About Tower Theatre
Tower Theatre is a historic Uptown 23rd District venue in Oklahoma City, reopened in 2016 for concerts, comedy, and films. The building dates to July 15, 1937, when it opened as a 1,500-seat Streamline Moderne movie palace (cinematreasures.org ) (cinematreasures.org ). Today the main room holds roughly 1,000–1,100 people (about 700 on the floor and 264 in a balcony) (thevendry.com ) (www.ticketsmarter.com ). Its iconic neon marquee was restored in 2016 (www.okgazette.com ), and inside the ornate Art Deco auditorium original features like the scarlet stage curtains and the pipe organ remain (cinematreasures.org ). This compact-but-grand theatre is celebrated as one of OKC’s last intact vintage movie houses, and its intimate yet sizable layout makes it a beloved centerpiece of the local live-music scene (oksessions.com ) (cinematreasures.org ).
Events and Programming
Tower hosts a diverse lineup of shows almost every night, ranging from national touring artists to local showcases. Musical genres include indie rock, folk, jazz, country, metal, hip-hop and more – for example shows have featured acts like Japanese Breakfast, Bury Your Dead, Laine Hardy, Snarky Puppy, and Faye Webster (www.ticketsmarter.com ). Comedy and special events also appear (past bills include comics like Fred Armisen and Tom Papa), and the venue regularly screens cult or classic films (Rocky Horror Picture Show, The Room) using its high-powered projector (oksessions.com ). A standout local series is Tower’s ongoing “Coop Showcase,” which spotlights up-and-coming Oklahoma City bands in a high-end setting (oksessions.com ). In short, you’ll find everything from grassroots Oklahoma talent and indie acts to big-name headliners – the schedule is packed year-round.
Concerts: Live music from indie, rock, folk, jazz, Americana, metal, hip-hop, country, etc. (www.ticketsmarter.com ) (oksessions.com ). The capacity balances intimacy with a full-house crowd.Local showcases: Regular Oklahoma City band series (e.g. Coop Showcase) that give local artists a professional spotlight (oksessions.com ).Special events: Comedy tours, themed dance parties and film nights (theatre has hosted cult film screenings since adding a digital projector in 2017) (oksessions.com ).Recurring favorites: The venue often runs series like “Vinyl Night” or seasonal concerts, and occasionally serves as a venue for local festivals and touring theatre troupes.
Tickets and Booking
All tickets for Tower events are sold through the theater’s official box office or authorized online partner (towertheatreokc.com ). Watch the venue’s website or social media for on-sale announcements, and sign up for email alerts if you’re targeting a popular show. The theater occasionally holds limited fan club or venue pre-sales, so it pays to stay informed. On the day of a show, any remaining tickets will typically be available at the door (usually starting about an hour before showtime) – but be aware the venue is cashless, so bring a credit/debit card (no cash sales accepted (towertheatreokc.com ) (towertheatreokc.com )).
Authorized seller only: Buy tickets only through the theater’s official channel (towertheatreokc.com ). Resold tickets from third parties may not be honored.Box office: The theater’s box office opens on event days (usually 1–2 hours before showtime). If you need to pick up physical tickets, check show information – otherwise tickets are emailed about 24 hours before the show (towertheatreokc.com ).Payment and pricing: All ticket sales are cashless (cards only) (towertheatreokc.com ). Ticket prices vary by event – typically $20–$50 for most concerts (budget shows often under $25, big-name acts or VIP packages can be higher).Door sales: If the show isn’t sold out, a limited number of tickets can be bought at the door on show night. Remember you must pay by card and bring your ID if needed (for any age restrictions or drink purchases).
Seating and Layout
The main performance space at Tower is a rectangular auditorium with a gently sloping floor and one balcony level. On concert nights the main floor is typically general admission (standing-room) and funnels downward toward the stage (oksessions.com ), so early-arrivers can stake out spots near the front. The mezzanine balcony has fixed seating for about 264 and offers an elevated view of the stage. In total the main room seats around 700 on the floor and 264 up top (www.ticketsmarter.com ) (plus a small front lounge area and a separate studio space for up to 100 in some configurations) (thevendry.com ).
Floor (pit) area: Generally open GA. For most concerts this is where fans stand – it slopes up from the stage to the rear, so even middle rows have good lines of sight (oksessions.com ).Balcony: Raised seating for ~264 patrons (www.ticketsmarter.com ). The balcony often opens for sold-out shows. These seats give a full, auditorium view (ideal for seeing the light show and all the stage action).Best viewing spots: Front-floor gets you closest to the performers, while the center of the balcony offers a broad perspective. Side sections have slightly angled views. Acoustically the room is tight and high-fidelity – the sound system (mains and fills) is designed to give clear audio everywhere (thevendry.com ) (oksessions.com ).Stage & production: Tower has full A/V capabilities (air conditioning, professional lighting and sound gear) for live shows (thevendry.com ). Backstage areas and artist amenities are available but generally off-limits to the public.
