How to Choose The Best Seat in a Theater

Whenever you’re heading to the theater to see a show, whether live or on the big screen, you need to choose the right seat to ensure that you have maximum viewing enjoyment. While some of us may prefer to sit at the back, at the front or even in a box, there’s actually a science involved in finding the perfect place to sit. Here’s our expert guide to help you get it right every time.

Finding The Best Movie Theater Seat

When it comes to the big screen, it’s quite easy to find the right seat. Modern cinemas all have a specific part of the auditorium where the audio and visuals are optimal. While different people have different opinions about where that sweet spot is, the THX Standard reveals that you need to choose a seat which gives you a minimum of a 36 degree viewing angle from the auditorium’s farthest seat.

The subtended horizontal angles which are created to the right and left screen ages by the viewer’s line of sight shouldn’t be under 30 degrees. Meanwhile, their vertical line of sight should be greater than 35 degrees from the top of the screen to the horizontal. Ideally, you’re looking for a sighline which is 15 degrees under the horizontal center line of the screen.

When it comes to getting the right sound quality, you need to sit in the spot where the cinema’s sound technician sits when doing their calibration. That is two thirds towards the back of the auditorium and in the absolute center of the row.

Finding A Great Seat In A Live Theater

When it comes to finding the right seat for watching a live theater production, this can be a lot more subjective. Primarily, it’ll depend on which show you’re watching. Traditionally, the best seats are said to be those in the front part of the central orchestra section, between rows 5 and 12.

This will put the viewer at the eye level of the playwright and director when they’re developing the performance so you’ll see the show just how it was supposed to be viewed. You’ll also avoid overhang from the balcony. On the other hand, depending on the show, you may want to choose a balcony seat.

For example, a show with a lot of dancing often looks better from above since you can get an overall impression of the choreography, while a more intimate play such as a thriller may look better from the front couple of rows so you can really see the actors’ expressions.

Now that you know where you should be sitting, it’s time to book a seat at one of the hottest shows in town. Whether you love movies or live theater, there’s sure to be a perfect performance for you!