Audience Information2023-09-07T16:15:26-05:00

Audience Information

Audience Information

What is the ticket return policy?2023-09-07T15:55:45-05:00

We’re sorry, but we cannot offer refunds or exchanges.

How long is a typical performance?2023-09-07T15:55:11-05:00
  • Handel’s “Messiah” lasts approximately three hours, including intermission.
  • Bach’s “Passion” will run approximately two and a half hours, including intermission.
  • The Palm Sunday Weekend event will vary, depending on what is being performed.  A general rule-of-thumb is to plan on approximately two and a half to three hours for a performance.
Am I allowed to take pictures or record any part of the performance?2023-09-07T15:54:42-05:00

Flash photography (on any kind of device) is prohibited.

Any other photography, video, or sound recording is allowed, so long as it is not disruptive to fellow concert-goers or the musicians on stage.  Feel free to post your pictures and videos online as much as you like and tag us with #messiahfestival!

When do I clap?2023-09-07T15:53:59-05:00

Many works in classical music have multiple movements. Most often, a short pause falls between each of the movements. It is customary not to clap in between movements.   However, at the very end of the performance, feel free to clap to your heart’s content!

Are children allowed to attend?2023-09-07T15:53:35-05:00

Children interested in listening to the performance are very welcome! Young children (under age eight) may not be able to sit still long enough, however. Please take your fellow concertgoers into consideration when deciding to bring small children.  Every person attending must have a ticket/seat (no children in arms or laps, please).

What are the house rules?2023-09-07T15:51:40-05:00

Cellular phones, watch alarms and electronic devices must be turned off/completely silenced before the performance begins.  Presser Hall Auditorium was specifically designed to carry sound, so please refrain from talking or whispering as this can be very distracting for the performers and fellow audience members. Tobacco in any form is not allowed on Bethany College Campus. Food and beverages are not allowed inside the Auditorium.

What is the seating policy?2023-09-07T15:51:00-05:00

All ticketed performances during the Messiah Festival are General Admission this year.  The auditorium doors will open 45 minutes before the performance begins.  Since we are on a radio broadcast schedule, the starting time will be strictly observed.  Please allow plenty of time for not only travel, but parking, unloading passengers and finding seats before the performance begins.

Auditorium doors are closed when the performance begins. If you arrive late, please wait by the entry doors until the ushers let you in, and then quietly take your seat.

If you must leave during the performance, we request that you do between movements if at all possible in order not to disturb others around you.

What should I wear?2023-09-07T15:50:36-05:00

Today’s standards for business formal or business casual are both acceptable.

Go to Top