Getting There and Parking
Tower Theatre’s address is 425 NW 23rd St, Oklahoma City, OK 73103 (thevendry.com ) (on the northeast corner of NW 23rd and Hudson in the “Uptown 23rd” district). This vibrant walkable area has many shops and is easy to find on GPS. If you’re driving, a free parking lot is available just across 23rd Street on the east side (towertheatreokc.com ). Street parking is also often possible along nearby side streets (check signs for restrictions). Rideshare and taxi drop-offs usually pull up in front of the theater on NW 23rd.
Car: Ample free parking is provided in the East lot directly across the street (towertheatreokc.com ). Additional metered spots may be on surrounding blocks, but the designated lot covers most needs.Rideshare/Taxi: The main entrance on NW 23rd St is the drop-off point. The theatre populates quickly at showtime, so arriving or departing by car-share slightly off-peak avoids the biggest traffic.Public Transit: PaintBus (Embark) routes run along NW 23rd Avenue, with stops within a few blocks of the venue. (Check the local bus schedule for the #23 Crosstown line). The streetcar downtown does not reach NW 23rd, but multiple bus lines on 23rd Ave and Classen Circle can connect.Walking/Biking: If you’re near downtown or the Plaza area (about 2 miles east), walking or cycling over is reasonable. The neighborhood is lively with sidewalks, and there are bike racks near the venue.
Inside the Venue
Upon entering Tower Theatre, you’ll pass a modest check of your tickets and any bags. All bags larger than about 8½×11 inches are prohibited (towertheatreokc.com ), and staff may search belongings for security. Once inside, the atmosphere is classic-concert hall meets vintage movie palace. The lobby has retro marquee lighting and even an old film-projector machine on display as a nod to the theatre’s past (oksessions.com ). A coat rack or check service is not provided, so plan to keep belongings with you.
Bars and concessions: A full bar is located inside the theatre (serving beer, wine, and cocktails). The venue is cashless – all purchases must be made with credit/debit cards (towertheatreokc.com ). Non-alcoholic drinks are also available (towertheatreokc.com ). Small finger foods or sweets may be sold on event nights, but outside food/drink is not allowed (towertheatreokc.com ).Restrooms and accessibility: Restrooms are available on the main level and upstairs; all have accessible stalls. The theatre provides ADA-compliant seating (typically at the rear of the floor and at balcony left) and an elevator for the balcony (towertheatreokc.com ). If you need assistance, event staff can help accommodate seating or mobility needs.Merchandise and keepsakes: At most concerts you’ll find a merchandise table selling artist memorabilia in the lobby or near the front entrance. The venue itself sometimes has show-specific items or posters as well.Connectivity: Cell phone reception inside is generally reliable on major carriers. The theatre does not usually offer public Wi-Fi, so plan on using personal data for e-tickets or communication. Ticket scanning and drink orders go quickly by digital payment.Atmosphere: Expect a friendly but energetic crowd. The historic decor and intimate sightlines give shows a personal feel. While waiting, guests commonly mingle in the balcony bar area or out in the lobby before curtain.
Nearby Amenities
The Tower sits in the heart of Oklahoma City’s Uptown 23rd entertainment and dining district, so plenty of options are nearby before or after a show. Within a block or two you’ll find casual cafes, upscale restaurants, and relaxed pubs. For example, Cheever’s Café (NW 23rd & Hudson) is just a short walk away – it’s a local landmark known for American comfort food. A few doors down on Walker is Pizzeria Gusto with artisan wood-fired pizzas. A block east on 23rd is Yours Truly (a steakhouse) and FRIDA Southwest (an Aztec-inspired eatery). Uptown 23rd is also lined with several bars (Ponyboy bar is next door at 423 NW 23rd), coffee shops, and shops. If you’re staying overnight, numerous Bricktown/Downtown hotels are within a 5–10 minute drive (places like the Skirvin Hotel, Wyndam Grand, Marriott Courtyard, etc.).
