Tennessee Theatre
Tennessee Theatre
5
About
Located in the heart of downtown Knoxville, the Tennessee Theatre opened in 1928 as a movie palace. The Tennessee Theatre is the Official State Theatre of Tennessee and is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. The Tennessee Theatre is the region's leading performing arts facility with advanced technology, staging and lighting that draws top entertainment to the Knoxville area.
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
5.0
716 reviews
Excellent
620
Very good
67
Average
16
Poor
2
Terrible
11
Janet F
33 contributions
Oct 2021
The Tennessee Theatre is historic and one of the most beautiful theaters we have seen. We had great seats on the aisle but there probably aren’t any bad seats since it is a small theater. We attended the concert during Covid times. Vaccination cards or negative Covid tests along with a photo id were required for entry. Masks were required. In spite of the extra entry requirements, entry to the theater was well organized and moved quickly. Staff was friendly and helpful The merchandise table did look long. Acoustics were very good in the theater. We really enjoyed our concert.
Written October 27, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Maggie S
Knoxville, TN9 contributions
Feb 2020 • Couples
We go to numerous concerts and shows at The Tennessee Theatre throughout the year. One of my favorite venues of all time! BEAUTIFUL with great sound and a wonderful, intimate atmosphere. You won't be dissapointed.
Written February 12, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Melissa H
Oak Ridge, TN155 contributions
Jan 2024 • Solo
Be wary when you purchase. Recent significant snow and ice event here in East TN and the theatre refused to cancel the shows - which would have allowed patrons to receive refunds. The local leadership and emergency services were urging people to stay off the streets and the theatre updated their post with ‘drive safe and arrive early’. Patrons came out of last nights show to ice covered snow and slick streets but hey, the show must go on
I’ve been to many shows here and that stops now. Yes I know there are schedules for the tour and the production company calls shots. But this venue routinely touts itself as a home town jewel when it asks for donations during fundraising but proceeded to not support its community in a very unique circumstance
Shame on them
I’ve been to many shows here and that stops now. Yes I know there are schedules for the tour and the production company calls shots. But this venue routinely touts itself as a home town jewel when it asks for donations during fundraising but proceeded to not support its community in a very unique circumstance
Shame on them
Written January 19, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Black and Silver Nomadic
Box Elder, SD216 contributions
May 2022
It doesn't matter who you book here, if you're in Knoxville and you can catch a show at the Tennessee Theatre you need to do it. This is one of the most beautiful historical theatres in the country. We actually saw Tom Segura here when he passed through, and we love Tom so the show was great. That aside though we were just as excited that he played here, as we had seen several shows in town, and none happened to be here. Absolutely a thrill to listen to a comedian we enjoy while admiring the architecture of this incredible place. And then after the show, you step out onto Gay and have so many options to let the night continue! Be sure to dress up when you go, not because of a dress code or anything, but when you snap that picture of yourselves in this beautiful spot, you'll be happy you look the part.
Written December 7, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Amber S
Roswell, GA494 contributions
Aug 2022 • Friends
We went to see Anastasia and the production was great and the theater is absolutely gorgeous, BUT it was so hot inside when we were there and with the seats being on the smaller side, it was uncomfortable. We were 5 rows back from the stage, so it’s not like we were high up or anything, and still so hot. The performers were drenched with sweat as well (which I know is not uncommon). It would have been nice and more pleasant for it to be a little chillier during the performance.
Written August 7, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Family S
Knoxville, TN9 contributions
Feb 2023 • Couples
Beautiful venue but a few things need to be addressed. I purchased accessible seating but our seats were not marked. I had to have my husband go find an employee to come in & see if we were in the correct section. After finding out we were in the correct seats, we were accused of taking the seats by young fully able bodied patrons (who were already intoxicated). Again an employee had to tell them that we were in the right seats. My question to TN Theatre is why are you allowing able bodied people to reserve seats that are supposed to be only for those with physical disabilities?? For the record, I’m in a wheelchair.
From there I decided to use the restroom. I went to the one that was marked accessible only to find a line of able bodied young women & girls in line. Very frustrated since I’m in a wheelchair & there were other restrooms they could’ve (and should’ve) used. Lastly, my elderly mother was with me & she went to the regular women’s restroom where a MAN was in line behind her. When she returned to her seat she was visibly upset and said she didn’t feel comfortable with a man going into the ladies’ restroom so she got out of line.
Overall the physical building is beautiful & the musical itself was outstanding.
From there I decided to use the restroom. I went to the one that was marked accessible only to find a line of able bodied young women & girls in line. Very frustrated since I’m in a wheelchair & there were other restrooms they could’ve (and should’ve) used. Lastly, my elderly mother was with me & she went to the regular women’s restroom where a MAN was in line behind her. When she returned to her seat she was visibly upset and said she didn’t feel comfortable with a man going into the ladies’ restroom so she got out of line.
Overall the physical building is beautiful & the musical itself was outstanding.
Written February 19, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Loralee W
Sevierville, TN52 contributions
Jun 2022 • Couples
Such an iconic and lovely theater. Parking was convenient (free) and a short walk to theater. Going through security was easy and getting "checked in" was painless. Several ushers were available to assist with any issues. We had seats pretty far from the stage (can't remember exact section); however, we could see the stage from all angles. The show was amazing, too. Love going to the Tennessee Theater. Attended Three Dog Night and had a wonderful time!
