SLSO 101

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I arrive?

Doors open 75 minutes in advance of SLSO classical concerts and 60 minutes prior to Live at Powell Hall events. We recommend you arrive at least 30 minutes prior to the start of the performance. This will allow you time to find parking, visit the Box Office and to find your seat. Once the concert begins, patrons cannot be seated until the conclusion of the first work on the program. Please refer to the Late Seating Policy below for details.

Pre-concert conversations are free to all ticketholders and start 60 minutes prior to each classical concert. 

What should I wear?

Come as you are! We want you to wear what you feel most comfortable in. You will see a wide variety of attire at SLSO events, including khakis, jeans, suits, and skirts.

Where do I park?

Grand Center operates several parking lots in the vicinity of Powell Hall. Click for a map, directions and more information.

Are there safety and security measures I should be aware of when entering Powell Hall?

Bags, backpacks, and belongings smaller than 16” x 16” are permitted in Powell Hall during an event. All items are subject to search upon admission. Small personal belongings may be stored in lockers on the Orchestra and Grand Tier levels for 25 cents.

Powell Hall is a firearms-free facility. No person may possess a firearm on the premises.

Powell Hall is a smoke-free facility.

Patrons of any age disturbing other concertgoers may be asked to leave. Admission and seating are at the discretion of management.

May I bring children?

Children are encouraged to attend SLSO performances. The recommended minimum for all Classical concerts is 5 years of age, while children of all ages are encouraged to attend Live at Powell Hall, Family, Education and Youth Orchestra concerts. All patrons age 2 and older must have a ticket. Infants and children under 2 years of age may be seated on the lap of an adult at no charge. Child pricing for classical concerts is $10 with a paying adult. Contact the Box Office to order.

If your child is restless or crying during the performance, we respectfully ask that you step out of the auditorium momentarily.  An usher will gladly help you return to your seat at an appropriate break in the performance.

Are outside food and drink allowed in Powell Hall?

Outside food and drink are not permitted.  Non-iced beverages purchased on site in SLSO Keep-Cups may be taken into the auditorium for all performances.  All concessions purchased on site may be taken into the auditorium for select performances when indicated by signage.

If I arrive late, how does late seating take place?

Late seating breaks usually occur after the first piece on the program or at intermission to minimize disturbances to other audience members. Latecomers who arrive after the performance has begun and those who leave the hall will be seated at an appropriate break in the program.

When do I clap?

It is customary that the audience clap at the completion of the entire work. This allows the orchestra and conductor to maintain concentration between movements. If you're not sure, just wait until the rest of the audience begins clapping.

How long are the performances?

Most performances are about 2 hours, including a 20-minute intermission.

What services do you offer to patrons with special needs?

Please refer to our Accessibilty Page for information regarding accessible seating and amenities for patrons with special needs.

How can I learn more about the music being performed?

Pre-Concert Conversations, sponsored by Washington University Physicians, are free events providing insights to the concert program to all ticket holders beginning one hour prior to each subscription concert. Program notes are also available online prior to each subscription performance. 

Can I take photos and video?

Patrons are welcome to take photos or video before the concert, during intermission and after the concert. Audio and video recording and photography are strictly prohibited during the concert, as cameras and recording devices are distracting for the performers and other audience members. Please silence all cell phones and other electronic devices throughout the performance.

What if I lose a personal item while at Powell Hall?

To inquire about lost items, please call 314-286-4166. Powell Hall is not responsible for the loss or theft of personal property.

How can I request special seating?

Looking for more leg room? Try seats on the Orchestra level or Box seating for a bit more space.

Have any additional questions that are not answered above? Feel free to contact us.

What about third party ticket re-sellers?

The resale of SLSO tickets at a price higher than the original purchase price is grounds for forfeiture and cancellation of the ticket. Tickets obtained from sources other than the SLSO Box Office or slso.org may be counterfeit, lost, stolen, or otherwise fraudulently obtained, and if so, are void. For additional information, go here.