I visited this venue for the first time recently to attend an author talk with Kelly Bishop, famous for her matriarch role in Gilmore Girls. Despite having to go through security, attending this event was seamless; you could tell they were a well-oiled machine. I was quickly through security, scanned my ticket, picked up my book, and found a great seat--although, I don't think there were any bad seats. It's a rather intimate venue, and it seemed like there was a great view from everywhere. It was easy to hear Kelly and her conversant, and it was so cool to have them walk down the aisle right next to me. I did not get a drink, but they do have beverages, including alcoholic ones like White Claw, available to purchase and to bring into the event space. read more

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I've been here a few times to see some of my favorite creators. Once for The Minimalists and once to see Joshua Weissman. There's so much space for viewers to see the talks and - even sitting all the way in the back - you can hear all the conversations and interviews. The check in process is smooth and both experiences were different based on the creators personality. It's a beautiful venue with very intentional design to accommodate guests. read more

I've been an enthusiastic supporter and participant with this historic synagogue's programs for the past 20 years since its re-founding so I give a 2-star rating with deep regrets. While the administration of years past did utmost to have inclusive programs to encourage diverse participation consistent with Jewish values of inclusion, the current staff and Rabbis have made the unfortunate and definitive choice to focus almost exclusively on the Gen Z 20s and 30s segment at the EXCLUSION and ALIENATION of those of us in the matured older demographics. Their event descriptions across the board state the emphasis on "20s & 30s Programming" as does their website overview, and holiday and Shabbat events I've attended in recent years have been clearly dominated by this segment. Yet they make general token references to inclusiveness and I continue to receive requests for donations to support programming that explicitly shows blatant age discrimination. I've left messages for months including directly to Rabbi Aaron Potek, the Director, and my messages continue to be ignored. I'm deeply disappointed with the direction of this once inclusive and vibrant synagogue that I'd gladly traveled an hour to attend, and along with their decidedly liberal leftist leanings, discourages plurality and inclusiveness running fully counter to the best of Jewish values. This synagogue's current administration has demonstrated flagrant hypocrisy for essential Jewish values that I for one will no longer be supporting. read more

This is like my favorite place in DC. Where can you meet Henry Winkler, David Brooks and so many incredible people! Sixth & I is an incredible community asset bringing joy and future to people everywhere. read more

Sixth & I - National Geographic and Disney+ - Synagogues Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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It's been a few years since my last visit to Sixth and I (#momlifehappens) but that doesn't mean I still don't receive their emails and I have been very, very impressed with their lineup -- they have hosted everyone from world-class musicians to pop culture favorites like Mindy Kaling and the members of Queer Eye for the Straight Guy. I recently attended for my first live podcast show (Terrible, Thanks for Asking) and thought that the venue was perfect. It was intimate, roomy, and low-key at the same time. Pretty much every seat was filled and even though we came a little bit later still had a great view. The staff was very friendly and kept us very informed throughout the show. You can buy dranks in their lobby area and the beautiful stained glass windows and wooden pews give a peaceful feel to this eclectic and special venue right in the middle of Chinatown. read more

We had a family wedding there and it was BEAUTIFUL, SACRED, FABULOUS!! Everyone loved it....its history and its present are sacred.

Been going to Sixth & I for over a decade now, mostly for celebrity events like book talks and signings but have also been here for a few Jewish holidays like their Purim parties as well. It's not the most handicap accessible but they do try to accommodate if you set that up in advance. I've been fortunate to see Imogen Heap, Moby, John Kerry, Rainn Wilson and most recently Henry Winkler. Events here are on time and pretty liberal and fun. It can get a bit dicey getting here on time from Virginia but I generally plan it out well even if I do get there just before the show. For Henry Winkler I got there at 6:30 PM and the show started at 7 and I was in the last group for photos. I was lucky to get a decent seat towards the back. But I heard folks were lining up as early as 5:30 for the show. I'm not a fan of the way they do their giveaways by raffling off to one "lucky winner" who follows them on Instagram -- not everyone has that. But otherwise always a fun time and I've gotten to meet so many cool celebrities here it's always worth it. Purim parties are definitely geared towards the 20s and 30s crowd though. But I'm grateful this venue is here they have great events and I can't wait till the next one! read more

