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I'm becoming somewhat of a regular at Pittsburgh Public Theater. This year alone I've attended "The Coffin Maker" and "Dial M For Murder". Both shows were fantastic! In the past I've seen a production of "The Tempest" as well as been lucky enough to see Anthony Rapp and Adam Pascal perform together. Those are just the ones I can remember off the top of my head. I mention all these shows because I've ended up sitting in many different sections in the theater when attending said shows over the years. I've always had a great seat - I'm not even sure there's a bad seat here. But if you've never been here and don't know what to expect, have no fear: you'll see pictures of your potential view as you select your tickets online. It's really helpful to have that for reference as you're deciding what seats are or are not worth considering. (Pro tip: while some of the balcony seats have a railing in front of them, most don't. In my experience they're the best way to strike a balance between a good seat and a smaller ticket price.) In summary: this is a great venue that has been home to many excellent productions over the years. If you're not paying attention to what's playing here, you definitely should - you'll love your night at the Pittsburgh Public Theater!
My first time seeing a show at the O'Reilly Theater was great! My friend and I went to see The Second City improv show last night. Picking up tickets was easy since the box office is right next door. I ubered downtown, but would recommend parking in the Theater Square parking garage. The lobby is really cool and the whole building is unique. I have peaked in here during First Night or a Gallery Crawl another time, but was never in the actual theater. The staff were friendly and patient while checking IDs and tickets to get in. They were selling merchandise in the lobby and I liked that they had a sign saying there was 1 intermission and the show would end around 9:30 pm. I had no idea how long the performance would be, so it was nice to have an idea. Once inside the theater we took our seats a few rows up from the stage. Thankfully we did not have seats right next to the stage because the comics did interact with the crowd. The seats were comfortable and had enough leg room which is very unlikely at any of the other old buildings in Pittsburgh. They were not serving any food or drinks at this time. The sound was great, and we really enjoyed the show. I loved how intimate the theater was and it was especially funny to see the comic's facial expressions since we were so close. I will definitely pay more attention to shows coming to the O'Reilly since we had such an awesome experience.
Yinzer Yuletide, Lights and Legends was a wonderfully creative holiday gem. Anchored by the storytelling prowess of Rick Sebak, we meet a series of talented guests and celebrate the best of Pittsburgh's Christmas traditions. The pacing was perfect, and the original musical score tied it all together. Magic, juggling, music and more, this is something you don't want to miss!
Ticket pickup from the box office was easy and hassle-free. It is located right beside the theatre. Prior to the show, everyone was waiting in the lobby but it was comfortable and even had some seating. This was my first visit to this venue and I adored the set up. We saw "School Girls" and it felt like we were RIGHT THERE in the action. I'd highly recommend checking out this theater and if you happen to read this before "Street Girls" is done, absolutely get some tickets. The show was thought provoking and entertaining.
I recently attended A Christmas Story. Great story, actors did a good job. I received an email on November 24 at 6:59 am advertising a 50% discount if I ordered tickets by midnight. So I ordered 4 tickets but did not receive the discount. Using the PPT website I asked about the discount but two days later when I received a reply I was told the discount was only for the day before, November 23. But I didn't receive the email until November 24. I even forwarded the PPT email to them. Nothing. So either their Marketing Dept is incompetent, or it was a deliberate bait and switch to encourage me to order tickets. Fortunately there are other theater options in Pittsburgh. I will not stand another PPT production
Wow so in all my life we have never been here. We parked less than a full block away at the Ft Duquesne & 6th St parking garage because Theatre Square Garage was full. It was only $8 and was easy to get to. We came down for the Pittsburgh Lights and Legends Show. We came in and got our tickets from the box office and then made our way over to the front door. Went through the metal detectors and security to the lobby area. There wasn't a very clear layout or what you were supposed to do or allowed to do before the doors opened. We went with the crowd and after getting drinks from the very friendly and attentive staff we got in line which was winding around the lobby. Once the doors opened they sorted through everyone's tickets to determine which direction we were to go. We went to the left to come out to the show floor/stage. We went up the steps past the VIP/Reserved section and sat in the row above the rail on the end. When the show was beginning to start they explained the rules with photography, video, etc. the show itself started late from what ticket time was and actually ended much earlier from what I saw the windows were scheduled for online. However all things considered we Loved the show and the performance was spectacular. The love music, live action, live story was put together spectacularly and pulled off without a flaw! I would highly recommend coming down here and plan on coming back for more shows again in the future! I suggest planning ahead. Route, parking, backup parking, and arrival time. If only General Admission I would suggest planning arrival time to be early and of going to the upstairs bar arrive even sooner unless you don't mind not getting first choice in seating.
