Barrymore Theatre
A historic 1920s cinema turned vibrant venue, hosting big bands, comedians, and Broadway shows with a timeless charm.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience the full magic
Barrymore Theatre
Best Time
Experience the full magic
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic 1920s cinema turned vibrant venue, hosting big bands, comedians, and Broadway shows with a timeless charm.
"The charm of this place can't be beat though, will certainly try shows here in the future."
🎯 Arrive Early for Lines
Lines can be long for popular shows, especially with festival seating. Get there early! :clock1:
💰 Cash for Snacks & Drinks
Snacks and drinks are cash-only, but there's an ATM on-site. :moneybag:
Quick Facts
Rating
4.5 · 786 reviews
Type
Performing Arts Theater
Website
barrymorelive.comHighlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic 1920s Cinema Charm
Main Auditorium
Experience the magic of a bygone era with twinkling ceiling lights and timeless atmosphere.
Diverse Live Performances
Stage
From Broadway stars and tribute bands to stand-up comedians, catch a variety of top-tier entertainment.
Unique Artwork & Ambiance
Lobby and various areas
Discover unusual art installations, including masks, adding a quirky charm to the venue.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Arrive Early for Popular Shows
Balcony Seating & Comfort
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Lines
Lines can be long for popular shows, especially with festival seating. Get there early! :clock1:
💰 Cash for Snacks & Drinks
Snacks and drinks are cash-only, but there's an ATM on-site. :moneybag:
🚽 Intermission Bathroom Rush
Bathrooms are cramped and can get hectic during intermission. Plan accordingly! 🚽
🪑 Balcony Comfort
Balcony seats offer good views but can get warm. :thermometer:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Lines
Lines can be long for popular shows, especially with festival seating. Get there early! :clock1:
💰 Cash for Snacks & Drinks
Snacks and drinks are cash-only, but there's an ATM on-site. :moneybag:
🚽 Intermission Bathroom Rush
Bathrooms are cramped and can get hectic during intermission. Plan accordingly! 🚽
🪑 Balcony Comfort
Balcony seats offer good views but can get warm. :thermometer:
🎶 Great Sound Quality
Enjoy excellent acoustics for music and performances. 🎤
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Barrymore Theatre is praised for its historic charm, friendly staff, and comfortable, recently updated seating. Audiences appreciate the diverse range of performances and good sound quality. However, some find the bathrooms to be cramped and concessions to be cash-only.
"It's an old theater where I saw my first movie, Old Yeller, 60 years ago. It still has the small twinkling ceiling lights I remember as a kid. The entrance has an ensemble of art that seems strange to me but doesn't stop patrons from entering. Staff is friendly and ready to help seat you. Plan to wait at the small basement bathrooms during intermission. The seats were comfortable and big enough to minimize the cramped feeling you may have experienced in other venues. Toast a Bread cover band did an excellent job of singing their songs. Recommend arriving early if they have festival seating. The line can extend down the street."
Harry Andruss
"I’ve been to the Barrymore Theatre multiple times. The staff is always quite nice and the atmosphere feels like an old local theatre, which is lovely and timeless. The remodel and seat replacement have massively improved the experience seeing a show there. Overall, very fun time and nice local feel, even if some local theatres in the area are a little more comfortable."
Matthew Szlasa
"Lovely small venue, staff was super friendly! Snacks and drinks are cash-only but there is an ATM on site. The bathrooms are pretty cramped though, and the rush at intermission was a bit hectic. The charm of this place can't be beat though, will certainly try shows here in the future."
Lucas
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Barrymore Theatre is located in Madison, Wisconsin. Public transportation options are available, and driving directions can be found on most navigation apps. Parking availability can vary depending on the event, so checking local parking garages or street parking regulations is recommended.
Parking near the Barrymore Theatre can be challenging, especially during popular events. It's advisable to research nearby parking garages or consider using ride-sharing services.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets can typically be purchased online through the official Barrymore Theatre website or authorized ticketing partners. Some tickets may also be available at the box office on the day of the show, but it's best to book in advance for popular events.
While most seats offer good views, some patrons have noted that balcony seats can get warm. It's always a good idea to check the seating chart when purchasing tickets.
Showtimes vary depending on the performance. Evening shows are common, with some matinee performances available. Check the specific event listing for exact times.
For sell-out shows, it's unlikely to get tickets on the day of the show. It's highly recommended to purchase tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Barrymore Theatre offers a charming, timeless atmosphere reminiscent of an old local theatre. It's known for its historic feel, including twinkling ceiling lights and unique artwork.
Recent remodels and seat replacements have significantly improved the comfort of the seating. They are generally considered comfortable and spacious enough to minimize a cramped feeling.
The bathrooms at the Barrymore Theatre are noted to be quite cramped, and the rush during intermission can be hectic.
Information regarding accessibility for individuals with disabilities should be confirmed directly with the venue or ticketing agent when purchasing tickets.
The Barrymore Theatre hosts a diverse range of performances, including big-name bands, stand-up comedians, Broadway shows, and tribute acts.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Barrymore Theatre offers a selection of snacks and drinks, including candy, popcorn, sodas, various beers, wine, and mixed drinks. Note that these are cash-only.
Yes, there is an ATM available on-site for your convenience if you need cash for concessions.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography and videography policies can vary by performance. It's best to check with the venue or look for signage upon arrival. Generally, flash photography is discouraged.
The theatre's historic charm, including its twinkling ceiling lights and unique artwork, makes for interesting photo opportunities before or after the show.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit