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Keller Auditorium
222 SW Clay St, Portland, OR 97201, United States
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Ja
Review №1

The Keller Auditorium is nice, spacious and comfortable. If you arrive late or want to go outside during the show, the staff are super nice and will make you a pizza or something. Friendly staff and good location.

Ha
Review №2

Always an amazing time. The handicap accommodations were adequate and although the employees arent terribly attentive, we do always get helpful service from the ushers. Been to the Keller Auditorium many times and its still a great place to be. Seats are good sized and theater is always clean. Acoustics are fantastic as is the lighting. Highly recommend the Keller Auditorium. 5 stars.

Ce
Review №3

This was my first time coming here ever.... And I love LOVED it!I certainly plan on coming back.

Sa
Review №4

I went to the Keller auditorium to see The nutcracker play. It was amazing The lines for the bathroom werent that long. The play was really well thought out and very well decorated and it was overall very clean in the theater area. And they served drinks and alcohol and food and then they also had a little gift shop set up. Everyone there was really nice all the workers were very nice and polite and they were all had a smile on their face. Definitely a very nice place the dancers were amazing absolutely amazing. Definitely go watch one of their shows here I will definitely be there for sleeping beauty

Sa
Review №5

This was my first time here. What a beautiful venue. I went to watch the Walk Off The Earth concert. It was nice to be able to take a drink into the auditorium as long as you put a lid on your cup.

Re
Review №6

Had a great time at the Price is Right LIVE show!

Ja
Review №7

If i could give less than one star or even better negative stars i would. The customer service for this venue maybe the worst Ive ever encountered. I called a few months ago, understanding that the concert i was going to attend had been postponed. I was told that no refund would be provided unless the concert was canceled. It has now been canceled and again no refund will be issued. The reason is because they changed the policy. I wish I could just change my mind and get my money back.

Wh
Review №8

I love the stage and the acts that are brought to the Keller. I always have a wonderful night out at the theater. The staff is welcoming, knowledgeable and friendly and theres really not a bad seat in the house. My only critique is of the sound quality. I think it may be the acoustics in general and not the sound system in particular but I often have trouble understanding the actors regardless of where Im sitting. I have sat in orchestra, first and second balconies and no matter where I sit, its always a bit difficult to understand the exact words during some songs. But its still an amazing experience to attend a show here and if you get the opportunity, GO. Its a wonderful night out on the town!

Mi
Review №9

Wonderful venue for touring Broadway shows. Recommend Mortons happy hour before your show

Ki
Review №10

Good venue for shows, but the seats are pretty tight if youre a person of size. Opt for the balcony box if you can. The ushers and staff are great.

El
Review №11

Amazing, beautiful venue and we had an amazing time with comfortable seats and great view for the Rex Orange County concert! Cant wait til he comes back to town. Always love shows at the Keller for the amazing acoustics.

Je
Review №12

Its a good theater overall, but I think some things about how they manage it could be better. For one, most or all of their beer is not from locally-owned breweries, which bothers me. We have so many great breweries here in Portland, and I think supporting the arts goes hand-in-hand with supporting local businesses.Some of their policies around food and drink are a bit annoying too. Ive had friends be hassled for wanting to carry in food leftover from dinner right before the show (even though they have no plans to eat it there). And I always see people being told they cant bring in bottled water either.

Er
Review №13

The staff were friendly and knowledgable. We saw Wicked and it was awesome! The theater, hallways and restrooms were all clean and the building was easy to navigate. There is parking nearby (across the street).

Je
Review №14

While this auditorium is quite large, no seat feels too far away. The prices are pretty good, as each group sets their rates competitively. Parking is only $5-$10 at either of the two parking garages adjacent to the theater, and there are plenty of places to eat nearby, as well as a restaurant and concessions inside (which the prices arent terrible, but arent great). Every performance is high quality, and the ushers are respectful and helpful. Highly recommend any performance here!

Kr
Review №15

Amazing building! Though I wonder if they could do something to improve the bathroom situation at intermission time.. And more allergen free/vegan options in the snack vendors would be great. This is a progressive city, after all.

Ju
Review №16

We always go to the singing Christmas that they have every year. This year was redone with the music and show. IT WAS AMAZING. The theater itself is always amazing. Tight seats, but they still keep this place very well maintained. People where helpful and very nice. See you again next year.

Ju
Review №17

I came here when I was younger to see The Nutcracker, and recently returned to see one of my favorite bands, LANY. It was a blast and I really appreciate that security let people be near the stage rather than in their seats because the band wanted everyone to be included and engaged rather than sitting, even though it was probably a hassle for security reasons. One of my favorite concerts I’ve ever been to.

Ga
Review №18

Super nice venue, comfortable seats, although a little right in the legroom for us taller folks. Hosts a wide range of entertainment...I’ve seen killer bands and heard inspiring talks here.

Su
Review №19

The event staff are always really nice & helpful. The theater its self is beautiful & has been amazing for the different styles of shows & plays! The underground orchestra pit gives off a wonderful sound yet doesnt obstruct or distract your view in any way.

Am
Review №20

Was here for the Mystery Science Theatre 3000 last night. Very enjoyable place and parking is right across the way. Seems a little outdated, especially the consessions. I brought in my own treats instead. There isnt any sort of security getting in which is a little scary in this time and age.

Ju
Review №21

Ive gone to a few shows here and every time Ive had a clear view and a comfortable seat. Anywhere on the ground floor is good seating, and the first balcony has some good views, too. Cant vouch for the upper balconies.

Tr
Review №22

Delightful auditorium with comfortable seating. Plentiful concessions and drinks and polite staff to help you have a wonderful evening. Whether youre here for an event, a ballet, or just got roped into something youre guaranteed to have a wonderful evening.

Jo
Review №23

This was my first time sitting in the upper balcony. My wife and I had first row seats there, and it was perfect. The view, the sound, all of it. I will look for seats line this again.

Ri
Review №24

Pretty nice auditorium but the sound was not that great. We watched a concert there, st Vincent. It was nice to see a bunch of areas to purchase drinks as most venues have a lack of areas and as such are extremely large lines. The bathrooms get busy but if you make your way upstairs those lines are shorter.

Mi
Review №25

The Keller has easy access, reasonably designed seating, lots of beverage bars, restrooms and lobby spaces. Unfortunately the acoustics are poor to fair only for any spoken word performances and some music presentations so a challenge to enjoy fully.

Li
Review №26

We came and saw The Phantom of the Opera here, and it was amazing! The facility is clean and free of debris. The staff are very friendly and helpful. The seats are a smidge uncomfortable, but what can you do, its an old Auditorium. Im looking forward to this venue again in the future.

Ma
Review №27

The Frozen Musical was Amazing and Stunningly Beautiful! Fabulous performances from the Whole cast! Sorry for all who cannot attend, now...

Co
Review №28

Wow and Wow! Best auditorium I have been to. Access and parking was an absolute breeze, there are so many parking lots/garages around at a fair cost. The building itself is in great shape. Not too massive so that you cant see. We sat in the boxes for Eddie Izzard. The seats were above average comfort for a robust person. I would definitely go back!

AJ
Review №29

Great staffing for the show I saw, kind and welcoming! Bathroom left a bit to be desired, and they felt a little pushy to get us out after the show. All in all a pleasant experience! Sound was lovely.

su
Review №30

It was wonderful Ill have to check on the next show.

Me
Review №31

This place has the best vacuuming west of the Mississippi.

Ju
Review №32

The Keller Auditorium is a cultural staple of the city of Portland, and a place to go to see some of the greatest performers from all over the world. I have been there many times and have enjoyed countless performances, plays, music and the like. The Keller was built in 1917 and was completely renovated in 1967, and so the building does show its age here and there. The isle going down to the Orchestra section is quite steep and I often wonder how folks who are a little unsteady on their feet make it down. The bathroom situation can be a little ridiculous and you have to be quite creative in order to be able to get a turn. Ive seen the line go clear across the lobby at times. There is a big parking structure that sits kitty corner from the building, so that is very convenient and a real plus. All in all, the Keller Auditorium is a great place to go to see a performance.

Jo
Review №33

As a big man the seats were way too packed in and skinny. This is more of a personal issue though and doesnt reflect on the Keller Auditorium. The venue itself is convenient to get to and the staff were very friendly. Even though we were way off center I was able to enjoy the show and had an amazing time. Paying $5 for a bottle of water is boarding on criminal though, and $4 for drip coffee... I forgive the hustle but damn.

Je
Review №34

Great place for a concert! Not too big, sound was great.

Va
Review №35

Saw Incubus here in September 2019. Great venue, doesn’t seem to be a bad seat in the place. Acoustics were good from our spot in the balcony. Multiple bars keep the drink lines short, but I the zigzag set up isn’t super conducive for those in a wheelchair. Overall a very nice venue and would definitely see a show here again.

Do
Review №36

Keller Auditorium is an outstanding venue for live performance and their presentation of Straight No Chaser a capella music was no exception. Friendly staff and very comfortable seats. Lots of parking for a reasonable fee in numerous covered garages within a 1minute walk. Easy access from I-405.

LE
Review №37

Wonderful auditorium with a deep history in Portland. Located right across from the great (but sometimes dry) Keller fountain.

Br
Review №38

A beautiful venue for the arts. Ive been twice now; once for a symphony and another for a play. Both times were excellent and the productions amazing.

Ol
Review №39

Loved the singing Christmas tree

Kr
Review №40

Cooler temp for crowds, spacious seats, good acoustics. Allows your water bottle. Covered entry while waiting to have tickets scanned, interesting food options. Cranky staff however.

Ra
Review №41

The employees were all so great and the older lady helping with seating is a angel. First time have been in that building since my high school graduation in 1986. Only wish tickets were not so spendy but definitely worth the money spent. Will be back

Is
Review №42

My wife and I love the Keller for Broadway shows! The seating is perfect in terms of leg room for taller people and the shape of the theater allows us to see the stage from anywhere we are at. We have season passes that are extremely affordable and I recommend them if you even want to see 2 shows in a year, youll be saving money with a season pass for good seating.

Ka
Review №43

Ballet was Sleeping Beauty. We enjoyed it immensely. One of the best ballet performances I have seen at the ballet here in Portland

Er
Review №44

Great show theater is perfect had a great time at Wicked!

Le
Review №45

Ive seen countless shows there growing up. Most recently was Madama Butterfly. The bathroom line is always long at intermission but I always make friends. Seats are very narrow, but even when its crowded its easy to escape the crowd. Its probably due for a major remodel soon. Its beautiful but feels a little dated at times.

De
Review №46

Its a great venue, well placed, but the lobby is tiny and its too warm inside the stage area. The ballet was great, though. Acoustics are awesome.

Ha
Review №47

The Keller auditorium is the perfect reminder of the nature of art in the 21st century. Do you live to embrace it? Do you live to face it? Or will you be shunned from it by the hands of our economic system? Who knows. Great place.

Wi
Review №48

I completely enjoyed this venue. The ladies at items check desk, helped me with a seating situation... Im a special needs person who could not sit in the chairs with arms,so they delivered a wider seat for my needs! Thanks so much for your time and consideration in this matter! By the way, this is a great place for sound and all seats are good!

Je
Review №49

Loved my experience! The staff was professional and helpful. An impressive performance insures my return.

Da
Review №50

Wonderful venue. They serve alcohol and water. It would be nice to go to a family show without alcohol being served but I guess thats not something that will ever happen in a town like Portland.

Bi
Review №51

The CIVIC AUDITORIUM as O.P. kids call it is still fantastic after all these years. Easy dropoff location. Well kept space helpful and professional staff

An
Review №52

Beautiful venue, no bad seating. Easy to find, easy to access and easy to Park. Huge parking garage on South Side of building, only $6 and so close. Worth it to not have to search for parking.

da
Review №53

I have seen several productions at the Keller over the years and in general the productions were great. My reduced review doesn’t have to do with the productions, rather it has to do with the sound. The productions are loud, which I expected but the sound is greatly distorted. Which makes understanding what the actors, singers, and chorus voices are saying impossible. My suspicion is that all the speakers are at the front shooting sound back to the last rows at great volume. It would be much better experience to actually understand what they are saying rather than cover my ears because the volume is so very loud. This (I think) could be achieved by spreading the speakers more evenly around the venue and thereby being able to reduce the decibel level and distortion.I hope that this matter is looked into as I enjoy theatre very much but enjoy it better when I can understand what is being said. Thank you.

