The PPAC is a staple in Providence theater and never disappoints. The establishment has been here for a long time, but they keep it maintained. I went to see The Lion King and it was fabulous! The theater is small enough to capture the details without binoculars or an additional screen. The music was captivating. The colors were vivid. The storyline was familiar, and the characters were great. I would absolutely go back to PPAC to watch this play, and looking forward to other plays coming later this year and next year. read more

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I haven't spent very much time in Providence - but hope to go back because there are some pretty sweet places in town. I was excited to see that the Lion King was playing at the Providence Performing Arts Center! The theater is very easy to get to and there is a ton of parking nearby. Admissions was swift and not crowded - they definitely are organized and know how to keep the traffic moving. They sell various snacks and some are even locally made like the popcorn I bought. The venue itself is beautiful, especially the theater. The seats are as you would expect - velvety and small. The sound and lights were great. I really enjoyed the show. I will say that at times, I felt distracted - it seemed like the audience was louder than I expected - especially with the snack bags. Oh well, what can you do At intermission the women's bathroom was a little bit of a you know what. But this seems to be a common problem with older theaters. Regardless, I had a great time and would def come back to see another show! read more

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Thank you PPAC for another wonderful season. I always love coming here for shows and I think this may have been the year I saw the most productions yet. The theatre is always beautiful, comfortable and clean which makes every visit feel special. We have been season ticket holders for years now and it has been fun starting to recognize our fellow subscribers and neighbors around us. Everyone from the ushers to the concession staff is always friendly and helpful. From the fun show themed drinks to the must-have cookies and impressively efficient intermission lines, PPAC continues to be one of my favorite places for a night out in Providence. Thank you for another great season and many memorable nights. read more

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I had a very bad experience with my bank saying a credit card transaction was approved and the box office saying it wasn't. But Stephanie, the director of ticketing at PPAC, went above and beyond to make it right and ensure I wasn't shut out. I was only looking to go to PPAC AT ALL because I had a conflict when the show was playing Boston, but I was so happy with Stephanie that I will probably look at seeing shows in Providence first in the future. read more

Like many theaters of its vintage (built ca. 1928) PPAC has some beautiful interior architecture and decorations. Its age shows in the seating which is a little bit cramped for today's more padded audience. Legroom's a little tight too. But tbh, with a captivating show, the time goes by fast and the comfort issues get alleviated at intermission when you can stretch. Restrooms are large and actually accommodate the crowd fairly well. Beware of parking prices - most public lots near the theater are about $25-30 for a show; and the parking garage right across from PPAC charges an outrageous $54! If you don't mind a 15" walk (and the weather is clement), just park at Providence Place Mall for a couple of bucks. read more

I always love going to shows at PPAC! My friend had two extra tickets to see The Outsiders today. When my friend and I checked in, they upgraded our seats to row H! We were 7 rows from the stage, crazy!!! I have never sat so close before. Such a kind gesture. The customer service at PPAC has always been exceptional. read more

Providence Performing Arts Center - Performing Arts Near Me - Providence, Rhode Island

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Came to see Wicked and I have anxiety in busy and crowded places but was immediately put at ease when my medical accommodations were being met by this place and the check in process was smoother than anticipated. Drinks were not strong but that's okay. Seats are bot comfortable but it's such a beautiful place to watch anything! And the cookies are the best cookies I've ever had!!! read more

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We saw Clue tonight, it was very entertaining! The butler was phenomenal. The show was quick, a little under 90 minutes so there is no intermission. read more

Providence Performing Arts Center - Performing Arts Near Me - Providence, Rhode Island

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Beautiful theater located in a fun area, with plenty of parking nearby. Our group arrived shortly before the start of the show, and breezed through security. It both felt safe, as security searched my purse, and I noticed actual police presence, while being highly efficient. At intermission, I was impressed by how efficiently the women's bathroom line moved, particularly as we were seeing a female-audience heavy show (Suffs). They had staff directing traffic upstairs and separate lines to people moving. We were seated in row PP, so I'd actually recommend splurging for the better seats, because this is a theater where it matters to your show experience if you're closer. You'll see better and feel more immersed in the show. Actors and show quality were very impressive and I don't recall seeing as many venue staff in Boston theaters as they had here. After this experience, I'd prefer to go into Providence for theater moving forward to going into Boston. read more

