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Wells Theatre Norfolk

4.8
·554 reviews·Norfolk, United States

Historic Beaux-Arts venue in Norfolk, home to the Virginia Stage Company, offering professional live theater in a charming, intimate setting.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings during showtimes

Experience the magic of live performance

CrowdMedium
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Balcony seating

Wells Theatre Norfolk

Best Time

Evenings during showtimes

Experience the magic of live performance

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic Beaux-Arts venue in Norfolk, home to the Virginia Stage Company, offering professional live theater in a charming, intimate setting.

4.8
(554 reviews)

"The theater is AMAZINGLY BEAUTIFUL, the seats were comfy, the bar was nice, & the staff was friendly."

Vertical photo
TIP

✨ Soak in the History

This venue is steeped in history; take a moment to appreciate its Beaux-Arts charm before the show!

🎟️ Book in Advance

Popular shows at the Wells Theatre Norfolk sell out. Secure your tickets early online!

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Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.8 · 554 reviews

Type

Performing Arts Theater

♿ Wheelchair accessible🅿️ Accessible parking🚻 Accessible restroom

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Historic Beaux-Arts Architecture

The Historic Beaux-Arts Architecture

Entire Venue

Step back in time in this stunning, ornate theater. Its historic charm is a major draw for visitors.

Virginia Stage Company Productions

Virginia Stage Company Productions

Main Stage

Experience professional live theater, from musicals to classic plays, presented by the resident company.

Intimate Seating Experience

Intimate Seating Experience

Auditorium

Enjoy a close-up view of the stage; reviewers note there's rarely a bad seat in the house.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Tickets in Advance

Popular shows at the Wells Theatre Norfolk sell out quickly. Booking online ahead of time ensures you get the best seats and avoids disappointment. Check the Virginia Stage Company website for their current season and showtimes.

Arrive Early for Parking & Ambiance

While parking is available nearby, especially at MacArthur Center, arriving early allows time to find a spot and soak in the historic ambiance of this beautiful Beaux-Arts venue. Many reviewers praise the theater's charm and history.

Best Times

When
Evenings during showtimes
Why
Experience the magic of live performance
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
Most popular showtimes
Crowd
High
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Potentially fewer crowds
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Reveal coming soon 🍰👀#theater #hurrahplayers #plays #hamptonroads #local #norfolk # #musicaltheater #matilda #757
@hurrahplayers
42.9K likes • 836.9K views

✨ Soak in the History

This venue is steeped in history; take a moment to appreciate its Beaux-Arts charm before the show! Instagram

🎟️ Book in Advance

Popular shows at the Wells Theatre Norfolk sell out. Secure your tickets early online! Instagram

You need a sign to go to a WWE event? Here you go! 10/10 experience! I definitely want to go to RAW next! #WWE #fridaynightsmackdown #norfolkva #757tiktok
@1veebailey
4.7K likes • 42.2K views
Did you know that The Gorgeous Wells Theatre is featured in our Haunted Norfolk Tour? 👻 Have you seen anything supernatural there? #wellstheatre #wellstheater #norfolkva #norfolkvirgina #hauntedhistory #hauntedhistorytours
toursofnorfolk
36 likes • 432 views

🚗 Convenient Parking

Park at MacArthur Center for easy access. It's a short walk to the theater. Reddit

🍸 Pre-order Drinks

Skip intermission lines by pre-ordering your drinks at the bar. Reddit

A very merry opening to the cast, crew, and creative team of A MERRY CHRISTMAS CAROL!! 🎄🎶 Last night the Wells kicked off the holiday season right with its 30 year tradition of Charles Dickens’ most famous ghost story! Laughter, cheer, and merriment could be heard throughout our decked halls! This show runs now all the way to Christmas Eve so if you’re looking for a way to get your family into ...
vastage
43 likes • 828 views

Tips

from all over the internet

✨ Soak in the History

This venue is steeped in history; take a moment to appreciate its Beaux-Arts charm before the show! Instagram

🎟️ Book in Advance

Popular shows at the Wells Theatre Norfolk sell out. Secure your tickets early online! Instagram

🚗 Convenient Parking

Park at MacArthur Center for easy access. It's a short walk to the theater. Reddit

🍸 Pre-order Drinks

Skip intermission lines by pre-ordering your drinks at the bar. Reddit

💺 Box Seats Experience

Consider box seats for a unique and memorable viewing experience. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(554 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Wells Theatre for its stunning historic architecture and intimate atmosphere, making every seat feel like a good one. The Virginia Stage Company's professional productions are highly regarded, and the convenient downtown location with nearby dining and parking adds to the overall positive experience. While generally well-maintained, some minor repairs have been noted.

"Went to see Little Shop of Horrors and had the best time! It was PHENOMENAL! The theater is AMAZINGLY BEAUTIFUL 😍 the seats were comfy, the bar was nice, & the staff was friendly. You can pre-order you intermission drinks & skip the line, which is nice, and the bathroom was large enough (& clean!) to accommodate the intermission crowd. Looking forward to returning & a bit sad I haven’t attended a performance here sooner. It’s a quick walk from MacArthur center, too, for convenient parking!"

