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The Bushnell is absolutely stunning, and the staff couldn't have been more friendly--I'm not sure what took me so long to finally see a show here! My family went to see Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon: The Super Live, and it definitely won't be our last visit. Navigating Hartford can be a bit stressful, but The Bushnell is conveniently located just a short drive from the highway exit and was easy to find. They offer free event parking in a lot right across the street, which made things even easier. We entered through the side marked "Box Office," where we found a cozy little café serving coffee, baked goods, salads, and sandwiches, along with the Box Office counter. From there, we passed through a small entrance where our tickets were scanned and we went through a quick security check. That led us into another lobby area. We arrived about an hour and a half before showtime, and it was already busy with people. The was merch was being sold on the third floor, and the line for T-shirts and light wands stretched through much of the building (and beyond!). It was a little confusing figuring out where to go next, but a kind staff member helped us out. He let us know that theater doors would open at 6:30, and since we had balcony seats, we'd need to take the elevator. Inside, the theater was breathtaking. From the walls to the ceiling, every detail was beautifully preserved--it's a treasure. Our seats were in the front row of the balcony, offering a fantastic view of the stage. They were fairly comfortable, though space was a bit tight. Recording or photography wasn't allowed during the show, except for the final five minutes, staff held up signs before the show. As for the show itself--it was incredible! High energy, visually stunning, and a whole lot of fun. I've been to a few other theaters in the area, but The Bushnell easily ranks as one of my favorite experiences.
We saw the Lion King musical and it was such an amazing, emotional experience!! I grew up watching Disney VHS and this was truly a magical thing to see in person. I was truly touched when I heard the Khoisan "click" language used within the songs by Rafiki. It was such an amazing, authentic, cultural appreciation shown through the musical!! We had front row balcony seats and were able to see everything from the top aerial view (birds, elephants walking into the isle, Simba running out of the pride lands). Mezzanine will be my choice next time to see the detailed a LOT better.
Concert free at bushnell- Christmas . Was amazing . Lovely choral group and music. They hold 2 concerts per year. You will certainly be relaxed and revived.
This year was my 1st time attending this beautiful holiday event. My friend invited me as it's her 4th time coming to this event and told me I wouldn't want to miss it. She was absolutely right as It's a great way to start the holiday season in full force. It was their celebration of 100 years of the Travelers Chorale concert that has been going on from back in the day. The performance was so unbelievably beautiful to sit back and enjoy the music. The beautiful music they all sang together and produced an unbelievable talent and they also played their instruments with one of the local orchestras. The talent of the travelers employees and the hours that goes into a concert is priceless. It was so great to be up in the Mezzanine seating up high looking down of the orchestra playing all together. It was a complimentary holiday concert w a donation of can goods to help the food banks and they collect like 50,000 worth. There is also another concert they do for the springtime in May that I plan to attend again.
We saw Wicked. The total performance was absolute perfection. The Bushnell is beautiful with plenty of free parking in the area. But how about letting people sit in their seats and don't make everyone wait in the lobby so long as it gets more and more packed. That part was miserable.
This theater is so charming. I love the art deco design and that despite its capability to hold nearly 3,000 people, it feels small and cozy. I've seen several shows here, from musicals to game shows to stand up comedy. Each time, the entry process was super smooth and easy, the line for concessions moved quickly, and the view from our seats was great. I recently read that Mortensen hall has the largest hand painted ceiling mural of its type in the US. It is really pretty and looks so cool in the various lighting situations.
This was my first time at the Bushnell. The facility was an amazing looking place. I am from NYC and have been to Broadway shows but this place has them beat! This is the perfect venue to check out performances, enjoy the sights of the city and look at the history this building has to offer. The sound quality is fantastic, the staff is friendly, a very clean area, they offered hand sanitizer to all the attendees. The seating was great not a bad seat in the house. Thank you for reopening after times and for anyone like myself who never been it's a must see.
Great evening at the Bushnell last night. I love the atmosphere even before you come through those doors.The musicians outside,the parking lot attendants,the lights and posters are all so inviting and welcoming.Zoe was super nice and helped us navigate through a sea of people on the opening night for Hadestown!!Love all the volunteers and coats check is always appreciated!
I have always loved the Bushnell! Intimate seating and amazing plays without all of the hassel of going to New York or Boston! As a plus size person, I do appreciate that they can accommodate for plus size individuals and have specific seating available, however they are typically able to recommend seating as well. I typically feel more comfortable on the aisle seat in Orchestra or in the plus seating area. Otherwise I love the concession stand and their themed drinks for each performance. They really go above and beyond!
