Lydia Mendelssohn Theatre - Image 1
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Lydia Mendelssohn Theatre

4.6
·188 reviews·Ann Arbor, United States

Historic 1929 theatre on UMich campus hosting diverse plays, recitals, and cultural events.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Academic Year Evenings

Student shows are in full swing!

CrowdMedium
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Lydia Mendelssohn Theatre - Image 1

Lydia Mendelssohn Theatre

Best Time

Academic Year Evenings

Student shows are in full swing!

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic 1929 theatre on UMich campus hosting diverse plays, recitals, and cultural events.

4.6
(188 reviews)

"A beautiful theater with balcony seats 600 and I think was donated by a dentist in honor of his aunt in the late 1920s."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Book 'lydia mendelssohn theatre tickets' early

Popular shows sell out fast! Check UMich SMTD for schedules and advance booking.

🪑 Consider seating carefully

Some find seats uncomfortable or with obstructed views. Inquire about best sightlines when booking.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Student Productions

Student Productions

Main Stage

Experience the vibrant talent of University of Michigan students in plays, operas, and musicals.

Intimate Performances

Intimate Performances

Main Stage

Enjoy a range of performances from recitals to cultural showcases in a historic setting.

Historic Architecture

Historic Architecture

Lobby and Auditorium

Appreciate the charming, antique design of this 1929 venue, a gem on UMich campus.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Tickets in Advance

Popular shows at the Lydia Mendelssohn Theatre often sell out. Secure your 'lydia mendelssohn theatre tickets' early, especially for student productions or special events, to avoid disappointment. Check the University of Michigan's School of Music, Theatre & Dance (SMTD) website for schedules and booking.

Seating Comfort & Visibility

While a 'beautiful theater,' some reviews mention uncomfortable seating and obstructed views, particularly from certain sections. Consider balcony seats if available, and be aware that the 'lydia mendelssohn' layout might not offer perfect sightlines for everyone.

Best Times

When
Academic Year Evenings
Why
Student shows are in full swing!
Crowd
Medium
When
Special Event Weekends
Why
Unique performances and festivals.
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

@saltannarbor kicks off the 2025 school year with an incredible kickoff event at the Lydia Mendelssohn theatre in Ann Arbor 🙏🏻 564 students heard the gospel proclaimed and were invited to join a community with other students trying to be more like Jesus and represent him to this city. Praise God for the work He’s done and is continuing to do! 🙌🏼 #SaltCompany #SaltCompanyAnnArbor #TheSaltNetwork ...
lukejeung.media
69 likes • 2K views

🎟️ Book 'lydia mendelssohn theatre tickets' early

Popular shows sell out fast! Check UMich SMTD for schedules and advance booking. Instagram+1

🪑 Consider seating carefully

Some find seats uncomfortable or with obstructed views. Inquire about best sightlines when booking. Reddit

✨ Coming soon 9/19 ✨ 🎶 Kim Kwang-Jin with K-ONNECT in Ann Arbor 📅 Friday, September 19 | 6 -8 PM 📍 Lydia Mendelssohn Theatre 🎟 Free Admission (RSVP required) Presented by @yeeyaakee × @kisa_michigan
kisa_michigan
48 likes • 3.3K views
Enjoy a behind-the-scenes look at the plot and process of the Department of Voice & Opera’s Elizabeth Cree, which opens next Thursday in Lydia Mendelssohn Theatre. For more information about the show & to get 🎟️, click the 🔗 in our bio! Elizabeth Cree, a chamber opera in one act, based on the novel The Trial of Elizabeth Cree by Peter Ackroyd, commissioned by @operaphila, music by Kevin Puts, li...
umichsmtd
0 likes • 11.2K views

🎭 Check UMich SMTD for shows

From opera to cultural nights, a variety of performances grace the 'lydia mendelssohn' stage. Instagram+1

