Choosing the best seats at the State Theatre in Minneapolis depends on several factors, including your budget, preferences for view, and type of performance you’re attending. The historic, 2100-seat venue hosts concerts, plays, musicals, dance performances, movies and more throughout the year. Understanding the State Theatre layout, views from different sections, and average ticket prices can help you select seats tailored to your needs.
Quick Overview of the State Theatre Layout
The State Theatre features a classic proscenium layout with an expansive stage and elegant, ornamental architecture. The seating area extends upward in a sloping orientation so most seats have decent views. The main floor is very large, with rows labeled A-P plus AA-ZZ. The front center seats offer the most direct, closest view of the stage. The lower balcony has rows A-O and continues the sloped orientation above the main floor. The upper balcony is smaller with just rows A-F. It overhangs the rear main floor and lower balcony to offer unique aerial views. Box seats flank the left and right edges of the mezzanine level. These semi-private spaces seat between two and eight guests in cushy chairs behind partial walls.
Main Floor Seating
The main floor contains rows A-P and AA-ZZ, extending from the orchestra pit to the rear beneath the balcony overhang. It has a steep rake so most seats have decent views even in the very back rows beneath the balcony. The center section rows A-F are premium orchestra seats with a direct, close perspective of the stage. These seats are the most expensive in the theatre. Rows further back gradually lose their premium status but maintain generally clear sight lines until row O. The very rear rows under the balcony may have slightly obstructed views of the upper stage areas.
Lower Balcony Seating
The lower balcony contains rows A-O that continue the sloped orientation above the main floor. Even the furthest seats in row O have relatively close proximity to the stage. Most seats provide excellent views of the entire stage. Being elevated also reduces the chance of obstructed sight lines from tall patrons compared to the main floor. The center section is considered prime seating for an immersive, moderately elevated perspective. Seats further to the sides have slightly more oblique views.
Upper Balcony Seating
The smaller upper balcony only contains rows A-F in a single center section. These highest seats in the theatre have an extremely steep viewing angle above both the main and lower levels. Patrons appreciate the unique aerial sight lines providing a bird’s eye view of the entire stage. However, the steep rake and large distance reduces intimacy compared to other sections. For some, the dramatic elevation may result in vertigo. Upper balcony tickets are typically the most budget friendly options.
Box Seating
Private box seats line the far sides of the mezzanine level in pairs of two, four or eight seats. Boxes feature plush chairs, and each box has its own private entrance. Box seating provides a comfortable, semi-exclusive viewing space elevated above the main floor. However, box seats come at a premium price point. Locations to the far left or right also have fairly oblique sight lines requiring patrons to sit at an angle to view the center stage. Box seating best suits patrons who value privacy and luxury.
View from Different Sections of the State Theatre
The State Theatre’s sloped orientation provides most seats with decent stage views. However, proximity, elevation and angle relative to the stage impact each section’s perspective and intimacy. Below compares views from various sections:
Main Floor View
Center orchestra seats in rows A-F provide the closest, most direct views with excellent proximity and intimacy. Moving further back along the main floor increases distance from the stage, but the steep rake maintains fair sight lines. Under the balcony some perspectives become more distorted or obstructed. Patrons may need to lean or shift to see around those in front.
Lower Balcony View
The lower balcony central seats in rows A-E are widely considered the “sweet spot,” combining closeness with elevation for immersive views. The steep rake angles each seat downward toward the stage. As you move further back and approach the corners, the angle becomes more oblique. But most seats retain full stage views unless extremely far to the side.
Upper Balcony View
The tiny upper balcony is extremely high and steep, which reduces intimacy but provides unique aerial sight lines. The entire stage remains visible from these birds-eye seats, though performers appear quite small. Being so high and far lessens audio impact compared to other sections as well. Patrons also look down upon the rear lower balcony and main floor.
Box Seating View
Boxes on the mezzanine allow elevated sight lines similar to the lower balcony. However, the furthest left and right boxes require sitting at an angle to view the centered stage. Plush movable chairs allow adjusting positions, but views are still more indirect than central seats. Boxes do allow privacy and exclusivity found nowhere else in the theatre.
Average Ticket Prices at the State Theatre
Ticket prices at the State Theatre vary based on the performance, date and seating section. Below are rough averages for different sections:
| Section | Average Price Range |
|---|---|
| Main Floor Front Center | $100 – $200 |
| Main Floor Side/Rear | $50 – $100 |
| Lower Balcony Front Center | $75 – $150 |
| Lower Balcony Sides | $50 – $75 |
| Upper Balcony | $25 – $50 |
| Box Seats | $100 – $250 |
Concerts by high profile artists and weekend performances typically sell for higher prices. Matinee shows during less peak days have lower averages. Pre-sale discounts can also reduce costs. Overall, the State Theatre has very wide-ranging ticket prices suitable for many different budgets.
Best Seats for Concerts at the State Theatre
For concerts, the priority is generally being close to the stage and performers. Main floor front and center provides the most intimate, vibrant experience with full audio impact. The lower balcony center also combines proximity with elevation for excellent views. For a more budget option, try the upper balcony for aerial sights and cheaper tickets. Avoid the furthest main floor rows under the overhang where music can distort.
Best Value Concert Seats
If seeking cheaper concert seats with good views, consider these options:
- Upper balcony center – extremely steep angle but full stage views
- Main floor rear sides – more oblique angle but thinner crowds
- Lower balcony far sides – angled perspective but elevated
Best Seats for Plays/Musicals at the State Theatre
For theatrical performances like plays and musicals, the visual and auditory experience differs. Intimacy, facial expressions and nuance become more important over loud music volumes. The lower balcony center again stands out with excellent proximity and elevation for clear views of the entire stage. Main floor center also provides immersive, direct sights of the action. Box seating works very well for plays and musicals if budget allows.
Best Value Play/Musical Seats
On a budget for a play or musical? Consider:
- Main floor middle sides – moderately angled view
- Upper balcony center – steep perspective but full stage
- Main floor rear center – maximizes distance but clear angles
Tips for Getting the Best Seats at the State Theatre
Use these tips to help get the best State Theatre seats for your budget and preferences:
- Purchase early for best availability and prices
- Join fan clubs or mailing lists for pre-sales access
- Aim for center sections over far sides to reduce oblique angles
- Check views from seat numbers using online virtual theatre tools before buying
- Read specific seat reviews from other patrons for insights
- Avoid purchasing obstructed view seats marked as such
- Consider matinees or weekdays instead of prime weekends to save money
- Splurge on box seats or lower balcony for premium experiences
- Look for seat upgrades at checkout if within budget
Conclusion
The State Theatre’s sloped layout provides decent views from most sections. For an intimate concert experience close to the music, the front main floor seats are hard to beat. The lower balcony center also combines proximity, elevation and affordability. Play and musical patrons also favor the lower balcony or box seating for clear theatrical views. Upper balcony and rear main floor seats offer more distant perspectives but lower prices. Considering your performance type, budget and preferences will help determine the best State Theatre seats for you.