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The Bushnell Performing Arts Center
166 Capitol Ave, Hartford, CT 06106, United States
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Ti
Review №1

Can’t go wrong with this place. An amazing theater with esthetics that would make your jaw drop. Being going since I was a child. They always bring in the best broadway shows and there isn’t a bad seat in the house. The seats are a little snug for both the tall in height and round in nature. Can’t wait when they open there doors again!

Ja
Review №2

A true gem, one of the most gorgeous buildings to experience a play, concert or similar live event in. We are fortunate to sit in the Orchestra section for the Broadway series, however have experienced shows from the Mezzanine and Balcony levels as well and there really isn’t a bad seat in the house. I also love how they support local arts and education, and their volunteers do a terrific job on show nights. Very family friendly environment that we have and will continue to support for years!

K-
Review №3

I surprised my wife and I took her here to see the Lion King. The show was spectacular. Our view was good. Te took the fast-track bus into Hartford so we didnt have to deal with parking.It is a little pricey, but given the magnitude of the production, I believe it was well worth it.There were lots of people walking to and from the theater, so it felt safe.I would do this again if the right show were to become available.Lion King is a classic and it was an easy decision to get tickets and go see it.There are a few snacks and drinks that you can get while here, but the real attraction is on the stage. From the sets, to the talented actors & actresses on the stage, to the people behind the scenes making it all happen, it was a wonderful night out.

Ga
Review №4

Always fantastic. The shows are equal to what you’d see on broadway and the beautiful theater transports you right there. Parking is plentiful on street or in the free lot. The staff is always friendly and helpful and there are many areas to get drinks and snacks and snacks. The only reason I gave 4 instead of 5 stars is the Cafe. Sadly we’ve had 2 bad experiences with the food and very limited seating / tables.

Ro
Review №5

The Salute to Vienna New years concert was great! The dancing, the singing and of course the music were a sight and sound to experience. Very well done and greatly enjoyed.Theres not a bad seat in the house. If there is a show you think you would enjoy that is going to be held at the Bushnell it would be worth going to. Go have an experience youre sure to enjoy.

Al
Review №6

If you are lucky enough to score orchestra seats the new entrance & design mix coming in and out the doors by the bar so easy! Also thats the closest door to womens room. Parking on Buckland Street is free after 6 p.m. and it takes less time to walk there. As of this posting the parking behind the old state office building is limited. When you see the statue of Lafayette just stay to the right.

An
Review №7

Here with the family to see Rent. Balcony seats, third row. What a great view. This is a beautiful theater. Seats are not bad. A little tight for this big guy, but thats not their fault. I have seen Rent on Broadway. Shows here at the Bushnell are just as good and half the cost. Free parking across the street too. Nice night out.

Em
Review №8

I always love seeing shows here. Ive seen many since I was a kid and Ive never had a bad experience at the Bushnell. Its where I saw my first musical and created my love for Broadway shows. They have two beautiful theatres with very helpful staff and volunteers.

ju
Review №9

Great place to see anything. Great set up. Free parking. Not a bad seat in the house

Er
Review №10

Went here to see a Sunday matinee of Hello Dolly. Very well done! The actors/actresses were excellent and so were the dance numbers! I also enjoyed watching the orchestra in the pit as they played a perfect show! Looking forward to the next one.

An
Review №11

Its a great place to see theater! I have seen quite a few fantastic Broadway shows.If youre in the nosebleed sections you will pray that no fat people sit next to you because the seats are ridiculously small

Ry
Review №12

Their new digital stage backdrops are amazing! Great balance of actual movable props and new tech. If you get a chance to go see Anastasia while its playing here I definitely reccomend getting some tickets.

Go
Review №13

I’ve been here plenty of time. We highly recommend this place. Always purchase your tickets directly from them it’s much more affordable. This is a beautiful place. Give yourself plenty of time for arrival. You don’t want to miss any part of any of the events they give here.

