7 tips for first-time theatre-goers that will make your experience an awesome one

Everyone remembers their first time visiting a theatre: the amazing acoustics from the orchestra, the dazzling costumes, the head-turning cast, and the enchanting set. It’s nothing short of magical. And trust us, this magic hardly fades even with subsequent visits.

If you’re planning to go to the theatre for the first time, here are pro tips that will make your experience an even more awesome one. Note them down!

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1. Get your tickets as early as possible

Check the theatre website to get your tickets earlier. This will ensure that you can secure the best seats with your companions and there may sometimes be early bird discounts that you can take advantage of too.

Here are two upcoming shows at Sands Theatre, Marina Bay Sands that you shouldn’t miss:

Aladdin: From 21 July to 1 September

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Aladdin is probably one of the most beloved fairy tales that everyone is familiar with. Look forward to breathtaking sets, mind-blowing special effects, over 300 lavish costumes, and a fabulous cast that will certainly bring the magic of Disney’s Aladdin to life on stage. You’ll also love that all-time favourite songs like Friend like Me, A Whole New World, and Arabian Nights will all be performed at the show.

You can find out more about this musical here.

CATS: 17 December to 5 January

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CATS is one of the longest-running shows in West End and Broadway history, a classic that has been presented in over 30 countries, translated into 15 languages, and seen by more than 81 million people worldwide. The magnificent musical score composed by the legendary Andrew Lloyd Webber (who also composed for Phantom of the Opera), includes the poignant hit song Memory, which has been recorded by over 150 artists.

You can find out more about this musical here.

2. Pick a good seat

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If you can’t get a seat that’s close to the stage and in the centre of the row, what do you do? We’d compromise position for closeness to stage. Sitting nearer means you’re closer to the action and can see the nuances and flicker in the expressions more clearly – which is what makes the performance more enjoyable! Being near the aisle also mean you can leave your seat more easily at the end of the show.

3. Bring a small bag

You may be tempted to shop before you enter the theatre – we don’t blame you especially you’re watching it at Marina Bay Sands. But try to avoid bringing big bags or shopping bags into the theatre. The seats in the theatre are usually quite close to one another so making space for large items can make it uncomfortable for you and those sitting near you.

Bags are also searched by security before you go into the theatre, so you’ll definitely have an easier time with a smaller one.

Here’s a tip: If you really have to bring along your shopping or a huge bag, there is a cloak room for you to check in your belongings.

4. Dress to impress – for those OOTD shots

To commemorate the amazing show that you’ve just watched (or are about to watch), take photos at the backdrop of the show!

You should definitely arrive early to get that coveted photo before the show because it will get crowded after the performance, when everyone is exiting the theatre.

If you’re catching your show at Sands Theatre, there are also plenty of Instagram-worthy spots around the integrated resort. Psst, did you know that Marina Bay Sands was Singapore’s most Instagrammed place in 2018?

5. Eat before the show

Shows usually start right after dinner time and many people opt to go for dinner first before entering the theatre – a smart choice because the last thing you want is for your tummy to rumble along with the orchestra.

Here’s a pro tip that’s going to make things that much easier: get the Show & Dine Package. This package allows you to complete your entertainment experience with a meal before or after your show.

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Left: USDA Prime Sirloin from CUT | Right: Herb Roasted Chicken from DB Bistro

With this package, you’ll get to enjoy exclusive set menus at the award-winning signature restaurants at Marina Bay Sands that are curated just for package holders and not for walk-ins.

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Barramundi from Adrift

These are also pre-arranged dinner or brunch (if you’re going for a matinee) reservations to ensure that you get to your show on time. This means the restaurant knows to prioritise your order with the kitchen so you can dine without worrying about being late – which makes your meal extra relaxing!

For upcoming shows such as Aladdin The Musical and CATS, you can package them with signature restaurants including Adrift, CUT, db Bistro & Oyster Bar, Yardbird, Club55, and LAVO Italian Restaurant & Rooftop Bar.

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But if you have no time to eat before the show, Club55 is open till midnight, so you can consider a post-show bite and drinks, while enjoying an amazing view of the city skyline.

6. Have refreshments delivered to your seat

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Did you know that while other guests need to queue for their refreshments at the theatre concession stand, you can order intermission drinks and snacks from the comfort of your seats if you’re a Show & Dine Package holder? An usher take your order and deliver the refreshments to your seat. This means more convenience – and more time for the restrooms!

7. Redeem complimentary parking

Sands Theatre offers complimentary parking for Show & Dine Package holders from Monday to Thursday – bet you didn’t know this! So if you’re hoping to take advantage of this privilege, get tickets for your show on these days and redeem your complimentary parking at the theatre box office.

Ready to have a VIP experience when you catch a show at Sands Theatre?

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We would definitely recommend going for the Show & Dine Package, which gives you several exclusive privileges.

They include pre-arranged reservations to ensure you get to your show on time. You’ll also avoid queues and instead order intermission refreshments from your seat and have them brought to you.

What’s more, the package actually offers you up to 20% savings compared to if you were to get your tickets and dining plans sorted out separately.

If you’re watching Aladdin the Musical, the package starts from S$133. Find out more here.

If you’re watching CATS, the package starts from S$94. Find out more here.

This article is brought to you by Marina Bay Sands.