Proctors Theatre in Schenectady
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Schenectady, Schenectady County, New York, US
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Went to a wedding here. Very nice and large. Bathrooms were clean and well stocked. Wait staff was very attentive and helpful. Only downside was room was acoustically live and that made it hard to hear even with the microphone 🎤.Tons of background noise making it very difficult to hear the minister.
Proctors is a Schenectady institution and we are so lucky to have this gem here in the Capital Region. The ease in which you can get from NYC to Schenectady means we get a lot of shows tech-ing here and we get the very best of Broadway. Tickets are extremely affordable and there is no bad seat in the house. Ive seen shows from a few rows back to all the way in the back of the theatre and Id honestly recommend a little further to the back or the dress circle area. Its a very clean theatre and a must visit for anyone who loves entertainment.
Was at Proctors last night for a musical high school event. My leg was in a cast and I had a knee scooter. The staff was more than attentive to my needs. Their attitude was full of genuine concern and had me seated before the crowd rushed in. Thank you Proctors staff for making my experience a success!! Kudos to William the sound was spot on!! Congratulations to all the local high schools that were nominated for their musicals!! Reach For The Stars!! Shane I am so proud!!
If it wasnt for the mad rush to leave and the amount of people packed in... this would be awesome for a local theater that gets a lot of great shows to show up.Weve seen everything here from Blue man group to Phantom of the Opera.Recently just took my 6 year old to CATS.We usually never have an issue with parking as they have both the garage and the open lot next door who charges. The garage has been free the last few times we have used it.
A beautiful theater especially considering the smaller size. I’ve seen the Lion King and Phantom here and both shows were spectacular. The wine and snacks are pricey, but I feel like that’s pretty much expected. A great place. I really enjoy the shows there.My only problem is that the website is a terrible place to buy tickets. It will repeatedly kick you out of the menus youre on and add tickets to your cart you didnt select. Make sure you pay close attention when buying. They should update their site
This is easily the best theater in the Capital District. It offers an astounding array of top quality entertainment amidst fantastic accommodations at truly reasonable prices. And parking is both close by and free. Anyone who says there is nothing to do in this area has never browsed a Proctors brochure.
Hamilton is a terrific show, with a great cast, good set pieces and staged in a wonderful theatre. Proctors handled the full house nicely, opposed to their online ticket purchase debacle. Hamiltons first act was great, the singing was done with alacrity and clearly heard by all. The second act was a bit of a let down, you knew what was coming. The significance of the Schuyler sisters was enlightening and will give their Historic Mansion a boost. This was the best show at Proctors to date.
Beautiful theater but covid safety practices are a bit suspect. Screened us all going in & then packed audience together when I had bought seats that were more spaced apart. I had to ask for seats spaced apart as my neighborhack coughed endlessly. Very inconvenient and missed part of the program.
Biggest performing arts theater for plays and musicals in the 100 miles around the New York capital region. This is the only downtown business that still feels like old Schenectady, and it is very well preserved and restored. They have also added state-of-the-art technology, and even an additional multi-use room / movie theater.
Ive always loved coming here for Broadway shows. Its a quaint theatre and beautiful inside. Theyve kept it updated to reflect the growth around it but at the same time reflects its true test to time. Ushers are always friendly and helpful and I recommend that seeing is believing!
I bought tickets for cats right before covid hit and they cancelled the show but I held on to my tickets for when they opened back up again.apparently proctors decided to sell my seats without me returning my tickets and refused to make good on them.i wanted seats somewhere else but proctors wanted more money for me to do that.they refused to acknowledge that it was their mistake and honor my tickets.i will never attempt to go to protors ever again for this reason which is sad because my daughter loves musicals.i am very disappointed with thier customer servise.
The theater itself was great but trying to get to the road was terrible. I got stuck at the light farthest from the garage and the opposing traffic went through 3 green light before our light turned green once. Then, people had driven through the intersection and blocked it, so when it finally turned green, no one could move. It took me longer to get onto the road than it did to get out of the garage.
We saw Dear Evan Hansen ,it was fantastic and touching!We have always loved Proctors !All the wonderful memories over the last 50 years have been because of having such a beautiful venue.Proctors brings such happiness to people in these dark times in the world.Go forget your problems at Proctors!
