SLSO 101

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I arrive?

Doors open 75 minutes in advance of SLSO classical concerts and 60 minutes prior to Specials 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?

We have identified options at Stifel Theatre and Touhill Performing Arts Center to make your parking experience easier. Click for maps, directions, and more information.

Are there safety and security measures I should be aware of?

All bags larger than 14" x 14" x 6" (i.e. backpacks, suitcases, etc.) will be prohibited from entry into the theatre. See additional theatre policies at Stifel Theatre and Touhill Performing Arts Center for more information. Please note that walk-through metal detectors will be used for security screening upon entry.

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 Specials, 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 the venues?

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.

Do you have a Lost and Found?

Our Lost and Found policies per each venue are as follows:

Stifel Theatre: 
Items found before, during, or after an event should be turned into the Guest Experience Center near the main ticket lobby entrance. Items will be logged into our Lost & Found system for tracking and management.

All items will be kept for 7 calendar days. After day 7, ID’s and credit cards will be shredded. All other Item(s) will be donated to charity or disposed of at the discretion of management if not claimed. Stifel Theatre management assumes no responsibility for any lost or damaged items.

Guests can check the Guest Experience Center at any point during an event for a lost item. After an event, guests can submit a lost & found form at www.enterprisecenter.com/lostandfound.

Touhill Performing Arts Center:
If you lose an item while attending an event, please inquire with the House Manager for assistance locating the item. If you discover you’ve lost an item after you’ve left the building, please call (314) 516-4100 during regular business hours.

How can I request special seating?

Looking for more leg room? Feel free to contact our Box Office at 314-534-1700.

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.