Whether this is your first live performance or simply your first visit to OPAC, we are glad you are here. You do not need a special background, a certain outfit, or any prior knowledge to enjoy a show. Our staff and volunteer ushers are here to help.
Whether this is your first visit to OPAC or you are a regular guest, we want you to feel comfortable, confident, and welcomed from the moment you arrive. This guide brings together helpful information about planning your visit, getting to the theatre, finding your seat, and enjoying the performance.
Learn what to expect before the curtain rises, then browse our frequently asked questions for quick answers about tickets, timing, seating, refreshments, accessibility, children, photography, and more. If you still have a question, our team is always happy to help.
A first visit to a performing arts center can feel like a lot to take in. This guide gives you a simple look at the OPAC experience, including what happens before the show, what you will find when you arrive, and how to settle in once the lights go down.
Use it to plan with ease, then come ready to enjoy the performance. Our team is here throughout the evening if you need directions, assistance, or a friendly answer to a question.
Check your event page for the start time, approximate length, intermission information, and any available age or content advisories.
Have your mobile ticket ready before you arrive. Screenshots are not valid for admission.
If you need accessible seating or another accommodation, contact the Box Office in advance at (256) 241-3322.
OPAC is located at 100 Choccolocco Street, Oxford, Alabama 36203. If using a navigation app, enter “Choccolocco Street,” not “Choccolocco Road.”
Free parking is available in nearby lots. Accessible parking is located on the west side of the venue and guest drop-off is available along Choccolocco Street. Virtually all parking is located within a three to five minute walk of the venue entrance.
The lobby generally opens about one hour before the performance, with theatre seating opening approximately 30 minutes before showtime. Times may vary by event.
Have your ticket ready to scan. If you need help, the Box Office is located near the entrance, and an usher can help you find your section, row, and seat.
Restrooms are located on all three levels. The largest restrooms are on the Studio level.
Light snacks, soft drinks, bottled water, and theatre candy are available in the lobby. Beer and wine may be available at select events.
Silence your phone before the performance begins. Photography, video, and recording policies vary by event, so follow the instructions provided by the venue or presenter.
Applaud, laugh, and respond when you feel moved. If you are unsure, simply follow the audience around you. There is no test.
Many performances include an intermission. If you arrive late or need to step outside, an usher will help you at the appropriate time.
The theatre can feel cool, so consider bringing a light jacket or sweater. Accessible seating, wheelchair assistance, assistive-listening devices, and other accommodations are available.
We know a visit to a performing arts center may come with a few questions, especially if you are attending a new kind of event or visiting OPAC for the first time. We have gathered answers to the things our guests ask most often, including tickets, arrival times, seating, refreshments, accessibility, children, photography, and more.
Take a look through the questions below as you plan your visit. If you cannot find the information you need, please contact our Box Office team. We are always glad to help.
When should I arrive?
Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before the performance. Access to the lobby is typically available one hour before curtain, and theatre doors typically open 30 to 45 minutes before the performance.
What should I wear?
There is no dress code at OPAC. Come as you are, whether that means jeans and a casual outfit or dressing up for a special night out. The theatre can feel cool, so you may want to bring a light jacket or sweater.
Where can I park?
Free parking is available within a short walk of the theatre. Accessible parking and guest drop-off areas are also available.
How do I find my seat?
Our volunteer ushers are happy to help you find your section, row, and seat. Just ask when you arrive.
How can I purchase tickets?
Tickets may be purchased online, by phone, or at the OPAC Box Office. All sales channels draw from the same ticket inventory.
Where are my mobile tickets?
You can also access mobile tickets through wallet.oxfordpac.org. If you still need help, contact the Box Office.
Can I have my online tickets printed?
Yes. The Box Office can print tickets purchased online at no additional charge.
Can I get a refund or exchange my tickets?
Ticket sales are generally final. Refunds are available only in limited circumstances, such as an event cancellation or date change. Exchanges and upgrades may be available depending on the event and seat inventory.
What happens if a performance is canceled or rescheduled?
If a performance is canceled or rescheduled, ticket buyers will receive information about available options. Your event-specific email will include the most current details.
Do infants and children need tickets?
Every person attending an event, regardless of age, must have a ticket. We recommend checking the event listing for age recommendations and content information before bringing young children. We generally recommend that children five and under only attend events specifically presented for families and children.
Are refreshments available?
The Market at OPAC (located off the main lobby) offers soft drinks, bottled water, snacks, fresh popcorn, theatre candy, and select beer and wine options. Refreshments are available before the performance and during intermission. Outside food and beverages are not permitted.
Where are the restrooms?
Accessible Restrooms are located on all three levels of the building. The largest restrooms with the shortest lines are on the Studio level below the main lobby.
What happens if I arrive late?
Latecomers may be asked to wait in the lobby until an appropriate pause in the performance. Seating is at the discretion of the House Manager.
Is there an intermission?
Many performances include a 15- to 20-minute intermission. Check the individual event listing for the most accurate information.
How long will the performance last?
Performance lengths vary. Event listings include approximate run times whenever that information is available. Many concerts run 75 to 90 minutes. Broadway performances may run for 2.5 to 3 hours.
What if I lose something?
Lost items may be claimed at the Box Office. Call 256-241-3322 to ask about a missing item. Unclaimed items are donated after 30 days.
May I take photographs or record the show?
Policies vary by event. Flash photography and recording are prohibited at nearly all performances. When permitted, non-flash photography is generally limited to the beginning of the performance. Broadway productions typically have a no-photography policy. Videography is almost always prohibited.
What should I do with my phone?
Please dim, silence, and/or turn off your phone before the performance begins. Texting and bright screens can distract those around you.
May I bring refreshments into the theatre?
Refreshments may be taken into the seating area at many performances, but policies vary by event. Please follow the instructions provided by OPAC staff and the presenting organization.
Can I leave and return during the performance?
If you need to step outside, an usher can assist you. Re-entry may be limited depending on the performance and venue policy.
Does OPAC offer accessible seating?
Yes. Accessible seating is available at every price level and may be purchased online, by phone, or at the Box Office.
How do I request an accommodation?
Please contact the Box Office before your visit at 256-241-3322 so we can discuss accessible seating, wheelchair assistance, assistive listening devices, or another accommodation.
Are service animals permitted?
Trained service animals are welcome in areas of OPAC open to the public. Emotional-support, comfort, and therapy animals that do not qualify as service animals are not permitted.
Who can help me during my visit?
Our Box Office staff, ushers, and guest-services team are here to help with directions, seating, accessibility, tickets, and other immediate needs.
For more information about ticketing, subscriptions, or guest services, please contact:
Jessica Thornton | Box Office Manager
256-241-3322 or info@oxfordpac.org