This place is beautiful. I have seen a few shows here and would go back again and again. Seating is comfortable and there are always plenty of people to help you find them. Parking is ample although you usually have to pay for it. Rich with history. Plenty to see even if your not attending a show.
Initially opened in 1926, by F. Proctor, this premier venue for the performing arts has been completely restored to its original splendor. Also on this site are Apostrophe Cafe, a gift shop and a music store. The facility is also home to Schenectadys public access television programming.
We went here to see a show, this was my 1st time being in the theater. Its hard to judge it for me because I havent been in many other theaters like this aside from the Radio City hall I think its called, and that was over 10 years ago. But back to Proctors its really nice inside, My only wish is that the seats were a little softer. I think the cushions may be starting to wear thin but thats it..... Very nice place all in all!
The Nutcracker was excellent. I was happy that everyone had to be vaccinated, but having to sit there for hours with a mask on unable to have a drink was one of the most uncomfortabe things I have ever done. Not being allowed to bring a drink in was over the top, sky if falling nonsense. I will never return to Proctors. And just so everyone knows I saw some Women allow people to go in with drinks and snacks and others stopped amd detained, I could not figure out why because it was the same older woman making the decisions. What really got me was the Woman on stage at the beginning taking credit for the horrible treatment of their customers. If shes thw person making the decisions, Im staying away.
I have been to Proctors twice and have had great experiences both times. I love musical theatre and was so happy when moving from Long Island to Albany to see that Proctors receives shows on tour! Also, the Apostrophe Cafe & Lounge is a great place to stop before the show. I enjoyed my food and drink there both times.
I would give the staff way more than 5 stars I went there with 2 wheelchairs as I pushed one client staff assisted me with the other without me asking for help .they came into our box seats several times to check on us asking if we needed anything after the show assisted us back out .words cant say how much I was impressed awsome job proctors staff
The I luminate show was on of the best I have ever seen. It is state of the art entertainment with a fantastic story. This colorful adventure was interactive with a sound track that kept me from sitting still the entire show. Totally kid friendly and a breath of fresh air with all the remakes out there when it comes to shows. Proctors is as beautiful as ever with a feeling of taking a step into the past. I for one am glad that this theater is here for my family and I to enjoy. If I were to complain about anything it would be the standard complaint over the cost of snacks and drinks. As for ticket price, I felt good about what I spent on the seats given the fantastic show my family and I watched. The talent of the characters took me to the I luminate world where I was swallowed up in LED fantasy. Pictures and videos were not allowed and shouldnt be. This show should not be viewed through a screen but with your imagination open. This will be something I will go and see again and highly recommend to anyone that has this show pass through their city.
Amazing gem of a theatre 🎭 hosting lots of current off broadway plays, musicals, and comedians!Tip💎if you want to catch a show by yourself or don’t need to sit with your guest. There are always amazing orchestras seats available. People with priority seating usually will turn over single seats to the box office to be purchased. Don’t pay triple through 3rd party sites!
In 2026, Proctors theatre in Schenectady will be turning 100 years old, celebrating its centennial. By then, Proctors theatre will have special shows and events to mark its 100th anniversary. In 1951, it celebrated its 25th anniversary, in 1976, it celebrated its 50th anniversary, and its 75th anniversary in 2001.
Went to see Les Mis. It was a wonderful production, but the sound in proctors is mediocre at best. You truly need to know the songs prior to going. You simply cannot make out the words. It is not the fault of the singers, as they are top notch. The sound simply deadens in this theater. It is no Troy Music Hall. By the way, you should check out the Italian bakery nearby, and the soul food restaurant nearby. I think it is called ya-yas
Recently hosted my brothers college graduation from FMCC and also I graduated from SCCC on your stage, Ive seen Wicked here last year, Ive been here dozens of times on school as a Schenectady local, words cant express this is a once in a lifetime experience..they dont make places like this anymore this was once the biggest stage on the East Coast off broadway, so much history here from the paintings to the waiting lobbies by the bathrooms to the trophies and memorabilia in the gallery, I could go on for days cheap concessions, the price is worth itAmazing visuals and acoustics, only possible discomfort some of the seats are very close together..try to get an aisle seat 😉
Went to see Frozen performance on 11/20/19. We enjoyed the kids night on Broadway. They had plenty of activities for kids. It was very crowded and not very organized. But my daughter had a good time and thats all that mattered.The theater is well maintained and very clean. We had first row balcony seats with amazing view.They put on a phenomenal show. Cant wait to go back for another performance.
