Birchmere

I've been to two shows here - one on the flex stage and one in the seated main room.  I'll have to say I enjoyed the flex stage way better.  When I go to a show, especially one that is uptempo and rockin', I want to stand up and dance.  Nothing is more insulting than spending $55 to see a show and then be wedged-in at a catering table the entire night.  The sound was pretty good, the waitress was fine, the beer selection was pretty great and affordable, but I can't get over having to sit like I was at a dinner theater.  If I was going to see a singer/songwriter, Kris Kristofferson I see is playing soon, it makes sense, but it can't work for everyone.

I won't return for a show at the Birchmere.  For such a legendary venue, the only things that will stand out in my mind is the cramped seating and super expensive ticket prices.

Drinks are fair. Beer is expensive. Food was overpriced, but it was fun to eat and watch the show.

Birchmere has gone from great to mediocre and from great deal to ripoff in a few short years.  The top acts have migrated to the many other venues that have come to life, while the price of performances at the Birchmere has doubled and tripled.  

The most recent insult to customers came when management removed pitchers of tap water from tables and now insists that customers pay for pricy bottled water.  Will pay toilets be next?