The curtain is rising on a brand-new season, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to welcome our patrons back! Whether you’re a longtime supporter or visiting us for the very first time, we’re excited to share unforgettable performances with you this year. To help make your experience as enjoyable as possible, we’ve put together a quick guide to theatre etiquette and answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about attending a show at here at Wharton Center 

Accessibility 

We offer many accessibility services to ensure your experience at Wharton Center is an enjoyable one. Those services include:  

• Sign Language Interpretation 

• Audio Description 

• Open Captioning- Wharton Center offers open captioning on select Thursday and Friday evening Broadway performances. 

• Assistive Listening Devices 

• Curb to Seat Service- Available for most performances, please request in advance. Wheelchair pick-up at Wharton Center is available on level 2, Shaw Rd. entrance ONLY. 

• Accessible Restrooms 

• Wheelchair Seating and Other Seating Accommodations 

• Barrie Free Parking 

• Drop Off Location 

• Sensory Kits 

• Service Animal Accessibility 

• Large Print Programs  

Please alert the Ticket Office when requesting any of the services with your ticket order. If you have any questions about the services listed call us at (517) 884-3116. 

We also have an extensive digital tour of Wharton Center you can view prior to attending a performance: https://www.whartoncenter.com/plan-your-visit/accessibility/able-eyes/  

Dress Code 

At Wharton Center, we do not have a dress code. Please come in whatever you are most comfortable, be it casual, dressed up or even in costume!  

Parking 

There are many options to park at and near Wharton Center. We have detailed directions to all event parking options.  

Metal Detectors  

The safety and security of all Wharton Center patrons, artists, staff and volunteers is our top priority. Increased security measures are in place for the majority of Wharton Center performances, including Performing Arts, Broadway and Live At Wharton events. 

Security checks will take place at Bogue Street (front entrance) and the atrium entrance adjacent to the parking ramp. 

Prohibited items include but are not limited to: 

• Cameras and recording devices (other than phones) 

• Alcohol and illegal drugs 

• Animals (except service animals) 

• Any items that may be deemed disruptive to the performance 

• Outside food and beverage, including personal drink containers 

• Balloons, flags, signs 

• Backpacks, oversized bags, cinch bags, luggage 

• Firearms and weapons of any kind (including pocket knives) 

• This list is not all-inclusive and may change at any time without notice. 

Patrons will be asked to remove prohibited items in their possession from the premises or may be refused entry. There is no storage area and confiscated items will not be returned. Patrons are encouraged to bring minimal personal belongings to the theatre and allow time for security screening. 

Alcohol Sales 

Wharton Center is excited to announce we have begun selling alcohol at concessions. Check polices and offerings prior to your performance for more information.  

Patron Amenities/Questions 

We offer many Patron Amenities to ensure your experience at Wharton Center is an enjoyable one. Throughout each performance, the Patron Services Desk, located in the Sierra Lobby is open to assist guests with accessibility services, booster seats, and lost and found.  

We can’t wait to see you and your loved ones here to experience the power of the performing arts!