Enriching, illuminating, energizing, and delighting the spirit of the community has been The Bushnell's constant mission. For 90 years, The Bushnell has been central to life in Greater Hartford serving as its unique gathering place for arts, education, and community activities.
As a dynamic 21st Century performing arts center, The Bushnell presents, creates, inspires and shares the best in the performing arts; and in partnership with others, serves as a catalyst to advance education, promote economic development and build a sense of community in Central Connecticut.Today, The Bushnell, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit, is the State's largest arts organization and has been deemed a "Connecticut Cultural Treasure."
As a dynamic 21st Century performing arts center, The Bushnell presents, creates, inspires and shares the best in the performing arts; and in partnership with others, serves as a catalyst to advance education, promote economic development and build a sense of community in Central Connecticut.Today, The Bushnell, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit, is the State's largest arts organization and has been deemed a "Connecticut Cultural Treasure."
Services
With an incredible Broadway Series line-up, tremendous work being done by The Bushnell's education team and a return to live events, The Bushnell has once again become The Place to B. Please join us in celebrating the best in arts and entertainment as we serve as a catalyst to advance education, promote economic development and build a sense of community in Central Connecticut.
The Bushnell is committed to the health and safety of our patrons, volunteers, artists, and staff. Whether you're looking for a tour of The Bushnell's historic venue or you're looking for the best dining options nearby, you've come to the right place to plan your next visit to The Bushnell. Our Box Office is open for over the phone and in-person service at our 166 Capitol Ave location.
The Bushnell features a variety of spaces - from the world-class William H. Mortensen Hall, where Broadway comes to Hartford - to the intimate and refined Horace Bushnell Suite, perfect for private events. The Bushnell is Connecticut's most elegant full-service space for performances, fund-raisers, weddings, mitzvah ceremonies, corporate and private events.
The Bushnell has proudly served Connecticut communities in delivering high quality talent development programs for many decades and we're so excited to announce the new chapter of the program: Ensign-Darling New Voices! For over 20 years, The Bushnell has affected the lives of over 400,000 young people with award-winning programs that extend beyond the stage, into the classroom and throughout the community.
In the course of its history, The Bushnell has often been referred to as "a life-giving spirit, " and we take seriously our role as both a place to celebrate and experience the very best in the performing arts, and a cultural beacon for our community.
While this has been a time of extreme challenges and uncertainty, it has also been a time of tremendous compassion and care, as we unite in forging a path to days when our stages are enlivened once again with spectacular events and performances.Now, more than ever, the generosity of our donors is needed, as we continue our work to Elevate the Spirit of our community.
While this has been a time of extreme challenges and uncertainty, it has also been a time of tremendous compassion and care, as we unite in forging a path to days when our stages are enlivened once again with spectacular events and performances.Now, more than ever, the generosity of our donors is needed, as we continue our work to Elevate the Spirit of our community.
Reviews (26)
Zsazsa Felker
Jan 31, 2022
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Sherry Small
Jan 27, 2022
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My husband and I held our wedding at The Bushnell in December and it was the best decision we have ever made! Domingo and his team put on a flawless event that appeared to effortlessly pull off a million tiny detailed requests! I'm not sure why there isn't a wedding there every day because it is the perfect place to accommodate events of any size while offering unique backdrops of beautiful historic decor, with all imaginable modern accommodations. I have never worked with a more dedicated group of individuals who genuinely cared about creating some of the happiest memories I will cherish for the
Miguel S.
Jan 27, 2022
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This was my first time at the Bushnell. The facility was an amazing looking place. I am from NYC and have been to Broadway shows but this place has them beat!
This is the perfect venue to check out performances, enjoy the sights of the city and look at the history this building has to offer.
The sound quality is fantastic, the staff is friendly, a very clean area, they offered hand sanitizer to all the attendees. The seating was great not a bad seat in the house.
Thank you for reopening after times and for anyone like myself who never been it's a must see.
This is the perfect venue to check out performances, enjoy the sights of the city and look at the history this building has to offer.
The sound quality is fantastic, the staff is friendly, a very clean area, they offered hand sanitizer to all the attendees. The seating was great not a bad seat in the house.
Thank you for reopening after times and for anyone like myself who never been it's a must see.
Lauri Lowell
Jan 05, 2022
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J. M.
Dec 28, 2021
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Elaborate and beautiful art-deco theater and a Harford landmark. Inside are several small event spaces and a full concession. Seating is comfortable and spaced like most from the era. Main theater is sizable with a balcony; the mezzanine floor had a decent pitch. Home to the Hartford Symphony whose performance I attended prior to this review. Led by a conductor with boundless energy and enthusiasm for music.
