Count Basie Center for the Arts

Performing arts theater · Red Bank

Count Basie Center for the Arts

Performing arts theater · Red Bank

1

99 Monmouth St, Red Bank, NJ 07701

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Count Basie Center for the Arts by null
Count Basie Center for the Arts by null
Count Basie Center for the Arts by null
Count Basie Center for the Arts by null
Count Basie Center for the Arts by null
Count Basie Center for the Arts by null
Count Basie Center for the Arts by null
Count Basie Center for the Arts by null
Count Basie Center for the Arts by null
Count Basie Center for the Arts by null
Count Basie Center for the Arts by null
Count Basie Center for the Arts by null
Count Basie Center for the Arts by null
Count Basie Center for the Arts by null
Count Basie Center for the Arts by null
Count Basie Center for the Arts by null
Count Basie Center for the Arts by null
Count Basie Center for the Arts by null
Count Basie Center for the Arts by null
Count Basie Center for the Arts by null
Count Basie Center for the Arts by null
Count Basie Center for the Arts by null
Count Basie Center for the Arts by null
Count Basie Center for the Arts by null
Count Basie Center for the Arts by null
Count Basie Center for the Arts by null
Count Basie Center for the Arts by null
Count Basie Center for the Arts by null
Count Basie Center for the Arts by null
Count Basie Center for the Arts by null
Count Basie Center for the Arts by null
Count Basie Center for the Arts by null
Count Basie Center for the Arts by null
Count Basie Center for the Arts by null
Count Basie Center for the Arts by null
Count Basie Center for the Arts by null
Count Basie Center for the Arts by null
Count Basie Center for the Arts by null
Count Basie Center for the Arts by null
Count Basie Center for the Arts by null
Count Basie Center for the Arts by null
Count Basie Center for the Arts by null

Highlights

The Count Basie Theater, a charming venue since 1926, offers a cozy ambiance with a lineup of shows amidst a nostalgic setting.  

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99 Monmouth St, Red Bank, NJ 07701 Get directions

thebasie.org
@basiecenter

$$

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99 Monmouth St, Red Bank, NJ 07701 Get directions

+1 732 842 9000
thebasie.org
@basiecenter
𝕏
@basiecenter

$$

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Last updated

Jul 12, 2025

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"Originally opened in 1926, this theater was named in honor of Count Basie and hosts various performances." - Sarah Enelow-Snyder

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Sean Carroll

Google
Count Basie is a terrific spot for a show of any kind. In an area with several large venues, it’s nice to have a spot to go that is classic theater with a warm staff but isn’t a massive arena. Acoustics were outstanding and the aesthetics themselves are perfect. The only downside is that the seats are quite small, so taller people might feel a little cramped.

joe celona

Google
Absolutely beautiful venue that is a restored theater. Concert was an amazing Russian cover band, lenod and friends. Sound and seating are good for an older venue. Nice area of red bank with public parking nearby.

Tracy Bushnell

Google
The best of the Eagles was excellent tonight!! We're planning on going again to Rahway next. It was my third time seeing them, and it's always Awesome! When John Bushnell pulls out that double neck guitar .. OMG!!

Greg Gebhardt

Google
This was the second time I've ever been to this venue and loved it both times. There doesn't seem to be a bad seat in the whole place and the small atmosphere takes you back to yesteryear. Staff were super friendly and the venue was clean. I'll be coming back for events in the future no doubts.

Nicole Worth

Google
Been to multiple events and shows here with my children. Went again tonight 2/7/25 with my 10 year old daughter for the Let’s Sing Taylor, these tickets were bought as an early birthday present. The security needs to learn how to handle events that are predominantly children because their aggressiveness and rudeness to the children was absolutely inexcusable. We were in the second row and my daughter had tried handing the singer a bracelet multiple times like most of the other children were doing. Security was incredibly rude to my daughter and MADE HER CRY MULTIPLE TIMES and when I tried to say something I was told ‘there was nothing they could do’ so you can’t let a 10 year old up to a largely vacant spot that IS NOT blocking any person or pathway to hand up a bracelet and return to her seat? But it was okay that multiple other children were allowed up to do so? I went and spoke with whom I was told was a supervisor, she barely looked over the age of 21 and seemed just an incompetent as everyone else I had spoken too there. She expressed their ‘rules’ were that everyone HAS to stay in the seats they PAID for but then turned around and said it’s okay to allow people from multiple rows back up to the front? But for people like myself who actually PAID for up front seats, its a problem. I continually explained my daughter wanted ti just give the singer a bracelet ti which she snapped 'so what would you like me to do? bring her up to give a bracelet?' How about you and your staff learn how to be respectful to your paying customers ESPECIALLY children and maybe don't backtrack on what your 'rules' are when someone calls you out on your BS excuse. My family and I will never waste another dime coming to this theater. Shame on you and your staff Count Basie