Just returned from seeing the Lion King and it was amazing. I love that PPAC has set up several areas to enter the theater. The ushers are always very helpful to ensure you are in the right spot. You can enjoy a glass of wine or cocktail or a snack. The theater is an absolutely beautiful and the acoustics are amazing. read more

PPAC is a fabulous venue. I love the ornate decor in the lobby and on the ceiling of the theater. The membership package is a great deal from a cost perspective, plus it includes parking right down the street at the Clifford Street garage that is not usually as backed up as the one across from the theater. The drinks and snacks are pricey, but that's how it goes when you go to live theater. read more

Providence Performing Arts Center - Chicago - Performing Arts Near Me - Providence, Rhode Island

We have been a few times for a girls night out at the theatre! Every time is great! This time we saw hades town and it blew me away! The theatre is stunning! read more

Providence Performing Arts Center - Performing Arts Near Me - Providence, Rhode Island

Only the best. I've been coming to PPAC since I was a toddler. (Which is why I'm Big fan of live performances obv) This theater is 5 stars EVERYTIME and keeps getting better. Between prices, snacks, beverages, merch, service it's just the best. Always making new memories here and reliving some old ones when some shows circle around and come back !! read more

the show was AWESOME the theater was beautiful and the bathrooms are well organized. SO AWESOME read more

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I truly love this venue! This is the second year that we've been subscribers to the Broadway series and have attended many other events. The staff are truly helpful with seating and happy to share details about the building history when not engaged with patrons. PPAC works hard to book a wide variety of shows each season and office staff are always pleasant over the phone. Snacks and beverages are typically priced for a venue but water is really a bit on the high side at $5 per bottle. If you've never been you seriously should consider an outing! Also note, the garage across the street is not affiliated with the venue but there is great parking nearby at 75 Clifford St that contracts with PPAC for $20 per event. read more

Wow!! What a beautiful theatre! Stepping inside makes you feel like you are stepping back in time to the gilded age. Love that this spot isn't too big, yet there are plenty of great seating options. I recently signed up for season tickets to their Broadway Series and am looking forward to heading in more often. There are a lot of parking options around here, I made the mistake of parking in the deck directly across from the theatre and it is very pricey if you decide you want to extend your time after the show and don't do it originally. It is wonderful that there are so many great restaurants walking distance to PPAC so you can park, walk to dinner, and then walk over for your show. They have beer, wine, and some cocktail options. As well as some snacks. The price point is what you'd expect for a venue like this. All the employees/volunteers were very friendly and they make it easy to check-in and find your seats. They could certainly have more bathrooms and it is a bit wild at intermission. We recently saw a comedian there and will be attending later this month for A Beautiful Noise. They seem to get everything here that you would expect a performing arts center to show. I look forward to visiting again soon. read more

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i saw hadestown on tour here and had a great time! it's a pretty big theatre, so keep it in mind when selecting seats. nice staff! you can get there by commuter rail plus a medium walk. read more

Front row seats for Earth Wind and Fire, in the pit. Everyone from third row back allowed to take photos and videos. Not us. We had a horrible older theatre employee feeling his importance stopping us and anyone in first or second row. Why pay all this money to be treated like second graders. We left early. Won't be back read more

Providence Performing Arts Center - My only allowed photo from the front row due to an unpleasant theatre employee welding his power of no photos or videos - Performing Arts Near Me - Providence, Rhode Island

I am a big fan of old movie palaces, this is a picture of the grand lobby. Of the Chicago Balaban and Katz Chicago Theater, of what it looked like in 1925. I finally did the Chicago Theater Marquee Tour, took over 150 photos. The you have a picture of the beautiful grand lobby of the Chicago Balaban and Katz Uptown Theater. I never been inside the theater once, it is restored I will be there. These two movie palaces was designed by Chicago architects Rapp and Rapp. And the Provident For The Performing Arts aka Lowe's Theater, also designed by architects Rapp and Rapp. read more

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As someone who has seen a lot of shows there. NEVER again. Active shooter on the loose and instead of closing/canceling like EVERYONE else. The show had to go on for them. PPD asked people to stay away, apparently they find it "safe enough". I will never go there again, and Id never feel safe there. Its 11 minutes from my home, but NEVER again. read more

Although we have season tickets, last night was our final night. Gorgeous theater not conducive to a comfortable experience. Seats are jammed together so even smaller people are elbow to elbow and thigh to thigh. Once again, we could not see the stage due to the non-staggered seating and the people in front of us. Left Water for Elephants during intermission feeling claustrophobic. We have 4 more shows in our package this year including Wicked and The Outsiders and we are giving them away. Seats AA11 and 12. Just can't bear to go back. read more

I really, really love PPAC! It's set in a centrally located part of the city with a lot of pre-venue and post-venue spots for food and night life. The venue itself is small, seating just over 3,000. That means getting in is relatively painless, there isn't a bad seat once you're in, and exiting is quick. All in all a great experience. The staff are readily available to aid in any way possible. They offer some concessions/drinks inside. I enjoy parking on Fed hill near the pineapple and doing dinner up there first, then taking the stroll down past the Dunk and over to PPAC. It's about 1/2 mile walk each way. A lovely jaunt! Definitely make this venue a priority, you won't regret it! read more

Providence Performing Arts Center - Exterior - Performing Arts Near Me - Providence, Rhode Island

Never failed to impress me even when I returned many times. The management continues to prepare the theatre from outside to inside to look its best. The ushering staff as well are very efficient and warm, never-ending with charm. The sound quality in orchestra seating is outstanding, and I strongly recommend the theatre. I also love the parking about the theater, and with that, driving to Boston is not required to have your art itch scratched out of state! read more

Providence Performing Arts Center - Awesome seeing To Kill a Mockingbird - Performing Arts Near Me - Providence, Rhode Island

Since moving to RI about 3 years ago from NY, I've been to the Providence Performing Arts Center (PPAC) a few times. How lucky we are to have the opportunity to watch touring Broadway productions and contemporary engagements in a beautiful venue. PPAC is located in downtown, the heart of Providence's arts and entertainment district; it is the second largest theatre of its kind in the country. PPAC is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and it has also been ranked by Pollstar as one of the Top Venues in the world. I've seen Ali Wong, Rent, Les Miserables, Come From Away, and Six at the PPAC and looking forward to many more. A night at the PPAC is always splendid and a wonderful experience. The Box Office window staff are always very helpful and pleasant. Box Office window and phone hours are Monday through Friday, 10AM to 5PM; Saturday, 10AM to 2PM and two hours prior to curtain time(s) on performance days. Hours are updated for the summer - Monday through Thursday, 10AM to 3PM and two hours prior to curtain time(s) on show days. Tickets for shows at the PPAC or the Vets can be purchased online or at the box office. I like purchasing tickets at the box office because the staff can recommend the best seats and to avoid the extra fees. read more

My friend and I went last night to see Harry Potter and it was amazing! Beyond amazing! I cant say anything negative about this place! We cant wait to see future shows. The show was magical! Warning for tickets though. We searched Providence Performing Arts Center to buy our tickets a few weeks ago. The top link (which we thought was ppac) actually was a scam site. The link was .net instead of .org and we had no idea. Please watch what link you press, Go Tickets is a scam website. 2 tickets cost $290 with Go Tickets, which we thought was high but just figured prices increased. We got to the venue and our tickets were never delivered so we had to buy new ones. Same section but closer, we only paid $120. Go Tickets has been harrassing us for hours now, but they still never sent the tickets. PPAC is aware and they cautioned us to make sure we use the .org in the future. The .net site had all the same logos and information though, so be aware. read more

The PPAC is an amazing place. But the parking situation in the garage across the street is the worse I've ever experienced. $45 to get blocked in by two cars. And if you don't park all the way against the wall to get blocked in, they ticket you! Who ever thought that this was a good idea? If you come to a show here, just park literally anywhere else. It has to be better than this. read more