📍 Tucked away gem

Located on the University of Michigan campus, it's a delightful spot worth seeking out. Reddit

we present to you.. the OFFICIAL trailer for Malaysian Cultural Night 2023: ROJAK 💙❤️💛 it’s never too late to join us on January 29th at 6 PM at Lydia Mendelssohn Theatre to watch our amazing cultural play 🥰
michiganmalaysian
161 likes • 5.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Book 'lydia mendelssohn theatre tickets' early

Popular shows sell out fast! Check UMich SMTD for schedules and advance booking. Instagram+1

🪑 Consider seating carefully

Some find seats uncomfortable or with obstructed views. Inquire about best sightlines when booking. Reddit

🎭 Check UMich SMTD for shows

From opera to cultural nights, a variety of performances grace the 'lydia mendelssohn' stage. Instagram+1

📍 Tucked away gem

Located on the University of Michigan campus, it's a delightful spot worth seeking out. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(188 reviews)

Reviews Summary

The Lydia Mendelssohn Theatre is praised for its charming, historic atmosphere and the quality of performances, particularly student productions. However, some visitors find the seating uncomfortable and note potential issues with stage visibility. Despite these drawbacks, it remains a beloved venue for experiencing the arts on the University of Michigan campus.

"Wonderful venue and group of excellent actors. Cabaret was great. What a cast and crew. The Kit Kat girls were especially delightful.
Michigan theater has never let me down. I'm from Toledo so I can't see everything that I want but I can see the work they put into every performance. Bravo"

Scott Man

"Half way through Cabaret and have never been more grateful for an intermission just to get out of the miserable seating. No support, uncomfortable, and unstaggered, so the people in front of you cut off the view from a solid third of the stage. I enjoy the arts, but I want to be able to enjoy the arts."

Ricardo Reyes

"This beautiful Theater with balcony seats 600 and I think was donated by a dentist in honor of his aunt in the late 1920s."

Harvey Pillersdorf

What People Like

Charming historic venue
Quality student performances
Intimate atmosphere

What People Dislike

Uncomfortable seating
Obstructed views

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Lydia Mendelssohn Theatre is located on the University of Michigan's campus in Ann Arbor. It's often associated with the School of Music, Theatre & Dance (SMTD). Public transportation options in Ann Arbor can get you close, and campus parking is usually available, though it can be busy during peak times. Reddit

Parking near the Lydia Mendelssohn Theatre can be challenging, especially during performances. The University of Michigan offers several parking structures and lots. It's advisable to check the university's parking services website for the most current information on availability and fees. Reddit

Yes, the Lydia Mendelssohn Theatre is within walking distance of downtown Ann Arbor, making it accessible for those staying in the city center. Enjoy a pleasant stroll through campus before your show. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The best place to purchase 'lydia mendelssohn theatre tickets' is directly through the University of Michigan's School of Music, Theatre & Dance (SMTD) website. They list all upcoming performances and provide online booking. Instagram+1

Ticket prices vary depending on the performance. Student productions might be more affordable, while special guest artists or larger shows could be priced higher. Check the SMTD website for specific pricing for each event. Instagram

Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or groups, depending on the specific performance. It's always a good idea to check the SMTD ticketing page or contact their box office for any available discount information. Instagram

While some tickets might be available at the door, it's highly recommended to buy 'lydia mendelssohn theatre tickets' in advance, as many popular shows sell out. Instagram

The theatre itself operates during scheduled performance times. Box office hours for in-person purchases or inquiries will vary, so it's best to check the UMich SMTD website for their specific operating hours. Instagram

🎫 🎭 Onsite Experience

The 'lydia mendelssohn' hosts a diverse range of performances, including plays, musicals, operas, dance, cultural showcases, and student recitals. It's a versatile venue for various artistic expressions. Instagram+2

The theatre generally aims to be accessible. It's recommended to contact the UMich SMTD box office in advance to discuss specific accessibility needs, such as seating arrangements or other accommodations. Reddit

The Lydia Mendelssohn Theatre has a seating capacity of approximately 600 people. This makes it an intimate venue for performances. Reddit

Typically, food and drinks are not allowed inside the auditorium of the Lydia Mendelssohn Theatre. There may be concessions available in the lobby for some events, but it's best to check the specific event details or venue policies. Reddit