What Makes This Venue Special
Tower Theatre is more than just another concert hall – it’s a piece of OKC history with its own personality. The majestic Streamline Moderne interior and original neon Tower marquee give it vintage charm (cinematreasures.org ). Inside, the preserved red proscenium curtains and even a hidden pipe organ (from its movie days) hint at its movie-palace past (cinematreasures.org ). Importantly, it was reborn as part of 23rd Street’s revival and now anchors the vibrant Uptown 23rd nightlife. Oklahoma Gazette recounts the marquee being relit amid much fanfare in 2016 (www.okgazette.com ), symbolizing its comeback. Critics and fans alike call it “OKC’s ideal music venue” due to its perfect mid-size capacity, acoustic finesse, and welcoming vibe (oksessions.com ). One legendary note: during its golden era this theater ran The Sound of Music for an astounding 82 weeks straight (cinematreasures.org ), showing how deeply connected Tower has been to local culture. All in all, artists praise the intimate but lively setting, and audiences love the mix of retro atmosphere and modern production quality.
Architecture & decor: Authentic 1937 Art Deco style (Streamline Moderne) inside and out (cinematreasures.org ). The glowing neon marquee is a city landmark (once dark for decades, it now lights up nightly (www.okgazette.com )).Historical significance: One of OKC’s last original movie theaters, Tower has survived fires, closures, and time. CinemaHistorians note it boasts a nearly intact auditorium and original infrastructure like the projector booth and organ (cinematreasures.org ) (www.tripadvisor.com ). Its revival helps preserve local cultural heritage.Acoustics & vibe: The room’s dimensions (narrow, sloped floor, high ceiling) give great sound quality. The intimate setting makes big-name acts feel up-close. OkSessions even calls it a “crown jewel” of the city’s music scene (oksessions.com ).Community impact: Beyond entertainment, Tower drives $ to 23rd Street businesses. It sits amid a walkable district of shops and restaurants, turning regular nights into events. Local fans and musicians often cite Tower as a must-play stage – it’s seen both rising local bands and national tours share stages.
Visitor Tips and Information
Planning your visit to Tower Theatre? Here are some insider pointers to make your night smooth:
Arrive early: Doors frequently open about 45–60 minutes before showtime, so plan extra time for parking and check-in lines. Getting there early often means choosing a better spot on the floor or grabbing a drink before the performance.Tickets and ID: Always bring the credit/debit card used for purchase (for any ID or refund check). Your e-ticket will typically be emailed the day before the show – save it on your phone or print it (paper backup is handy in case phone battery dies). The venue scans phones easily. If you’re 21+ and plan to drink, don’t forget a government ID.Cashless venue: Tower is completely cashless (towertheatreokc.com ). Bars and concessions only take credit/debit/ApplePay/etc. There are no ATMs inside, so don’t rely on cash having; use any bank’s ATM before entering if needed.Bags and belongings: The bag policy is strict – no large bags or backpacks (towertheatreokc.com ). Bring only small purses or clear totes (8.5″×11″ max). All bags are subject to search. There is no coat check room, so keep wraps or extra layers with you or wear them.Dress code: There is no formal dress code. Concert settings are informal – most people wear casual or smart-casual outfits. However, the floor can get crowded and warm, so “move-friendly” clothing and comfortable shoes are a plus.Noise level: Shows can get loud (especially rock/metal nights). If you’re sensitive, consider bringing earplugs. They’re inexpensive and often available for sale in-lobby at concerts.Age restrictions: Many Tower events are all-ages, but some concerts are 18+ or 21+ (especially with alcohol involved) (towertheatreokc.com ). Check the event details when buying tickets. If you’re bringing minors, verify before the night of the show.Food & drink: You may want to eat or drink before arriving; there are few options once an event starts (bars stay open, but lines can be long). The neighboring Ponyboy and Pump Bar (just steps away) are popular pre-show spots.Getting around after the show: If you drive, expect some congestion exiting the Uptown area post-show. Using rideshare or a designated driver can be easier late at night. If taking public transit, check the last bus/Streetcar times in advance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many people does the Tower Theatre hold?
Tower Theatre’s capacity is roughly 1,100 people. The main floor area accommodates about 700 (usually standing room), and the balcony has around 264 fixed seats (thevendry.com ) (www.ticketsmarter.com ). (Additional capacity comes from a small lobby area and a studio room.)
How much do tickets for Tower Theatre shows usually cost?
Ticket prices vary widely by event. Smaller local acts or supper-club style shows might only be $15–$25, while touring headliners and big-name bands often range from $30–$50 or more per ticket. Premium seating or VIP packages (when offered) cost extra. Always check the event listing or box office for the specific price tiers and fees.
Where can I buy tickets to Tower Theatre events?
Tickets are sold only through the venue’s official ticketing partner or box office (towertheatreokc.com ). You should purchase tickets online before the show; avoid third-party resellers. If tickets remain, you can also buy them at the door on the day of the show, but remember the venue accepts only cards (no cash) (towertheatreokc.com ) (towertheatreokc.com ).