PJ K

Google
Great venue. First visit for me and loved the atmosphere & acoustics. Nice staff. Clean bathroom (but awkward arrangement). Paul Weller was great! Definitely will be back. You’re so close to the trains. Good lineup of shows coming. Please update balcony seats. I’m 6’3 & those some smaller chairs.

Linda Palermo

Google
Still a beautiful venue after all these years! Comfortable seats, staggered for good viewing, beautiful ceiling & chandelier, security check in, alcoholic beverages with snacks and popcorn available. Reserve parking available with plenty of local restaurants.

Annette N

Google
Count Basie Theater is truly a gem! We've been here many times for all kinds of shows—kids' events, concerts, and performances—and each visit has been a wonderful experience. The venue is clean, well-organized, and has that perfect mix of charm and professionalism. The staff is always friendly and helpful, and every seat in the house gives a great view. It's a great place to make lasting memories with family and friends. We’re so lucky to have this theater nearby and will definitely keep coming back!

Jeannette L.

Yelp
We were at Count Basie for Bugs Bunny at the Symphony on Friday night. Beautiful historic theatre. Great sound at the venue. Warning - Balcony seats are rough for tall people. Overall, a wonderful experience at Count Basie!

Miche

Yelp
Staff was so nice and help you move along through security as efficiently as possible. The venue is small but nice. All seats are close to the stage. The bar had some snacks if you needed to nibble on something. We saw Blackmore's Night tonight. A great performance. I felt like I was at a renaissance fair. Happy people. The sound was nice. The lighting crew jumped in and did a phenomenal job. A local charity was present for donations to dog and kitty programs. What a fun night. I want to come back soon!!

Kim F.

Yelp
This is a nice venue for events. I have only seen comedians here, so I am not sure how the acoustics are for a concert, but would definitely check one out here. I haven't had too much trouble finding parking. I am not sure if there is a lot, but I have found street parking. Most of the street metered parking is four hours at $1.50 an hour, which isn't bad at all. I enjoy the Red Bank area and there are some good restaurants near by. I have sat in both the balcony and the orchestra and have good view from where i have sat. The sound was a little muffled when I sat in the balcony, but I am not sure if it was a audio issue or if that is just how it sounds up there.

Zo M.

Yelp
Phenomenal venue to listen to live music.This location is home to future acts such as Air Supply, Smokey Robinson, Gin Blossoms. Tonight we were invited to see Jessie's Girl who played an eclectic mix of 80s music from Styx, Motley Crue, Van Halen , Madonna, Blondie and the legend Michael Jackson. Seats were super comfortable although most of the time our group that ranged from 19 to 53 to 80 years old were on their feet singing and dancing. The theater was set in heart of Red Bank NJ .It was safe as we went through metal detectors as entered and was escorted to our seats by ushers who gave us tidbit info about the theater as escorted us to our seats. The ceiling was hand painted apparently and took months to complete. Highly recommend catching a show and enjoying the area restaurants before if able. Parking : $30 across from theater We parked at garage next to Pazzo restaurant for $ 10. It was a short 5 min walk.

Kathy T.

Yelp
My son and his significant other brought tickets as a Christmas gift for them, me , my husband and my other son with his significant other. The show was for comedian "Joe Gato" from impractical jokers. The show went smoothly, Joe had us all laughing with tears in our eyes the whole performance, and he actual had a surprise guest that showed up to say hello to us all. It was "Q" from the show. It was a great performance, and we all were still laughing when we left. The facility is beautiful with a spectacular chandelier in the middle of the ceiling. Bathrooms were very clean. They serve alcoholic beverages, soda, snacks and popcorn , prices were very reasonable for a theater. Losing a star due to the very limited space in between isles and seats next to one another. The staff were all very helpful and polite.