This was my first visit to this theater and upset it took this long to go. Just saw the Shakespeare play write The Tempest which was outstanding, especially in such an intimate venue as this. It doesn't have that grandiose old school feel but what it does have is an intimate feeling where you feel you're part of the program. The seats are situated on three sides of the staging area, which are quite roomy. Much more leg room than at other larger, local theaters. Parking is ample at nearby garages. The lobby is quite small yet again adds to the intimate ambiance. If you're looking for a smaller no frills venue this is perfect. I can't wait to go back!
I have been a theater goer for years, but prefer the smaller intimate theaters. This was my first play at Pittsburgh Public Theater. Perfect intimate setting, all seats have a great view. Marjorie Prime is a must see show! Even felt more of a liking to how the characters were portrayed here verses the actual movie!! Will not disappoint !!
The Tempest was outstanding. I am not a huge Shakespeare fan, but I could appreciate the true art that was performed on that stage. The acting was superb, the stage was designed and utilized well, the venue was intimate, with great acoustics. This was my first time attending a performance at the Pittsburgh Public Theater which is also called the O'Reilly Theater. It's a very nice, clean, and easily accessible theater right next to the Theater Square Garage also in close proximity to many restaurants. I am definitely going to attend another performance with my family in the future.
5 months ago
10 months ago
There is not a bad seat in this place! All of the staff were so kind, and the actors were fantastic! Even the patrons were respectful and quiet. Other than the price of concessions, this event was fantastic! read more
10 months ago
If you haven't been to the O'Reilly Theater, please give yourself and your family the treat of seeing a performance here. This is the most unique theater in Pittsburgh. Every seat feels incredibly close to the stage--so close it seems like you could reach out and touch the actors. The theater is set "in the round," creating an intimate experience where you're fully immersed in the performance. I've sat in many different sections throughout the theater, and the acoustics are consistently outstanding. No matter where you sit, you can hear every word clearly and feel completely connected to the story. The O'Reilly Theater is truly a special place and a must-visit for anyone who loves live theater. read more
2 years ago
I'm becoming somewhat of a regular at Pittsburgh Public Theater. This year alone I've attended "The Coffin Maker" and "Dial M For Murder". Both shows were fantastic! In the past I've seen a production of "The Tempest" as well as been lucky enough to see Anthony Rapp and Adam Pascal perform together. Those are just the ones I can remember off the top of my head. I mention all these shows because I've ended up sitting in many different sections in the theater when attending said shows over the years. I've always had a great seat - I'm not even sure there's a bad seat here. But if you've never been here and don't know what to expect, have no fear: you'll see pictures of your potential view as you select your tickets online. It's really helpful to have that for reference as you're deciding what seats are or are not worth considering. (Pro tip: while some of the balcony seats have a railing in front of them, most don't. In my experience they're the best way to strike a balance between a good seat and a smaller ticket price.) In summary: this is a great venue that has been home to many excellent productions over the years. If you're not paying attention to what's playing here, you definitely should - you'll love your night at the Pittsburgh Public Theater! read more
2 years ago
Business owner information
Aja J.
