Byham Theatre in the cultural district is smaller than other places but you get an intimacy not found elsewhere. The orchestra pit, if you sit close, is available visually. The performers manage an entire show from the sound angle and do it very well. All the attention for plays is on the stage and performers. Don't forget the studio musicians who create the wall of sound... stop at intermission and say hi to them. We saw the opening night for Grease last night -- came off very well indeed. Another 5 runs and the glitches that only a sound / performance "foodie" would notice will be gone. Buy the tickets online. Easy to do through the Cultural Arts www pages. I had changed my tickets for better seating but forgot to bring them -- and it was all taken care of quickly and professionally. Will update after the next visit this summer.
Roy