How to Attend BalletMet Performances in Columbus

BalletMet is one of the most respected and dynamic ballet companies in the Midwest, renowned for its innovative choreography, world-class dancers, and deeply emotional storytelling. Based in Columbus, Ohio, BalletMet brings classical and contemporary ballet to life through performances that captivate audiences of all ages. Whether you’re a longtime ballet enthusiast or attending your first performance, knowing how to attend BalletMet shows ensures you experience the art form at its finest. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to securing tickets, navigating the venue, preparing for the evening, and maximizing your cultural experience—all tailored to the unique offerings of BalletMet in Columbus. Understanding the process not only enhances your enjoyment but also supports the continued growth of one of the city’s most treasured performing arts institutions.

Step-by-Step Guide

Attending a BalletMet performance is a seamless and rewarding experience when approached with clear preparation. Follow these detailed steps to ensure a smooth journey from initial interest to post-performance reflection.

Step 1: Explore the Performance Season

BalletMet releases its annual performance season typically in late spring or early summer. The season includes a mix of full-length classics such as Swan Lake and The Nutcracker, as well as contemporary programs like Revelations and original works by emerging choreographers. Visit the official BalletMet website to review the full calendar. Each performance listing includes dates, times, venue details, approximate runtime, and a brief synopsis. Pay special attention to the “Family-Friendly” and “Accessible Performances” labels, which indicate shows with sensory accommodations or reduced production elements ideal for younger audiences or those with sensory sensitivities.

Step 2: Choose Your Performance and Seating

BalletMet performs primarily at the Ohio Theatre, a historic 1928 venue located in downtown Columbus. The theatre offers three main seating levels: Orchestra, Mezzanine, and Balcony. Orchestra seats provide the closest view of the stage and are ideal for those seeking immersive detail in movement and costume design. Mezzanine seats offer a balanced perspective with excellent acoustics and slightly more affordable pricing. Balcony seating is the most economical and still provides a commanding view of the entire stage. Consider your priorities—proximity to the stage, budget, and viewing angle—when selecting your seats. Use the interactive seating chart on the website to preview sightlines and avoid obstructed views.

Step 3: Purchase Tickets

Tickets can be purchased directly through the BalletMet website or by phone. Online purchasing is recommended for its convenience, real-time seat availability, and digital ticket delivery. When buying tickets, you’ll be prompted to create an account or log in if you’re a returning patron. This account saves your preferences, past purchases, and enables easy access to future ticket sales and subscriber benefits. Payment methods accepted include major credit cards, PayPal, and gift cards. Avoid third-party resellers; they may charge inflated prices or sell invalid tickets. BalletMet does not authorize ticket resale outside its official channels.

Step 4: Select Subscription or Single Ticket Options

BalletMet offers flexible subscription packages for those planning to attend multiple performances. Subscribers receive priority seating, discounts of up to 25% off single ticket prices, free exchanges, and invitations to exclusive events such as backstage tours or artist meet-and-greets. Subscriptions are available for full seasons, half-seasons, or themed series (e.g., “Modern Masters” or “Holiday Classics”). If you’re unsure about committing to multiple shows, single tickets are available for each performance, with prices ranging from $25 for balcony seats to $125 for premium orchestra locations. Student, senior, and military discounts are available with valid ID at the box office or during online checkout.

Step 5: Prepare for Your Visit

Once your tickets are secured, plan your transportation and arrival time. The Ohio Theatre is centrally located at 39 E. State Street, Columbus, OH 43215. Public transit options include COTA buses that stop within walking distance, and several parking garages are nearby, including the Capitol Square Garage and the Columbus Commons Garage. Arrive at least 45 minutes before curtain time to allow for parking, security screening, and finding your seat. The theatre opens its doors 60 minutes prior to showtime. Coat check is available free of charge, and complimentary water stations are located in the lobbies. No food or drink (except bottled water) is permitted in the auditorium.

Step 6: Understand Performance Etiquette

Ballet performances are formal events that require a degree of quiet reverence. Turn off all electronic devices before the performance begins. Avoid talking, whispering, or using flash photography during the show. Applause is customary after each act and at the final curtain call. It’s perfectly acceptable to clap during technically dazzling moments, such as a series of fouettés or a daring lift, but refrain from clapping between movements unless the audience does so. Children under five are not permitted in the theatre during evening performances to preserve the experience for all patrons. Family matinees are designed for younger audiences and are more relaxed in atmosphere.