The Bushnell is one of the best parts of Connecticut! I've been to several shows they've hosted and have never been disappointed. It's a gorgeous building with lovely offerings. Recently, my partner and I saw Tootsie! We always leave laughing and in high spirits. Thank you to everyone on staff who ensures we have a safe, clean, and fun place to have fun! Can't wait to come back!
The theater is nice but needs to update the seating for larger people not everyone is a size 6. Very narrow rows, the staff were really friendly.
What an amazing show!!! I was in awe the entire time. We somehow had front tow seats which were spectacular. Parking was free and right across the street. Of course the entire theater leaving at the same time took awhile--be sure to back into your spot to leave easier. Can't wait to go back for more shows!!!
I love coming to the Bushnell to watch amazing shows. I seen three show here so far and had great experience for all of them. They have good parking, which is right across the street. It might take time to get out of the parking after the shows but it is manageable. I suggest to get there early to get good parking, light snacks, and some merchandise. The merch line is usually long but it is organized. All the staff is friendly and willing to help if you have questions. Seating in the theater can be a bit tight but it is not too bad. Overall I love coming here when there is show I want to see but don't feel like going to NYC to watch it. read more
1 year ago
The Bushnell is absolutely stunning, and the staff couldn't have been more friendly--I'm not sure what took me so long to finally see a show here! My family went to see Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon: The Super Live, and it definitely won't be our last visit. Navigating Hartford can be a bit stressful, but The Bushnell is conveniently located just a short drive from the highway exit and was easy to find. They offer free event parking in a lot right across the street, which made things even easier. We entered through the side marked "Box Office," where we found a cozy little café serving coffee, baked goods, salads, and sandwiches, along with the Box Office counter. From there, we passed through a small entrance where our tickets were scanned and we went through a quick security check. That led us into another lobby area. We arrived about an hour and a half before showtime, and it was already busy with people. The was merch was being sold on the third floor, and the line for T-shirts and light wands stretched through much of the building (and beyond!). It was a little confusing figuring out where to go next, but a kind staff member helped us out. He let us know that theater doors would open at 6:30, and since we had balcony seats, we'd need to take the elevator. Inside, the theater was breathtaking. From the walls to the ceiling, every detail was beautifully preserved--it's a treasure. Our seats were in the front row of the balcony, offering a fantastic view of the stage. They were fairly comfortable, though space was a bit tight. Recording or photography wasn't allowed during the show, except for the final five minutes, staff held up signs before the show. As for the show itself--it was incredible! High energy, visually stunning, and a whole lot of fun. I've been to a few other theaters in the area, but The Bushnell easily ranks as one of my favorite experiences. read more
2 years ago
We saw the Lion King musical and it was such an amazing, emotional experience!! I grew up watching Disney VHS and this was truly a magical thing to see in person. I was truly touched when I heard the Khoisan "click" language used within the songs by Rafiki. It was such an amazing, authentic, cultural appreciation shown through the musical!! We had front row balcony seats and were able to see everything from the top aerial view (birds, elephants walking into the isle, Simba running out of the pride lands). Mezzanine will be my choice next time to see the detailed a LOT better. read more
10 months ago
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This year was my 1st time attending this beautiful holiday event. My friend invited me as it's her 4th time coming to this event and told me I wouldn't want to miss it. She was absolutely right as It's a great way to start the holiday season in full force. It was their celebration of 100 years of the Travelers Chorale concert that has been going on from back in the day. The performance was so unbelievably beautiful to sit back and enjoy the music. The beautiful music they all sang together and produced an unbelievable talent and they also played their instruments with one of the local orchestras. The talent of the travelers employees and the hours that goes into a concert is priceless. It was so great to be up in the Mezzanine seating up high looking down of the orchestra playing all together. It was a complimentary holiday concert w a donation of can goods to help the food banks and they collect like 50,000 worth. There is also another concert they do for the springtime in May that I plan to attend again. read more
We saw Wicked. The total performance was absolute perfection. The Bushnell is beautiful with plenty of free parking in the area. But how about letting people sit in their seats and don't make everyone wait in the lobby so long as it gets more and more packed. That part was miserable. read more
2 years ago
3 years ago
This theater is so charming. I love the art deco design and that despite its capability to hold nearly 3,000 people, it feels small and cozy. I've seen several shows here, from musicals to game shows to stand up comedy. Each time, the entry process was super smooth and easy, the line for concessions moved quickly, and the view from our seats was great. I recently read that Mortensen hall has the largest hand painted ceiling mural of its type in the US. It is really pretty and looks so cool in the various lighting situations. read more
