We saw a Dispatch acoustic show 12/10/17 and the venue was fantastic. It's a small intimate theater that provided a great experience for this concert. I read several reviews with complaints about sticky floors and gross bathrooms but I can confirm that neither of these things were issues when we were here. Floors weren't sticky and bathrooms were very clean. Outside drinks for this performance were not allowed but they offered a fantastic selection of drinks including many local brews. The Barrymore is a fantastic little theater and I would definitely attend a future concert at this location!
Great place to see a show. There really isn't a bad seat in the house, the sound is good, and they serve whiskey
Great venue on Madison's east side. This theater serves popcorn during their concerts too, and it's good stuff. Good beer selection, small enough for an intimate feel and easy access to the restrooms too. The Barrymore has a neighborhood feel that you just don't find at the Majestic or the Orpheum.
The facilities were just downright gross. You know that stereotype you have of a theater in disrepair where your feet stick to the floor and there's a funny smell and so on? That's the Barrymore Theatre. On the positive side, this total lack of self-investment leads to reasonable ticket prices. Also, the sound quality is decent.
Go here because:
The shows are pretty cool
The tickets & sound quality are relatively reasonable
Don't go here because:
It is gross
The Barrymore is a nice theatre, though it is a bit small. I went to see Tig Notaro, which was fantastic. But it just seemed like Tig could have filled a much larger venue.
The staff working there was very nice. The building is really beautiful. I can think of one issue that the theatre could work on; it's was very damp in the theatre. It was cool in temperature, but very very moist everywhere. They should invest in more dehumidifiers.
Otherwise, it is a very nice theatre!
Went to a movie premiere "Main Street Meats" loved every moment of it. Will definitely be back.
The Barrymore has some excellent movies and performances throughout the year! It's venue provides a great atmosphere and seems quite historic. We would highly recommend going here for a date or night out sometime! It's casual and fun.
Great place for live music. Was a bit warm inside, the last time we visited, due to standing-room-only crowd!
Great vintage venue with the coolest twinkling star ceiling. I have seen some great shows here from Green Day back in the 90s to John Waters this winter.
Intimate venue with old style seating. Acoustics were good, and everyone was friendly.
The Barrymore is a quirky, vintage theater in the heart of Madison.
There's not a bad seat in the house and the smaller size of the theater makes whatever you intimate.
You can bring drinks in, but the line to get drinks is atrocious. The only other down side is the bathrooms are tiny and tucked away in the basement.
Overall a fun experience!
A charming local staple for great music, comedy and more. But it could use a good restorative renovation.
The Barrymore is one of those classic, old style there's. From the arches painted across the walls to the stars (that actually sparkle) on the ceiling, this place has a really cool ambiance. Great for local acts, concerts, and especially comedians.