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What an interesting and beautiful synagogue to tour! I was visiting DC for a few days with my husband and in-laws, and I try to make a point to visit historic synagogues when I'm in a new city. Sixth & I Historic Synagogue was the obvious choice! Built in 1906 for an Orthodox congregation (Adas Israel), which became affiliated with the Conservative movement in 1928, this building is beautiful and has an amazing history and story to tell. When the congregation outgrew the synagogue in 1951, the building was sold to the Turner Memorial AME Church, which remained in the building until 2002. During the years that the building was an AME church, renovations were completed and historic items from the synagogue (stained glass with Stars of David) were removed. In 2002, the AME congregation put the building up for sale. There was some talk of turning the building into a nightclub before Jewish developers and philanthropists joined together to buy the building and restore the synagogue to its original, historic state. In 2004, the building was rededicated as the Sixth & I Historic Synagogue. And it was restored beautifully. Luckily, Sixth & I makes the synagogue available for tours between 1:00 and 2:00 pm Monday through Friday by appointment. Our tour was led by Misha, and she was knowledgeable about the history of the synagogue and its current use and function. The synagogue was beautiful and very interesting to tour. Well worth stopping by if you're interested and have a few minutes to take in a little DC Jewish history! read more

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This is one of my favorite venues in DC. This historic synagogue has so much incredible live entertainment. With their variety of book talks, concerts, and podcasts, there's something for everyone. A beautiful venue where every seat is a good one! read more

Sixth & I - Dome of synagogue - Synagogues Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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This is a review for it as an event space. It is something of a community center and offers varied and interesting nonreligious events, occasionally in collaboration with noted bookstore Politics and Prose, which is what brought me in. The location is right downtown (hard to forget the address), and the inside is rather magnificent, with a domed ceiling that was hard not to look up at. The seating was a bit too "historic" for my taste; hard benches aren't that comfortable. There was security, including a bag check, and at least for my event they had open seating for most of the space. Even as a reasonably early arrival, I got pushed up to a balcony level looking down. They didn't have a microphone on that level for questions, which seemed not ideal, though they did have some TVs displaying the stage for those whose view was blocked. Some limitations are expected, but overall, it's definitely worth going to for the right event. read more

A synagogue for rocking concert? You heard that right! This unassuming and beautiful venue is a hot destination for shows. Check out the beautiful, photogenic dome ceiling and the large lighted menorah on the stage. Their curation is excellent here -- from Kishi Bashi to Emily Haines for music, standup from comedians like Russell Howard and Hasan Minhaj and book talks from Amy Tan and Pete Souza. All the big names! On the cultural end - they also have holiday shows in time for chanukah (jewish comedy shows), as well as Shabbat workshops. The selection is diverse and there is something for everyone! And the tickets are not at an exorbitant cost (spent $20ish for Amy Tan, Haines was also 25) The seating is first-come, first-served. And like any synagogue, there are pews to sit, as well as a second floor balcony. They aren't fall-asleep-comfortable, but they'll do. For the recent Kishi Bashi concert, the crowds rushed the stage (so we didnt have to stay in our seats, which was nice). But I stood and danced in my chosen pew. The staff helps keep things very organized and clean. There is security to enter the building. So be mindful of what you bring into the space. My friend had to leave tupperware out with security and claim it later in the night. On keeping it classy - the venue serves drinks in these cute Sixth & I sippy cups. How about that?! Drinking wine and beer and these spill proof sippies. Fun, clean and an enjoyable time! read more

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This is a review for it as a concert venue. I had an incredible time when I saw Jade Bird there. It is a beautiful building, nice restrooms, and the people there were very nice and helpful. Not from the area but I would definitely see a concert here again! read more