Thanks so much for joining us, Jonathan! We hope to see you again…
My first time seeing a show at the O'Reilly Theater was great! My friend and I went to see The Second City improv show last night. Picking up tickets was easy since the box office is right next door. I ubered downtown, but would recommend parking in the Theater Square parking garage. The lobby is really cool and the whole building is unique. I have peaked in here during First Night or a Gallery Crawl another time, but was never in the actual theater. The staff were friendly and patient while checking IDs and tickets to get in. They were selling merchandise in the lobby and I liked that they had a sign saying there was 1 intermission and the show would end around 9:30 pm. I had no idea how long the performance would be, so it was nice to have an idea. Once inside the theater we took our seats a few rows up from the stage. Thankfully we did not have seats right next to the stage because the comics did interact with the crowd. The seats were comfortable and had enough leg room which is very unlikely at any of the other old buildings in Pittsburgh. They were not serving any food or drinks at this time. The sound was great, and we really enjoyed the show. I loved how intimate the theater was and it was especially funny to see the comic's facial expressions since we were so close. I will definitely pay more attention to shows coming to the O'Reilly since we had such an awesome experience. read more
Yinzer Yuletide, Lights and Legends was a wonderfully creative holiday gem. Anchored by the storytelling prowess of Rick Sebak, we meet a series of talented guests and celebrate the best of Pittsburgh's Christmas traditions. The pacing was perfect, and the original musical score tied it all together. Magic, juggling, music and more, this is something you don't want to miss! read more
Ticket pickup from the box office was easy and hassle-free. It is located right beside the theatre. Prior to the show, everyone was waiting in the lobby but it was comfortable and even had some seating. This was my first visit to this venue and I adored the set up. We saw "School Girls" and it felt like we were RIGHT THERE in the action. I'd highly recommend checking out this theater and if you happen to read this before "Street Girls" is done, absolutely get some tickets. The show was thought provoking and entertaining. read more
2 years ago
I recently attended A Christmas Story. Great story, actors did a good job. I received an email on November 24 at 6:59 am advertising a 50% discount if I ordered tickets by midnight. So I ordered 4 tickets but did not receive the discount. Using the PPT website I asked about the discount but two days later when I received a reply I was told the discount was only for the day before, November 23. But I didn't receive the email until November 24. I even forwarded the PPT email to them. Nothing. So either their Marketing Dept is incompetent, or it was a deliberate bait and switch to encourage me to order tickets. Fortunately there are other theater options in Pittsburgh. I will not stand another PPT production read more
Business owner information
Aja J.
Hi Mark, I'm reaching out as The Public's marketing director and am…
7 years ago
Wow so in all my life we have never been here. We parked less than a full block away at the Ft Duquesne & 6th St parking garage because Theatre Square Garage was full. It was only $8 and was easy to get to. We came down for the Pittsburgh Lights and Legends Show. We came in and got our tickets from the box office and then made our way over to the front door. Went through the metal detectors and security to the lobby area. There wasn't a very clear layout or what you were supposed to do or allowed to do before the doors opened. We went with the crowd and after getting drinks from the very friendly and attentive staff we got in line which was winding around the lobby. Once the doors opened they sorted through everyone's tickets to determine which direction we were to go. We went to the left to come out to the show floor/stage. We went up the steps past the VIP/Reserved section and sat in the row above the rail on the end. When the show was beginning to start they explained the rules with photography, video, etc. the show itself started late from what ticket time was and actually ended much earlier from what I saw the windows were scheduled for online. However all things considered we Loved the show and the performance was spectacular. The love music, live action, live story was put together spectacularly and pulled off without a flaw! I would highly recommend coming down here and plan on coming back for more shows again in the future! I suggest planning ahead. Route, parking, backup parking, and arrival time. If only General Admission I would suggest planning arrival time to be early and of going to the upstairs bar arrive even sooner unless you don't mind not getting first choice in seating. read more
This was my first visit to this theater and upset it took this long to go. Just saw the Shakespeare play write The Tempest which was outstanding, especially in such an intimate venue as this. It doesn't have that grandiose old school feel but what it does have is an intimate feeling where you feel you're part of the program. The seats are situated on three sides of the staging area, which are quite roomy. Much more leg room than at other larger, local theaters. Parking is ample at nearby garages. The lobby is quite small yet again adds to the intimate ambiance. If you're looking for a smaller no frills venue this is perfect. I can't wait to go back! read more
Business owner information
Aja J.
Thanks so much for your review and for joining us at the O'Reilly for…
7 years ago
7 years ago
I have been a theater goer for years, but prefer the smaller intimate theaters. This was my first play at Pittsburgh Public Theater. Perfect intimate setting, all seats have a great view. Marjorie Prime is a must see show! Even felt more of a liking to how the characters were portrayed here verses the actual movie!! Will not disappoint !! read more
8 years ago
The Tempest was outstanding. I am not a huge Shakespeare fan, but I could appreciate the true art that was performed on that stage. The acting was superb, the stage was designed and utilized well, the venue was intimate, with great acoustics. This was my first time attending a performance at the Pittsburgh Public Theater which is also called the O'Reilly Theater. It's a very nice, clean, and easily accessible theater right next to the Theater Square Garage also in close proximity to many restaurants. I am definitely going to attend another performance with my family in the future. read more
Business owner information
Aja J.
