It's controversial, but I don't love the Paramount Theatre.

I've now attended two performances here for Funny Girl and Wicked. I've sat in MF4 EE 1 and MEZ34 S 1. Despite the mezzanine overhang at row EE and being in the back of the theatre at mezzanine 34, the view was still great from my seat in both shows, but the mezzanine seat was better because of the walkway gap between me and the row in front of me. If I went again, I would probably chose the first or second mezzanine, rows A or J for the best views.

The seats are far, far too close together at the Paramount. I am a pretty small woman and even I am uncomfortable sitting here for a 3 hour show. I cannot cross my legs without my foot pressing up against the seat in front of me. Even in the first row of the mezzanine seating, there is a short wall that blocks you in from stretching your legs out.

It's neither hot nor cold in the Paramount, but air flow could certainly be improved upon. I understand this is a very old theatre, but even the 5th Avenue Theatre has AC and that one was built in 1926. Carry a small fan with you in case it's a little warm.

The security team at the front herd people into the theatre like cattle. I am already stressed out by being in a crowd of people trying to shuffle into a building, but to have 3 security guards yelling at me and everyone else to move up and fill in the gaps makes a more stressful entry experience.

Another issue with entry is that for Wicked, they were not able to get everyone inside before the show started. I arrived at 7:10pm and the line was already around the corner on 9th and looped back up on Pine about half way to Boren. I assume doors opened a half an hour before the 7:30 show, which is just not enough time to get everyone inside. And then, those of us who got inside after 7:30 were told to wait and watch the show on the screens in the hallway until the first number was over, then we'd be allowed in. It felt like I was being reprimanded. To have to miss the first 20 minutes of the show because of poorly managed entry despite having paid hundreds of dollars to see it really bothered me. I did not have this problem with Funny Girl (arrived at 7:30 for an 8pm show) but I cannot say it didn't happen to others.

I appreciate the screening staff in making sure no one brings in weapons. It does provide a safer experience. Make note that they do not allow outside food/drinks. However, on both my visits, security screening staff were accommodating and allowed me to bring in my water bottle when I explained it was for a disability. I was not asked to explain my disability, they just visually checked my bottle and let me through. They do have water and snacks inside and water fountains.

Overall really amazing shows put on by STG which I thoroughly enjoyed, but I think the theatre itself could improve upon crowd control and making the theatre more comfortable.