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Beautiful Venue. Wonderful Performances. Unprofessional Event Staff. I won set of DC Jazz Fest tix and was looking forward to a fun and enjoyable evening. Unfortunately, I had to deal with some unorganized, uniformed and flat-out rude people before I could get to the fun part. My friend and I followed the signage and entered using the side entrance to pick up the tickets. The girl behind the counter told me that she didn't have my tickets at that entrance and that I would have to go to the front entrance to get the tickets. The security guard at this entrance was extremely nice, and told/showed us exactly were to go. We followed his directions, but as we tried to enter, the guy at the door (some angry, middle aged black dude) barks at us, "Are you VIP?" Uhhh.. no, but we were told to go to this entrance, soooo.... "Then you can't come in here", Angry Black Dude replies and slams the door in our faces. We tried another door that we just saw someone exit from. Even though it wasn't the door we were told to go to, we gave it a try and were greeted with a completely clueless hostess and another Angry Black Dude doorman. This dynamic duo tried to get us to go BACK to the VIP entrance, saying they knew nothing about my tickets. No. I told them that we would not be trying anymore doors, that I was literally 25 paces from the show area (I caught a glimpse of the opening act through the windows of the sanctuary door) and that they needed to dispatch someone who DID know and so that I could get my tickets (because, you know, that's why they gave you those nifty walkie talkies). I missed almost 20 minutes of the show while they sorted this mess out, but finally they sent over someone who knew what was going on. She disappeared and returned shortly with my tickets and an apology that I seriously was in no mood for after the way we'd been treated. Made it in time to catch the last song-and-a-half of the opening act. Didn't catch their names, but they were good. The headliners, 'Jane Bunnett and Maqueque', were AMAZING! Much better than I expected them to be. Their style of Afro-Cuban and Caribbean rhythms woven with threads of "contemporary" jazz were the ultimate feast for the ears. The "girl power" was on full display as these incredibly gifted and talented women took us on rhythmic journeys. Their performance was proof of the transcendental power of music. I'm glad that they gave the audience the 'ok' to dance because I'm there were more than a few of us that were finding it hard to maintain decorum and keep still! There was ample (pew) seating, and libations (wine) for sale. As I mentioned before, the venue is quite beautiful, albeit an abnormal (in a good way) backdrop for such a dynamic performance. As we were exiting the sanctuary, I looked up and saw the same girl who had retrieved our tickets now giving me an icy glare. She was helping someone out of the venue (who looked to be either sick or drunk, I couldn't tell which), but she the whole time she was walking towards us, she was glaring at me. No clue what that was about, but totally could have done without the aggressive posturing. I hope these people I encountered were temporary event staff, and not people who work here full time, because they definitely are doing this place a great disservice if they are. read more

Sixth & I - Maqueque at the DC Jazz Fest - Synagogues Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

I went to see Darren Hayes (Savage Garden) at this venue. I was a few minutes late and was told to go to the balcony. Balcony level was not crowded and felt like I had a decent view. I liked the intimacy of the venue. The only thing I didn't like was, there was no lights on the performer. It was very dim, but you would think there would be some special light on the artist. I was disappointed about that, but overall, I enjoyed myself. read more

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Sixth and I contributes so much richness to the community. From lectures by Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi and Univision news anchor Jorge Ramos to concerts by Matisyahu and Bryan Adams to enriching classes to spiritual services...they offer so many ways of exploring community, learning, and faith. My favorite services are the music services the second Friday of the month; it is such a powerful way to let go of the week. Trivia is also fun! read more

Such a unique venue. Who ever heard of an old synagogue hosting concerts and other great events? It is a perfect backdrop for a cozy event. We came January 6, 2018 for a live show of the Memory Palace podcast starring Nate Dimeo. To say he rocked it would be an understatement. It was fun, funny, informative, everything you could ask for. I loved that he stepped up his podcast game with a variety of "supporting acts," such as one of his stories being accompanied by live musicians, and others with animated video backdrops. It was a great time, and it left me wanting to see more at this venue. The high ornamented ceilings, painted dome, and stained glass windows are beautiful, and the pews around the stage give great sightlines. There was also a bar in the basement serving up beer and wine (no liquor, though). Awesome. read more

What an incredible space that manages to impress not only in terms of beauty but also acoustic power. It is a rare joy to be in such an intimate space with one of your favorite musicians, but I had the chance tonight and I am so thrilled with the experience. We saw Kimbra here in her very stripped down mini-tour of Primal Heart and wow, wow, wow....I have loved her for years but I have never heard her voice like this. The acoustics magnify the power of any performance. The seating is also very intimate, making the audience feel even more connected to each other and to the performer. The staff and logistics of the venue are also easy to navigate. The directional signs coming in are very clear and the process of getting your tickets is relatively simple. There is a lot of security in regards to checking bags and being passed over by a wand, so just come prepared for that. But once you get through, the welcoming space is a nice reprieve for grabbing a glass of wine or beer (in reusable cups, hooray!), picking up some merch, and waiting for the space to open upstairs. Highly recommend seeing a show in this venue if you can. This is a gorgeous venue that provides a unique and special experience. read more

