Frequently Asked Questions

How do I purchase tickets?

Visit our ticket policy page for full information.

What is the dress code?

Casual and comfortable. Hawaiian shirts are encouraged!

What time should I arrive?

Doors to the building open one hour before show time. Doors to the main performance hall open 30 minutes before show time. Arriving earlier will not get you into the main hall any earlier as volunteers are completing preparation and sound checks are taking place.

What if I arrive late?

After paying for tickets, head downstairs to the main hall but please be very quiet! Voices and footsteps really carry in the theatre. Please wait for a suitable break in the performance (during applause) to seat yourself so you will not interrupt other patrons.

How long will the show last?

Most shows consist of two 45-minute sets with a 15-20 minute break in between. Some go a bit longer if it is crowded. Typically an 8 p.m. show is over by 10:30 p.m. at the latest.

Will there be an intermission?

Yes, usually 15-20 minutes depending on size of crowd.

Where do I park?

We have a 38-vehicle parking lot and once that is full, patrons can park next door at Open MRI of New England. All are off-street parking spots and free of charge.

Can I bring outside food and drinks into the theatre?

No. Outside food and drink is not permitted for several reasons. First and foremost, we cannot control potential food allergy reactions if an unknown item is being brought in. Additionally, many fast-food choices have a strong and lingering smell. As importantly, BRT relies on our own concession sales to generate additional income!

What is the theatre’s policy regarding inclement weather?

Frankly we don’t like it one bit. We do not ever cancel if it is simply cold, or windy, or rainy. If it snows, we make a decision by noon on the day of the event. The rule of thumb is if the band can arrive, we won’t cancel. That said, we rely on the Town of Cumberland to plow our parking lot and if there is more than 3 inches expected by show time, we likely will need to re-schedule. Always check our website and/or BRT’s Facebook page before travelling. If a show is held and YOU choose not to come, please understand that we cannot refund your payment.

What accommodations do you provide for guests with disabilities?

BRT has a sloped walkway at the top of our parking lot that leads to the main hall for those who utilize wheelchairs or walkers/crutches. There is a handicapped-accessible bathroom off of the lower lobby on this level. If someone in your party has hearing or visual challenges, please call ahead and we will do our best to save seats in an optimal area. If an older patron cannot easily handle stairs, it is advised to use the sloped walkway.

Can I bring my cell phone with me into the theatre?

You can … but PLEASE silence it before the concert begins! We also discourage texting during concerts as well as video/photo shooting. Please be considerate of your fellow patrons as well as the musicians on stage.

Can I bring my camera with me into the theatre?

In most cases cameras and/or recording devices are not permitted. If you want to bring a camera, you MUST OK any photography with the Theatre Manager as well as the performer. NO FLASH PHOTOGRAPHY is ever allowed! Again, please be considerate of your fellow patrons as well as the musicians on stage. Shoot from behind the audience if at all possible. BRT staff reserves the right to ask you to refrain from photography/ videotaping if we feel it is bothering other patrons.

What are the Box Office hours of operation?

Blackstone River Theatre is an all-volunteer organization which means we are not regularly staffed during the week during normal business hours. The Box Office is open day-of-the-event THREE hours before start time. You can always leave a message at 401-725-9272. We return calls to confirm reservations as soon as we can but understand we do callbacks only 2-3 days a week.