Neil deGrasse Tysons presentation on the Universe was wonderful and understandable for even us universally under-knowledgeable people. The great expanse which we are a particle in is mind boggling. Would highly recommend attending his presentations if the opportunity arises.
While driving into this town we saw this incredible lighted theater board. With a quick search of the area, Proctors was noted over and over again. On a whim we went in and saw a documentary that was showing. It was a cozy but comfortable theater. The food at the cafe was very expensive but they did offer local and healthy options. You can bring it in if it’s not in glass. The coffee was disgusting but we did order it in the afternoon. The service at the theater was excellent. Everyone was friendly, and helpful.The theater had clean bathrooms and lots of historical information boards. We loved it. I would go here again, but I would bring my own snacks next time :)
Everything they do they do well: arts camps, mainstage travel Broadway productions; high school concert band and orchestra festivals; old time, classic, cartoon fest, and avante garde movies on the largest screen in the region; comedy club shows, and private events.COVID update 3/22/22. Masks still required; but no more proof of vax. No food/drink allowed in theatre area because masks cant be taken off. Food/drink can be consumed in cafe. Balcony is cold - lots of air exchange; so dress warmly.Click like if review is helpful.
Its a lovely theater that seems to have been carefully restored at some point. The seats were comfortable and there was a wide variety of refreshment options in the lobby. Ample parking is available very nearby. There are many restaurants in the same block as the theater, but I would recommend making reservations if you wish to go there before or after a show.
An old theater with gorgeous interior and wonderful staff. No seat is a bad seat. Parking is ample, free, and safe. Restaurants nearby to grab a bite before or after a show. Tickets sold by the theater so no outrageous fees. Gets amazing shows every year and smaller shows that are gems. Perfect place to bring children to learn and appreciate the theater.
Absolutely gorgeous theater, incredible sound and stage .. THE place to go for amazing shows, music and more!! Not a bad seat in the house, fabulous shops and eateries in the theater building and all around town .. My first experience here was performing with my band for The 2019 Eddie Awards .. I had no idea how much the area had to offer and will definitely return and explore more! Be sure to check out their website for upcoming shows and events :)
The theater is absolutely gorgeous. Not really a bad seat in the house. From the shows Ive been to - the talent has blown me away. The concessions arent incredibly outrageously priced...(still overpriced but thats expected). The staff has always been friendly, plus parking is pretty easy (and free).
Always a pleasure to go here. Ive been to 10s of musicals before and last year went to my first movie at the four story theater. I would recommend all of it. Its been getting better and easier to go to with the repaving of main street and easier to access free parking in the area.
What else can you say but awesome?! I have been to many shows here and I am never disappointed. Prices on concessions are fair for a theatre and the sound is amazing. They always have a selection of shows and something lined up for later. Thanks for keeping the arts in our community.
Attended 2 performances here. Love the history of the building (many of the legendary vaudevilleians have performed here). The building is gorgeous!!!! Today, attended an amateur make up competition- amazing. There are many high level plays, and also, movies shown. The gallery has theatre oriented shops. Located on state street in Schenectady, there are plenty of additional attractions close by, and ample parking behind the theater.
It was beautiful! The prices for snacks were a good amount and everyone was very nice. It made for a very nice experience. However, it got very warm in the theater and it made the show little less enjoyable. Just a little though. But other than that, no complaints here!
A very beautiful theater with a rich and lengthy history. We saw Waitress: The Musical and sat in the balcony. Ill admit my view wasnt that great, but I dont have the best vision. Sound quality, set design and cleanliness was on point in the entire building. Also some cheap quick eats, especially for a theater. Cannot wait to see more shows here with my best friend all summer long.