I'm not actually that old. But I've put in literally countless hours of my life from mid-teens onward standing at music concerts of all sizes. Hours and hours of standing around, waiting for bands to start, standing through opening acts, waiting for headliners to start, standing through headliner shows... to the point that I actually kind of hate standing around for hours now, no matter how much I might be drinking or enjoying the music. So when I see acts that I like come through the Synagogue - HALLELUJAH! (in the non-denominational sense, that is). Besides no standing room and comfortable seats for everyone (padded pews? man, the Catholics need to get on board with this idea), here are three other reasons why I love catching shows here: 1) The acoustics are incredible for bands who you really need to hear each aspect of the composition. For example, Andrew Bird's whistling doesn't get lost. A Capella numbers carry on through. Fancy guitar-picking hits each note in your ear. Music fills the space, and not in a grab-the-ear-plugs kind of way. 2) You come here to see the artist in an intimate setting. It's not some giant club where you're looking for a crazy night out. People, it's a place of worship (brilliantly being rented out for other events). Don't come here pissed off because you can't get sloshed. Come here because you're a huge fan of the artist and you're likely never going to catch the artist in such an intimate setting again. 3)The layout, architecture and the ceiling. I've seen various shows that make great use of the space in the lighting effects, too. There really aren't any crappy seats here - you'll do fine no matter where you sit. Maybe you won't see quite as well, but you'll get the full effect of the music in any location. Admission is general, and because it's pew benches, you can sometimes snag a seat up close even if you come late - often a seat that looks saved is just someone hogging up the space with their purse or jacket. read more

Sixth & I - Andrew Bird, the one-man orchestra - Synagogues Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

I went to see Jhumpa Lahiri read at the synagogue last night, and I was taken aback at how beautiful it was. It was an intimate setting, but it fit more people than I thought it could - the capacity is around 500, I think. The acoustics in here were great - No, it wasn't a musical event, but Jhumpa's voice just filled the room. A representative of the synagogue told us a little bit about the history at the beginning of the event, and I was shocked to learn that the synagogue was thisclose to being bought out by a night club owner, but was bought last-minute by the owner of the Verizon Center and maintained a house of worship and cultural center. They have extremely cool events almost every night (readings, music, everything), and I will most definitely be back! read more

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My first visit inside! This seder (on the last day) was a fantastic way to experience the fabulous acoustics frequently highlighted about this venue. There was plenty of singing, reading, and lessons. I could hear it all very well, even if I couldn't pronounce it all. Geez... Hope those acoustics didn't amplify _my_ mispronunciations & off-key singing... It was primarily for young professionals. There were refreshments served prior to and immediately following the service. It was all amazing. Not just the food & fellowship. The stained glass window, the back-to-front song book, the modern facilities, and most of all, the warm welcome everyone here seemed to give. Sixth & I Historic Synagogue: I'm a fan! Original visit: 04/13/2012 seder read more

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I came here for a book signing... I really had no idea how many events they hold here. They boast about their acoustics which I haven't been able to experience being that it was a book signing.... However with the room being small and intimate, it's worth it to check out the list of upcoming acts and return to experience it again. read more

I came for the Politics and Prose event with Alan Alda. I wish P&P would do this more often! The synagogue, just a couple blocks from the Chinatown metro, is much more convenient that the bookstore itself. The Synagogue also hosts concerts ( e.g. Devendra Banhart, the DAM festival, etc.). There's a beautiful dome ceiling in here - golden and blue, intricate as a Faberge egg. The stained glass is lovely too. read more

Sixth & I - Synagogues Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Sixth and I is the perfect and unique blend of a local, intimate community and large, worldly entertainment. Home to an active synagogue, the space is also an active venue for all kinds of music, literature, and art. There is an impressive array and diversity of entertainment act. I love the book and author events. They showcase all different kinds of books and allow for the authors to discuss not only the book, but also their process, inspirations, and life stories. Audience participation and questions are encouraged! The space itself is quite large and can fit around 800 people, but it doesn't feel like a huge hall. The semi-circle first floor and additional seating on the second level makes every seat a good seat. Seating is usually general admission and first come. There is security to get in to the building and you aren't allowed to bring your own food and drink. If you are particular about your seat or have a large group that wants to sit together I would suggest lining up earlier before doors open. You can purchase beer and wine inside. Event tickets should be bought in advance. A lot of their events sell out beforehand and they won't have tickets available for purchase at the door. For book events, they usually have additional hard copies that you can purchase. read more

