Hawaii Theatre Center, Honolulu - a building with a red fence
1 / 10

Hawaii Theatre Center Honolulu

4.6
·751 reviews·Honolulu, United States

A beautifully restored 1920s landmark in Honolulu, offering a stunning backdrop for diverse live performances.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings

Catch live performances

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Hawaii Theatre Center, Honolulu - a building with a red fence

Hawaii Theatre Center Honolulu

Best Time

Evenings

Catch live performances

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A beautifully restored 1920s landmark in Honolulu, offering a stunning backdrop for diverse live performances.

4.6
(751 reviews)

"The Hawaii Theatre Center itself was the perfect venue—historic, intimate, and acoustically amazing."

Vertical photo
TIP

Loge/Balcony for Best Views

For optimal stage views and acoustics, consider seats in the loge or balcony. Avoid front row orchestra for comedy shows. :seat:

Legroom Can Be Limited

Be aware that legroom is tight in some seats, especially for taller individuals. Opt for front rows or loge for more space. :person_standing:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ornate Mural-Covered Interior

Ornate Mural-Covered Interior

Main Auditorium

Step back in time in this beautifully restored 1920s landmark, adorned with stunning murals.

Live Performance Variety

Live Performance Variety

Main Stage

Experience a diverse range of shows, from concerts and comedy to local theater productions.

Historic Architecture

Historic Architecture

Exterior and Lobby

Admire the classic architecture of this iconic Honolulu building, a true piece of history.

Planning Your Visit

Book Tickets in Advance

For popular shows at the Hawaii Theatre Center, booking tickets ahead of time is highly recommended. This historic venue can sell out, especially for well-known performers. Check the official website for show schedules and to secure your seats.

Consider Seating Carefully

While the Hawaii Theatre Center is beautiful, legroom can be tight in some seats, especially in the last rows. For comedy shows, avoid the very front row to prevent being the target of jokes. The loge/balcony offers excellent views and acoustics.

Best Times

When
Evenings
Why
Catch live performances
Crowd
Medium
When
Matinee performances
Why
Family-friendly shows
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

have fun in hawaii 🌊☀️ #oahu #hawaii #honolulu #oahulife #honoluluhawaii #hawaiitips #traveltips #vacationtips #whattodoinhawaii #thingstodoinoahu #hawaiiadvice #oahutips #thingsyouneedtoknowforhawaii #thingstodoinhawaii #whattoknowbeforegoingtohawaii #honolulutips #fyp #foryoupage #viral #trending #relatable #imjustagirl #girls #girlcore #girlythings #girlygirl #hawaiihack #travelhacks #vacationh...
@elyzasummer
42.9K likes • 717.8K views

Loge/Balcony for Best Views

For optimal stage views and acoustics, consider seats in the loge or balcony. Avoid front row orchestra for comedy shows. :seat: Reddit

Legroom Can Be Limited

Be aware that legroom is tight in some seats, especially for taller individuals. Opt for front rows or loge for more space. :person_standing: Reddit

⬇️Send this to your friends , don’t let them waste money on overpriced souvenirs! 😩 ⬇️⬇️⬇️ 📍 Aloha Stadium Swap Meet 🕗 Open Wed & Sat 8 AM–3 PM • Sunday 6:30am -3 PM 400+ local vendors 🌺 Same quality, better experience, and you’re supporting local vendors 🙌💸 After living in Hawaii for 2 months, I never let my friends or family buy souvenirs at tourist traps 😅 Prices are 3× higher! I paid $15 for...
@nicolgutiierrez
36.3K likes • 363.6K views
Thank you @misscandishell and @hawaiisymphonyorchestra (and my sisters @annameisean , @angel_devida , @mallie.buu ) What a lovely night 📸: @gorgonphotos • • • • • • #drag #localqueen #makeup #makeupartist #mua #motd #hiqueens #thevictoriali #thewitchofwaikiki #dragqueen #drags #hawaiiqueen #witch #art #queer #creepy #instadrag #artist #witch #dragula #instagay #instadrag #queerwitch #samhain #ha...
thewitchofwaikiki
156 likes • 0 views

Check Show Schedules

Visit the official Hawaii Theatre Center website to see upcoming performances and book tickets in advance. :calendar: TikTok

Parking Challenges

Downtown parking, especially on weekends, can be difficult. Plan your arrival or consider ride-sharing services. :car: Reddit

CHEAP THINGS TO DO IN HAWAII🌊⛵️#catamaran #hawaii #oahu #thingstodoinhawaii #waikiki #budgettravel #travel #honolulu #vacation
@icyyytravels
31.9K likes • 587.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Loge/Balcony for Best Views

For optimal stage views and acoustics, consider seats in the loge or balcony. Avoid front row orchestra for comedy shows. :seat: Reddit

Legroom Can Be Limited

Be aware that legroom is tight in some seats, especially for taller individuals. Opt for front rows or loge for more space. :person_standing: Reddit

Check Show Schedules

Visit the official Hawaii Theatre Center website to see upcoming performances and book tickets in advance. :calendar: TikTok

Parking Challenges

Downtown parking, especially on weekends, can be difficult. Plan your arrival or consider ride-sharing services. :car: Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(751 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Hawaii Theatre Center for its stunning, historic architecture and the quality of its performances. The ornate murals and classic ambiance create a unique and memorable experience. However, some guests note that legroom in certain seating areas can be quite limited, and parking downtown can be a challenge.