Nathan Trefethen
Dec 06, 2021
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Wonderful evening back at the theater! So nice to know that they are taking all the precautions needed to allow safe attendance to the shows. ‘Bands visit’ was a wonderful show with moving songs and heartfelt performances. Interesting cultural exchange that illuminated what is happening around the corner in other parts of the world. BIG shout out to Todd! The theater manager for talking with us and providing so many informative places to see and eat in the city! He is a wealth of info for the production, theater and all about town interests! He made our day and night out a special one and we
Cydonie Brown
Dec 04, 2021
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Burt Rubenstein
Dec 03, 2021
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Cole Von Richthofen
Nov 20, 2021
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Andres A.
Nov 13, 2021
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I love the Bushnell!!! Everyone of our visits have always ended up with a resounding BRAVO! The productions are excellent and the fact you don't have to deal with the hustle and bustle of NYC makes it a plus. The theater is beautiful, practically no bad seat in the house. The staff at the Bushnell is always great and helpful. We drive up and park (no parking fee) which makes it even better. In addition the seating is great, you actually have space between you and the next row. We have been to several productions and can't wait to go again. Keep bringing quality productions and we will
Nancy F.
Nov 06, 2021
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We once again thoroughly enjoyed the amazing Broadway show of Rent!
The voices and dancing of these actors was awe inspiring!
A must for everyone if you can see this traveling 25th anniversary show!!
My only complaint is not with the Bushnell - it with the cafe. When you advertise choices available for dinner 2 days before a show online, you should make sure those options are available the night of the show.
Leaving the theatre was a welcomed relief as well this evening. The street lighting is brighter and the new pavers and sidewalk prevent patron' falls. THANK YOU especially to the staff
The voices and dancing of these actors was awe inspiring!
A must for everyone if you can see this traveling 25th anniversary show!!
My only complaint is not with the Bushnell - it with the cafe. When you advertise choices available for dinner 2 days before a show online, you should make sure those options are available the night of the show.
Leaving the theatre was a welcomed relief as well this evening. The street lighting is brighter and the new pavers and sidewalk prevent patron' falls. THANK YOU especially to the staff
Loretta M.
Oct 02, 2021
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Kate C.
Feb 27, 2020
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We love the Bushnell, we've seen Stomp, The Waitress, and most recently Shen Yun, the theater is rife with just breathtaking architecture and paint and molding. The shows are always done exceptionally well, not different from Broadway at all. The parking is free across the street, but can get tricky if you don't get there at least 30 minutes before the play. The prices for water, snacks, and adult beverages inside are movie theater marked up high, but expected. The bathrooms require stair climbing and descending so be forewarned if you have special needs of any kind.
John L.
Dec 22, 2019
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Prior to being dragged to see The Grinch this old grump really dug in his heals. This live stage version of the Grinch's journey to a life changing evening was very well done.
The cast, young and old, fabulous. Lyrics stayed true to the great Dr Seuss' story of spirit, redemption, and the simple un-hyped meaning of Christmas.
I'd have to say it brought out a little more Holiday Spirit in this Old Lump of Coal. Happy Holidays!!!
The cast, young and old, fabulous. Lyrics stayed true to the great Dr Seuss' story of spirit, redemption, and the simple un-hyped meaning of Christmas.
I'd have to say it brought out a little more Holiday Spirit in this Old Lump of Coal. Happy Holidays!!!
Kate B.
Oct 17, 2019
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Review for those wondering what the view from the cheapest ticket (balcony) may look like.
Show & Seat: The Book of Mormon - Balcony Section C, Row M, Seat 227 (last row, end seat).
View: Fine for me considering it was only $37 ($29 + service fees). I will note that this seat was close to the entrances so light was shining in. If that bothers you, I'd buy a ticket in the middle rows. You can see all scenery & cast members. Now, obviously from this far away, you cannot see the actors faces, but that's the balcony for you. Seats are on an incline, so you don't have to worry
Show & Seat: The Book of Mormon - Balcony Section C, Row M, Seat 227 (last row, end seat).
View: Fine for me considering it was only $37 ($29 + service fees). I will note that this seat was close to the entrances so light was shining in. If that bothers you, I'd buy a ticket in the middle rows. You can see all scenery & cast members. Now, obviously from this far away, you cannot see the actors faces, but that's the balcony for you. Seats are on an incline, so you don't have to worry
Milly C.
Sep 22, 2019
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I'm sure, I'm not the only one has ran late to see a show at the Bushnell. You first have to find your seat, grab some snacks, a drink and wait impatiently for the show to start.
You really don't have a chance to really check out your surroundings and discover how amazing it is . Today, I was able to slow down. I took a tour of the Bushnell. Our tour guide Clint, was extremely knowledgeable. I don't want to ruin the tour highlights on this review for you. However, I do want to say, that I learned about the theater's history, the architecture designs, the amazing
You really don't have a chance to really check out your surroundings and discover how amazing it is . Today, I was able to slow down. I took a tour of the Bushnell. Our tour guide Clint, was extremely knowledgeable. I don't want to ruin the tour highlights on this review for you. However, I do want to say, that I learned about the theater's history, the architecture designs, the amazing
Bob B.