Ka
Review №54

We went to see the Nutcracker. I enjoyed the experience. The auditorium is not too big so no matter where you sit, you still have a good view of the stage. However, if you are sitting on the first row you will be looking up the stage.

Pa
Review №55

The ballet was wonderful. The dancers were great. The auditorium, however, was so hot when we first got in there, we were sweating. I am disabled, so asked one of the ushers if they had an elevator going to the bottom, she replied no. So I had a very.hard getting to the bottom. We had tickets for the 2nd row. Therr is indeed, an elevator. We found it later, by accident. After I walked the ramp twice.

Fr
Review №56

I went here to see Wicked, and it was amazing. The auditorium is huge, and every seat has a good view. The best seats are probably the ones at the back, because you get a great view, and you can be first to the bathrooms at intermission.

Gr
Review №57

My wife and I came here to see a comedy podcast. Was so much fun. The security and ushers they had were a blast to be around while we were waiting, and then so helpful once we were looking for our seats.

Jo
Review №58

Good acoustics. Poor sight lines for the theater production we saw. But the WORST; tickets were double booked, we had to leave the seats we were in, 20 minutes into the show, (bought reserved seats tickets, online). It took another 10 minutes for managers to locate other seats for us. And then they were off to the side, and we could not see a quarter of the stage!

R
Review №59

The nutcracker itself was wonderful. We were worried about not getting in because we were running late but they seated at 7:40 for a 7:30 show so we made it. Drinks are as to be expected. 11 per wine. The only complaint was the comfort of the theater itself. The seats are probably the originals, as my back wasnt enjoying them to much. The air was hot and stuffy. All in all good show though.

Be
Review №60

This is not a review of the artists or shows which appear at this venue. The venue of is desperately in need of a face-lift. The staff are always kind, which is what saved this place from two stars. If, IF the concessions on your level are being served, prepare to wait for the length of intermission. And right before you head back to your seat, be sure to take out a second mortgage for that sippy cup of wine and often stale cookie. And six (?) bucks for a bottled water? I think Broadway might be cheaper.

sy
Review №61

I have seen several shows and enjoyed my time and my granddaughter loved wicked she is excited to go see Frozen this weekend

Da
Review №62

Went to watch Fiddler on The Roof. The play was enjoyable. It was a great great experience. The staff was nice and courteous.

D.
Review №63

I find it hard to believe that this is really how the bourgeoisie enjoy upper crust entertainment.To put it in perspective; Ive sat in more comfortable seats on a Frontier Airlines flight. I cant imagine people really want to be entertained and at the same time share arm rests while their back is pressed into a hard piece of un-cushioned metal. My arms were tingling before the show even started.And forget about getting up to go to the bathroom, you cant even get out without everyone in your row having to stand up. Just another example of the rich trying to squeeze as many humans into a building as possible so they can suck as much money out of the space as possible.Five bucks for a bottle of water that ended up being OPEN when I got it. And forget asking for ice unless you want it in a cup the same size as the ones you get at the dentist.

Br
Review №64

Great venue for a show or large event.

Ry
Review №65

Friendly staff, but not nearly enough bartenders on staff, on any of the floors. If anyone tells you the lines are shorter on the third level, dont buy it. Me thinks they are just driving people upstairs to make sure all the bartenders have a nice, Loooong, line to plow through. No problem with that, but make sure every bar has at least 2 crew. We enjoyed Interpol for the most part; I do think this venue is better suited for any show that doesnt involve standing. The slope of the lower concourse was just steep enough to cause lower back pain after only a couple hours. The acoustics are really better suited for spoken word, and possibly orchestral/operatic music (or maybe it was the mix and/or our seating). Not sure if I would see another musical act here, but definitely come for comedy/play type deal. Also, eat before you come, the food options are LAME, when is the last time you choked down a giant, dry preztel? I recommend the EXCELLENT Murata Sushi thats just around the corner for pre-show noshing.

