mccarter theatre center

We've been subscribers to Pride Night at McCarter for more than ten years and have seen every production. We've also been subscribers to George Street Playhouse which I use for comparison.McCarter's productions generally take more risks, but fail to hit the mark more often. Some are downright awful (we walked out of a production of Hamlet several years ago). Several friends let their subscriptions lapse because of this uneven track record. But every so often, the production soars makes it all worthwhile - a recent example was the production of A Midsummer Night's Dream and this year's production of Antony and Cleopatra. In contrast, better than 80% of the productions at GSP have been enjoyable - fresh, diverse, well-acted, engaging. Bottom-line: most theater-goers might be better off deciding on individual plays rather than subscribing. Others may have an over-riding reason (great seats, special events, e.g. Pride) to subscribe.

Saw A Christmas Carol at the theater this past Christmas. Excellent production, though the theater itself is a very overpriced for the seats and is not really comparable in quality of production to average shows in NYC or Philly. The theaters also only had two restrooms with long lines during intermission and before the theater that left you either holding it or missing part of the show potentially. That all said, it was a very fun show and if you've never seen a show here would be worth it if a trip to NYC or Philadelphia is not appealing.

Had great balcony seats for A Christmas Carol. This is a small theater so every seat in the house is usually a good one. The cast puts on a first rate production; you can see a fabulous show without the big city hassle. I went on a Sunday with my teenage son for the matinee. The theater has a few snack areas where you might grab a light lunch, beverage or snack. Very family-friendly and beautifully decorated for Christmas. It's great to show up early to find parking, then walk up to Nassau Street for breakfast/brunch and walk a bit on Princeton campus. We can't wait to attend again for more shows throughout the year.

I have attended many events at the McCarter theater for date-night with my husband, group events with co-workers, and family shows with the kids. Parking is convenient and often free (or just feeding a meter). The theater is on the small side - so there's truly not a bad seat in the house. Some of our favorite shows have been: A Christmas Carol (family), DInosaur Train Live (family), Pen and Teller (group event), and Sleeping Beauty Wakes (original musical production - date night!). There are usually refreshments available before the show and at intermission, Long lines for the downstairs bathroom. Building is technically wheelchair accessible - but it's a hassle.

Had 18 family members attend the Christmas Carol. Venue is excellent and show was Fantastic! Would attend again!

I have been to the McCarter several times for both concerts and plays and it has always been a good experience. The setting is intimate but still professional. Many times new plays have a tryout here before going to Broadway. It's wonderful for musical performances and there are options for children. If you live in NJ, you should check their website for their event schedule.

Excellent variety of entertainment. Sometimes the plays are fantastic; sometimes they fall flat. The variety of music and dance has been terrific. The McCarter gives us an opportunity to see things we wouldn't normally see, unless we went to NYC. Keep it up, McCarter!

Between the Berlind, the main stage, the in-house-produced theater season, well-curated outside performances year-round of dance, theater and combinations therein, McCarter is well-positioned as part of the new, world-class Arts and Entertainment District anchored by PU's new Lewis Center for the Arts across the street (to be completed 2017). A gem.

We typically see about 3 shows at the McCarter a year and The Understudy did not disappoint. The acting was wonderful and the venue is very comfortable, I might even say intimate (much better than a huge theater).

I love being able to attend shows here. There is not a bad seat in the house. Parking can be a little tough but there are lots close by that you can walk to. And the location is perfect for being able to grab a bite to eat in Princeton before or after.

My family and especially my wife & I have enjoyed live theater and live music performances at McCarter Theatre for many years. Under the direction of Emily Mann, we have seen the productions go from very good to excellent especially the last few years. Fences by August Wilson was directed by Phylicia Rashad last year and we were simply blown away by the powerful message and sheer emotion generated by the awesome cast. Recently we enjoyed The Understudy, also directed by Emily Mann. The cast is comprised of only 3 actors yet there are laughs galore. We also enjoy the musical acts here and often the prices are much lower than in the larger arenas. One tip I can pass along is to go to the McCarter site and get on their mailing list. Not only will you receive mailings and emails about upcoming events, you will often receive discounts as high as 50% on the plays. One other thing I should pass along is the parking situation. There is ongoing construction all around the theater so you would be best served by parking in Princeton Station lot on Alexander Street and then either take the shuttle from there or walk about 5-10 minutes in good weather. Try attending an event here, you'll be glad you did.

We saw Jake Shimabukuru, excellent Ukelele player. Nice little gift shop , seats are comfortable easy to walk to after dining in Princeton. Don't bother looking for parking just park in the lot on Hull Fish street and walk. Its a fun and safe town. Has snacks and cocktails during remission.

We have seen a number of shows at McCarter theater and have enjoyed each one. Musicals, comedy, drama, dance are all worth the price. Intimate theaters with good acoustics, comfortable seats, snacks and beverages for those who need it.

We have been devoted patrons of McCarter Theater for over twenty-five years. Of course we are privileged to live so close to NYC and its legendary Broadway theaters, and as lovers of great theater we go whenever we can, BUT the enormous talents of Emily Mann, McCarter's Artistic Director, and her entire team, make us think repeatedly that this is indeed Broadway-quality theater in the heart of beautiful and historic Princeton. I could not estimate the # of dramas, musicals, concerts, etc that we have seen here. All have been memorable, professional, and highly worthwhile on some level. On September 27 we saw a magnificent production of Shakespeare's "Antony and Cleopatra," which was outstanding in every way. It brought this 407 year old tragedy immediately to life. Also we see their version of Dickens' "A Christmas Carol" every December. It has become an essential holiday tradition. In addition the entire experience is first-rate. Two different but equally beautiful and comfortable theaters, fine amenities, courteous staff members, the list goes on. McCarter is a treasure in central NJ and we are avid fans and supporters for life. If you have not visited, check out their great website of upcoming events in theater, music, and/or dance, and plan a special occasion with family or friends. You're sure to enjoy it.

With a repertoire that constantly pushes you to discover and appreciate new plays and directors, the McCarter is a beacon of high-end entertainment and culture. It is our luck that it's also very affordable, with children's tickets at $20 irrespective of the seats, and specials for adults for all shows. There are also dinner and theatre packages, pre-show events, and this year we went to a very entertaining Summer block party in front of the theatre