Jefferson Center — Attraction in Roanoke

We attended the Moscow Ballet's Nutcracker. Had a grand time watching this interpretation. The professional dancers were astonishing in their athleticism and skill. The local dancers were excellent as well. Staging, lighting and costuming were lovely.

I only gave the Jefferson Center four stars because they failed several times to get things right. First they failed to mark the parking area nearest the theater as NOT theater parking. They waited until we had parked and we're half way to the entrance to stop us to tell us we had to move our car...but that was better than being towed. Second, they failed to have the correct number of seats in row Y, so we had to wait while 5 officials tried to determine what had happened and where to seat us. We were given seats that should have been better because they were in the center section, but the final failure was that the area's seats are not offset from row to row, so every person is lined up directly behind the person seated in the row ahead. One must lean to one side or the other to see around the head of the person in front of him/her. The seats were discounted somewhat, but 40% off was about fair because we could only see about 60% of the stage and the ballet. The Jefferson Center might want to consider redoing the back rows.

I believe I would have to desire to see a performance enough to pay the price for the better seats, or simply pass on performances at the Jefferson Center.

On the plus side, the staff were very gracious and helpful. They did their best to straighten out awkward situations as quickly as possible. The seats were comfortable and we had no...

I've been to this lovely establishment several times, but seeing the legendary Loretta Lynn was my first concert here. As one who appreciates historical buildings, I expected to love this gorgeous theatre. What was unexpected was how impressive the acoustics were and what a delightful intimate experience this place provides! I'm exceedingly grateful to have seen her performance in this setting. It is obvious that the Jefferson Center cares about its patrons as much as its artists and performers as evidenced by the care taken to insure a smooth flow throughout the evening. Movement from the lobby to the restrooms to the seats was relatively quick. The courteous ushers are plentiful, the bartenders were swamped but efficient, well stocked and very friendly. Even the emcee was entertaining! Thank you so much for a consistently beautiful visit every time....

Handicapped-beware. This was my first visit and I enjoyed it. I think the acoustics we're good and I had a seat in the middle of the center section but I could see just fine. I was a little disappointed in the accessibility. While parking was in a designated lot, it was about a 2-block hike, somewhat uphill, which is not something I am able to do easily. Inside, main seating is up a flight of stairs. During the intermission the rest rooms I was directed to were all back downstairs. At that point I was able to locate an elevator, which was very welcome. It was a very nice theater, but I didn't expect to have to struggle so much to get in, and...