We’re excited that you’ll be joining us for an upcoming concert! We want everyone to have a great concert experience, and we know many of our first-time guests may have questions about what to wear, when to clap, and what to expect overall. Some of the frequently asked questions are listed below. If we don’t answer your question on this page, feel free to call our Ticket Office to ask it.
First, a note about cell phones, beepers, and cameras.
Our concerts demonstrate passion, movement, and suspense through music. It’s a beautiful thing to see and hear, so please turn all cell phones, beepers, and other electronic devices to completely silent mode during the concert. Have a smart watch that lights up when you receive a text? Please disable that feature or cover your watch during the performance.
We do not allow photographs or recordings of any kind (video or audio) at concerts. If our ushers see you using a camera or recording device, they will politely inform you of our policy and ask you to stop. If you continue to record the performance, you may be asked to leave.
What should I wear?
For Classics and Pops concerts, most people wear business attire or business casual (slacks, polo shirts, etc.). Feeling even fancier? It’s not common, but we do occasionally see couples dressed in tuxedos and long gowns for a special night out. The Civic Center does not have a coat check, so please be prepared to keep all outerwear with you at your seat during the concert.
What happens if someone’s running late?
We know life happens sometimes, but we want to ensure everyone has the opportunity to enjoy our concerts without interruptions. Once the conductor takes the podium, we close the doors and wait for an appropriate break in the program to allow late seating. You’ll be able to watch and listen to the concert on the monitors in the lobby while waiting to be seated.
What if I need to leave early for some reason?
Emergencies happen. If you need to leave the concert before it ends, please exit during a break in the music.
How long do concerts typically last?
Most concerts presented by the Oklahoma City Philharmonic last two hours, which includes one intermission. If you need to check the estimated length of a specific concert, call our Ticket Office at 405-TICKETS (842-5387) Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
When should I clap?
There are often three or four movements (or sections) to a single piece of music during a classical performance. Over time it has become customary not to clap during the pauses, or breaks, in a single piece of music. Perhaps the best way to know when to clap is by watching the conductor. When he turns to look at you, clap to your heart’s content—we guarantee that you won’t be applauding alone.
Can children attend a concert?
For Classics and Pops concerts, we do not allow children under the age of 5. Children over the age of 5 who attend are required to have a ticket, even if they will be sitting on your lap. Children are allowed at performances of The Christmas Show and other designated performances.
Our Discovery Family Series is appropriate for children of all ages and includes a one-hour show plus pre-concert fun in the lobby where children can try different musical instruments, experience hands-on activities and art projects related to the theme of the concert, and more.
What’s the difference between Classics and Pops concerts?
Whether you’re a tried-and-true fan of orchestral classics or prefer something a little more contemporary, we have a show for you. Classics concerts offer symphonies, concertos, and other works in the classical music tradition. Most Classics concerts feature an internationally acclaimed guest artist who plays a solo piece with the orchestra. Pops concerts feature orchestral music that falls outside the classical music tradition, which may include music from Broadway shows and film, pop and light rock favorites, jazz, and more. Internationally renowned guest artists regularly perform with the orchestra for Pops concerts.
I misplaced my tickets or accidentally left them at home. What should I do?
Don’t worry! We will be happy to reprint your tickets at the Civic Center Box Office the night of the concert. Ticket reprints are free for season ticket subscribers.
Still have a question? Call our ticket office, and one of our team members will be happy to help. The ticket office is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and can be reached at 405-TICKETS (842-5387).
