Agora Theater & Ballroom: Cleveland Performing Arts Theater Guide

This review is just of the Agora as a theater and the staff on how they acted. Went for Chimaira Christmas 16, Had two VIP meet and greets, 3 quick passes, parking and an additional ticket from a meet and greet package so already we’re looking at about a grand just to visit this “legendary” venue. Check in was for 4:30 and the event started at five. I received quite a bit of pushback wanting a physical ticket and quick passes ticket for my wife since they were so bent on not letting her in the venue with my daughter and I “corporate policy” is what I was told and I heard this phrase a lot which is so sad for a venue. Took my wife the physical ticket and quick pass, the meet and greet was fantastic, the people running the event did not plan for time well at all causing a late door open. They also wanted us all to wait in the merch area for the signing to end, they refused to open to the doors for people to be able to get there spot and get set up for the show. There were a lot more than 50 people at this meet and greet and a crowd started to form at the door to enter the concert area, these doors should have always been open, they created a surge of people rushing in that could have seriously hurt someone, when the concert room doors should have just been left open. I purchased some drinks and went back to my spot later in the show and was refused entry down there, I was informed “floor was full” and again “corporate policy” it’s corporate policy to be forced to leave a kid alone? After informing the security guard who did not care I had a small child who was separated from me a band members wife walked past and tried to help but the security guard has truly never taken a “read the room class” while other concert goers confirmed that yes I had a small child. Eventually after realizing he was looking pretty bad he says “I guess I can let one more in.” you guess? After the show I made sure to walk her up to this guy and show him. Alcohol is crazy expensive, and I don’t mean that compared to bar and other concert prices it’s just straight up way too expensive “corporate policy” I bet. I get that people don’t drink anymore since it’s literally the worst drug available but man don’t make it so overpriced the people who do enjoy a drink will pass on spending that money at your location. I honestly wish I could say I had a pleasant experience with anyone who worked there but clearly the employees are part of the cooperate machine and will act that way, the parking lot is not paved so if it’s wet enjoy that, there was a security guard for the lot who was friendly. The Chimaira Christmas was perfect, bud sadly a venue I waited years to finally be able to visit will end up being my last time visiting, I’ll go to the Winchester or Mercury when considering Cleveland for my next concert and will always skip the agora. TL:DR Corporate policy ruins a great interaction with people at this venue, paid parking should be a paved lot, drinks are too expensive. Security needs “read the room” training.

Great venue with great acoustics, this is and has always been one of my favorite spots to catch a show. I love the new renovations. The parking attendants can be hard to deal with and give information that isn’t current or up to date. They become combative if you question them. Sad that such a beautiful venue can’t provide a hassle free parking experience. Other than that this venue provides the perfect environment to see your favorite performers. The Agora Theatre is a rare gem and has definitely left its mark on the city. It has become part of Cleveland’s rich history and does hold up to the local reputation, Cleveland Rocks!

amazing atmosphere. amazing venue for a good view everywhere 😄 staff friendly and nice. tho I couldn't use pre paid parking pass because lot was sold out

Somewhat remodeled historic theater great for a more intimate performance. Choice and opera seat if available for the perfect up close view from above. Bathroom and drinks available on both floors. Plenty of concert parking next to and behind the building. Recent concert by Garbage was best performance of their 30+ years.

This is a GREAT venue. The staff are welcoming, helpful, and on their game. Not only did they walk with me to the venue, answering all my questions along the way, but the bartender allowed me to keep my drink at the bar while I went to the Restroom. The usher were helpful and very professional asking people to "double check" their tickets when they were in the wrong seats. This place is clean, all the seating is great, and most importantly, the SOUND is amazing! Love this place!