I love the book events that Sixth & I hosts. I am an avid reader and appreciate hearing authors discuss their books, answer questions, and breakdown different parts of the book or their writing process. I've gone to two different book events. I think the organization has gotten progressively better with each book event. I love that they order the book signing by ticket number and call you up by number. I do think that the outside line in the winter could be a little more streamlined, it sucks standing in the cold. But overall the experience is great. read more

I really enjoyed attending a talk at the Sixth and I synagogue! Yes, it was formerly a synagogue, also formerly a church, and almost a nightclub... But now it remains a non-denominational event space for religious and non-religious events. The space is quite large and great for listening to speakers (especially in the front row!). It also holds many other events, including music concerts, book discussions, and even whiskey tastings! Check out their calendar (http://www.sixthandi.org/calendar-mobile/) for more events. Some fill up pretty quickly, so buy your tickets in advance! read more

Sixth & I - Katty Kay and Claire Shipman discussing "The Confidence Code" with the Atlantic's Editor-in-Chief James Bennet - Synagogues Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

I had the pleasure of attending a concert last evening at this venue. It was my second time being there, the first being to see Fiona Apple perform live several years ago. What an incredible venue! The Stain-glass windows, the menorah and the pews - everything about it almost guarantees an intimate setting for a venue. The acoustics were fantastic. And a fun little bonus, you can buy drinks downstairs and they come in a Tumblr which you then can bring up to the venue hall. Great idea! The only reason why I did not give a five star is that almost the entire concert unfortunately my husband and I could not hear the singers super loud. We heard their voices but not making out any words. It was as if their mics just need it to be turned up a little bit. We sat on the lower level about halfway back so I'm not sure if it was just we were sitting. Overall, excellent venue super fun. read more

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This place is beautiful. I'm delighted that I had a chance to take a free tour with Chaplain Michael. It's a great deed ( mitzvah) that 3 men chose to save this building. read more

Cool venue for small performances. I've been here for performances in the basement area as well as in the synagogue. The basement area is a super intimate space and is great for small performances. The synagogue is a decent-sized space, but if you don't get there when doors open, expect to sit on the balcony where the view can be obstructed in certain areas. If you are on the side balconies and in row 3 or higher, your side of the stage cannot be seen. This venue gets really great performers that you wouldn't necessarily sell out in a space like Verizon. They also have fun events, like speed friend-dating for young professional women. I am not Jewish, but I have made some great friends from events like this! read more

It's hard to be a Jew on Christmas, My friends won't let me join in any games... I'm a Jew... A lonely Jew.. on Christmas! - Kyle Broflovski (South Park) It has always been the proverbial question. What do Jews do on Christmas. Until this year, it has been a day of movies and Chinese food. That may still happen in on a smaller scale. I just found out there is an event called "Jewltide" on the 23rd here. Let me back up, I have been to this place a number of times, I am sure you've walked by it. Not only is it a beautiful building, but they hold a ton of educational and cultural events here too, So, back to Jewltide. Maybe you've heard of Golem? They are music group that is a fusion of klezmer, Yiddish and punk. They'll be there. And another group named "So Called" which is a mix of klezmer and hip hop. If you have never heard klezmer before, this is a good way to start. read more

Sixth & I - Synagogues Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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Went to see Brian Fallon perform an acoustic set. It was a general admission show and we arrived late. While we expected not to get the best seats, we were surprised by the poor audio quality from our vantage point at the balcony rail to the left of the stage. Fallon talked a lot between the songs and we could barely understand what he was saying. Others in the audience who were directly facing the stage appeared to be able to hear him clearly as they were interacting with him and frequently laughing at his stories. We also had trouble discerning the lyrics of his songs which is surprising at an acoustic performance in such an intimate venue. Later that night, I watched a video of one of his songs recorded and posted to Instagram by someone who had been sitting directly facing the stage. The audio quality was night and day compared to our experience. While overall we had a nice time at Sixth and I, we felt that our experience left a bit to be desired. I would recommend the venue with the caveat of making sure you get a seat directly facing the stage read more