Stephanie Gardner

"Must see! So much history in this place. Jeff, the Managing Director, gave us a private tour on short notice. It’s clear he knows and loves this theater and what it provides to the community. Big thanks to Sarah for helping to coordinate! We’ll be coming back to see some shows for sure!"

John Jones

"I love visiting the Wells Theatre to see well thought out and engaging plays. The space for seats have enough room for your knees. Lots of resturants in walking distance."

Taniki Richard

What People Like

Beautiful historic architecture
Intimate seating experience
Professional quality shows

What People Dislike

Minor seat repairs needed

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Wells Theatre is located in downtown Norfolk, VA. Many visitors find it convenient to park at the nearby MacArthur Center, which is a short walk away. Public transportation options may also be available; check local transit schedules for routes serving the downtown area. Reddit

Yes, there are several parking options. The MacArthur Center parking garage is a popular choice for its proximity and convenience, just a short walk from the theater. Street parking may also be available, but can be limited during peak times. Reddit

Absolutely! The Wells Theatre is centrally located in downtown Norfolk, making it a walkable destination from many hotels, restaurants, and attractions like the MacArthur Center. Reddit

For a stress-free experience, consider parking at MacArthur Center or utilizing ride-sharing services. Arriving a bit early allows you to enjoy the historic ambiance of the theater and its surroundings. Reddit

While specific routes can vary, downtown Norfolk is generally served by public transportation. It's recommended to check the local transit authority's website for the most up-to-date information on bus routes and schedules that stop near the Wells Theatre. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets for performances at the Wells Theatre, primarily for the Virginia Stage Company, can be purchased directly through their official website (vastage.org) or at the box office. Booking in advance is highly recommended as popular shows can sell out. Instagram+1

Showtimes vary depending on the production. Performances often occur in the evenings, with matinee performances on weekends. It's best to check the Virginia Stage Company's schedule for specific dates and times for each show. Instagram+1

While it's possible to purchase tickets on the day of the show if available, it's not guaranteed, especially for popular productions. Booking in advance is the safest way to ensure you get a seat. Instagram

Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or groups. It's advisable to check the Virginia Stage Company's website or contact their box office directly to inquire about any available promotions or discount programs. Instagram

Policies can vary by production and are set by the Virginia Stage Company. Generally, tickets are non-refundable but may be exchangeable for another performance of the same show for a fee. Review the terms and conditions at the time of purchase or contact the box office for details. Instagram

🎫 🎭 Onsite Experience

The Wells Theatre offers an intimate seating experience, with many reviewers noting that there isn't a bad view in the house. Seats are generally comfortable, though some mention that they can be a bit close together. Box seats are also available for a unique perspective. Reddit

Reviewers consistently praise the cleanliness of the restrooms, with some noting they appear recently updated and are well-maintained, even accommodating intermission crowds. Reddit

The Wells Theatre is celebrated for its historic Beaux-Arts architecture and charming, intimate atmosphere. It's described as a throwback to an earlier time, offering a unique and memorable theatrical setting. InstagramReddit

Yes, there is a concession area where you can purchase drinks. Reviewers also suggest pre-ordering your intermission drinks to skip the line. Reddit

The Wells Theatre is featured on haunted history tours, with some visitors reporting supernatural experiences. It adds an intriguing layer to its already rich history. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the Wells Theatre is surrounded by numerous restaurants in downtown Norfolk, making it easy to enjoy a meal before or after a show. Many dining establishments are within easy walking distance. Reddit

Typically, outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the theater. However, you can purchase drinks and snacks at the onsite concession area. Reddit

Downtown Norfolk offers a diverse range of dining options, from casual eateries to more upscale restaurants, catering to various tastes and budgets. Reddit

Given its downtown location, finding a restaurant for a pre-show meal is generally straightforward. It's advisable to make reservations, especially on busy performance nights. Reddit

While specific recommendations can vary, exploring the restaurants around the MacArthur Center and Granby Street will provide many excellent choices. Checking local reviews can help you find the perfect spot. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography policies can vary by performance. Generally, flash photography and professional recording are prohibited during shows to avoid disturbing performers and other audience members. It's best to check with the venue or Virginia Stage Company for specific guidelines. Instagram

The exterior of the Wells Theatre, with its Beaux-Arts architecture, is a great spot for exterior shots. Inside, the ornate lobby and auditorium offer beautiful backdrops, but be mindful of performance times and any photography restrictions. Instagram

Yes, it is standard practice to prohibit photography and videography during live performances to ensure the best experience for all attendees and performers. Always adhere to the venue's rules. Instagram

No, taking photos of the stage or performers during a show is strictly prohibited. This is to prevent disruption and protect the artistic integrity of the performance. Instagram

Official photos are often shared by the Virginia Stage Company on their social media channels and website. You can also find user-generated content on platforms like Instagram and TikTok using relevant hashtags. TikTokInstagram

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