Posted: 12/30/16 at 5:49am
I searched this topic and came up empty. I'm not sure that this particular subject has been discussed. But, ever since I visited the Al Hirschfeld Theatre to see "Kinky Boots", it made me wonder. This was my first time at this particular theatre. The theatre itself is lovely and has lots of charm. However, that charm went out the door when I realized the problem with the crowding situation inside the theatre. Upon arriving, I went up the stairs to my seat in the mezzanine section. I had a decent view of the stage. I had a very early flight the next morning, so I cut my visit short. ( I had seen the tour two times.) I needed that extra time to make sure I packed correctly. Anyway, as this was around intermission time, I of course had to go down the stairs. There are no exit doors by the last section of the mezz area (which surprised and concerned me). Once I got downstairs, I saw a huge mass of people converging in one small area. Apparently, the merchandise/refreshment stand is located very close to the stairs. So, you had people from orchestra there...you had people from mezz as well. Then, those people in mezz had to return by going up the stairs of course. Meanwhile, I was trying to make my way down those stairs to exit. I must say I was kind of scared that so many people were positioned in one small area. I've never had an experience like this. Most of the theatres I've gone into have their merchandise/concession stands spread out, so crowd concerns have never been a problem. Yes, I am aware that there will always be crowding will always happen in Broadway theatres. Has anyone encountered this problem at the Al Hirschfeld (or any other theatres for that matter)? Roman in Austin, Texas