Great synagogue and close to where I live. Cafe Night on Monday's features food, fun, and stimulating conversations. Lots of events on a weekly basis make this a great place to meet others and practice religion. read more

In need of an efficiency manager. 2 bartenders for 600 people, really? Security guard (w/ bullet proof vest) checks every lady's purse. As for the venue...great acoustics... Don't come to drink or expect to re-enter... read more

Sixth & I - In need of an efficiency manager...ridiculous!!! - Synagogues Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Great acoustics in this venue, intimate setting, but there's a weird guilt I have drinking a glass of wine while sitting on a church pew listening to love songs. read more

Sixth & I - Andra Day - Synagogues Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Sixth & I is a very unlikely venue for concerts. If you don't feel weird guzzling beer in God's house while rocking out, a show at Sixth & I makes for a great experience. I've been to Sixth & I for a bunch of events: saw the Stella troupe do stand up (Michael Showalter, Michael Ian Black and the other guy who's not named Michael), Jens Lekman (I have a soft spot for Swedes), Nick Waterhouse and most recently, Deerhunter, to name a few. If you're here for a show or book signing with a semi-big name, my best piece of advice is come early before the doors open and bring your ticket (vs. picking it up at will call). Once the flood gates open, seating is first come first serve but honestly, there's not a bad seat if you're in the synagogue. When I saw Nick Waterhouse last year, it was held in the basement downstairs which is probably the most awkward space at Sixth & I. It sort of feel like a banquet hall where they may or may not hold bar mitzvahs. In either case, Nick was set up in a corner of the room and there were two bars (cash AND credit card accepted!). The basement generally hosts some of their smaller shows. If there's a show in the main synagogue, they've started selling sippee cups to put your beer in (I guess they assume we're all spillers...!) but hey, the place is 160 years old so gotta do what you gotta do to preserve that place. If you buy one, you get $1 off your beers! So not only can you help save Mother Earth with your reusable tumbler, but also the carpets at God's digs. My only complaint is that they're fairly open about posting when doors open and when the show starts but for nearly all of the shows I've attended, they've always run at least 30 minutes late in opening doors and getting the show started. Other than that, great staff and a really awesome, eclectic mix of entertainers and shows. read more

I'd love to see someone actually rate this place in terms of religious value instead of as a social venue, but I am neither (a) Jewish nor (b) up to the task of sitting through a service. That said... on to my trivia review! $12 in advance buys you all the beer you can drink. The crappy/cold pizza, cookies (NUTTER BUTTERS!) and salad are just a bonus. It's a good deal any way you slice (haha) it. The powers that be stuck Team Lox in a corner so we could barely hear the questions, and whenever I craned my neck to try to make out whatever clue was on the projector, I was accused of cribbing answers from Team Bagel. Lamefest. The rounds went quickly and the questions were middle-of-the-road challenging. I was a little surprised by the lack of socialization amongst the attendees -- the event was supposed to be co-sponsored by a Young Professionals organization, but everyone kind of stuck to their own tables. Not that I would want to mingle with non-Yelp riffraff, mind you. read more

If I could rate this place zero stars I would. They charged OBSCENE prices think 150+ to see Daveed Diggs and Ari Shapiro. When we got this tickets we thought, of this must be something special, I had never been to the venue. The price specifies that you are paying extra to ensure a non obstructed view that is NOT the case. Firstly, you walk in the door and are accosted by surly, rude security. Literally just walking up to them not even opening my mouth they say " "TAKE IT OFF!" "My purse?" I ask confused "Yes, the purse!" the woman scolds. They then brusquely look through my belonging take my left overs from dinner and when satisfied send me in. Next, I walk in and realize they are charging for drinks and food. Considering how much we paid for tickets I am surprised but ok... No one is really telling us where to go, where bathrooms are, anything but whatever, I go upstairs assuming the money is for the seats... WRONG. The venue is a normal synagog. There is no assigned seating even though they promise you're paying more for a non obstructed view. The usher leads me to a part of the pews BEHIND A MASSIVE PILLAR. I asked the usher and let her know it said in the ticket page that these were non obstructed view tickets, she shrugs and said we can try somewhere else, she guesses... We found a seat at the back of the synagog crammed into pews with no way out that doesn't involve climbing over everyone. and that was it the show begins.... Pro, there was dessert. Not 150 dollars worth though. I will never spend money there, I will never go back, I will never recommend it to others. TLDR: Over priced, really rude staff, poor sight lines. read more