It was a lovely theater and a really great atmosphere. A group of us went recently to see Bert Krishner and we got through the line quickly the prices of the drinks werent too terrible and the seats are comfortable. Would definitely go back to this venue for other shows
Great theater, new stage allows for so many more special effects.just watched frozen here and it was amazing. They have many vendors in the theather for food, drinks, alcohol, and merchandise. I recommend getting there 30 minutes before your showtime because it is always packed.
We saw frozen, it was excellent. Make sure the little ones go to the bathroom BEFORE the show starts, its over an hour till intermission. Also, they have booster seats available, you can ask for them at the small candy concession out front, in trade for your drivers license.
Good selection of shows, but when they redid the theatre is was definitely done to squeeze more people in the same space. The seats are tight and often leg room is limited. But its a gorgeous space and its definitely worth it for a taste of Broadway without a trip to NYC.
Saw Phantom of the Opera here - it was wonderful! However, the bathrooms are tiny for the amount of people in the theater. During intermission, the lines for the bathroom were very long and many people in line didnt even make it in before intermission. Otherwise, lovely show and everyone was very kind!
I had the opportunity to attend with a group so we already had discounted tickets for the show. Going into the show, the staff and volunteers are both friendly and helpful in helping us find our seats. Inside the theater, it is absolutely a beautiful historical building, but the seats are very close to each other. If you are uneasy in tight spaces, entering and leaving the theater with the crowd is an unsettling experience that is furthered by being so close to people in front of you, next to you, and behind you. Overall, the performers gave a great performance, the orchestra played amazing and the set was visually appealing. In addition, the the theater had concession sales for souvenirs, alcohol, and other items. I recommend going if you like theater or local experiences!
Phantom of the Opera... Amazing! Enjoy the theater each time were there. Theater itself is a sight to behold. Recently done over, the place itself is beautiful. Id recommend an evening here to anyone, and this comes from a blue collar guy. Pony up, take the wife, sit down, and enjoy a beautiful evening together. It doesnt get much better.
I have been going to Proctors since I was a young child in the early 1960s and have very fond memories of this wonderful venue. HOWEVER, despite the very nice expansion/modernization over the years, and the excellent programming, I believe the experience is downgraded with the recent seat replacement program. The interior is gorgeous, and previously I would not hesitate to give this venue 5 stars....but after attending a Saturday matinee this past weekend I can only assign it 3/5 stars because of the very tight seating. My wife and I sat center stage/orchestra, and do not believe we are physically large (5-4 and 118 lbs, 5-6 and 145 lbs respectively), but the seating comfort was still subpar. If you are even slightly taller/wider than we are, I cant imagine what your seating experience is like (not to mention your neighbors on either side). While the foot/leg room is average, the shoulder room/seat width is very tight - you will constantly be vying for arm space with your neighbor on either side. My wife and I leaned towards each other throughout the 2 hour performance, but still banged shoulders/elbows with our outboard neighbors occasionally. If you sit up straight, be prepared to have VERY frequent close & physical contact with your seat mate, rubbing shoulders and elbows. If you know that person, it may be acceptable to you, but it is a bit disconcerting with strangers. To make things worse my wifes neighbor had a bad cold, so the coughing/sneezing and nose-blowing going on 6 inches to her right was not pleasant. The new seats are fine otherwise - theyre just way too narrow. The performance was excellent, but the tight seating definitely detracted from the overall experience.
This is an amazing place. I have seen over 15 plays/ musicals here and have even been on stage (Performing). The sound system rocks and the seats are soft and comfy. The candy bar is great and the CAST crew (I am a member of) are super sweat and nice. The only thing I dislike is that I always seem to be cold there.
I wont write a review of any particular show but of the venue. The place is spectacular in its restored condition. The fact that the ushers are usually volunteers really adds charm and friendliness to the place, since they are often people we know. Although it doesnt look like there is abundant parking at first glance, in point of fact there are plenty of spots within two blocks in just about every direction. There are plenty of really wonderful eating and drinking spots within a stones throw, so its a fine area to spend the evening. Come on down!