Marie Z.

Yelp
Went to see Elvis Costello tonight, him & Steve were great, however this is the first time that the audience completely ruined the experience. I've have seen many performances in this type of venue but I have never been so distracted by so many people constantly going back & forth to the lobby, as well as people having full blown conversations during the show. It was horrible. And it was mostly an older crowd, you think they would've known better!!

Chris A.

Yelp
Great theater as it is not that big and most seats are great. Snacks & a few bars provided. But most reviewers are correct. Seats are a little tight. There is street parking and a few restaurant options within walking distance. Some really great acts perform here. Place is in great shape and kept clean. Sound system very good

Suzy B.

Yelp
A great venue to see live performances. Tonight it was Jon Batiste and everything was great about the venue. Our seats were great, no long lines to get in, security was quick and Jon Batiste was amazing ! The only thing I'll say is to get to the venue early as parking could take a while. It was Mother's Day today, so I'm sure that added to more cars in the municipal parking lots. Other than that, Count Basie is a great venue to see live music and other performances.

Carrie H.

Yelp
Lovely theatre to enjoy a show. The lobby has many snack choices and a bar Restrooms kept up. Staff friendly and helpful The area of Red Bank where it is located has great restaurants and shopping so plan to stroll around before the show or enjoy a meal

Aimee K.

Yelp
We recently saw Engelbert Humperdinck at the Count Basie Theater. Its a nice venue and reminds me of the Keswick in Glenside PA. All seats have a good view of the stage. Concessions are solid, much better than the Keswick. Parking is available but you'll have to do some walking. Our only complaint is the sound system. The music drowns the vocals which were a bit difficult to hear at times. Microphone feedback was a constant problem throughout the show.

Stephy S.

Yelp
Enjoyed the Monmouth Civic Chorus show. Nice acoustics. Nice seating. They have refreshments on sale in the lobby.

Idania D.

Yelp
I love having this theater in our area. They have a nice rotation of talent coming through. The venue is large enough yet still intimate.

Sean H.

Yelp
Nice theatre to see a show,,, Saw STYX there in 2008 and Lou Gramm in 2024.... Staff is very friendly

Donna R.

Yelp
This was my first time here. I came to see Kenny Wayne Shepherd. It was their 25th Anniversary Concert. There's limited parking on the street. Across from the theater and next to the police station is a paid parking lot. They charge $30 to park. Come early this lot gets full fast! If you live in the area there's some nice restaurants within walking distance. You'd have to definitely arrive early. These restaurants get packed! I didn't have enough time to have a full sit down dinner. Instead, I walked several blocks down to Mr. Slice Pizzeria. If you go in the opposite direction there's a strip mall directly across the street from Count Basie Theater through the paid parking lot attached to the police station. It a quicker walk. There's Chipotle, and a couple of other restaurants. Upon entering The Count Basie Theater you will have to go through a complete security check. All handbags are checked thoroughly, and you have to pass through an X-ray machine. Once inside there's a bar. You can purchase alcohol and snacks only. Be aware, they add on a 3.5 fee on to all credit cards. On the other side of the bar, is where you can purchase, T-Shirts, Sweatshirts, and Souvenirs. My friend bought a special 25th commemorated, limited, addition signed Kenny Wayne Shepherd album for $125. This place does have a lot of friendly staff. Each person is walked to their seats. The best seats obviously are up by the stage, or in the middle.There really isn't a bad seat for viewing a concert. I was on the main floor. The seats here are not wide, so if your a large person you will be squished. There's not a lot of legroom if your tall. Everyone pretty much stays seated which is good. Some people will stand at the side aisles so they can dance. The bad news is because it's a theater, there is a middle aisle, and two ends. People constantly keep getting up during the concert and walking back and forth. At times your views can get blocked, unless like I mentioned you sit all the way in the front. This can make It hard to see at times. The other problem is people arrive late and then they have to be seated, and views can get blocked until people are seated. The sound is very good here though. On the first floor are some bathrooms. Your better off going to the main bathroom. The ones off of the lobby have extremely small stalls for women.I mean you will feel boxed in. All in all, I would come back here for a concert or show, just be prepared ahead of time.

Ilene S.