Welcome to the Public for the first time, Earline! We love hearing…
8 years ago
I've never left the O'Reilly Theater (home of Pgh Public Theater) disappointed. PPT consistently presents high quality productions. My most recent experience was "A Yinzer Yuletide: Pittsburgh Lights & Legends," hosting by Rick Sebak. For those of you of a certain age, think of the old TV Christmas specials hosted by Andy Williams and Perry Como, only more modern and with a Pittsburgh focus. The show's music was not only well-performed, but included something for everyone. I enjoyed it so much, I'm considering seeing it again with my husband. If you make it to a show at the O'Reilly over the holidays, you MUST visit the Nebby Bar upstairs - fabulous decorations and festive cocktails. Even if you can't make a show, take a stroll past the theater windows. I guarantee their holiday displays won't disappoint. read more
7 years ago
Business owner information
Aja J.
We love our fans! Thanks so much for coming back again, Savannah! Our…
A great intimate theater to go see a show in. The building is smaller, so there are less seats, but it also allows you to be up close to the stage and feel like a part of the story. The actors move around you, up and down the aisles, enter through either side doorway, and obviously behind the stage. The ability to transform the stage and scene is fascinating. There is a rotating floor that allows them to spin the stage and present a different set very quickly. The sound system is clear and at a good volumn to hear the actors and music. Also, the entire building is very clean and employees are all extremely friendly. Only downside of the theater are the seats are somewhat small and close together, so you feel like you're on top of the person next to you, at least I the section I was sitting (right side). read more
Business owner information
Aja J.
Thanks so much for joining us for THE TEMPEST, Jenna! We're so glad…
Really a special theater! What a great venue. When I first walked in I thought it was theater in the round but then I saw the stage. We sat at the extreme right side above the stage and the view and sounds were wonderful. The acting was very good. A great lesson on relationships. We will be back. Looking forward to future productions. BTW. The bar setup was nice with super friendly barkeeps. read more
I just saw my first show there in decades and they're still very well done. The cast was wonderful and the sets and sound were very good. I look forward to seeing more productions there in the future. They're doing one play next season that I missed on Broadway. Can't wait! read more
I was truly blown away by this adorable little theatre! I came to see "Pittsburgh Lights and Legends" with tickets from yelp. I brought along my daughter and I had no idea what to expect. We were slightly lost looking for the theater, the front says oriely theatre, not Pittsburgh public theatre. However, we did notice the many signs on the sidewalk advertising our show which was a great help. The windows of the theater were beautifully decorated in Pittsburgh fashion. They even had kings castle from Mr. Rodgers. Upon walking in to the theatre, I was suprised by it's small size. There really isn't a bad seat in the house! I noticed on my way to my seats that they also have a small bar. (I'm not sure if they sell food, I believe its only drinks.) They also had snacks available for purchase in lobby as well as some "Pittsburgh" items. My daughter bought a small Mr Rodgers trolly car. The show we saw was fantastic, really a great time. It got better as it went on and was over before we knew it! I would gladly come back and visit the Pittsburgh Public Theatre again! read more
This was the first time that I was at the Pittsburgh Public Theater for A Doll's House Part 2. While waiting for the show to start, we discovered that not only is there sitting on the first floor but there are also tables and bar service on the second floor. It's a very nice area to just wait and have a couple of drinks. The theater itself is pretty small. There are about three levels to it. I wouldn't recommend the seats on the third floor to the right and left of the stage since it's a bit difficult to see. The seats are very small and tight together but it's nice to be close to stage wherever you're sitting. The play itself was OK. I really enjoyed the actors but it was tough staying engaged as the seats were uncomfortable. I also did not like how it ended as it leaves you hanging and wondering what happens which makes you think that there might be A Doll's House Part 3. read more
7 years ago
I went to see Indecent here on Friday, April 26th. I sat in row N seat 238 which had a great view! I was extremely impressed by the cast's ability to put on such a great show with so a small cast, few outfits, and a simple set. Indecent was engaging, educational, and a joy to watch. It had me thinking about issues that were outside of my own demographic and helped me view things from a different perspective which is truly priceless. read more
Business owner information
Aja J.