This was my first time at the Bushnell. The facility was an amazing looking place. I am from NYC and have been to Broadway shows but this place has them beat! This is the perfect venue to check out performances, enjoy the sights of the city and look at the history this building has to offer. The sound quality is fantastic, the staff is friendly, a very clean area, they offered hand sanitizer to all the attendees. The seating was great not a bad seat in the house. Thank you for reopening after times and for anyone like myself who never been it's a must see. read more
Great evening at the Bushnell last night. I love the atmosphere even before you come through those doors.The musicians outside,the parking lot attendants,the lights and posters are all so inviting and welcoming.Zoe was super nice and helped us navigate through a sea of people on the opening night for Hadestown!!Love all the volunteers and coats check is always appreciated! read more
4 years ago
I have always loved the Bushnell! Intimate seating and amazing plays without all of the hassel of going to New York or Boston! As a plus size person, I do appreciate that they can accommodate for plus size individuals and have specific seating available, however they are typically able to recommend seating as well. I typically feel more comfortable on the aisle seat in Orchestra or in the plus seating area. Otherwise I love the concession stand and their themed drinks for each performance. They really go above and beyond! read more
The Bushnell is one of the best parts of Connecticut! I've been to several shows they've hosted and have never been disappointed. It's a gorgeous building with lovely offerings. Recently, my partner and I saw Tootsie! We always leave laughing and in high spirits. Thank you to everyone on staff who ensures we have a safe, clean, and fun place to have fun! Can't wait to come back! read more
2 years ago
The theater is nice but needs to update the seating for larger people not everyone is a size 6. Very narrow rows, the staff were really friendly. read more
4 years ago
What an amazing show!!! I was in awe the entire time. We somehow had front tow seats which were spectacular. Parking was free and right across the street. Of course the entire theater leaving at the same time took awhile--be sure to back into your spot to leave easier. Can't wait to go back for more shows!!! read more
5 years ago
Great theater with . . . Get ready for it, FREE PARKING. All venues should have free parking The venue was quick checking COVID vaccine cards and IDs Had three stations set up. Will call was fairly quick. Brandon Baker was so pleasant and polite. Kindness is appreciated read more
4 years ago
2 years ago
The Bushell is one of my favorite attractions of the city of Hartford. I've gone many times in he past 10 plus years to see a variety of musicals such as Mama Mia, Dirty Dancing, Newsies, Rent, Carol King's Beautiful, Motown, and many others. I've seen comedy shows and a couple of concerts. I personally don't think The Bushnell is the best venue for concerts, but they don't host them here too often. I personally like to purchase tickets for shows in person. They can also be purchased on their website, or on the phone for an additional convenience fee. The parking lot is conveniently located across the street, it is free, and there's always plenty of space. The theatre has just under 3000 seats available. No seat is a bad view. I'm always impressed with the productions, the sound quality, the actors, and the performance as a whole. As far as concerts I've seen John Mellencamp and Diana Ross. They both have large songbooks, and while the performances were great, I feel like there was a time pressure to wrap up by a certain time. Neither of the artists preformed certain songs I was expecting from them, because there the time was limited. The Bushnell stage is intended for musicals its best to keep it for that purpose. The most recent show I saw was the Pretty Woman Musical. This was exceptionally well done. The leads and the supporting actors were all amazing, their vocals and stage presence had my eyes on them the whole 2.5 hours. I left happy! If you're looking for a quality theatre experience The Bushnell will not disappoint! read more
4 years ago
Saw Mean Girls here! The show was fantastic. Not a bad seat in the house. The venue is quaint. Snacks and beverages for sale as well! Great option to see a local show for a reasonable price! read more
Prior to being dragged to see The Grinch this old grump really dug in his heals. This live stage version of the Grinch's journey to a life changing evening was very well done. The cast, young and old, fabulous. Lyrics stayed true to the great Dr Seuss' story of spirit, redemption, and the simple un-hyped meaning of Christmas. I'd have to say it brought out a little more Holiday Spirit in this Old Lump of Coal. Happy Holidays!!! read more
I love the Bushnell!!! Everyone of our visits have always ended up with a resounding BRAVO! The productions are excellent and the fact you don't have to deal with the hustle and bustle of NYC makes it a plus. The theater is beautiful, practically no bad seat in the house. The staff at the Bushnell is always great and helpful. We drive up and park (no parking fee) which makes it even better. In addition the seating is great, you actually have space between you and the next row. We have been to several productions and can't wait to go again. Keep bringing quality productions and we will show up again and again. read more
4 years ago
Beautiful, clean venue with friendly staff. Parking is free and only a short walk away. Concession stand prices were cheaper than Boston. Sound quality was great from the balcony. Took a long time to get to our balcony seats since you can only get up via an elevator. Balcony is very steep, saw a lot of elderly struggling to do the steps so please take that into consideration when buying tickets. read more
