Ordway Center For Performing Arts

Our Hamline University student got us tickets in advance to the free open house for the Ordway’s 40th Anniversary event. This allowed for us to skip having to wait in line at the door. Once inside, we chose to do the Penguin Hunt, where stamps are provided wherever you find a penguin during the event. At the end, a penguin sticker gets awarded as the prize. Along the way, we encountered countless very helpful stewards of the theatre, who guided us through the building while telling us stories about staff and performers who have graced the halls since its inception in 1985. My favorite part was learning about the history of Puerto Rican music (Bomba) and culture in Saint Paul, while singing that ‘the plantation is up in flames; therefore we are free’. Maria Isa was fantastic and inclusive when teaching two of the most popular beats of the genre. Overall, it was a fantastic cultural experience fit for all ages. I highly recommend connecting with the arts community in Saint Paul at the Ordway!

The Ordway is hands down the best theater in the Twin Cities. Why, you might ask? Unlike other theaters, the seats are spacious. The seat back in front doesn't hit your knees. There's barely any bad seats in the house. The concert hall is pretty much acoustically perfect. The lobby alone is luxurious and the concessions usually have imaginative drinks for the big shows. It's literally a red carpet experience every time. Disclaimer: I serve on the board of directors.

I went to the Ordway Performing Arts Center to see The Addams Family, and it was absolutely amazing! The cast was incredible, the music and choreography were spot on, and the whole show was full of energy and fun. The set design and costumes really brought the story to life. Such a great experience — I’d definitely go again and recommend it to anyone looking for a fun, high-quality show!

I love that seating at the Ordway is modern and is akin to stadium-seating. That definitely helps because I am short lol The theater itself is grand and beautiful. Pro tip, if you have a small bladder like me and are seated upstairs in the mezzanine and balcony, choose seats on the Right side of the theater as that's where the bathrooms are. In the orchestra section, the bathrooms are in the center. I am a huge Broadway fan and go to almost all official tours that come through the Twin Cities. Bear in mind that sometimes, "Broadway" shows that come to the Ordway are regional, non-equity shows. This means they are not Broadway union affiliated and are smaller productions of a show that once played on Broadway. There's a difference, IYKYK. Basically, that might mean the set design, costumes, maybe the interpretation is different from what you may have seen on Broadway. That also sometimes means they don't sell merchandise because of limited resources. It's a bummer because I love collecting Broadway merch. Many seats at the Ordway are quite expensive, on par with Broadway prices. However, there are the Balcony box seats or "obstructed view" seats that could go for $45. We've sat at both and I'd take the obstructed view because often the obstruction (the safety railing) isn't really in the way of much. There are also $30 rush tickets but I live far from St Paul to chance not getting a seat at rush.

I enjoyed every moment of my visit here. The staff were warm and willing to assist when called upon. The seats were plush. The acoustics in the auditorium were beautiful. The overall experience were exceptional. The next time I visit, I’ll park in the parking ramp next to the establishment but that has nothing to do with the Ordway. What a classic night!