What wonderful words! Thanks so much, Kirstin. We hope to see you at…
7 years ago
I went to this theater to see, School Girls, or African Mean Girls. It was my first time at this theater. The theater is very beautiful with a modern design. You can purchase drinks, but beware, you cannot bring any food or drinks from the outside. Many people eat dinner prior to seeing a play and have leftovers; you cannot bring that into the theater with you. Ok moving on, the ushers were very helpful in finding my seat, because I was so confused. I was given the opportunity to see the play, "School Girls, or the African Mean Girls" with the Yelp Elite group. I thoroughly enjoyed the play. My guest and I had so much fun and laughed. Before the show, FashionAfricana held an exhibit, Portraits of Black Beauty, Mario Epanya, photographer. And afterward, they had a FashionAfricana event upstairs with complimentary food and drinks. This was such a great night out. I have no complaints; everything was great. If you have some time, check out "School Girls, or the African Mean Girls"...it is a great play. It runs until Dec 8th read more
7 years ago
Went to see Steel Valley's very own Tamara Tunie in a matinee showing of the Tempest. I had never been to this theater before but I can tell you I will be back. Small, quaint, and comfortable - it's like having the actors to your home. I was so close I felt like she was talking directly to me. Shakespeare isn't always easy to understand but this production was a modern take on the classic. An all female production with strong, funny, and genuine characters - it didn't take long before I was drawn in. The time melted away and in the final scene my eyes filled with tears. Tamara has always been great from As The World Turns to L&O SVU - but she was nothing short of perfection as Prospero. Bravo!!! read more
We just saw "As You Like It" here and we thoroughly enjoyed it. The cast did a great job engaging the audience. It was a long show (two and a half hours) but I was surprised afterwards that it didn't feel nearly that long and kept my attention throughout. My only issue was the difficulty in understanding all of the Shakespearean English, but it was easy to follow the storyline. I think our usher may have been having an off-night. We were led to two wrong sections before we found our seats ourselves. We have been here a few times and have will definitely be back for more! read more
The Public theater also known as the O'Reilly theater is a smaller theater used mostly for plays but each year they throw in one musical in their series. Seating is half moon shaped so people sitting on the side can catch the "action" from a different point of view. There are two small balconies surrounding the theater. This theater is very strict regarding use of cell phones inside and we were advised that if anyone took a picture of the set to delete it immediately. I came to see "The Diary of Anne Frank". This is the actual Broadway production that won a Tony back in the 1950s and is based off the writings of the diary itself. I had only seen the movie many years ago but never seen it performed live. From the tearjerking beginning where Otto Frank is given Anne's diary from Miep Giles, the audience is transported back to 1942 where we meet both the Frank family and their close friends the Van Daan's. Remy Zaken plays the young spirited Anne Frank who despises her mother, greatly attached to her father, and runs in to conflict with the Van Daan's son Peter(excellently portrayed by David Edward Jackson). The set replicates the tight quarters they had to share as well as the lack of food from rationing tickets. Every night they had variations of beans for dinner. Enter Daniel Krell as Mr. Dussell, a dentist who increases the party in hiding to 8 and is forced to share a room with Anne. The conflicts with Anne and Mr. Dussell heighten as they each want time to themselves in the room. Amidst the fear of being found out Anne brings a positive spirit which is both quoted in the play from her dairy and at the end. Anne writes "In spite of everything, I still believe people are good at heart." We are drawn to her warmth when near the close of Act 1 she gives home made Hanukkah gifts to everyone in the annex. Act 2 finds Anne having gone through puberty and beginning to establish a fondness for Peter whom she was on the outs with earlier. Hope for a quick end of the war comes with Miep's announcement of D-Day but is quickly dashed when on Aug 4th, 1944 the annex is raided. The audience does not see the action but throughout the production background noises suggest an air raid, a thief entry, as well as the Gestapo breaking up the house in search of the families. We are brought back to the beginning of the story where we learn Anne's fate. Only the father survived but the diary served as a legacy for generations to come of one of the best literary works of the Holocaust. I had a great seat near the front so I felt like I was in the heart of the action. This production was one of the best I had ever seen and truly brought tears to my eyes. I highly recommend this show and am looking forward to future productions there. read more
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621 Penn Ave
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
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(412) 316-1600
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Is there parking nearby?
Yes! Lots of options. You can even add reserved parking to tickets if you call the Box Office (412-316-1600). Otherwise, I recommend using the ParkPGH app for garage availability. Hope this helps!