Ma
Review №66

Saw Wicked here and loved it. So, I got tickets to take my son to (his favorite) Charlie & the Chocolate Factory Saturday matinee because it seemed the safest option for a kid (time and show choice). Guess what? Keller Auditorium is a small 3 blocks from the protest zone marked by police as DANGEROUS and AVOID at all costs (as well as the general downtown area) on Saturday. I am shocked that Portland 5 and Keller are so tone deaf to their patrons bringing kids to this show that they refuse to offer any choices. We have to risk exposing our son to violent, converging groups or...eat our tickets. Good job Keller.To owner copy&pasted response: Thank you but I’ve already called and it literally leads to a string of recordings. Other numbers I tried dropped me into a call center for Portland 5 where I was told all sales are final, good luck. (Even though you are still advertising available seats on other days. NO Exchanges, NO WAY.) I just find it amazing that the city shuts down for a little (no) snow but police warnings of hate driven brawls? Totally cool. On with the show! We should have better options here.

Ti
Review №67

Went to keller park across from keller auditorium. Played in the fountain. It was a blast. Nice day. We were up top. Not a lot of people. Kids enjoyed themselves.

Kr
Review №68

This is a really neat room. We saw Raffi with the kids and its a nicely sized space with a clean feel and plenty of amenities.

Ji
Review №69

I went with some family to see Wicked. What an amazing experience!We parked in a garage on 3rd and Columbia ($6 for the night). It is a cool location with a waterfall across the street. Inside can get so chaotic before, during, and after the show because the lobby is not very big and theres a lot of people trying to cram in there for drinks, merchandise, food, or their seats. The bathroom situation is ridiculous and I would highly recommend going to the bathroom prior to the show elsewhere during intermission.The ushers were so very helpful and kind and getting out of the show wasnt too bad. Although, I really wish they would have a designated smoking area outside away from the front enrtance. It was disgusting to try to get fresh air during intermission and take a photo in front of the play poster only to be bombarded with smoke at every turn.

Ba
Review №70

Beautiful building. Exceptional waterfall feature across the street. We were on the second balcony. Had a great view of the stage. I am disabled; getting to our seats in the third row was steep and scary for me. Luckily I had my Significant Other to help. Did not know to go to the wall side to use handrail (usher showed us when we left - Thank you!). Restrooms easily accessible. There is an elevator. Quite a lovely place.

Ti
Review №71

Went to see John Oliver, great show.

Pa
Review №72

Its the smallest stage Ive ever seen a Cirque du Soleil show on, but it was still a fun show. The venue itself is nice, again a smaller stage than what I was expecting for the size of the building. The staff was friendly and helpful. Clean, comfortable seating with good views.

Gr
Review №73

Its great box, but almost always has bad sound, Especially for musicals. Only had one show that had good sound. Too bad. They get good shows

Th
Review №74

Really good acoustics in this place. Comfortable seating.

ly
Review №75

Ive seen many events at the Keller over the years and its always a delight.

Do
Review №76

Nifty venue! Honestly though, The show is what made it great! Saw The Nutcracker and absolutely loved it.

Sc
Review №77

Keller is a great place to see a show. Pro tip...when you get there, before the show order a drink to take into the auditorium with you, and at the same time pre-order and pay your intermission drink. Itll be waiting for you at the beginning of intermission and you wont have to wait in line again. We do this every time.

Eu
Review №78

Modern theater with fairly comfortable seats. Above average leg room. Use the bathrooms and bars on upper levels and balcony to avoid lines in main lobby.

Ni
Review №79

A great venue! Saw Bill Burr here. Not a bad seat. I was in orchestra, section 5, row dd. Id say if you want to see the details of facial expression, youd want orchestra level, A-Z, but not double letter rows or balcony. Otherwise, any seat is a good view. From DD, with 20/20 vision, I could almost make out facial details, but it was still close enough to enjoy everything about the show. Center or side row doesnt matter. All angles are fine.Also, the balcony level overhang does not obstruct any views, although if there was a high flying show like cirque de soleil or wicked I imagine it might for the very back.