Sixth and I is definitely a favorite place of mine. Not only is the interior of the synagogue beautiful, it is conveniently located, and many fun events are held here. While I mainly visit for Jewish events (Shabbat services, café night, trivia), Sixth and I often holds concerts, talks, and panel discussions. Due to the small space, there isn't a bad seat, as I found out when I went to see Stacy London. I love that Sixth and I is a real community congregation and not used only for Jewish events. read more

I think I like the idea of 6th and I more than I like the actual place; it is, admittedly, a very lovely, intimate setting. And it's fine enough for literary readings when there tends to be a pretty heavy staff presence and things are orderly. But for concerts, it's a whole different scene - take last night, at the Rodriguez concert - it was general admission and the doors opened at 7. By 6:45 there were a good hundred or so people waiting in line, and when the doors opened people were running to seats. Fair enough. But what's frustrating is there's no real staff to speak of so when fights start breaking out (yes, two old guys got into a fight leaving the venue because one accused the other of pushing him and said -- well, shouted -- "just because you're old doesn't mean you can be rude!") there never seems to be anyone around to keep people sane and to keep people moving. There are no ushers to say "there are more seats upstairs," or 'don't block the exits." Not only that, but since there was no real staff presence, people kept opening and closing the door to the concert hall - every 30 seconds - so the dark room would become very bright, and then dark again. Imagine this repeated a good 200 times over the course of an evening. The other thing that's frustrating is that the acoustics aren't great- I noticed it when we went to see VS Naipaul read last year. Most of the people in the back kept saying "what is he talking about?!" and it was abundantly clear last night when no one in the balcony could really hear Rodriguez (and some guy up there kept screaming "can't hear you!"). So it seems the secret is to sit on the bottom floor - and as close to the front, and as far away from that door as you can. And watch out for old guys throwing punches. Things can get serious at general admission concerts. read more

As a frequent Shabbat service attender of the Sixth and the City (young professionals) service, I can unequivocally say I love love love this synagogue. Not only is it a beautiful venue, but the programming is very much in-tune with the audience. I love Sixth and the City services because of the relaxed atmosphere, guitar (yes, it's a little campy but I'm into it), and overall vibe. I have also gone to several other events here -- Joshua Radin and Yael Naim concerts, Jonathan Safran Foer speaking, art exhibit -- and I have thoroughly enjoyed all of them. I have attended a few other services here -- the rabbi at the Mesorah service is great, and very friendly afterward, but it is a divided service, which is not really my scene. High holidays with Sixth and the City are great. I am also currently taking the Modern Hebrew class, which is so far great. The morah is delightful and charming, and the class is moving at a really nice pace. Price is not bad ($148/8 weeks), but you have to pay for the book separately, which is not a big deal I just wish I had known before I signed up. For anyone young (21-35ish), Sixth and the CIty has really great stuff going on. Dinner after services is fun and includes beer and wine, plus a happy hour before-hand. You don't need to get super dressed, most people come straight from work, and it's just a really nice community atmosphere. read more

Went to the 6th in the City's trivia night last night (1/13). I was originally excited at the thought of drinking in a synagogue (like I'd be getting away with something). The atmosphere is quite chaotic upon arrival. People dashing for tables, drinks and food. But, once settled, things calmed down a bit. For $12 (in advance - and they do sell out) you get two drink tickets (beer, wine and spiced cider last night), dinner (sandwiches) and the chance to prove your trivia prowess. I was a little saddened by the lack of out-of-group mingling (seemed like a lot of cool people gathered in one spot). But, I had a great time with my fellow Yelpers. The questions were somewhat challenging - especially the Show Tunes section (though, I'm not really up-to-date on my show tunes). And one of the questions was about the original NHL teams (who follows hockey these days?). But there was a nice mix of topics. I wasn't much help to my team but I had a blast. It was the most fun I've had for $12 in quite awhile. read more