Can I buy tickets at the Tower Theatre box office on show night?
Yes, if the concert is not yet sold out you can usually purchase tickets at the box office on the night of the event. However, box office sales are cashless – you must pay with credit/debit cards (towertheatreokc.com ). It’s a good idea to arrive at least 30–45 minutes before showtime for any available door tickets.
What payment methods are accepted at Tower Theatre?
All transactions at Tower Theatre are cashless (towertheatreokc.com ). You must use a credit or debit card (Visa, MasterCard, AmEx, etc.) for tickets, drinks, and merchandise. No cash or checks are accepted anywhere inside. (Make sure you have cards ready for any on-site purchases.)
What is the address of Tower Theatre and where is parking available?
Tower Theatre is located at 425 Northwest 23rd Street, Oklahoma City, OK 73103 (thevendry.com ) (NW 23rd & Hudson). A free parking lot is directly across NW 23rd on the east side (towertheatreokc.com ). Street parking nearby is also usually available (pay attention to any posted limits). The main entrance faces NW 23rd Street; rideshare/drop-off is best on that corner for easy access.
Can I take the bus to Tower Theatre?
Yes. Oklahoma City’s EMBARK bus system runs along NW 23rd Avenue, and stops along 23rd St. are within a short walk of the theater. Look for Route 23 (the Crosstown line) which serves NW 23rd. There is no direct streetcar line to the venue, but several bus routes on nearby streets also connect to Uptown 23rd. Check the EMBARK website or maps for the latest schedules.
Is Tower Theatre wheelchair accessible?
Yes, Tower Theatre is ADA-accessible. An elevator connects the main floor to the balcony (towertheatreokc.com ), and there are designated wheelchair spaces (both on the floor and in the upper left balcony) that can be booked when buying tickets. Restrooms on each level are also accessible. If you have special needs, you can contact the theatre staff in advance or on-site for assistance.
What is the bag and camera policy at the venue?
Tower Theatre enforces a strict bag policy: no backpacks or large bags are allowed, and purses larger than about 8½×11 inches must be left outside (towertheatreokc.com ). All bags are subject to search. Personal cell phones and small cameras for snapshots are fine, but any professional camera or video equipment is prohibited without a press pass (towertheatreokc.com ). (In short – bring only what you need in a small purse or clear tote.)
Can I bring outside food or drinks into Tower Theatre?
No. Outside food and non-water beverages are not allowed inside the theater (towertheatreokc.com ). This rule helps security move guests through entry more quickly. The venue does have a full bar and often some snack items for sale, so it’s best to eat or drink before you arrive or buy from the concession once inside.
Are there age restrictions for Tower Theatre events?
It depends on the event. Many Tower Theatre concerts and shows are all-ages, but some late-night or 18+/21+ events do occur (especially when alcohol is served) (towertheatreokc.com ). Each ticket listing will note any age minimum. If minors are attending, double-check the event’s age policy ahead of time. All-ages shows are marked, while 18+ or 21+ shows typically require ID.
What food and beverages are available inside Tower Theatre?
Tower has an indoor bar that serves alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. You can purchase beers, wine, and cocktails (cashless only) as well as sodas and water (towertheatreokc.com ) (towertheatreokc.com ). Small snack items or candy are often available. There’s no outside food service, so most people grab dinner or drinks at a nearby restaurant or bar before the show.
What are the best seats or viewing areas?
For closer proximity, the center of the front floor (standing GA) is ideal for feeling the energy of the show. If you prefer a seated view, the front row of the balcony is great for an overall perspective and stage lighting. The balcony provides a full-auditorium vantage, while the floor gives you “on-stage” closeness. Avoid extreme corners if you want a direct view.
When do the doors open for a show?
Doors usually open about 45–60 minutes before the advertised showtime. For example, if a concert is listed at 8:00 PM, the foyer might open around 7:00 PM. It’s wise to arrive well before showtime if you want to queue near the front. Exact door times can vary by event, so check any email updates or social media announcements for that show.
Should I bring earplugs or hearing protection?
If you are sensitive to loud music, it’s a good idea. Concerts in an enclosed space like Tower can be quite loud, especially rock or electronic acts. Many attendees use earplugs for comfort. Standard silicone or foam earplugs (often sold inexpensively at music stores or pharmacy) can take the edge off without ruining the experience.
Is smoking allowed inside Tower Theatre?
No. Smoking (including e-cigarettes) is prohibited inside the building. The venue’s policy, in line with state law, requires all smoking to be done outdoors. If needed, step outside to a designated break area on 23rd Street.
