The American Theatre — Attraction in Hampton

You’ve got to support this institution in Hampton VA. It’s small but packed with big heart, the staff that work here are friendly, helpful and accommodating. You can feel the community that is Hampton. It is centrally located to a lot of Main Street restaurants and shops. I went here for the first time to watch a Taylor Dayne concert. The venue was perfect - big enough for audience to dance in the aisle while a giant theatre sized screen displays typical concert videos and light display; but smaller than most concert venues meant for intimate setting where you can see the performers on stage without the need for binoculars. There are the orchestra and balcony sections. The foyer of the theatre has a display of performance costumes, a wall of benefactor names and of previous stars that graced the stage. There’s a great room where a piano sits across the cash bar. During intermission you can listen to classic songs played by a pianist while you get in a long line to get your drinks and snacks. They serve alcoholic beverages and hot drinks like tea and coffee, reasonably priced. Will definitely come back for more...

My husband and I traveled to Hampton the week of March 9th, and had the pleasure of attending two events at the historic American Theatre.

The first was a movie night which featured Lucy and Desi in "The Long, Long Trailer." Walking into the Theatre, we purchased our tickets at the Box Office window and were greeted by several friendly volunteer ushers AND the smell of popcorn. This Theatre brought back memories of seeing this movie in the 1950's. And we were delighted to watch it again on the big screen. Loved the experience!

We returned to the Theatre the next night to attend the Hampton DEI Unity Awards Ceremony. Once again, friendly helpful ushers and a reasonably priced Concession Stand greeted us. The Lobby was buzzing with excitement as Hampton City officials, DEI staff, nominees, family and friends arrived. Being a live on-stage program, the lighting and sound were great for both the award and musical presentations. We even had the chance to meet Mayor James Gray after the Ceremony.

We...

Some adults that were sitting next to a piano asked a kid if he knew how to play anything and opened the piano cover. The kid said yes and started playing something. Then a staff member went crazy and screamed at a child for touching the piano. Maybe learn how to talk to children if you're going to have shows for children! Should the kid have touched the piano?? Probably not. But there was only one sign that said "don't place anything on the piano"...no sign anywhere that said to not touch or play the piano. Also, it's unfair to the child to be screamed at and embarrassed in from of a room full of people when some random adults told him to play. To the lady specifically...you're lucky I was in a decent mood after seeing the Imagination Movers (which were wonderful...