Frequently Asked Questions
What do you mean by Previews?
Preview week is the first week of the run of each production. The shows are "at performance level," fully costumed and performed on a completed set, but the director is taking notes during the performance and still in the process of fine-tuning the production. Rehearsals are still taking place during the day, so there may be minor changes and improvements made by the time the production officially opens on Opening Night. Subscription ticket prices are slightly lower for this preview week, but audiences are still guaranteed a first-rate, professional performance.
How old do you have to be to attend shows at The Public?
This depends on the production in which you are interested. The house policy of Pittsburgh Public Theater is that no children under the age of seven are permitted into the theater. All of our mainstage shows this season are recommended for mature high school students only. If you are interested in attending a production at The Public and are unsure of the age appropriateness of a particular show, please call the Education Department at 412.316.8200, ext. 715, and we can help you select which shows are the best fit.
Can I bring children to the productions?
The house policy of Pittsburgh Public Theater is that no children under the age of seven are permitted into the theater. Depending on the content and themes, some shows are much more suitable for family viewing than others. Please consult each Show Description for the age recommendations for each of the productions. If you are unsure of the age appropriateness of a particular show, please call the Education Department at 412.316.8200, ext. 715, and we can help you select which shows are the best fit.
How much does it cost for students to attend shows at The Public?
Student tickets are available at $15.00 per ticket for full-time students and anyone 26 and under (a $.50 District fee per ticket will be added upon purchase).
What do I do if I can't attend my scheduled performance?
There are no refunds or exchanges on non-subscription tickets.
Subscribers have the ability to exchange their tickets for another performance of the same production. This can be done in four ways: by mail, in person, by telephone or by fax. The Box Office staff will make every effort to locate comparable seats for your rescheduled performance date. There is no charge for this service, unless: 1) you are exchanging into a higher-priced performance, or 2) you are not able to return your tickets to the box-office at least one hour prior to your originally scheduled performance.
What is your inclement weather policy?
As long as the show will take place and a gubernatorial "state of emergency" due to weather is not in effect prior to curtain, management is not required to provide refunds or exchanges on tickets.
What happens if, due to unforeseen circumstances, I arrive late for a performance?
Latecomers must remain in the outer lobby until a specifically designated point in the production when they will be admitted by the ushers into the theater and directed to seats in the balcony. During intermission, the patrons can then move into their originally assigned seats. Monitors are positioned in the lobby to enable latecomers to view the show until they are admitted. Because of the intimate design of the theater space, this seating policy is adhered to in order to prevent disruptions to both the actors on stage and the audience members already seated.
What is the difference between the Gold Flex Plan and the Silver Flex Plan?
By ordering a Flex Plan, you receive six vouchers that can be redeemed in any combination for six tickets to the current season's productions. Gold Flex vouchers are redeemable for any performance. Silver Flex vouchers are redeemable for all performances except Friday and Saturday evenings. Silver Flex subscribers may attend Friday or Saturday evening performances, however, by paying an $8.50 - $9.50 upgrade fee per ticket. Flex Plan subscribers have the ability to exchange their tickets should a conflict arise after the reservation is made, but keep in mind that the major benefit of a Flex Plan is that it enables subscribers to reserve seats for a performance date that suits their schedule. There is no need to redeem the vouchers for tickets as soon as the vouchers arrive in September as excellent seats open and become available throughout the season.
Where should I park?
Currently there are more than 5,000 parking spaces available in lots and garages throughout the Cultural District and many more within walking distance. Click here for a comprehensive list of parking lots and associated addresses and cost information.
Is there a dress code?
While Pittsburgh Public Theater does not have a dress code, you will find that most audience members dress "business casual" — slacks, sweaters and such — though you'll see everything from cocktail dresses to blue jeans.