The marquee said we were to see Steve Martin and Martin Short. Arriving close to show time, crowds were gathered and doors were opened and the dash to the seats. Ushers, very helpful. My companion uses a walker, so not to be rushed to get to our seats. Clean and very majestic. Show time! Very comfortable. Will be sure to return! read more

Providence Performing Arts Center - Marquee - Performing Arts Near Me - Providence, Rhode Island

I love historic movie palaces, so I was excited to discover that there was a comedy show at the Performing Arts Center the one night I would be in town. It's a true movie palace built in 1928 by the Loews corporation. I cared more about seeing the venue and adding to my picture collection of movie palaces around the country than I cared about the comedy show. The Performing Arts Center did not disappoint. It is stunningly beautiful. It looked to have been restored fairly recently, with the only thing missing being the original chandelier. If it wasn't restored recently then they have done a magnificent job of keeping it in pristine condition. The comedy show was sold out, so I couldn't get all the pictures I wanted to because of the crowds. But I fully appreciated being able to enjoy the show in such luxury. It's surprising that a smaller city like Providence has a movie palace that ranks right up there with those in LA and NYC. Any time I'm in Providence I will check the Performing Arts Center calendar. read more

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For decades, the Providence Performing Arts Center (PPAC) has been "home" for presenting top-notch national Broadway tours. Every night a show is on stage at PPAC is like an opening night, especially at the moment when the lights dim and the curtain rises on our magnificent stage. During the winter of 2020/2021, new, custom terracotta tiles and exterior lighting were installed to the theatre's Weybosset St facade. This is the first time the facade has undergone a restoration project. The restoration project was made possible by PPAC restoration fees and grants from the Champlin Foundation and the Rhode Island Historical Preservation Commission. Preserve RI and the RIHPHC recently honored PPAC with a Rhody Award for a Historic Preservation Project. The Loew's Theatre Building, now known as the Providence Performing Arts Center, opened on October 6, 1928. The Theatre, designed by architectural firm Rapp & Rapp, has always been a visual marvel, and has astounded visitors with its beauty and grandeur. For more than nine decades, the Loew's Theatre Building has not only survived, but ultimately flourished, while undergoing various name changes, storm damage, and ongoing architectural restoration. After its opening in 1928, the Loew's Theatre Building enjoyed several decades of success as a premiere movie palace. However, the venue began experiencing financial hardships and declining attendance in the early 1950s. The Theatre also suffered damage from the New England Hurricane of 1938 and then Hurricane Carol in 1954. The resulting damage from Hurricane Carol resulted in the removal of the Theatre's original Morton pipe organ. In 1982, Lincoln W.N. Pratt assisted PPAC with finding their "Mighty Wurlitzer;" the 5/21 Wurlitzer Organ was built in 1927 and has five keyboards, twenty-one ranks and percussion that can produce many orchestral sounds, as well as sound effects that can be utlilized when accompanying silent films. It is one of only three five-manual keyboard consoles built by Wurlitzer. The instrument was purchased by PPAC and has resided in the Theatre since 1982. In 1972, the theatre changed its name to the Palace Concert Theatre, where it mainly presented rock concerts. . During this time period, the theatre continued to fall into disrepair and to lose revenue. In 1976, through the efforts of Mrs. B.A. (Sylvia) Dario, the Theatre re-opened as the Ocean State Theatre, where it returned to its historic movie palace roots. The Ocean State Theatre continued to screen films, but with limited success. The building's owner, B.A. Dario, considered demolishing the historic Theatre. Local community figures, including then Governor J. Joseph Garrahy, then Chairman of PPAC's Board of Trustees Bruce Sundlun (Governor of Rhode Island, 1991 - 1995), then Providence Mayor Vincent A. "Buddy" Cianci, Jr., and Mrs. Dario, fought valiantly to save the building. They began to discuss transforming the Ocean State Theatre into a center for the arts to preserve the Theatre and to also help renew the downtown Providence area. In 1977, the Loew's Theatre Building was listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and in 1978, the Theatre was purchased and saved. Today, the Providence Performing Arts Center (PPAC) presents a full roster of touring Broadway productions and contemporary engagements. PPAC has been the theatre of choice in launching twenty national tours since 2008. PPAC is a 3100-seat, world class venue located in the heart of Providence's arts and entertainment district; it is the second largest theatre of its kind in the country. PPAC is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It has also been ranked by Pollstar as one of the Top Venues in the world. Get a ticket to one of the musicals and be ready to be amazed...for those who want MORE, you can get a season's pass or VIP tickets. There's street parking, garage parking and limited theater parking at the venue. You can get tickets online or at the theater's box office. Their group of ushers and volunteers are really top notch and they will help you find your seat or any other thing you might need. read more

