5 Best Seats in the House
Tired of the nosebleed section? We’ve found the five best theater seats in Springfield, so you’ll be set for a dramatic night out.
After absorbing the brilliant acting, mesmerizing choreography and impressive scenery, seating is usually the last thing a theater-goer notices. Unless it’s bad, of course. Intermission may be the first time you notice your seat’s proximity to the bathrooms or specific vantage point to the orchestra. But the right seat can turn any performance into the Tony awards. We’ve found the best theater seats in Springfield, and we’ve even listed upcoming performances so you can try out the best seat. So be specific when you grab your next pair of tickets, and enjoy the show.
1. Theatre: Landers Theatre
Seat: Center section, balcony row, seat BB
Why it’s best: There really isn’t a bad seat in the 641-seat theater. But if you want an impressive view without any obstructions, the balcony is the place to be. It has enough height to provide a panoramic view of the stage and a glimpse of the orchestra while still being close enough to see the actors raise a few eyebrows.
Sit there now: The Producers, September 17–20, October 1–4, 8–11, $15–25
More Info: 311 E. Walnut St., Springfield, 417-869-1334, springfieldlittletheatre.org
2. Theatre: Juanita K. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts
Seat: Mezzanine level
Why it’s best: Get ready to be impressed at Juanita K., where the Springfield Symphony Orchestra hosts nearly all of its performances. (Not to mention the numerous touring Broadway productions and local performances.) Any seat in the mezzanine level has a great view of the stage and the 70-piece orchestra. The Symphony has held its performances in the 2,215-seat theater since 1992 and kicks off its 75th season this month.
Sit there now: The Three Maestros, September 19, $9–$29
More Info: 901 S. National Ave., Springfield, 417-836-6776, hammonshall.com
3. Theatre: Vandivort Center Theatre
Seat: Row D, Seat 5
Why it’s best: The best seat at the intimate, 117-seat Vandivort is right in the middle of the audience, roughly one-third of the way back from the stage. The cushioned seats with armrests and stadium seating have nearly 16 inches of leg room. And for theater-goers skipping curtain call, Row D has the quickest access out of the building. Just make sure you get there with enough time to choose your seat—Row D fills up in record time.
Sit there now: All My Sons, September 3–19, $12–$18.
More Info: 440 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield, 417-831-8001
4. Theatre: Gillioz Theatre
Seat: Row U, Seat 10
Why it’s best: Row U, seat 10 is toward the back and an aisle seat, but it’s a prime spot for people-watchers. Catch a glimpse of other audience members’ tears, laughter and applause while the production unfolds on the historic, 19-foot stage. The Gillioz hosts a handful of shows by Poor Thespian Productions, plus films, musical performances and other events.
Sit there now: John Prine in Concert, September 11, $46.50–$56.50
More Info: 325 Park Central East, Springfield, 417-863-9491, gillioz.org
5. Theater: The Skinny Improv
Seat: The three chairs on stage
Why it’s best: The “prized seats” aren’t for the stage frightened. But if you’re looking for a moment in the spotlight, the Skinny Improv will be happy to pull you on stage and into one of their improvisational shenanigans. If the thought of getting called on stage makes you want to hide behind the curtain, take a seat in the back row, where it’s harder for the cast to see audience members. But the biggest rule is not looking scared. If you’re quivering or avoiding eye contact, you’re sure to get called up to the best (or worst) seats in the house.
Sit there now: The Skinny Improv’s mainstage shows are every Friday and Saturday of the month, $8–12.
More Info: 300 Park Central East, Springfield, 417-831-5233
