AT&T Performing Arts Center — Attraction in Dallas

The theater itself is amazing but my review is for the pre show buffet: For $35 a person you expect a heck of a lot more than what was provided here at the Sky Terrace. It advertises itself as a convenient dining location with a buffet catered by Wolfgang Puck, which both are true, but the choices in the buffet are VERY limited.

We chose to eat here after enjoying a similar experience at Dallas Summer Musicals Crystal Terrace (which is cheaper than here and has way more variety to its food options). We thought since it was more expensive we might be something at least comparable but we were wrong.

My husband and I were surprised when we came here that there was one small buffet area which had two entree options, 3 very greasy side dishes, and a dressed salad. That's it. And the drinks options were tea, water and coffee, which were serve yourself in plastic cups. I don't mind serving myself nor do I have anything against plastic cups, but for what your paying you expect to be served in glasses and not such a limited selection. The entree was okay, nothing special, but not too terrible, but the sides were drenched in butter and oil and salt. And there was only one dessert option, and you were only allowed one portion. We were sad about this since at the Crystal Terrace in Dallas Music Hall you have such a wide variety of all foods and unlimited dessert and such friendly staff serving you.

Needless to say, we will not be returning and we shall be warning off all...

This is a good venue for live theater. During the last few years we have experienced musicals, plays, ballet, opera, and even the Blue Man Group here. I love watching the chandelier and taking in the city from the outside balconies. Overall, I can always count on a fun evening here.

I really only have two real issues with the space. One, the stairs are rather scary when everyone is flooding out to leave. You can feel them and the landings bouncing just slightly. Second, the view from the top balcony can be a bit frustrating sometimes. Many of us can't afford the expensive seats so we are relegated to the cheap seats in the nose bleeds. In this particular venue this can be an issue if there is a lot of action that takes place at the back of the stage or, as I have seen a couple of shows, the staging at one point requires the actors to move to a raised platform. There was one show where I watched 10 minutes of feet and I was on the second row of the top balcony. I could hear them fine but visually it was a let down. I sat in the Twilight Circle once and, while the seats are usually super cheap, they are so high up that it's just terrifying.

If heights aren't an issue and you're okay with watching feet then go for the cheap seats. Otherwise you'll just have to find a way to swing the cost of a lower level. Trust me, even going down one level is a great...

I LOVE AT&T performing arts center. It is beautiful and modern in architecture and design. It is always very clean and organized. Staff are always very kind. And the shows are normally good.

Parking: convenient as they have a parking garage under the venue (labelled Lexus Red Garage). Prices can vary by show, but typically $20 to self park. Comparable to parking just down the road which is $17.

Pre-show: I recommend coming at least 30 min before the show to enjoy the venue, buy some gifts, and grab a drink. The bartenders are on every floor and are very nice. You can also order a drink for intermission in advance (which I recommend if you think you will want one). They will provide cups you can bring in for musicals, but no drinks or food are allowed in the theater for operas. Also in a great location, so if you want to grab a bite to eat at a nearby restaurant before hand, it is very easy to do.

Show/theater: grand, clean, and beautiful always. I recommend sitting in Orchestra or in the front row of balconies if you can. Center is also preferred as sitting off to the sides can hurt your neck after an hour or so.

Post show: never too hard to leave, lines are well organized and go quick.

I love when a show I want to see comes here and cant wait to come again...