Yelp
First time at the theatre and if it wasn't a 90 minute drive home I would see other shows here. Helpful hit. It's worth the money to sit on the ground floor as the seats are more comfortable and the is space to move around. On the balcony my knees hit the chair in front of me which is bad considering I'm only a few inches over 5 feet tall.

Deborah L.

Yelp
Horrible sound engineering and acoustics. Anyone working there should be tested for hearing loss because the music is loud and distorted. They drowned out the artist. Would have been nice to hear Joss Stone in a decent venue. I was so disappointed because we had to sit there with earplugs on that were dispensed by the venue. Think they know how horrible the sound is?

Jim H.

Yelp
My Wife paid $140 per ticket to get the "preferred Seating" at a laser light show? My question how is the front row preferred seating at a laser light show? The front row should be the less expensive seats as we left after 30 minutes due to terrible eye aches. The show itself was mediocre at best I felt like I was back in high school in the 1980's watching a laser projector hooked up to a phonograph it wasn't any better than that basically the effects felt very dated. Finally, the parking is terrible in this area we arrived 30 minutes early to the venue only to spend 45 minutes looking for parking. We ended up parking a mile away and walking. For these prices they should have valet parking included or at a minimum a reserved parking garage. How can you have a major theater in a town with no parking? My advice wait for shows at PNC which has ample parking and reasonable prices. The only highlight of the night was walking back from our car we saw "Medicated Pete" from the Howard Stern show working security so that was nice to know he is doing well.

Patricia T.

Yelp
Everyone should be warned about old fashioned narrow seats you will be crammed into. also I was up in the balcony with green railings pushing into my knees. Horrible!!! My brother and I left at intermission. This is the second show I've seen in 4 months and both times the sound system was horrible. it's distorted making it difficult to understand the words. The mic even went out on one of the characters. We did notice some seats seemed to have more leg room but there's no way of knowing until you see them.

Fred S.

Yelp
I think this is a very nice theater but my issue is Ticketmaster. The fees are absolutely ridiculous. I also visit the State Theater in New Brunswick and the ticket fees are minimal compared to Count Basie. I would go more often but it is just not affordable with the high fees.

Michael N.

Yelp
It's a sad commentary on the times that anyone itching to take in some live entertainment is now presented with a hodgepodge of tribute band mania (Eagles, Fleetwood Mac, George Michael, Beatles) or hastily conceived pop culture detritus (Sex in the City parodies.) I suspect things will get back to normal at some point but not nearly fast enough to pay top dollar at the long in the tooth Count Basie Theater in Red Bank. Yes, the theater has terrific acoustics but the seating is a torture chamber and I'm tired of waiting on line for a single bathroom. I suspect indoor plumbing was enough of a novelty in 1930 to justify the wait. What I may put up with on Broadway, is not acceptable for second-tier entertainments like the umpteenth tour of Kansas and various other nostalgia acts. To be fair the same acts are rotating through AC so regretfully, my conclusion is stubbornly the same along the casino shore. Can a tribute act to the tribute act be far behind. The almost, almost Eagles. I can't wait. Two stars.

Doug D.

Yelp
The Count Basie Theater is one of the best regional theaters for experiencing live shows. I go to a lot of classical music concerts, and I find it's much easier to just go here than taking the trek into New York. There are lots of restaurants right nearby in Red Bank, and you can make a nice evening of it. They have also added space to the side. It makes it easier to control crowds and get up the stairs to find your seat. The security up front has always been professional. I think many of them are former cops. The acoustics at this theater are some of the clearest I have heard. I routinely go to concerts in Vienna, Berlin, London, Paris, New York, Philadelphia, etc.... So, I can really say it's great for listening to and viewing classical music performances. It's something about these older theaters that were built knowing they'd have no electronic amplification. You can even sit all the way in the back row, and you will hear a solo violin loud and clear. But great acoustics also mean that you can hear rude guests shuffling through their bag and playing with their cell phone. The theater's management should be well aware of this, but they act as if it's not a problem. If, as a guest, you purchase an expensive ticket months in advance, you can have a performance basically ruined by ushers and the management who refuse to do anything about distracting and rude behavior from certain individuals. Audience members shouldn't have to police other rude audience members. Potential audience members need to know that the policies here for maintaining order in the audience are not consistent with most other theaters where they shush rude people. They were not shy to make everyone wear masks, so they can tell people to be quiet, too. I found it hypocritical. For some odd reason, they still have not fixed the awkward stairs in the theater. No safety bars have been installed, even after so many other parts of the building have been recently renovated. Operations don't make sense here! It's a slip and fall lawsuit waiting to happen.