Br
Review №14

Every visit to the Bushnell is like going back in time to a bygone era. Nobody said you had to put on the Ritz and dress to the mines to enjoy a show there, but its nice to. A beautiful venue that gets top notch performances each and every season without having to go to NYC or Boston is a real treat.It is steeped in legacy and is a real pride of Hartford. Catching a matinee and then strolling Bushnell Park is something in which dreams are made. The staff is always pleasant. The food, drinks, and service provided by Maxs Catering is second to none.Be sure to check out there website and see what shows are playing. Even if you are only in town for the weekend, make it a point to take in the historic beauty and ambiance of The Bushnell.

Ke
Review №15

90 year old music and theatre venueA block away from the CapitalArrive early, parking is scarceThey do have a bar in the lobby and another at mezzanine levelAverage is about $10 to $12 for a premium drink. Small snack s and candy available as well. There is not a bad seat in the theater. Side seats on the mezzanine are sometimes cheaper, and well worth it

Je
Review №16

Beautiful abs historic theater with tons of offerings for all tastes. We saw Eva Schloss, Anne Franks stepsister, speak of her experience in hiding and then in Auschwitz. Amazing!

Ch
Review №17

Love the free event parking and will choose over other city performing arts centers! Easy in and easy out of parking lot and theater. Friendly staff.

SJ
Review №18

Very nice staff! The theatre was very clean, and despite being on the second balcony I had a relatively good view of the stage. The place was well kept, and the staff were all very polite to us when we needed help with seating. The theatre was in good condition too. Overall, a pleasant experience.

An
Review №19

Whether its seeing a ballet, show or concert, everything is better at a grand theater, such as the Bushnell. The classic grandeur and sophistication of this timeless theater makes me nastolglic for a slower time. It always makes me happy to see families come together for an event here.

Ad
Review №20

This theater is one of the best I have been too. The size is perfect where there is not a bad seat in the place! Also the staff was friendly, easy to navigate within and so comfortable that my 3 year old sat quietly in awe of everything he was seeing. Definitely would attend another event here!

Ri
Review №21

My girlfriend and I go there about 4 times a year. Very nice and clean theater, staff is really helpfull. We have seen some incredible plays there. Plenty of parking and usually the dress is casual. I prefer going here instead of the movie theater. Highly recommend.

De
Review №22

We saw Joe Bonamassa, a great show, highly recommend. We had balcony seats and the view was very good. The ceiling art is amazing.Pros: beautiful theater, free parking, security line moves quickly, friendly staff, clean venue.Cons: seats are small, cramped, no leg or arm room, and get increasingly uncomfortable as the night goes on which really takes away from the enjoyment of the performance.

Ma
Review №23

The show was delightful, but the seats are VERY small. I admit that I am a larger woman, but not so large that I cant sit comfortably in other venues. I was very disappointed with paying so much for a seat and having to stand for the 2nd half of the performance.The staff was pleasant.

Ro
Review №24

Been here numerous times over my life. Going tonight to see the ski movie Warren Miller Productions. Beautiful place to visit. Miss the organist that use to play. He was really really good!

Sa
Review №25

Saw Cats.....it was amazing. The building is beautiful.

Ca
Review №26

I would probably would have given this 4 stars but I couldnt see almost the entire play. I just closed my eyes most of the time and listened to it. What little I did see was very good. The singing sounded wonderful but really missed out on what looked like a really good production.

Ma
Review №27

The HSO is such a gem we can call our own. I was so glad to get out there with the family for the Christmas show this past weekend. Im still ear to ear with my smile.The staff was great, and the room is stunning.

Am
Review №28

We went to see Illuminate. What can anyone say that isnt great about The Bushnell. All staff, ushers etc., are helpful and friendly. I finally got to see the glass sculpture on the 3rd floor. Pictures attached.

