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| - First time being to this venue downtown, and it was overall a nice evening/experience. It isn't the venue's fault parking is stupidly expensive... but can't complain when there are many parking lots/garages to choose from in the area- so the location is not bad at all- not as close to many downtown eateries, which is a bit of a hassle, but hopefully there will be more dining options in the area in the future.
The venue was fairly easy to navigate, but also a little difficult. There was not a lot of distinction between areas & where certain areas are located. But man- you can find a bar/drink stand or lounge in there easier than anything! So- no worries on concessions & drinks- plentiful, so no long lines & you can bring it all into the theatre!
What was less than 5 stars is that more ushers would be a great help when you get past the second level... upper areas/seats were harder to find & lack of whom to ask for direction. And the theatre itself, along with technological aspects is a bit outdated & needs some upgrading. The seats were tiny older flip-down w/ cheap, plastic textured armrests & the itchy, uncomfortable fabric you find on the couch from your great grandmother's basement. Not roomy or comfortable for 3+ hours. Similar to the seats in a late 80-90's movie theatre. We are past that... you can get a seat better than your la-z-boy at a Harkins for less the time/show & a third the cost. But I do love the balcony area, especially the very back row w/ no one behind you, due to the perfect, unhindered view- especially if you sit dead center of the very back. No matter how tall the person in front of you is- you can see WAY better without any obstruction from the balcony seats. Cannot say the same for the lower levels- seat staging is not as steep as the upper level slopes significantly for good view! Just a bit steep & takes a minute to adjust to when you are a bit frightened of heights.
Then, it comes to the actual stage, lighting, sound system, etc... we are from small town Alaska where we are used to a little less than the latest & greatest. We noticed immediately how poor the sound system is for the venue. Very much poor quality, little speakers/amplifiers & just not music to your ears like more upgraded & current systems at other venues. Similar for the lighting- pretty old school & mediocre for where we are at with technology these days & the shows other venues in the area put on.
The outside is modern & nice looking, the lobby is also pretty decent, mostly decent to the large plate glass windows to the ceiling... but lack of areas to sit while waiting & poor signage to restrooms & other amenities. It was a bit of a pain finding our area & seats, and the experience would have been FAR more amazing with some basic upgrades to the seating, technology, stage area & a bit more usher assistance. Because for as much as concert prices go, especially after the added fees- I feel like the venue severely lacks in what others offer for the same price but better experience.
But overall, it works for its purpose. No lack of concessions, no pain in the butt rules/staff- security was also quick & easy to get through- was pretty impressed- ESPECIALLY w/ the gentleman who made sure to ask permission to open my mother's purse, then proceeded to double-check for her approval to remove items or shuffle inside to see contents- highly respectful & professional! It is a decent place to enjoy a show, but am looking more forward to enjoying the venue once they decide to upgrade it a bit.
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