2 years ago
I do love the Bushnell - inside and out, the building is beautiful. They are a well organized machine when it comes to a show - employees exactly where you need them to be, patient people positioned outside to make sure no one is run over crossing the street, and a fair amount of seating to wait for the doors to open. Their employees are also amazingly kind - I have been moved to a new seat because of their observation and consideration. Which brings us to the downside of the Bushnell - the seats are small and don't have a great deal of leg room (specifically the balcony and mezzanine). Definitely read the seat details online because some are wider and/or have greater legroom than others. The last show I went to, I didn't realize my seat was right against a wall (it was an aisle seat) and the person in the next seat had already claimed the armrest. But because their people are amazing, it was fixed! Parking can also be stressful, especially if you're like me and hate city parking, but there is a lot open across the street, and if you get there early it's no problem. read more
We love the Bushnell, we've seen Stomp, The Waitress, and most recently Shen Yun, the theater is rife with just breathtaking architecture and paint and molding. The shows are always done exceptionally well, not different from Broadway at all. The parking is free across the street, but can get tricky if you don't get there at least 30 minutes before the play. The prices for water, snacks, and adult beverages inside are movie theater marked up high, but expected. The bathrooms require stair climbing and descending so be forewarned if you have special needs of any kind. read more
4 years ago
Beautiful theater & really probably not a bad seat in the house! We sat balcony front row middle & had a great view of the stage! We saw Hamilton which was outstanding! I have to say after watching the Broadway version on Disney I didn't think anything could be better but the actors that we saw perform last night far exceeded any expectations I had & I will say I can't wait to see another live performance!! I laughed, I cried but mostly importantly I enjoyed every minute of the show & the talent I witnessed last night literally gave me goosebumps!! Highly recommend seeing Hamilton live if you have the chance! My daughter & I thoroughly enjoyed every minute of it! The Bushnell is a beautiful historic theater! Gorgeous interior & they did a beautiful lighting up of the walls for Pride month too! read more
I've been here many times- for the Hartford Symphony, for the Nutmeg Ballet, and next door at the Mortensen Theater for Diana Krall and Westside Story. I love this place! The halls are beautiful and the acoustics are great. I have yet to have a bad seat. There is ample parking across the street, a short walk to the theaters. There is always a variety of shows going on, and prices are reasonable (compared to NYC!). I hope to see and hear many more shows at this fantastic venue! read more
In the four years since I first reviewed the Bushnell after seeing "Million Dollar Quartet", I've been back nine times, so I guess that after my tenth visit I'm due for an update. I've seen some great shows here, of which the very best were The Book of Mormon, Beautiful, Kinky Boots, and The Music of Michael Jackson. The pretty good shows were Ukulelist Jake Shimabakuru, The Music of the Eagles, Pippin, and Million Dollar Quartet. The "Just OK" shows were The Spy Who Loved Me (James Bond movies and TV spy show music), and some Harry Potter themed show I took my son to. The Bushnell experience is simply stellar -free parking in the huge lot across the street, dozens of helpful volunteers to escort you to your seats and answer any questions, and places to grab a snack, a coffee, or a cocktail. And the theater itself? Well to state it simply, it is gorgeous and spectacular. The word "opulent" comes to mind - just check out some of the Yelp photos. What a wonderful place. And in an ultimate Yelp random twist of fate, sitting next to me at The Book of Mormon was fellow Yelper Kelly C! read more
2 years ago
10 years ago
I love the Bushnell. I have seen so many shows here. They have two different spaces for performances. Mortensen Hall is the larger venue, and is where the large shows, such as Broadway performances, are held. The Belding Theater is smaller and more intimate, there are truly no bad seats in this theater, so if you have the chance to see a performance here, definitely do! You would never guess that the performance day operations are largely volunteer run. The ushers are so professional, and are well versed in facts related to the performance as well as general Bushnell information. While not smaller "community" theater, we still want to ensure that the Bushnell stays around for a long time, so please patronize the theater whenever you can! read more
9 years ago
Loved my experience at the Bushnell theatre its a very unique and grand place for performance art. I went to see Le miserable.. I was WOWed with the performance and stage setting how they transformed from one scene to another.The live orchestra made it even better.I'm even thinking of getting season tickets. The seating is really tight and if your seated behind a tall head ( actually they were not ever that tall) it blocks your entire view or just get a bit more expensive seats. They have a cafe just outside of the box office and happy hour drinks at the bar inside... the bar had complimentary hors d'oeuvre before the show. Parking is easy plenty around the building. read more
2 years ago
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More info about The Bushnell
166 Capitol Ave
Hartford, CT 06106
Downtown
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(860) 987-5900
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http://www.bushnell.org/
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