Broadway Palm: Premier Dinner Theatre Experience

UPDATE: The Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre closed in 2012. Shortly thereafter, the venue reopened as the Silver Star Playhouse. I attended a performance there, and, because it still seemed as though they hadn’t figured out how they wanted to operate, what they wanted to serve and what the theater should look like, I did not write a review. Silver Star Playhouse closed in 2013 before the summer season. Prather Entertainment Group reopened it as The Palms for the 2013-2014 season, but in September 2015 it closed again.

The following, and the details on the following pages, relate to the original Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre and my visit there in 2008.

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The Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre opened its doors in 2001, providing a unique alternative to traditional theatre entertainment in a major metropolitan area where various performing arts are prevalent.

Attending a show at Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre includes a delightful meal with your performance ticket. Doors typically open between 1.5 to 2 hours prior to the curtain’s up. Many patrons enjoy arriving early for cocktails or securing their seating, though assigned seating minimizes the necessity of rushing. To savor a relaxed meal, it’s advisable to arrive within the first half hour of dinner service.

If you prefer to enjoy the performance without dining, there are 75 “Show Only” seats available, located at the rear of the theatre and elevated for better views.

Fun Fact: All music for Broadway-style productions at this venue is performed live, with orchestra sizes ranging from 8 to 20 musicians depending on the production.

The Food

Lunch begins at 11:45 a.m. for matinée shows, while dinner service starts at 6 p.m. for performances at 8 p.m., and 5:30 p.m. for 7 p.m. shows. The menu features a selection of meat, poultry, and fish, including carved items in the evenings. Patrons can enjoy a variety of sides, as well as a salad bar with traditional fixings and prepared salads. Vegetarians will find suitable options, and dessert lovers can indulge in an array of sweets.

During intermission, you’ll need to settle the bill, if applicable, with information provided about tipping your server. If the exemplary service warrants it, feel free to leave more than the suggested gratuity!

For youth programs, there’s a kid-friendly menu featuring favorites like hamburgers, hot dogs, and macaroni & cheese.

It’s an all-you-can-eat buffet, and you’ll not need to worry about food running out – multiple trips to the buffet are encouraged!

Fun Fact: Despite early food service, arriving at least half an hour before the show begins guarantees a full selection of buffet options.

The Shows

Though special programming occasionally occurs, the main attraction remains the musicals featured each season, including classics such as A Chorus Line, South Pacific, and My Fair Lady. These performances are delivered by professional actors, though local talent may also appear on occasion.

Capacity at the venue is around 500 seats, primarily arranged at dining tables for two, four, six, or eight persons, ensuring every guest enjoys a good view of the stage. When purchasing tickets, be aware that sharing larger tables with small parties is common, promoting a friendly atmosphere.

Moreover, every seat offers clear visibility of the stage along with an excellent sound system ensuring all dialogue is easily heard during performances.

Fun Fact: The Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre caters to families, so all productions are generally rated G or potentially PG.

Location & Tickets

The venue is located in Mesa, part of the East Valley, southeast of Phoenix. Tickets for performances start at approximately $45, encompassing the show, dinner, and tax. Though there are no senior discounts, children’s tickets are available at a reduced price. For guests planning to attend multiple shows, season tickets at a discounted rate are an option.

Fun Fact: Although summer months may slow down activity in the Phoenix area, shows at the Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre continue year-round.

_{All times and prices are subject to change without prior notice.}

Before You Go: Five Tips

During my visit to Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre, I noted several insights that could benefit first-time guests:

1. The venue is located within a strip mall in Mesa, offering easy and free parking.
2. A full bar exists in the lobby, featuring a seating area to enjoy cocktails before showtime. Although early arrival is common, there’s ample seating and time to enjoy before the performance begins.
3. The theatre includes a gift shop open before the show and during intermission, where unique items can be purchased to take home.
4. Bringing extra money for tipping your servers is wise, even if additional charges are avoided.
5. The seating arrangement ensures adequate space between tables, providing comfort to enjoy the show and adjust your seating for optimal viewing.

Before You Go: Five More Tips

Here are five additional tips to enhance your experience at the Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre:

1. The menu will vary, and it’s beneficial to check online for updates on meal offerings for specific shows. With efficient service, the food remains fresh and replenished quickly.
2. Casual attire is acceptable; expect to see slacks and collared shirts for men, and dresses or slacks for women. Beachwear is typically not suitable.
3. The audience demographic differs, with older attendees common due to the nature of the shows.
4. This venue is a delightful choice for celebrating special occasions – simply inform a staff member to announce the celebration.
5. Moreover, the Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre has a refund policy in place; check directly for specifics regarding cancellations.

The Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre may not be comparable to luxury venues, but it offers an entertaining dining experience at a reasonable price. Whether looking to spend a fun evening with friends, entertain out-of-town relatives, or organize a unique date night, this venue successfully combines good food and enjoyable entertainment in a lovely atmosphere.

_{As is common in the industry, the writer was provided with complimentary tickets. This fact has not influenced this article, and iBestTravel believes in maintaining transparency regarding potential conflicts of interest. All prices and offerings mentioned herein are subject to change without notice.}