"Saw Phil Rosenthal and it was wonderful. Theatre is always beautiful.

We got seats in the very last row on the top center..if you are 5'5" or under you will be comfortable, any taller then your knees are flushed/pushed against the seat infront of you. Seats in front have more leg room. Otherwise it is a beautiful venue."

Lisa Jones

"I love the historical aspects of the theater and that it's a non-profit organization. It's a very unique place--gorgeous! Only a couple of issues needing attention... the bathroom needs more stalls and the seats do not accommodate long legs at all! Felt like I was in economy seating on an airplane!"

yvonne frazier

"Went to see the performance "Alice in Wonderland," and it was simply amazing! What a production quality in Hawaii! The theater is well kept, very luxurious, and clean. I loved the seats, wall decoration, the sound system, and most of all, the courteous staff. The bar was upstairs, and they had everything from hard liquors, beers, and soft drinks. The performance act was sooo good! Bravo to Papa Hawaii and team."

William M. Kahapea

What People Like

Beautiful historic venue
Ornate murals and architecture
Quality live performances

What People Dislike

Limited legroom in some seats
Downtown parking difficulties

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Hawaii Theatre Center is located in downtown Honolulu. You can reach it by car, taxi, rideshare, or public transportation. Parking can be challenging, especially on weekends, so consider ride-sharing or public transit. TikTok

Yes, there are parking garages and street parking options nearby. However, some garages may close on weekends, so it's advisable to check hours and consider alternative transportation. Reddit

For convenience, especially on weekend evenings, consider using rideshare services like Uber or Lyft, or Honolulu's public bus system. This can help avoid parking hassles. TikTok

While it's a significant walk, it's possible to walk from Waikiki to the Hawaii Theatre Center. However, it's more practical to take a bus or rideshare for a more comfortable journey. TikTok

Downtown Honolulu can be less accessible on weekends. Be prepared for potential closures and plan your travel accordingly, perhaps by arriving earlier or using alternative transport. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets can be purchased directly from the official Hawaii Theatre Center website, at their box office, or through authorized third-party vendors. Booking in advance is recommended for popular shows. TikTok

The theatre's operating hours vary depending on scheduled performances. It's best to check their official website for specific showtimes and box office hours. TikTok

For some performances, tickets may be available on the day of the show, but it's not guaranteed, especially for sold-out events. Purchasing in advance is the safest bet. TikTok

Keep an eye on the Hawaii Theatre Center's website and social media for any announced discounts, promotions, or group rates. TikTok

Refund and exchange policies are typically set by the venue and the specific event promoter. It's advisable to review these terms before purchasing tickets. TikTok

🎫 🪑 Onsite Experience

The theatre offers various seating sections. While beautiful, some seats, particularly in the rear orchestra, have limited legroom. The loge and balcony often provide better views and comfort. Reddit

The theatre generally strives to be accessible. It's recommended to contact the venue directly in advance to discuss specific accessibility needs and arrangements. Reddit

The Hawaii Theatre Center typically has restrooms, a bar (often upstairs), and concessions. Some VIP packages may include additional perks. Reddit

Photography and videography policies vary by performance. Generally, flash photography is prohibited, and recording may be restricted. Check with the venue staff or signage. Reddit

The theatre hosts a wide array of events, including concerts, Broadway tours, comedy shows, local theater productions, and special engagements. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the theatre usually offers a bar with alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, and sometimes light snacks or concessions. Reddit

Outside food and beverages are generally not permitted inside the Hawaii Theatre Center. It's best to consume them before entering or purchase them at the venue. Reddit

Absolutely! The theatre is located in downtown Honolulu, which has a vibrant dining scene with many restaurants offering various cuisines. Reddit

You'll find a diverse range of dining options, from local Hawaiian fare and Asian fusion to casual cafes and upscale restaurants in the vicinity. Reddit

Given the limited food options inside and potential for tight seating, many visitors choose to dine at a nearby restaurant before attending a performance. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The ornate interior, with its murals and historic architecture, offers many beautiful photo opportunities. The exterior also provides a classic backdrop. Instagram

Photography during performances is usually restricted to protect the audience and performers. Check for specific signage or ask staff. Reddit