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Gorgeous venue. Great sound. I have been to many productions here and have always had a great time. The ushers are always so nice and helpful. I definitely recommend this venue. read more

Providence Performing Arts Center - 04/23/24 Providence, RI - Performing Arts Near Me - Providence, Rhode Island

First time going! If you are a nervous Parker, that garage is NOT for you, you need to back into the worlds smallest spaces, but was able to park on the roof instead! They get you in very quickly via scanning the tickets. They do need vaccine card (which can be photo) or negative test and masks are mandatory. Lots of bathrooms! We saw Hamilton which was amazing!!! All the workers were kind and it was both clean and gorgeous inside! Easy to see where we sat in the balcony behind lodge. Can't wait to go back! read more

Providence Performing Arts Center - Theater - Performing Arts Near Me - Providence, Rhode Island

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What a beautifully ornate historical theater in downtown Providence! Must visit to appreciate the architectural craftsmanship. Well maintained. read more

Providence Performing Arts Center - Chandelier above the balcony - Performing Arts Near Me - Providence, Rhode Island

Went here for the first time ! Omg what an incredible beautiful theater . I could not believe the intricacy of the wood work and design on the walls and ceiling. Also the acoustics in this place are amazing, would come back here as often as a could to see some of my favorite broadway shows ! read more

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PPAC is absolutely beautiful with the most kind workers I've ever met! I have come here a handful of times to watch all types of plays, I have even come here for a graduation or 2. This place is magical, the structure, decor and ambience are just astounding. This place reminds me of a castle that is well up kept at all times. PPAC is more upscale to me and I do enjoy it. Every seat in this place is a great seat in my eyes. Everyone can see everything that's going on. The workers are beyond amazing, so kind and not pushy at all. Now to the shows! Oh lord are they amazing. If a show is at PPAC I can guarantee you that it will be fun, amazing and enjoyable. I have come here for so many shows I don't even know them all to mention. I like how they are strict on ages when it comes to shows. If it's a family show they welcome all ages, but if it's not I believe you have to be age 6 and up to attend. They're also very strict on time. If you arrive too late you will be watching the show from television screens, I like this idea because nobody wants to be interrupted constantly by late guests, or to have those huge doors opening and closing constantly with the bright lights glaring to ruin the show. But do expect to pay for parking when coming to see a show. Expect to pay between 10-25.00 in lots, but maybe if you're lucky you can nag a street parking spot. read more

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We went to see the play based on an old movie called" some like a hot". We were very disappointed as it did not follow the original storyline. read more

We've seen a lot of shows here. The drinks are extremely overpriced but a few times they were really well made. It's a gorgeous old building, seats are comfortable and there are always ushers ready and willing to help. I have to say, the ushers are some of the best performers there, bar the shows (for the most part) The establishment could definitely use some help communicating with a large crowd. A show we went to recently was stopped in the middle of the second act and the performers rushed off stage. People in the first 5/6 rows started looking towards the back because we heard shouting. We both thought there was an issue between some patrons but then someone yelled "fire!" Needless to say, this caused a stampede of people streaming out the side doors, people were running back for purses and there was mass confusion. We managed to get out the side exit door but could still see the room. I saw a security detail standing on the side on her phone. When we asked what was happening she didn't have a response, just looked bewildered and slightly annoyed. After 15/20 mins of standing around (clearly, no fire) we heard via the chain of people halfway out the door, that there had been a medical emergency. Ok, calm your heart. We're going back in. When we walked past the front of the room, in the lobby were ambulance personnel and a man being treated in a chair. Thankfully, he looked to be ok and was receiving good care. Amazingly, throughout the entire ordeal, there was no announcement and no information dispersed in any way. The audience was communicating amongst itself and I didn't feel sure we should stay. Eventually, things seemed ok and we enjoyed the rest of the show. It's mind boggling to imagine what would happen if there really was a fire. read more