Ta
Review №80

The Nutcracker was BEAUTIFUL!I had a WONDERFUL holiday treat with my daughters. My hands were sore from starting applause, but I wished I couldve clapped louder!

za
Review №81

Saw Wicked and it was amazing. The venue id gorgeous and the auditorium itself is great.

Pa
Review №82

Beautiful Auditorium and wonderful facilities. Hasnt been there before and really. The production of Evan Hansen

Ma
Review №83

I come usually for selected features, but I have a great time when Im here. I like that there are concessions on each floor and that you can bring drinks into the seating area.

Br
Review №84

The Will Call and Lobby area are quite small, I would recommend to get your tickets well before the show and get there early if you would like to purchase concessions. The actual auditorium is quite nice with an older feel to it. Beyond the quality of the show you are seeing the venue creates the perfect atmosphere, especially for broadway musicals.Insider tip: avoid the double letter seats in the middle orchestra section, the light and sound board are up there and are distracting. The end of the alphabet in the right or left against the aisle are often cheaper but the same view as their more expensive counterparts.

ke
Review №85

Went to the Singing Christmas Tree!!! Amazing!!! THANK YOU

Na
Review №86

Its a great venue, well placed, but the lobby is tiny and its too warm inside the stage area.

Gr
Review №87

Saw a concert here and loved the experience. The staff was very helpful and kind. The sound was great and seats comfortable. The fountain across the street is amazing and a great place for pictures!

Be
Review №88

This was amazing. The dancers were fantastic.

Jo
Review №89

All seats have a good view of the stage. Food is way too expensive, they obviously cater to the rich. Those prices cost them one start. I think $3 for a bottle of water is crazy.

B
Review №90

We had 4 tickets to see Eddie Izzard. I called to request a wheelchair for my disabled wife. Not only did Valerie and Michael set up the wheelchair, but when they found out that my wife is disabled they upgraded our seats to better provide easier access. What a WONDERFUL gesture. Thank you so much. Im sure well enjoy the show even more.

ja
Review №91

Venue is big, has good sound. I would be extremely hesitant to buy tickets anywhere away from the center. HUGE lines for drinks. Merch is right up front and total chaos.

P
Review №92

Great waterfalls within the park, awesome on hot summer days

Ta
Review №93

The shows are always great but Im not a fan of how crowded it gets and the lines for the restrooms

Sh
Review №94

I have been here many times to see different broadway shows that come to town and I love it here. The front lobby area can get really crowded as its not a super large space. Their prices for food and drink are expensive but i always expect this when i go to shows or concerts.

Ce
Review №95

Love to watch musicals at this great venue. Ive seen some wonderful performances there. The staff, volunteers are friendly and the place is very clean.

Ju
Review №96

Always excellent shows, does not disappoint! Lots of parking options for evening for $5 nearby (cash only). Pretty crowded inside, long lines for restrooms, but its the quality shows that really set Keller apart, we always have a great time!

Su
Review №97

I just saw The Nutcracker and it was amazing! The staff was great and even with a thousand people to deal with, they remained calm and always had a smile on their faces!

Wa
Review №98

Well, saw Incubus in concert this night...interesting forum with snacks and alcohol on each of the three levels. Parking was probably the biggest challenge going there...downtown portland of course. Great venue and great concert!!

Ju
Review №99

This was a fantastic venue and my husband and I were happy to arrive, from out of state, for a wonderful show!It was EXTREMELY cold and we (ticketholders) would have been much happier being held in the foyer area but the ticket takers refused access as we stood in a waiting area while the (people) line held the outer doors open. I think the staff could have made a more hospitable decision. (I was in a wheelchair recovering from an emergency surgery.)

Be
Review №100

Ive been here several times for multiple shows, and I enjoy myself immensely

Information
100 Photos
100 Comments
4.6 Rating
  • Address:222 SW Clay St, Portland, OR 97201, United States
  • Site:https://www.portland5.com/keller-auditorium
  • Phone:+1 503-248-4335
Categories
  • Concert hall
  • Auditorium
  • Event venue
  • Live music venue
  • Performing arts theater
  • Stage
Highlights
  • Women-led:Yes
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair-accessible car park:Yes
  • Wheelchair-accessible entrance:Yes
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