There is not a bad seat here. I have sat in many seats in different sections and every seat has been good. They also have booster seats to rent during show for children. Only reason I dont give 5 stars is because ticket prices have gotten so expensive. The prices on soda and candy is reasonable considering you are at a theatre.
Unfortunately, many of the volunteer ushers range from senile to rude and unprofessional. After waiting in line to go through metal detectors-- a line that stretched the entire length of the arcade and went outside into the bitter cold, our tickets were scanned at the door. And we were stopped by and usher at the next set of doors who insisted on checking tickets again to explain where youre seated. Having chosen the seats and having been to the theater a number of times, this was an unnecessary step that caused a bottleneck at the entrance to each section.In another interaction, I was spoken to by an usher in a very unprofessional and uncouth manner. There is no way I will continue to support Proctors or join next year after this experience. Im not sure if she was having a bad night or needed to get some aggression out but it was completely unprompted. The whole interaction left my company confused and honestly ruined the night.Parking is less than convenient. Unless you arrive well in advance of a show, you need to park quite a ways away in a parking garage. Be prepared to do quite a bit of walking, including crossing a busy street and then waiting in the parking garage to exit. It can easily add on an extra half an hour trying to get out of your parking space and then waiting in line to get out.All in all, its one of the best local venues for shows that are normally playing in bigger cities. However, you need to be prepared for the small town nonsense-- rude ushers, small/crowded seats, difficult parking, poor handicap accessibility, etc.
Definitely a great place but overpriced. Schenectady New York is not the greatest city either. However it is in Capital Region and there is so much to do and Albany is right next door so if you are looking for some entertainment and then dinner what better place to come. Its not really a place for younger children as it is intended for people to watch their play or performance. Enjoy the show folks
We saw the King and I. Very talented people in all roles.…dancing, singing, musicians!! The top leading roles were excellent! Enjoyed the entire show& parking was close by and easy. The theatre is also lovely. Seats are alittle low to the ground (orchestra area). Go!!
Proctors is a great place to go to see a Broadway show. There are mostly good seats there including in the balcony. The theater is beautiful with chandeliers and historic architecture. Each show is full of amazing talent including singers, actors and actresses,and dancers.
Loved seeing the Boston Pops Christmas show. The music and chorale were incredible! They do the best 12 days of Christmas youve ever heard. Seats were not bad, there is a little more space in the seats and leg room, however my legs still felt a little cramped and Im only 53. The aisles have quite a slant which could certainly cause a possible fall for those with difficulty walking.
The productions here almost never disappoint, but there is not enough accessible seating to accommodate all disabled patrons. As such, when not able to attend a show using my wheelchair, I am not only using my cane to walk up and down stairs, but the seats themselves are very painful because of how narrow they are and how little leg room is available. Im still recovering from pain resulting from how I was seated for three hours when I saw Hamilton 3 days ago. I counted at least 5 other cane users in my section of the balcony, and one of them almost fell on the stairs.
Pictures of some of the recent shows Ive seen. We go multiple times a year for various shows and Musicals, weve never had a problem bigger then the show starts a couple minutes late now and again which completely expected in theatre. We will continue buy the yearly subscription, its well worth the money if you are within and hour or two of the theatre and love to attend.
Proctors is always a great venue to see shows in the Capital District. The new seats are wider and much more comfortable and the theater is kept up so well. The staff are friendly and helpful. You can purchase a membership that comes with several shows and experiences, a great deal for frequent showgoers.
A great old theater and very nicely redone. Most of the main floor seats looked like they would have great views. The side box we bought did have an obstructed view. They really should have told us. We could not see the back part of the stage area and missed part of the show. The sound was good in our part of the theater. The front of the stage we had a great view.
These people know when they have a treasure on their hands. The venerable theater is just lovely. Staff were very kind. The matinee I attended was chock full of Seniors and everyone treated them patiently and with regard to infirmities. The show otself was wonderful. All in all, a delightful time.
Went to a production of Les Miserables. Wonderful production, great orchestration and a fabulous cast. The acoustics in the theater are incredible. Only downside is that balcony seats are not designed for people six-foot or taller. Extremely uncomfortable seating, no legroom. Should come with a warning.