Step 7: Attend the Pre-Show Talk (Optional but Recommended)

BalletMet offers complimentary pre-show talks 45 minutes before curtain time in the theatre’s Grand Foyer. These 15- to 20-minute sessions are led by artistic staff, choreographers, or dancers and provide insight into the history of the piece, the choreographic intent, and the musical score. These talks are especially helpful for first-time attendees or those unfamiliar with ballet terminology. No registration is required—just arrive early and find a seat in the designated area.

Step 8: Enjoy the Performance

As the lights dim and the music begins, allow yourself to be immersed in the artistry. Ballet is a non-verbal language of emotion, movement, and rhythm. Pay attention to the dancers’ expressions, the interplay between music and motion, and the use of space on stage. Notice how lighting and costume design enhance the narrative. Whether the story is tragic, joyous, or abstract, your emotional response is valid and part of the experience.

Step 9: Post-Performance Engagement

After the final bow, take a moment to reflect. Many patrons linger in the lobby to discuss the performance with friends or fellow audience members. Consider following BalletMet on social media to see behind-the-scenes content, dancer interviews, and upcoming announcements. If you enjoyed the show, consider writing a brief review on Google or Yelp to help others discover the company. You may also choose to donate to BalletMet’s annual fund to support education outreach and new choreographic commissions.

Best Practices

Attending a ballet performance is more than just buying a ticket—it’s an invitation to engage with a centuries-old art form in a modern context. Adopting these best practices ensures your experience is respectful, memorable, and enriching.

Arrive Early, Stay Present

Arriving early isn’t just about finding parking—it’s about transitioning mentally from the outside world into the world of the performance. Use the extra time to read the program booklet, which includes bios of the dancers, choreographer notes, and historical context for the ballet. Avoid scrolling through your phone in the lobby; instead, observe the architecture of the Ohio Theatre, admire the murals, and absorb the anticipation of the crowd. This mindfulness enhances your receptiveness to the art.

Dress Appropriately, But Comfortably

There is no strict dress code at BalletMet, but most patrons choose to dress in business casual or semi-formal attire. A nice dress, suit, or elegant blouse and slacks are common. Avoid overly casual clothing such as athletic wear, flip-flops, or ripped jeans. Most importantly, wear something that allows you to sit comfortably for 2–2.5 hours. High heels can be stylish, but consider bringing a pair of flats for walking to and from your car or parking garage.

Learn Basic Ballet Terminology

Understanding a few key terms enhances your appreciation. Plie is a bending of the knees. Arabesque is a pose where one leg extends behind the body. Grand jeté is a large leap. En pointe refers to dancing on the tips of the toes. You don’t need to be an expert, but knowing these terms helps you recognize technical feats and appreciate the dancers’ training. Many free online resources, including BalletMet’s own “Ballet 101” videos, offer accessible introductions.

Support the Art Through Engagement

Attending a performance is only one way to support the arts. Consider volunteering for ushering duties, participating in post-show discussions, or donating gently used ballet attire to BalletMet’s costume department. The company also hosts community outreach programs, including free performances in public parks and school residencies. Contributing time or resources helps ensure ballet remains accessible to all.

Respect the Space and the Artists

The Ohio Theatre is a historic landmark. Avoid touching the walls, railings, or decorative elements. Never lean on the balcony rail or block the view of others behind you. Remember that the dancers have trained for over a decade to perform on that stage. Their physical and emotional vulnerability is part of the art. Applaud with sincerity, not obligation. A quiet moment of appreciation after a powerful solo can be more meaningful than loud cheers.

Bring a Notebook or Journal

Many patrons find it valuable to jot down thoughts during intermission or after the show. What emotion did the ballet evoke? Which dancer stood out? Did the music match the movement? These reflections deepen your connection to the performance and create a personal archive of your cultural journey. You might even use these notes to write a letter to the artistic director or share insights with a friend who hasn’t yet seen a live ballet.

Tools and Resources

Several digital and physical tools can enhance your BalletMet experience, from planning to post-performance reflection. Below is a curated list of official and trusted resources.