Sep 21, 2019
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Seth Meyers was brilliant last night (9.20.2019). The only reason I didn't make this a 5 star is Sam Sanders the NPR moderator tried multiple times to pull Seth and make this a political conversation. We need to thank Seth for recognizing the bait and taking the true high road.
Thanks for sharing your life!
Thanks for sharing your life!
Allison C.
Jun 23, 2019
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Brian K.
May 05, 2019
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Heidi S.
Aug 26, 2018
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It's just a really nice place to see a show. I've only been here a few times but I like it. They bring quality shows to the venue and coming here has always been pleasant. The only reason I don't go more is because I live pretty far away.
It is a great place to go and the times I've been here, there has been lots of people milling around and the inside is lovely.
It is a great place to go and the times I've been here, there has been lots of people milling around and the inside is lovely.
Daryl P.
Aug 11, 2018
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I have been to the Bushnell for different events ranging from musicals like the Lion King and shows like Cirque Dreams Holidaze, I've never been disappointed. I will say that it is a small venue compared to the XL center that have bigger shows. There will always be a crowd drawn here to enjoy a date night show while feeling all fancy.
Located near the capital building, you can find paid parking in the lots of street parking making it pretty easy to park provided that you get there within a reasonable time. Access to nearby restaurants and Bushnell Park makes it well worth the time to get
Located near the capital building, you can find paid parking in the lots of street parking making it pretty easy to park provided that you get there within a reasonable time. Access to nearby restaurants and Bushnell Park makes it well worth the time to get
Jess L.
May 25, 2018
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One would expect only 4 or 5 star reviews for a theater with some of the best acts coming through Connecticut. And there's a lot of history in this building, and its existence really helps bring life to downtown Hartford.
I do have some complaints, though:
The seats, at least in the balcony, are very tight and close together. I came here for a winter performance of Alvin Ailey, and everyone in the balcony was sweating and struggling to get in and out of our seats. It just really wasn't that pleasant.
Also, I hate to say it, but I find most of my interactions with the people who work
I do have some complaints, though:
The seats, at least in the balcony, are very tight and close together. I came here for a winter performance of Alvin Ailey, and everyone in the balcony was sweating and struggling to get in and out of our seats. It just really wasn't that pleasant.
Also, I hate to say it, but I find most of my interactions with the people who work
Jamla B.
May 07, 2018
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Nisha H.
Jan 27, 2018
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This was the first time we had been at the Bushnell. The building is beautiful, enormous and awe inspiring. The ceiling painting is gorgeous. The waiting area is huge with comfortable seating. The was beverage service was nice since we couldn't find any water fountains. However $3 for small water is way to expensive. Lesson learned.
We went to see STOMP which we were really excited for. We got tickets for mezzanine, thinking it was better option then balcony. While STOMP was beautiful, we were so uncomfortable. Three stars because the seatings are so narrow that you are squeezed between
We went to see STOMP which we were really excited for. We got tickets for mezzanine, thinking it was better option then balcony. While STOMP was beautiful, we were so uncomfortable. Three stars because the seatings are so narrow that you are squeezed between
Meghana A.
Nov 05, 2017
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Loved my experience at the Bushnell theatre its a very unique and grand place for performance art.
I went to see Le miserable.. I was WOWed with the performance and stage setting how they transformed from one scene to another.The live orchestra made it even better.I'm even thinking of getting season tickets.
The seating is really tight and if your seated behind a tall head ( actually they were not ever that tall) it blocks your entire view or just get a bit more expensive seats.
They have a cafe just outside of the box office and happy hour drinks at the bar inside... the bar had complimentary
I went to see Le miserable.. I was WOWed with the performance and stage setting how they transformed from one scene to another.The live orchestra made it even better.I'm even thinking of getting season tickets.
The seating is really tight and if your seated behind a tall head ( actually they were not ever that tall) it blocks your entire view or just get a bit more expensive seats.
They have a cafe just outside of the box office and happy hour drinks at the bar inside... the bar had complimentary
Valerie R.
Feb 19, 2017
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I love the Bushnell. I have seen so many shows here. They have two different spaces for performances. Mortensen Hall is the larger venue, and is where the large shows, such as Broadway performances, are held. The Belding Theater is smaller and more intimate, there are truly no bad seats in this theater, so if you have the chance to see a performance here, definitely do!
You would never guess that the performance day operations are largely volunteer run. The ushers are so professional, and are well versed in facts related to the performance as well as general Bushnell information.
While not
You would never guess that the performance day operations are largely volunteer run. The ushers are so professional, and are well versed in facts related to the performance as well as general Bushnell information.
While not
