The Usher Hall — Attraction in City of Edinburgh

Our experience at Usher Hall was nothing short of frustrating. Despite following online guidance to arrive early, we were left standing outside for an hour and a half with no communication about the evening’s itinerary. Worse still, conflicting information was given to different attendees—some were told doors would open at 7:00 PM, while others were informed they would open at 6:30 PM.

When we were finally allowed in, we were abruptly told we were in the wrong line and redirected—only to find ourselves at the back of a massive queue that had wrapped around the building. Hundreds of people were left standing in the rain with no updates, no visible signage, and no staff providing any form of guidance.

Seeking clarity, we approached an attendant at the box office. While they were polite, they informed us that an email had been sent the previous day with timings sent (but no queueing instructions.) However, expecting attendees to sift through their inboxes the night before an event is entirely unreasonable. This type of crucial information—such as queue logistics and timing—should be communicated at least a week in advance.

To make matters worse, while we and many others stood outside in miserable weather, the event staff appeared to be holding a meeting inside rather than managing the chaos. It was an absolute failure in event coordination. With no signage, no clear instructions, and no consideration for attendees, the experience was so frustrating that we ultimately decided to leave rather than endure another 45 minutes of...

Negatives: Only a handful of chairs available in the corridor whilst waiting to enter the seating area. I had elderly and disabled in my party with nowhere to sit. On top of this having to juggle beverages purchased from the bar with no tables to rest them on. This arrangement is in stark contrast to the majority of UK theatres. - Answer: more seats and tables along the wall in the corridor. No beverages allowed in the seating area?! I’ve never experienced this at any other theatre and left one in a quandary with a handful of beverages immediately prior to being seated. Answer: Remove this absurd policy. NB: I don’t drink alcohol before you start. I encountered an extremely rude and scorn faced lady who apparently was the manager. I engaged with her to simply find seats for two elderly and disabled members of my party. She made it overtly clear that she was unhappy at this request. I was dismayed to encounter this attitude at such a prestigious establishment. I was extremely surprised to see the RSNO Youth Chorus using the same bathroom facilities as the patrons. Especially for fixing their hair etc, are there no facilities back stage for the performing artists?

Positives: The young male member of staff in the corridor who was extremely polite and helpful and assisted us in getting some chairs. His conduct was friendly, polite and professional and in stark contrast to the manager’s demeanour. The bar staff were extremely polite and helpful. The venue and the performance itself was outstanding. Keep up...

I saw Twilight in Concert, which was just a brilliant experience. The orchestra were absolutely brilliant, the sound was fantastic where I was sitting. The singer was amazing and biggest applause for the conductor for being able to conduct and play various instruments at the same time. The staff at the venue were lovely and friendly.

I sat in B17 in the Upper Circle which is restricted view but I had a pretty decent view of the left and center of the stage. I couldn't see the right at all unless I leant forward. I anticipated this though as I knew I had bought restricted view seats.

I wish I had read reviews or the website before I bought my tickets though. The seats in the upper circle are uncomfortable wooden flip seats with no space for your legs and therefore no space between you and the row in front. The seats are pretty small so someone as big as myself ends up with your thighs touching the people either side of you and even at only 5'3", I had to keep my legs tucked together. I sat with my coat on my seat, my backpack under my seat and my bottle of water between my feet. It was a bit awkward as my knees were basically hitting the person in front of me who was sitting back in her seat completely.

Despite my discomfort with the seating, I had a brilliant time and will be back if anything else I want to see is on. But I'll buy seats in the grand circle or...