Beautiful facility. The ushers are all volunteers and caring folks. They run a toys for tots drive annually- kudos for that! Their chocolate chip cookies are delicious and usually gooey (love that!) They have a good array of shows. I have seen things like sesame street live to John Mellancamp to Hamilton! No parking garage but I find it easy to find on street parking. read more

Providence Performing Arts Center - Chocolate chip cookies and Hamilton! - Performing Arts Near Me - Providence, Rhode Island

I had an amazing time once again at PPAC but now I will share the history! Providence Performing Arts Center, was opened as Loew's Movie Palace on October 6, 1928. It was designed by George and C.W. Rapp of Chicago, renowned theatre architects. Loew's philosophy was to sell tickets to theatres; this was the inspiration for building this opulent theatre which cost $2.5 million upon completion. On opening day, more than 14,000 people came to see Joe Stoves play the $90,000 Robert Morton organ, accompanying the film "Excess Baggage". Most people came just to see the magnificence of the interior, sparkling with gilding on intricate plasterwork, columns of imported marble, and huge crystal chandeliers. HISTORY AND RENAISSANCE After several decades of sustained success, the theatre's attendance declined mid-century as televisions gained popularity. In addition to mounting economic hardships, the Theatre suffered damage in the hurricanes of 1938 and 1954. The Theatre narrowly escaped demolition in the 1970's. Now, it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and plays a vital role in the City's ongoing Renaissance. read more

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We are so lucky to have a world class theatre right here in the heart of Providence! Providence Performing Arts Center has played host to many wonderful evenings out for me and my friends and family, ever since I came here to see the national tour of RENT at age 14 - as any eighth grade theatre geek from the mid-2000s will tell you, RENT was the end all be all of teen angst musicalized onstage, and I was there to see it at PPAC in the front row, multiple times. Ever since then, I've seen a bunch of other shows here, and each one has been a dazzling and amazing experience! Not only does PPAC host national tours of Broadway musicals, but also a wide array of concerts and dance performances as well. There really is something for everyone! The theatre itself is not too big, so every seat is a good view. Pro tip: the seats in the mezzanine are great, and if you can get first or second row seats up there vs. seats further back on the floor, do it. The view is much better. We saw Charlie and the Chocolate Factory here this past Saturday night, and our seats were in the second row of the mezzanine, and you could see everything! I also dressed up as Veruca Salt, but that's another story! I bet you're wondering how a Yelper like me who often cites that restaurants and other attractions are pricy on a student budget can go see shows at PPAC whenever I darn well please. Well, if you are a student or a senior citizen, you MUST take advantage of the rush ticketing! Head to the box office two hours before curtain (you'll want to get there at least a half hour before, especially for the more popular shows), with proper identification (student ID or license w/ your age) and cash (the tickets are half price, and can vary depending on where the seat is in the theatre), and you'll most likely be able to see the show! They sell the seats that are not filled two hours prior to curtain, and I have been able to see some awesome shows for cheap in great seats because of this! If you fall under the eligible categories, it's the best way to see a show! PPAC also offers an ample selection of snacks and beverages, and I noticed that they now sell the beverages in plastic cups with lids so that you can bring them into the theatre with minimal risk of spillage. Smart! They're in the 90th season of presenting great performing arts to the people of Providence and beyond, and I can't wait to see what the next 90 years will bring! read more

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These people are the worse. They don't care about their customers at all. The Brett Goldstein show changed dates three times and even changed the show time from 7pm to 10pm. They would not refund anyone because they don't deal with 3rd party vendors only sell direct. The reason why because they are to cheap. Same people who have run this place for over twenty five years and don't realize things change and as long as they get there big paycheck is all that matters The box office director is rude and disrespectful. The Attorney General has been notified and is investigation. The local news is also doing a episode on this Don't support them as they don't care about you . read more