FAQ

PLAN YOUR VISIT

When is the box office open? 
Our Box Office will be open 30 minutes prior to most event start times.

When should I get there?
Performances, screenings, concerts, and any other events at the Hammer Theatre are anticipated to begin promptly on time. Please arrive at least 30 minutes prior to the start of the performance. This will allow time for parking and seating. Parking structures can fill up very quickly. If you plan to park on the street, you must pay attention to posted hours and regulations. Another option is public transportation. The Paseo de San Antonio stops along 1st and 2nd Streets provide convenient access to the theater.

When can I enter the theatre?
Usually, doors into the building will open 1 hour prior to the performance start time, and doors into the theatre will open 30 minutes prior.

Will I still be able to purchase tickets/see the show if I am late?
We strive to begin our performances on time. To avoid disturbing both the actors and other patrons, late seating will be at the discretion of the House Manager. You may be asked to wait in the lobby or other alternative seating. Late seating after curtain-time could be as late as intermission. We encourage patrons to arrive at the theatre early.

Is food allowed inside the theatre?
Food is not allowed inside the theatre auditorium. Outside beverages and water bottles may be taken into the theatre if they have a lid. We also have concessions (including both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages) available for purchase at most events. You can find a full menu here.

PARKING

Is there parking at the theatre?
The Hammer Theatre Center is located at 101 Paseo de San Antonio in downtown San José between South 2nd & 3rd Streets, and San Carlos & San Fernando Streets. There are several conveniently located parking garages and lots near the theatre. Unfortunately, we are unable to validate parking for the nearby garages/lots, but some of the nearby eateries or grocery stores will validate with the purchase of food. There is also metered street parking. For complete information about parking locations and programs, visit www.parksj.org.

TICKETING

Are there extra charges to buy tickets online?
Yes, typically there is a $5 convenience fee when purchasing tickets online. Tickets purchased at the Box Office window or over the phone do not carry any additional service charges. Every seat sold also includes a $1 Capital Fund Fee, which goes right back into upkeep of the beautiful facility. Tickets can be purchased online at: www.hammer.sjsu.wpengine.com.

Are there any student or group discounts?
Group Ticket Discounts, SJSU student discounts, and other special discounts may be offered for some performances; inquire at the Box Office for more information.

Do my children need his/her own ticket?
All patrons, regardless of age, must have a ticket to enter the theater, by order of the Fire Marshal. LAP PASSES for young children are sometimes available for certain performances, but you must purchase either a lap pass or a full ticket for them to enter the theatre. Inquire at Box Office for additional information.

Although the Hammer Theatre often presents family shows geared toward children of all ages, we do not recommend live theatre for infants or toddlers.

Are there booster seats available?
If you or a family member have difficulty seeing above taller patrons seated in front of you, there are a few booster seats available on a first-come, first-served basis. Ask an usher or house manager for assistance.

Can I get my ticket refunded if I can’t attend?
Unless told otherwise by a Hammer staff member, consider all sales final, no refunds or exchanges.

Can I exchange my ticket?
Exchange policies vary and are set by the presenter of each event.

SPECIAL ACCOMMODATIONS

Are service animals allowed in the theatre?
We welcome service animals, but no pets please! While Emotional Support Animals or Comfort Animals are often used as part of a medical treatment plan as therapy animals, they are not covered under current service animal laws under the ADA and are therefore not permitted in the theatre. Thank you for your understanding.

Is wheelchair seating available?
Wheelchair seating is available in both our Orchestra and Balcony sections.
The Parterre seating section is only accessible by stairs.

Do you have Assistive Listening devices available?
Assistive listening devices are available for patrons with impaired hearing, free of charge, at the Concierge window. Patrons are asked to leave a photo ID to check out or borrow the devices.
We work with Kulture City, a nonprofit on sensory accessibility and acceptance for those with invisible disabilities. “A world where everyone can be accepted and included” –Kulture City

INSIDE THE THEATRE

1. 1. Smoking is not allowed in the theatre or lobby areas.
   2. No food or drink is allowed in the theatre, except in approved containers. Water bottles, with caps, are always permitted. Concert Cups are available at the concessions counter.
   3. All electronic devices should be turned off before entering the theatre.
   4. The use of any recording device, either audio or video, and the taking of photographs, either with or without flash, is strictly prohibited.
   5. Coat check is provided at limited performances. Inquire about availability with a theatre usher.

SECURITY

CONDUCT:
We reserve the right to refuse admission or eject any person whose conduct is deemed unbecoming or interferes with the audience’s ability to enjoy the performance in the manner in which it was intended, without a refund on their ticket purchase or exchange to another performance.

PARCELS, BAGS:
Theatre Management reserves the right to require you to open personal bags and knapsacks for inspection as a condition of entry to the theatre. We may require that some items not be allowed into the theatre for security concerns.