Sh
Review №29

Great, exciting performance. We look forward to going again and again. Worth the drive. Secure and beautiful setting

N
Review №30

The staff here are wonderful. Theyre always super polite and accommodating. Parking is free for shows here (I hope that never changes!) and they have such a great variety of shows that come through every year. Theres a convenient 15-minute parking spot right in front of the box office if you stop by to buy your tickets in person.

Ta
Review №31

Love the Bushnell! Beautiful theater that is very well organized and run. Lots of variety for the types of performances you can find here. Parking is free, which is a plus.

Ca
Review №32

I just adore going to shows at the Bushnell. Every seat is a great seat. GREAT shows are always coming!

Ch
Review №33

Great historical theater with incredible art deco ceiling. Top level talent and productions

Do
Review №34

Beautiful venue. Saw Neil Gaiman here. Bar was not overpriced. Parking was a little tricky.

Hu
Review №35

Beautiful theater great architecture. Ample parking or Valet. Close to a few restaurants including one next door

Ra
Review №36

We liked the venue. Elegant, clean, classy.Two large theatres and some ballrooms.There was free parking across the street.

Be
Review №37

What is there not to love about The Bushnell? It is old and beautiful. There are a lot of stairs and limited special parking, but the venue is beautiful. They have huge parking lots across the street, so if you do not have issues with mobility, parking is not a problem. I attended a graduation there, and had it not been for the rude security employee at the end, it would have been a five star experience. Even with the crowd; the ushers, elevator operator, the guides, they were excellent. Every employee that I encountered up until the end, they were very patient and professional.

Sk
Review №38

What a great show. Glenn Miller Orchestra was excellent. The Bushnell is a wonderful venue. A bit pricey but still worth it.

Ja
Review №39

Saw the lion king, it was fun and brought back memories. Staff was great and helpful.

Gu
Review №40

Amazing performance. Beautiful place. Enjoyed the place lots

Ch
Review №41

Great place for shows. The chairs are comfortable and the spaces between them are decent. Every seat is pretty much a good view. There are also two mezzanines, one being really far back.The orchestra seating, where I was, is not too close to the stage as it may appear. I was able to still see everything pretty clearly and well.Great place to go just to go if you have the money and find a show youd be interested in watching.

do
Review №42

Every time I see a performance I am impressed. I take every opportunity to enjoy the excellent programing offered by the Bushnell. Their Christmas concert and performances are exceptional.

Al
Review №43

Ive been to about a dozen shows at The Bushnell and have never had a single complaint. First of all, the quality of every theater performance Ive seen is on par with broadway. Also the facility is clean, and well laid out- the seats are clearly marked. There is also free parking across the street from the theater which is fantastic for the theater being in the middle of a city. If you cant see a show on broadway I would recommend seeing if the show is coming to the Bushnell, many times show tour there.

Ri
Review №44

We attended a wonderful concert of Ladysmith Black Mambazo. The hall is great for acoustics. Be sure to empty your pockets of things like pocket knives or youll end up running back to you car.

Aa
Review №45

Great theatre for live entertainment. A wide variety of shows for all ages. I enjoy coming here and love that they offer free parking. Thats hard to come by in the state with the exception of casinos.

Me
Review №46

Very nice place, staff was very helpful and friendly.

Sa
Review №47

Saw Shen Yun with mother and granddaughter. Had a great time and enjoyed the performance. The Bushnell is an amazing place

le
Review №48

Great venue time and time again from finding Neverland to Edgar Alan Poes works .....always helpful staff and comfortable atmosphere.

Am
Review №49

Lion King is filled with passion, honesty, and life lessons. Talent is beyond expectations, excellent for all ages!

Ma
Review №50

We watched a ballet that was very unique. The ballet company performed several different styles of ballet, then at the end had time for Q & A with the audience to explain the choreography, styles and inspiration. It was a nice performance and a fun night. The Bushnell staff is always kind and helpful. I enjoyed my time here with family.