Official BalletMet Website

balletmet.org is your primary source for performance schedules, ticket purchases, subscription details, educational content, and news. The site is mobile-optimized and includes an interactive seating map, downloadable program guides, and accessibility information. Sign up for their email newsletter to receive early access to ticket sales and exclusive offers.

BalletMet Mobile App

Download the free BalletMet app from the Apple App Store or Google Play. The app allows you to store digital tickets, receive push notifications about showtime reminders, view dancer profiles, and access on-demand video content from past performances. It also includes a map of downtown Columbus with walking directions to the Ohio Theatre and nearby dining options.

Ohio Theatre Accessibility Guide

The Ohio Theatre is fully ADA-compliant. Wheelchair-accessible seating, assistive listening devices, and captioning services are available upon request. The theatre’s accessibility guide, available on the website, details elevator access, restroom locations, and sensory-friendly performance dates. If you require accommodations, contact the box office directly via email or online form at least 72 hours in advance.

Local Transportation and Parking Tools

Use the COTA Ride app to plan bus routes to the Ohio Theatre. For parking, use ParkMobile or SpotHero to reserve and pay for spots in advance. Both apps show real-time availability and pricing at nearby garages. The Capitol Square Garage offers validated parking for BalletMet patrons with a ticket stub—present your receipt at the garage kiosk for a discounted rate.

Program Booklets and Digital Playbills

Each performance includes a printed program booklet available in the lobby. Digital versions are also downloadable from the website. These booklets contain detailed synopses, choreographer bios, composer credits, and dancer profiles. Many include QR codes that link to video clips of rehearsal footage or interviews. Keep your program as a keepsake—it often features beautiful photography and handwritten notes from the artistic staff.

Local Arts and Culture Blogs

Follow Columbus-based arts bloggers such as Columbus Underground, ArtsOhio, and The Columbus Dispatch arts section. They often publish previews, interviews with dancers, and reviews that provide context beyond the official marketing materials. These sources offer candid insights and help you understand how BalletMet fits into the broader cultural landscape of the city.

YouTube and Social Media Channels

BalletMet maintains active YouTube and Instagram accounts where they post rehearsal snippets, dancer takeovers, and short documentaries. Follow them to gain insight into the daily life of a professional ballet company. Their “Dancer Diaries” series offers a rare look at the physical discipline, emotional resilience, and creative process behind each performance.

Library and Educational Partnerships

The Columbus Metropolitan Library offers free access to streaming performances through its Kanopy service. Search for “BalletMet” to view archived full-length productions. The library also hosts free ballet-themed storytimes and workshops for children, often in partnership with BalletMet’s education department.

Real Examples

Real-life experiences illustrate how attendees have successfully navigated their BalletMet journey—and how small choices can transform an ordinary evening into an unforgettable one.

Example 1: First-Time Attendee with a Child

Sarah, a single mother from Upper Arlington, wanted to introduce her 8-year-old daughter to ballet but was unsure where to start. She chose BalletMet’s annual Nutcracker family matinee, which includes a pre-show “Meet the Dancers” activity in the lobby. Sarah bought balcony seats online using her student discount and arrived 60 minutes early. They explored the theatre’s history through an interactive kiosk, picked up free coloring sheets from the education booth, and enjoyed a snack in the café before the show. During the performance, her daughter whispered excitedly at every costume change. Afterward, they wrote a letter to the dancers and received a personalized postcard in the mail. Sarah now subscribes to the family series and has become a regular patron.

Example 2: Out-of-Town Visitor

James, a software engineer visiting Columbus for a conference, had two hours between meetings and wanted to experience local culture. He checked BalletMet’s website and discovered a 6 p.m. performance of Contemporary Mix that evening. He used the ParkMobile app to reserve a spot in the Columbus Commons Garage, walked to the theatre, and bought a single ticket at the box office. He attended the pre-show talk, which explained how the choreographer used urban noise samples in the score. After the show, he took a photo of the theatre’s exterior and posted it on Instagram with the hashtag

ColumbusArts. A local arts influencer liked his post and invited him to a community dance night the following weekend. James returned to Columbus three months later specifically to see another BalletMet performance.

Example 3: Senior Patron with Mobility Needs

Marjorie, 78, has attended BalletMet for over 40 years but recently began using a walker. She contacted the box office ahead of time to request wheelchair-accessible seating with companion seating. The staff arranged for a designated parking space near the theatre’s accessible entrance and assigned an usher to meet her at the curb. Marjorie received a large-print program and an assistive listening device. She attended the pre-show talk and later shared her experience in a community newsletter, encouraging other seniors to continue engaging with the arts. Her story was featured in BalletMet’s annual impact report.

