Show Information for First Time Guests

Are you planning your first visit to Playhouse Square and wondering what to expect? Or maybe it's been a while and you need a refresher. Expand the links below to learn more!

Arrive Early

We suggest you arrive at least 45 minutes before your scheduled curtain time. Arriving early allows you time to leisurely park, visit the facilities or concession stand and find your seat without disrupting other guests’ show experience.

During our KeyBank Broadway Series shows, you may also join us in the Upper Allen for our Broadway Buzz pre-show talk, which takes place one hour prior to your scheduled show. For more information about our Broadway Buzz program, visit our Free Broadway Buzz Events page.

Rules & Security Information

We wish for every guest to have a wonderful, unforgettable experience during their visit. To provide that assurance, we ask that all noise-making devices (cell phones, pagers, wristwatch alarms) are turned off and that, when possible, our guests remain seated during all productions while keeping chatter to a very minimal level. 

Candy wrappers and other noises made by food or beverage consumption can also be a distraction, so we ask that you keep this in mind during the show.

Playhouse Square is a firearms-free facility. No one except on-duty law enforcement officials is permitted to possess or carry a firearm on the premises.

If the ticket holder’s conduct endangers or disrupts the performers or other guests, Playhouse Square reserves the right to remove the ticket holder from the premises. No refunds will be made.

What to Wear

Wear whatever makes you feel most comfortable! Playhouse Square is your performing arts center and we want you to feel most welcome, regardless of wardrobe. The type of performance can sometimes be the best indicator of what is most often worn by others. For example, the audiences might be dressier for a live theater event than they might be for a pop/rock concert, comedy or family show. 

Proper footwear may be a consideration, as most of our historic theaters do not have elevator, and you may need to access your seats via stairs.

Ultimately, attire is really up to you and your guests--we just want you here with us, and comfortable enough to enjoy your experience! Please feel free to call 216-771-8403 for more specific advice.

Accessibility Information

We provide accessible restrooms and seating, companion seating, audio description, hearing assisted services, large-print programs and wheelchair assistance. Service animals are welcome. Click here or call 216-640-8871 for more information. (Please note that our historical theaters do not have elevators.)

Parking

The Playhouse Square Garage is located at East 15th and Chester. The garage offers a covered walkway into the theaters, accessible from the second floor of the garage. Elevators are available on each parking level. Purchase Parking Pass Online.

Note: On the day of your performance, you will not be able to purchase Playhouse Square Parking Garage passes online. Drive-up on-site parking may still be available at the published on-site rate. 

RedCoat volunteers are available at each theater to provide escorts with wheelchairs for guests who may need assistance getting to their seats. We regret that we are not permitted to assist guests with getting into and out of vehicles. 

For information on group bus parking, please call 216-664-6050.

Concessions

We offer a variety of items such as candy, cookies, soft pretzels, assorted nuts, Coca Cola products, bottled water  and coffee. At some events, popcorn and hot dogs may also be available for purchase. Our bars serve a selection of beers, wines and spirits. 

Please note: Food & beverage selections vary by performance and guests may be prohibited from taking these items into theaters for select shows or performances. Signs will be posted if food and beverages are not permitted in the theater.

Nearby Restaurants

There are many fine restaurants located in the Playhouse Square district. Find out who’s in the neighborhood, hours of operation and what each restaurant has to offer by visiting our Hotel & Dining Guide.

How can I learn more about the shows?

During scheduled performances of the shows in our KeyBank Broadway Series, we are proud to present Broadway Buzz, a 30-minute discussion that starts one hour before each of the show. Brought to you by our Education Department, Broadway Buzz will help you better understand all that goes into bringing these rich stories to life on the big stage! Please join us for this free event which takes place in the Upper Allen and take the opportunity to learn more about the show you are about to see.

To find out more about Broadway Buzz programs, visit our Free Broadway Buzz Events page.

How do I get More Playhouse Square?

Check out our events calendar, or learn more about how you can get more Playhouse Square as a volunteer, donor or season ticket holder.

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Have a question we didn’t answer? Contact us!