The atmosphere is often described as charming and historic, with a sense of community due to its university setting. It provides an intimate setting for enjoying the arts. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Generally, photography and videography are prohibited during performances at the Lydia Mendelssohn Theatre to avoid disrupting the show and performers. Check with the venue or ushers for specific policies regarding pre-show or intermission photography. Instagram+1

The exterior of the historic building and the lobby area can offer great photo opportunities. During performances, focus on capturing the atmosphere rather than the stage unless explicitly permitted. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Lydia Mendelssohn Theatre can be a great place for families to experience the arts, especially if the performance is geared towards younger audiences. Look for specific student productions or cultural shows that might appeal to children. Instagram+1 It's advisable to check the show's content and age recommendations beforehand. While the historic charm is appealing, be mindful of the seating comfort for younger children, as some reviews mention it can be less than ideal. Reddit Arriving a bit early can help kids settle in and explore the unique atmosphere of this vintage theatre.

🎓 University of Michigan Students

As a venue on campus, the Lydia Mendelssohn Theatre is a fantastic resource for UMich students. You'll find a wide array of performances, from opera and theatre to cultural showcases and student-led events, often at student-friendly prices. Instagram+2 Keep an eye on SMTD announcements and student organization pages for upcoming shows and potential ticket deals. Attending these performances is a great way to support fellow students and immerse yourself in the vibrant arts scene at the university. Reddit

🎭 Theatre Enthusiasts

For dedicated theatre lovers, the Lydia Mendelssohn Theatre offers a chance to see diverse performances in a historic setting. You'll encounter everything from classic plays to contemporary works and experimental student projects. Instagram+1 The intimate nature of the theatre can provide a unique connection to the performance. However, be prepared for potentially less comfortable seating and varying sightlines, which are common in older venues. Reddit Researching the specific production and reading reviews can help you choose the best shows and seating for your experience.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Historic Gem on Campus

The Lydia Mendelssohn Theatre, built in 1929, is a significant part of the University of Michigan's cultural landscape. It was reportedly donated by a dentist in honor of his aunt, adding a personal touch to its legacy. Reddit This historic venue has hosted countless plays, recitals, and conferences, making it a cornerstone for artistic expression at UMich. Its charming, antique design contributes to a unique and intimate performance experience that many patrons appreciate. Reddit

Despite its historical significance, the theatre is actively used for contemporary performances. The University of Michigan's School of Music, Theatre & Dance (SMTD) frequently utilizes the space for student productions, showcasing the next generation of talent. From operas like 'Elizabeth Cree' to cultural festivals like 'Malaysian Cultural Night,' the 'lydia mendelssohn' remains a vibrant hub for diverse artistic endeavors. Instagram+1

When planning your visit, it's worth noting that while the theatre is beautiful, some audience members have commented on the comfort of the seating and potential sightline issues. Reddit However, the overall experience of attending a performance in such a storied venue often outweighs these minor drawbacks for many visitors, offering a memorable connection to the arts and the university's rich history.

Navigating Performances and Tickets

Attending a show at the Lydia Mendelssohn Theatre involves understanding the performance schedule and ticketing process. The primary source for 'lydia mendelssohn theatre tickets' and performance information is the University of Michigan's School of Music, Theatre & Dance (SMTD) website. They regularly update their calendar with student productions, guest artist performances, and special events. Instagram+1

It's crucial to book your tickets in advance, as popular shows, especially those featuring student talent or unique cultural events, can sell out quickly. Instagram+1 While some tickets might be available at the door, relying on this can be risky. Instagram Ticket prices can vary, with student-led events often being more affordable than professional touring shows. Keep an eye out for potential discounts for students, seniors, or groups, though these are performance-dependent. Instagram

When considering your seating, be aware that some patrons have found the seating to be less comfortable than modern venues and have experienced obstructed views. Reddit If possible, inquire about the best seating sections when purchasing your 'lydia mendelssohn' tickets, or opt for balcony seats if they offer a clearer perspective. Reddit This proactive approach can help ensure a more enjoyable viewing experience.

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