While general photography of the architecture is often allowed, professional photography or filming may require special permission. Instagram

A camera with good low-light capabilities is ideal for capturing the interior details. A wide-angle lens can help capture the grandeur of the space. Instagram

The front facade of the Hawaii Theatre Center offers a striking view, especially when lit up at night. Consider capturing it from across the street for a full perspective. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Hawaii Theatre Center can be a wonderful outing for families, especially when attending matinee performances or shows specifically geared towards younger audiences. The historic and visually rich environment can captivate children's imaginations, making the experience more engaging than a typical modern venue. Reddit

When choosing seats, consider the comfort factor for children. If legroom is a concern, opt for seats in the front rows of the loge or balcony where there might be slightly more space. It's also wise to check the show's content to ensure it's appropriate for your children's age group. The theatre often hosts family-friendly productions, so keep an eye on their schedule for suitable events. Reddit

❤️ Couples & Date Nights

The Hawaii Theatre Center provides a romantic and elegant setting for a date night. The beautifully restored 1920s architecture, complete with ornate murals and a historic ambiance, creates a sophisticated atmosphere perfect for a special evening out. Reddit

For a truly memorable date, consider booking seats in the loge or balcony for the best views and a more intimate experience. Enjoy a pre-show dinner at one of the many restaurants in downtown Honolulu before heading to the theatre. The combination of a captivating performance and the venue's charm makes for an unforgettable date. Reddit+1

💰 Budget-Conscious Travelers

While the Hawaii Theatre Center hosts professional performances, there are ways to enjoy its beauty on a budget. Look for local productions or community theater events, which often have more affordable ticket prices than touring Broadway shows or major concerts. Reddit

Keep an eye on the theatre's schedule for any special promotions or discounts. Sometimes, purchasing tickets in advance or during off-peak times can lead to savings. Consider attending a performance on a weekday evening, which might be less expensive than weekend shows. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into History

The Hawaii Theatre Center is a beautifully restored 1920s landmark that stands as a testament to Honolulu's rich cultural past. Originally opened in 1922, it served as a premier entertainment venue, showcasing vaudeville acts, silent films, and live performances. After a period of decline, the theatre underwent extensive renovations to bring it back to its former glory, preserving its ornate murals, intricate plasterwork, and classic architectural details. Today, it operates as a non-profit organization dedicated to enriching the community through the arts. Reddit

Walking into the Hawaii Theatre is like stepping back in time. The lavish interior is a feast for the eyes, with hand-painted murals depicting Hawaiian scenes and celestial motifs adorning the ceiling. The intimate setting creates a unique atmosphere, making every performance feel special. It’s a place where history and contemporary arts converge, offering a truly memorable experience for visitors. Reddit

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the theatre plays a vital role in Honolulu's cultural landscape. It hosts a diverse range of performances, from touring Broadway shows and renowned musicians to local theater groups and emerging artists. This commitment to showcasing both national and local talent makes the Hawaii Theatre Center a cornerstone of the arts community. Reddit

Navigating Seating and Comfort

When planning your visit to the Hawaii Theatre Center, understanding the seating arrangements is key to an enjoyable experience. While the venue is undeniably beautiful, reviews often highlight that legroom can be a significant concern for some patrons, particularly those over 5'5". Seats in the rear orchestra sections are frequently mentioned as being quite cramped, akin to airplane economy seating. Reddit+1

For those prioritizing comfort and an unobstructed view, the loge and balcony sections are often recommended. These areas typically offer better sightlines to the entire stage and can provide more legroom. For comedy shows, it's also advised to avoid the very front row of the orchestra, as heckling or being the subject of jokes is a possibility. Reddit+1

When booking your tickets, take a close look at the seating chart. If you have longer legs or are concerned about comfort, consider seats in the front rows of the loge or balcony. For those who don't mind a more intimate, albeit snug, experience, the orchestra seats can still offer a great view of the performance. Reddit

Experiencing a VIP Night

For a truly unforgettable evening, the Hawaii Theatre Center offers VIP experiences that elevate a night at the theatre to something extraordinary. One notable example is the VIP package for concerts, which can include exclusive perks that cater to dedicated fans. These packages often go beyond just premium seating and can create a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Reddit

VIP packages have been known to include elements like early access to the venue, opportunities to attend soundchecks, and even meet-and-greet sessions with the performers. Imagine shaking hands with your favorite artist or getting a family photo with the band – these are the kinds of memorable moments that VIP experiences can offer. Reddit

In addition to these exclusive interactions, VIP bundles typically come loaded with exclusive memorabilia, such as signed posters, limited-edition pins, stylish tote bags, and VIP lanyards. Coupled with prime seating, these packages transform a regular concert into a deeply personal and cherished event, making the splurge well worth it for devoted fans. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2