Example 4: High School Student Group

A group of 30 students from Columbus School for Girls attended a performance of Appalachian Spring as part of their dance curriculum. Their teacher reserved a block of student tickets at $10 each through BalletMet’s Education Outreach Program. Before the show, the students studied the music of Aaron Copland and the history of American modern dance. Afterward, they participated in a Q&A with a company dancer. One student, inspired by the experience, applied for BalletMet’s summer youth program and is now training as a junior company member.

Example 5: First-Time Subscriber

Tyler, a recent transplant to Columbus, bought a half-season subscription after seeing a promotional ad in a local café. He attended three performances: Swan Lake, Revelations, and Black and White. He attended the subscriber-only reception after the final show, where he met the artistic director and several dancers. He was so moved by the experience that he began volunteering as a front-of-house ambassador and now helps train new ushers. “I didn’t know I’d fall in love with ballet,” he says. “Now I can’t imagine my life without it.”

FAQs

Can I bring food or drinks into the Ohio Theatre?

No, food and beverages (except bottled water) are not permitted in the auditorium. However, the theatre’s lobby features a café open before performances and during intermission, offering coffee, wine, beer, and light snacks. You may enjoy these items in the lobby areas only.

Are there discounts for students or seniors?

Yes. Students with valid ID and seniors aged 65+ receive discounted ticket prices on select performances. Discounts are available online during checkout or at the box office. Group rates are also available for parties of 10 or more.

What if I can’t attend my scheduled performance?

Subscribers may exchange tickets for another performance in the same season, subject to availability. Single ticket holders may donate their tickets as a tax-deductible contribution. Exchanges must be requested at least 24 hours before the original performance time.

Is there parking available near the Ohio Theatre?

Yes. Several parking garages are within a five-minute walk, including Capitol Square Garage, Columbus Commons Garage, and the Nationwide Plaza Garage. Parking rates vary by time of day and event. BalletMet patrons receive discounted parking with ticket validation.

Can I take photos during the performance?

No. Photography, video recording, and audio recording are strictly prohibited during performances to protect the rights of the artists and the integrity of the production. You may take photos in the lobby before or after the show.

Are there performances for children?

Yes. BalletMet offers family-friendly matinees of The Nutcracker and other shorter programs designed for younger audiences. These performances are typically one hour in length, include interactive elements, and allow children under five to attend. Check the calendar for “Family Matinee” labels.

How long do performances typically last?

Most full-length ballets last approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, including one intermission. Shorter programs or family performances may run 60 to 90 minutes. Always check the specific performance details on the website.

What if I have a food allergy or dietary restriction?

The theatre café offers gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan options. If you have severe allergies, contact the box office in advance so they can inform the café staff. Seating accommodations can also be arranged if you require a fragrance-free environment.

Can I bring a service animal?

Yes. Service animals are welcome in all areas of the Ohio Theatre. Please notify the box office in advance if you plan to bring one so they can prepare for your arrival.

How can I support BalletMet beyond attending shows?

You can donate directly to the company, become a member of the Patron Circle, volunteer as an usher, sponsor a dancer, or contribute to their education programs. Every contribution helps keep ballet accessible and vibrant in Columbus.

Conclusion

Attending a BalletMet performance in Columbus is more than an evening out—it is an invitation to witness the convergence of discipline, emotion, and beauty. From the moment you select your seat to the final bow, every detail is crafted to honor the artistry of ballet and the dedication of its performers. By following this guide, you ensure that your experience is not only seamless but deeply meaningful. Whether you’re a first-time attendee, a seasoned patron, or someone discovering the power of movement for the first time, BalletMet offers a space where stories are told without words, and where every leap, turn, and gesture carries the weight of centuries of tradition and the spark of innovation.

The Ohio Theatre stands as a cultural landmark, and BalletMet as its beating heart. Supporting this institution means supporting the artists, educators, and community members who believe in the transformative power of dance. As you plan your next visit, remember: you are not just watching a performance—you are becoming part of its legacy. Let the music move you. Let the dancers inspire you. And let your presence help ensure that ballet continues to thrive in Columbus for generations to come.