Went to see Downton Abby in the movie theater at Proctors and enjoyed my time and experience. The ticket attendant gave us clear directions to the theater and told us the guidelines for eating in the theater. The movie attendant told us a brief history of the theater before the movie which I found interesting and checked with each guest as they left to see if they enjoyed the movie. It was a great experience and I cant wait to see another movie here.
The way my family was treated was not ok and I spent a lot of money for a group of 11 people. I emailed a few representative thinking I would get an apology, but no they justified their staffs conduct and gave me a, oh yeah and by the way Im sorry heres 40$ for a drink! IF it was about the money I still wouldnt be satisfied because I spent over 1,000$ for this day. I wanted my family to get the full experience being that it was the first time for some. I love the arts and the performances are great. Just unfortunate that the people behind the scenes do not understand their conduct adversely affects the ideal some have for the arts and I considered that to be unprofessional.
Loved my show, as I always do when I come here. From Dan and Phil to the Lion King, Protors always has a variety of shows going on. Seats are great no matter where you are seated and the theater is very easy to navigate. The most stressful part is getting tickets, inspiration to become a member I guess!
This is a great old theater. Beautifully designed and decorated. They are also doing a great job with the small shops inside the main hall, which includes a nice coffee shop/cafe. For all the shows Ive seen here the snack bar has been open and you can take them inside to your seat.Be careful when buying tickets, there are two types of rows; some have slightly larger seats. These are a must if youre like me an a little bigger. I did fit with out a problem into the skinnier seats last night, however combined with my friends on either side it was not as comfortable.
What an amazing place to go see live theater. It is surprisingly large once you get inside. I went to see the King and I with a friend. It was a Christmas present from her to me.I look forward to going and seeing another preformance in this beautiful space. The staff were friendly and very helpful. Especially since I have difficulty stranding for long periods of time. Or even walking long distances.If you get the opportunity to go to an event here I highly recommend doing so.
Total reviews rating 4.7
199 Reviews for Proctors Theatre 2023:
Review №1
2022-06-26GE Theatre, nice place to catch a smaller band/show. First come, first serve seating but its never been a problem.
Review №2
2022-03-28I always enjoy this theater. Its easy to get to. Parking on the weekend is free. The seats are comfortable. The womens restroom on the first floor has many stalls, so youre not waiting for long. The shows are always enjoyable and the sound system is very good.
Review №3
2022-03-03Saw Waitress. Good play, funny, well written, beautifully sung and acted. The theater is gorgeous. The volunteers are friendly, courteous and helpful. The seats are a little close together, but all of them seem to have a good view of the stage. Entering and exiting the theater is well managed.
Review №4
2022-05-10Ive seen three shows here, Book of Mormon, Wicked and Cats. All three times Ive been impressed with the venue. The cleanliness of the theater, helpful and friendly staff, easy parking. Couldnt recommend this theater enough. Definitely beats going into NYC.
Review №5
2022-05-15I can’t say enough great things about the staff here! My mom had a broken foot and wasn’t very stable to be waiting in the line before being let in for the show. The staff told were so accommodating and pleasant. They moved my mom to the front of the line and gave her a chair to sit.They went above and beyond to make sure she was comfortable and was able to be seated quickly.
Review №6
2022-06-30My friends and I were planning on attending Mean Girls, and two out of the group had to cancel last minute for health reasons. A representative from Proctors refunded the two tickets, and we are so grateful for their understanding.I have been to Proctors many times, and the venue is beautiful. I look forward to attending more shows in the future.Keep up the great work!
Review №7
2022-04-29Lovely old theater. Gorgeous architecture. Wonderful, friendly staff. The seats are terribly uncomfortable though.
Review №8
2022-01-31Always a wonderful experience! Such a beautiful theater ! Come from Away was an absolute joy! We laughed, we cried, then off to enjoy some of the amazing food that Schenectady has to offer... perfect way to spend the afternoon!
Review №9
2022-02-01Proctors is a beautiful venue. We saw Come From Away, a wonderful play. The production was first-rate, and were looking forward to seeing more performances there. Easy parking made the experience even better.
Review №10
2022-05-13It was amazing!I Had a memorable night out with my church family bring it back again soon plz!