Walnut Street Theatre Reviews Summary

Historical Significance

Pros:

• "The building is full of history as evidenced by the photos and old playbills hanging on every available wall in the lobbies."
• "Famous actresses like Audrey and Katherine Hepburn as well as Sidney Poitier have performed on stage at the Walnut."
• "The first time I visited the theatre I was taken with its history."
• "The walls were covered in artifacts and stories about the theatre's history, which were very interesting to read and look at during intermission."
• "Come early to check out the historic posters/memorabilia of America's oldest theater."
• "So surprised to find America's oldest theatre in the centre of Philly."
• "Lots of photos around in the lobby showing the history of the theatre itself, dating all the way back to 1809."

Cons:

• "This theatre doesn’t have diversity on its board. This theatre does not pay fair wages."
• "This theatre has handled a PR issue in the most disgraceful way and are attempting to silence artists who are speaking out about abuse."

Staff and Service

Pros:

• "The gentleman cleaning the bathroom was very more friendlier than the women working there, he told us to enjoy the show ladies."
• "Unexpectedly a member of our group was in a wheelchair upon day of the show and the staff quickly was able to accommodate her seating for us with no questions, even though the show was sold out."
• "We wanted to give a shout out to the manager of Ticketing, Jeff. He went above and beyond to help us on an issue we had."
• "The very friendly box office staff gave me an industry rate even though I didn't have an equity card to show her."
• "Everyone is friendly and truly a great experience every time."
• "The staff is very friendly and attentive."
• "All volunteers/employees are polite and friendly, from scanning tickets, and helping you find your seats, to helping you purchase from the gift stand and snack bars."

Cons:

• "The staff they have this year are rude."
• "Some of the staff there was not so nice to me and my coworkers who took some individuals with behavioral issues..not able to hold their own tickets..we were met with rude attitudes."

Seating and Comfort

Pros:

• "The theater was also very comfortable with the air circulating."
• "Seats are plush and comfortable."
• "The seats are quite spacious for an older theater."
• "Even the nosebleed seats provided a good view of the stage, and the sound quality is top notch."
• "Every seat is a good seat."
• "The cast was amazing and the music was great..plenty of good views no matter where you sit."
• "It's the oldest theater in the U.S. Comfortable seats and a great view from the right orchestra section."

Cons:

• "The seating leaves a little to be desired."
• "The only problem is at the bathrooms or downstairs and I always fear that some of the older people will take a tumble."
• "Getting up to the top is treacherous for anyone with balance issues. No railings. Very, very steep!"
• "The seating leg room is very tight."
• "Space between rows is a bit cramped."
• "Unfortunately it has one glaring problem that everyone in our party universally agreed on, which is that the seating is in poor condition and is uncomfortable."
• "The seats have zero leg room, so if you're on the larger size, you may be extra cramped."

Accessibility

Pros:

• "I'm physically challenged, and my friend found out that she could reserve a parking spot in the lot right next to the door."
• "The people are so nice at Walnut Street Theater and it's easy to park next door to it."
• "Parking is very convenient."
• "Many parking options very close by."
• "There is a paid parking lot next door which is very convenient."

Cons:

• "My GRANDMOTHER ! WHO WAS ONE OF MY VERY BEST FRIENDS, just passed away last night. Called just moments ago to reschedule tonight's tickets. R.J CHARGED us a fee! Because there is no accommodations for a death in the family."
• "Not hugely handicapped accessible. No elevator to lower floor."
• "I didn't see many places where you could have someone sit in theatre with a wheelchair."