Written July 23, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Greta L
Atlanta, GA66 contributions
Jul 2022 • Couples
The guide had been with the theather 42 years and knew all the wonderful details and back stories. Getting to see backstage..the projector room...the organ up close and ride the lift to the orchestra pit. BEAUTIFUL THEATER!
Written July 29, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
831vickig
Morristown, TN8 contributions
Jun 2021
When they renovated this place they chose capacity over comfort. Seats are narrow and there is NO leg room. The shoulder/arm of the person sitting next to you is touching yours if they use the armrest, so you have to shift over to one side. Like sitting in a coach airline seat, only worse. Knees touch the seat in front if you don't sit up uncomforably straight I used to go there a lot but I now choose to go to any of the other Knoxville venues because they ALL are more comfortable. For me no show is worth the discomfort of sitting at the TN Theatre for several hours.
Written June 24, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Candy S
Christiansburg, VA8 contributions
Mar 2022
What a beautiful venue, we were there for the Waiting for Columbus tour with Little Feat. The theatre is beautiful and the ushers were so nice an accommodating. We will most definitely keep an eye on future performances and be back. Well worth the 3 1/2 hour drive from Virginia.
Written March 26, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
i will be visiting the theatre in may, i am curious about parking? and the ease of access to parking? are there nearby parking garages or does the theatre have their own parking area? it will be later at night when our event ends, around 11pm, so i want to find parking in an area not too far to walk.
Written April 25, 2018
There is free public parking after 6 pm within a block of thr theatre, and there is free street parking within easy walking distance. There are several paid parking lots in easy walking distance, too.
Written April 26, 2018
As folks mentioned, several hotels close to the theatre--and the Knoxville Trolley system is free--although doesn't operate late--but a trolley to the event and an uber home might be helpful. Google Knoxville free trolley (Trip Advisor won't let me post the link)
Written April 10, 2018
I'm bringing a group to town, and I don't think a concert is on our agenda. Is there any way for us to see the theater? I'm thinking my group might just like to see the place.
Written July 12, 2016
Hi. That is a good question. I am not sure if the theater does tours when there is no event. Here is their phone number. You can call and ask.
(865) 684-1200
Good luck! It is definitely worth walking around in as it is a beautiful theater.
Written July 12, 2016
Hello, I am needing to leave a quite lengthy review regarding the ethics of the sales department (one in particular to name) for the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra that perform at the Theatre. Is this the proper location to leave my review?
Dr. T Broyles
Written June 21, 2016
I hope you haven't had a problem with tickets, but if you have had a problem with the Knoxville symphony tickets, you might want to direct your question to them. The KSO Board of Directors needs to know if the public is not being well served. You can find their e address on the web.
Written June 21, 2016
I went to your web site and the last item listed was for Aug 16th As my question was do you have anything going on around the 18th thru the 20th The TripAdvisor answer I was given was Stinky!
Written July 15, 2015
Tennessee T
Knoxville, Tennessee
We're sorry you felt the response you were given was stinky. Our website is the best place to see what shows are coming to the theater and to purchase tickets online so we always try to communicate that with our patrons. Unfortunately, we do not have any shows or events August 18-20th.
The homepage only lists a few of the upcoming shows. If you click on the event calendar button, you will see the full listing of shows and can filter those by month or by type. We appreciate your interest in our events and hope to see you soon
Written July 16, 2015
Are there any shows during August? Like 18,19 20?
Written July 15, 2015
Tennessee T
Knoxville, Tennessee
You can find our full event calendar on our website.
Written July 15, 2015
Tennessee T
Knoxville, Tennessee
Hi there. We do not have any events scheduled for those days. You can view all upcoming events on our website in the event calendar. We hope to see you for a show soon!
Written July 13, 2015
Tennessee T
Knoxville, Tennessee
Hi there. We do not have any events scheduled for July 18th or 19th. You can view our events calendar on our website to see all upcoming scheduled events. Thanks for your interest - we hope to see you at a show soon!
Written July 13, 2015
Sunday hours? Asked before and no answers yet!
Written June 11, 2015
Tennessee T
Knoxville, Tennessee
We are only open on Sundays if there is a show and patrons must have a ticket in order to enter the theatre. We are not open to the public but as mentioned in my previous response, we do hold a few open houses each year and you may request a tour on our website under the tour menu. There is no charge for the tour and it is only available as the theatre and tour guide's schedules allow. We hope you are able to come see Knoxville's Grand Entertainment Palace through a tour.
Written July 2, 2015
What are your Sunday hours? Are there guided tours? How much per adult for guided tour.
Written June 9, 2015
Tennessee T
Knoxville, Tennessee
We are only open on Sundays if there is a show and patrons must have a ticket in order to enter the theatre. We are not open to the public but as mentioned in my previous response, we do hold a few open houses each year and you may request a tour on our website under the tour menu. There is no charge for the tour and it is only available as the theatre and tour guide's schedules allow. We hope you are able to come see Knoxville's Grand Entertainment Palace through a tour.
Written June 25, 2015
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