Ch
Review №51

Great venue fur seeing shows. Easy to get to. Easy convenient parking. Easy to get into the theater and easy to leave again. Easy access for handicapped. Coat check and snack stands with alcohol available.

Bi
Review №52

Saw The Lion King. Fabulous show and the Bushnell is beautiful. I like that they offer valet parking.

Da
Review №53

First time saw Shan Yu Chinese dancing and performing arts had great seats saw everything at the stade very clean great place to see parking was easy cant wait till next year to see the new show

Te
Review №54

I have never been to the Bushnell and I was quite impressed. It is a very nice facility, the main body of the theatre looks to be 1930s style with lots of art deco all over the place. The lounge on the second floor was also quite impressive with lots of ornate woodwork and carvings. The new section of the building had a distinctively 1980s feel in design but it was showing odd new carpet that gave it a today feel. Overall if there was an event that I was interested in here I would attend.

Ho
Review №55

Great sensory program thank you to all the staff for being so friendly and accommodating.

Sh
Review №56

I had a staff member grab my shoulder to redirect me because I didnt immediately see where to scan my ticket. You quite simply do not touch your customers.

Ma
Review №57

Saw a great show of the HSO in the front row. Great venue, free parking, and a super way to spend a night out in the city.

Ch
Review №58

Enjoyed the show very much but dont feel things are properly marked. Very confusing to find your way around unless you keep asking the staff.

Ni
Review №59

We saw the spongebob musical. Very colorful exciting event my daughter an I really enjoyed ourselves

Sa
Review №60

Loved it. Our first time. High quality performances

Ke
Review №61

This is a beautiful theater with fantastic acoustics and friendly staff.

Re
Review №62

Very organized and efficient taking tickets and steating. Very clean. Front balcony had good view for people who cant spend a lot on tickets.

Tr
Review №63

This is a great time. Only suggestion, revamp the aisles. Seats are way to close together.

Sa
Review №64

We experienced The Lion King at The Bushnell and it was awesome! My only criticism was that the seats were cramped. But Im 63 and used to such things. :)

Ri
Review №65

This is a great place to see a show. The acoustics are fantastic, the seats are comfortable and the staff is very friendly.

Ma
Review №66

Great venue, free parking. Just wish the bar inside offered more bar atmosphere other than cafeterias. Time to serve wine on a real glass!

El
Review №67

Have seen many shows here over the years. A beautiful venue in Hartford with easy access to dining within walking distance. Ample parking directly across the street. Only negative is the seating is very tight and not very comfortable, especially during a long performance.

St
Review №68

The atmosphere was perfect the production value of Swan Lake was second to none and its easy to get to. Parking wasnt a challenge for us but may be for others as parking is sparse in this area of Hartford.

Je
Review №69

Always love coming to the Bushnell! Also love the Warren Miller ski movies.

Ka
Review №70

What a beautiful theater! The seats are actually comfortable. The sound crew does a VERY good job. The show...ah, the show! I was able to see RENT and it was really a great time. Thank you, Bushnell!

Ri
Review №71

Come From Away was a beautiful show. Love being able to see shows like this at this grand theater with plenty of free parking, then heading home. So lucky to have The Bushnell so close.Looking forward to The Sound of Music later in May.

S
Review №72

Beautiful building and performances have always been great. Negatives are that tickets are very expensive and when I have brought my daughter they rarely have enough booster seats. If you dont have front row seats or someone tall sits in front of you it can be difficult to enjoy the show.

Th
Review №73

Great Performance but the rows were a little close together.

Th
Review №74

The upgrades are great, plenty of bathrooms and sitting areas. Parking is a challenge right now due to construction.

HG
Review №75

Beautiful theater- tickets are a bit pricey but it is a top-notch venue

Da
Review №76

How the grinch stole Christmas was amazing. Great performance by the very talented actors and amazing production by the stage crafter.

