Ruth Eckerd Hall, Florida, United States
4.0 (527 reviews) Spent Ranking #10 in Clearwater Theaters
Odd seating layout
Ruth Eckerd Hall's near perfect acoustics have received rave reviews from artists, technicians and audience members since opening in 1983. Combined with state of the art equipment, comfortable amenities and world class entertainment, it's no wonder that it has been recognized as one of Tampa Bay's best concert halls numerous times as well as a finalist for Pollstar's Theater of the Year twice. In 2003, the Hall's audience chamber received a complete refurbishment, its 2,180 seats were reconfigured to accommodate more patrons with disabilities, and lobby and restrooms were expanded.Ruth Eckerd Hall has continental-style seating. Almost every patron prizes a center seat and continental-style provides the maximum possible. There are no support columns, no obstructed views. Seating is sloped and staggered. For safety and comfort, the aisle space is wider than traditional layouts; entry and exit can be made while patrons remain seated. There are 14 sets of double doors leading out from the audience chamber. With this configuration, a full house can be cleared in a matter of minutes.Among the original community leaders who conceptualized building a performing arts center this side of Tampa Bay, was Jack Eckerd. During construction, Mr. Eckerd designated a significant contribution as a birthday gift to his beloved wife, Ruth, making the dream a reality. The Hall proudly bears her name.
Address
1111 N McMullen Booth Rd, Clearwater, FL 33759-3299
Mobile
Website
http://www.rutheckerdhall.com
Current local date and time now
Friday, May 10, 2024, 2:08
User Ratings
4.0 based on (527 reviews)
Reviews
-
4Steven C 5:00 PM Nov 22, 2021
NOT BAD OVERALL
My wife and I attended a concert here recently for the first time. There is ample free parking, which is a nice change. (However, it can be a little chaotic to leave after a concert when everyone is trying to leave all at once. I recommend taking your time and waiting few minutes for the traffic to clear out.) The staff were helpful in helping you get through security and finding your seat, rest rooms, etc. It appeared that many of the seats were only accessibly via numerous short flights of stairs and we couldn't find an elevator so if you have mobility issues, as my wife does, you may want to inquire ahead of time to ensure you don't get a nasty surprise when you arrive for your event and find you seat very difficult to reach. The overall sound quality was excellent. The seats were fairly comfortable however, you could tell they were getting some age on them and the are probably getting close to needing replacement. They also had very good air circulation during the concert however, where we were sitting ensured we had a blast of air blowing into our faces/eyes so that was a little uncomfortable. We didn't purchase any food or drink items so we can't comment on the quality or prices of those items on this occasion. Overall, I would recommend the place if an event you like is playing here.
-
3alison j 5:00 PM Jan 21, 2023
World of musicals review
I just saw an adults at leisure show at Ruth Eckerd Hall this afternoon. The venue was wonderful. The talent was outstanding. Whoever was controlling the microphones really blew it. Throughout the entire show, the singers were on the mic then off the mic. Then the mic was completely off. From the beginning th rough the end there were voices that could barely be heard and others that were booming
