent venue for just about anything. Ballet, symphony, etc but the parking is atrocious. They fill the parking garage but the line to get out can take anywhere between an hour and two hours. They need officers directing the line and the traffic out of the garage. Might go elsewhere next time. Have been sitting in the car for over an hour after the show ended and have moved only ten feet!!!! read more

Symphony in the Park was fantastic! We took our 9 month old daughter to enjoy the brass ensemble and had a blast on the lawn. We will definitely go again. read more

I love the Long Center. Fantastic view of downtown. Excellent shows. Have enjoyed many shows from various lower level seats. Have yet to try the balcony. If you sign up on their mailing lists, they will often offer last-minute discounts to fill empty seats on shows. read more

Late review but I loved seeing the NutCracker this past year. I came in my Dress Blues along with the love of my life in a very nice black gown. We plan on making this a yearly event for us and we will start attending more events when we can and after I retire from the Army. This is one this we are looking forward to. read more

Pretty good venue. The sightlines are really good, the ticket lady in the ramp hands you your change immediately, even the cop directing traffic was friendly & smiling! Enjoyed seeing the Monkees here last week. read more

Fun and free! We are here for music outside Hartman Foundation concerts in the park. Get there early!! We parked by the splash pad which was sadly closed for repairs. We set our blankets out and packed a picnic. The place was packed by 7. I really recommend bringing friends and family. A very fun event. read more

This is the second year I have been going to the summer outdoor concert series. I have met many great people and have listened to the various sections of the orchestra. Thanks to the Hartman Foundation read more

Went on a spur of the moment date and had less than an hour to get ready. This is my second visit to this beautiful venue. The Magic Flute by Mozart was such a delightful opera to experience. There is always something so special about the sensations you get from the talented live performances and beautiful music. I really enjoy coming here and I am so lucky to have such a wonderful guy to share this experience with me :) read more

Great place to see a show!!! In town for a 2 day business meeting and went to see "Rock of Ages" on its opening night (Tue, Sep 25). A great show--a must see for anyone who appreciates the music and/or times of the 1980s. Lots of energy. Everyone was smiling as they left the theater. *Parking-easy access into the parking structure ($7-cash or credit) next to the Long Center. *Will Call-two will call windows (A-L & M-Z). Four groups were in line all for the M-Z window. The person in the A-L window was just sitting there--hey throw us a bone! However, the will call person I spoke to upgraded me to a seat that was turned in (from nose bleed to center orchestra)-nice! *The lawn area & plaza outside the theater is impressive-great view of the city, food & a live band--great atmosphere. Man! I miss living in a city :) If I had to do it over again, I would have come much earlier than the 15-30 minutes I allowed. *Easy access into the theater. Friendly personnel taking tickets and directly you to your seats. *ATM machine-antiquated--very slow. *Long lines at the refereshment stands, though there were several of them. *Good seats--don't agree with earlier "sour" post on seats & acoustics. Both were fine. *Music & show were great--each song had me smiling & remembering the 80s. A nice lead up to the intermission. Overall-a must see show! Loved it! Wish I could have brought my wife & 2 teenage (16, 18) sons. M rated language, (sexual/drug) situations, however, so not for younger children. *Lots of energy from all of the cast. Especially liked Sherrie (female lead) & Justice Charlier (strip club owner) who had strong voices. *The male lead (Drew) has a Tom Cruise look to him & Lonny is a ringer (looks and attitude) for Jack Black. read more

Each and every event I have attended at this venue has been quite memorable. The volunteers/workers are always been friendly, welcoming and helpful. I only wish they had more non-alcoholic beverages during intermission. Thank you, Austin. read more