Da
Review №77

Fantastic venue to see and hear any kind of musical event. Weve seen musicals, plays, and symphony orchestra events and have never been disappointed. Free parking across the street and very easy to get here from Rte 84 and 91, and maybe more importantly, its easy to get out and back on the highway. All this makes for a very enjoyable experience.

Ro
Review №78

We saw the 1903 Circus and thoroughly enjoyed it. The theater is laid out well and plenty of accessible seating.

Ma
Review №79

Great venue...... very ornate and great acoustics. The whole building is extremely elegant even the restrooms!!!!

Cr
Review №80

Saw the lion king and it was amazing ! The staff at the Bushnell were very pleasant and helpful looking forward to doing again soon.

Ma
Review №81

I was invited by friends to the symphony here. Acoutics were spectacular. The atmosphere was electric. I used to live in Connecticut. Now I remember how much I loved it here! SUCH CULTURE!

To
Review №82

This is aa beautiful but huge theater. Great place to see a show but keep in mind that the balcony is far and its seats are cramped. Mezzanine or orchestra is the way to go.

ge
Review №83

Patti Smith was awesome last night! Shes still a great performer with a unique style and knows how to get the crowd on their feet. All her classics, Because the Night, Dancing barefoot, Twenty Fifth floor ....

Ja
Review №84

Easy to find. Comfortable seats and a hilarious show. We enjoyed it.

Jo
Review №85

Show was good. The theater was beautiful. Parking was not that great.

Ch
Review №86

Stunning venue. Friendly staff. Great shows.

Ia
Review №87

Love this space, love the place! Makes me feel like Im back home in the Manhattans theater district! Also, they have a great selection of different events from orchestral replays of movie music set to the actual movie to off Broadway shows of the highest caliber.Just saw Hamilton there and it was PHENOMENAL!

Do
Review №88

Beautiful place to see a show or speaker. A great mix of modern and classic.

An
Review №89

Gorgeous theater for a performance. Great acoustics and sight lines.

Ge
Review №90

This place is one of my favorite places to see in Hartford. LOVE IT!

Ha
Review №91

If you are a theater buff this is the place to be from concerts to musicals to plays awesome experience friendly personnel and great food

An
Review №92

Beautiful space. We had a blast performing here. What a good time.

Aj
Review №93

Amazing theater! I have seen over 10 shows here and Ive enjoyed every second of every show! Very professional appeal.

Me
Review №94

This was a beautiful concert hall. For first time had to go through security check. This is what the world has now come to.

Tr
Review №95

Anastasia was fabulous. No bad seat in the house!

Sa
Review №96

Beautiful hall, really. Sound was great. We saw Patti Smith, lots of old people (including me) dancing. And easy, free parking right across the street.

To
Review №97

Nice Show Nathan Carter Clohe Agnew was There With Band Members

Wa
Review №98

This is a huge theater, saw a Broadway show from the balcony; quite a distance to see the actors but the sound system is good so hearing was not a problem. Easy parking, good restaurants in the area--it was a fun night out.

Ta
Review №99

As beautiful as the Bushnell is. I couldnt see over the people that were in front of me and there are no speakers towards the back of the theatre and I could not here anything. For all the money you pay for a seat its not worth it if you cant see or here. Its the luck of the draw unfortunately when it comes to the seating. Just pray for a small person in front of you!

Sa
Review №100

Great show. I will give 10 start. Funny, sad and great music. Love it. Bring them back again.

Information
100 Photos
100 Comments
4.7 Rating
  • Address:166 Capitol Ave, Hartford, CT 06106, United States
  • Site:http://bushnell.org/
  • Phone:+1 860-987-6000
Categories
  • Performing arts theater
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair-accessible car park:Yes
  • Wheelchair-accessible lift:Yes
  • Wheelchair-accessible seating:Yes
  • Wheelchair-accessible toilet:Yes
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