K M.

Yelp
The theater itself is beautiful as are the acoustics and view of the stage. BUT the balcony seats are absolutely awful. There is zero leg room and I'm only 5'2" so for it to be that uncomfortable for me says a lot. The rows are tightly packed together on a steep angle with little room to move or relax your body into a comfortable seating position. I bought an end seat for my husband and it was hanging out into the steep stairs. I would not go back because it was painful to sit all crunched up and took away from the experience of enjoying the show. I understand and appreciate keeping the charm of an old theater but not at the cost of the comfort for the paying guests.

Barry S.

Yelp
Uncomfortable seats and bad acoustics which make it not the best venue, nice restaurants nearby.

Mike J.

Yelp
Nice theater but seating is very tight. You will be up on someone to your left or right. Best perk is every seat is a decent view to the stage. If you get tickets late you will have climb a few steep stairs to get up to top. The very last row against wall is the best seats with the most leg room because there are no seats in front of them and can stretch their legs. They have several areas to buy snacks, spirit juice and beverages as well. Easy spills climbing steep stairs. Sound system is good and clear. Lighting is good. Good shows plays and musicals on the shows to come.

Jess B.

Yelp
love supporting these local old theatre and see performers right here. its a fun experience compare to newer places

Stuart B.

Yelp
Came here to the production of School of Rock by Phoenix Productions. This is community theater and the Basie Theater and Phoenix provide an asset to the Shore community. Though obviously not of Broadway quality, the cast and performance were enthusiastic and to be applauded. The venue itself is comfortable and beautiful making the theater going experience enjoyable and certainly more convenient and not as expensive as Broadway.

Kim F.

Yelp
It is very difficult to get tickets because scalpers buy them all up and then charge $45 per ticket as a service fee. This is horrible that count basie allows this to happen. It makes ticket prices way to high!. I cant even go to the box office to get tickets because they are all gone.

Dwayne F.

Yelp
This seems to be a hidden gem tucked away in Red Bank. I havent been for any performances. I visited for a community event focused on policing and the community. The venue worked well for this event. Someday I have to try one of the shows.

Jonathan R.

Yelp
I like the Count Basie, if there is a show I want to see I will not think twice about it. Hitting Red Bank for Dinner, a show and dessert is a great night out. Tickets are always available at a reasonable cost and usually I can find one or two shows a year that I would like to see. Beverages adult and child friendly are available for purchase.....popcorn and candy too! Knocks.....the seats are tight with very little if any legroom. Bathrooms are small and lines can be ridiculous. The 2 knocks are worth the 2 star deduction but it usually doesn't deter me but it will condition me to purchase certain seats and do my business right before the show starts.

Chris A.

Yelp
Really nice and historic place in red bank. Went to see Michael Carbonaro from the tv show The Carbonaro Effect performing magic. Really good show. The theater itself was very nice and very old looking. Seats are a little crammed so not too much room. They have a bar and food section, bathrooms are clean, good service and friendly employees. Definitely will be back again one day

Evan M.

Yelp
The Count Basie Theatre is a beautiful old soul in downtown Red Bank. It's an old building, imagine an old and ornate Broadway theater and you'll get the drift. The best thing about the theater is they have really good shows, and the venue has great view points and acoustics. I tend to purchase orchestra seats as I've read too many reviews about the cramped seating of the balcony. The staff has been very nice and professional every time I go. There are several good restaurants within walking distance so you can comfortably make a night of it. There is one bar inside, prices are more reasonable than other live entertainment venues I've recently attended. There are some negatives. First is that although renovated, the building is old enough to lack an elevator. If you're bringing a senior citizen, just be aware that you need to take the stairs to the balcony and the men's room is also located on the balcony level. Also, you are completely on your own with parking. There are metered spots everywhere, but it's not easy to get a spot close by. We walked 4 blocks, not bad of course on a balmy Fall evening, but I'd feel differently if it was a bitter winter night. Last word of advice, get your tickets well in advance! They sell out quickly, and members do get first access to sales from what I've heard.

Denise C.

Yelp
What a wonderful well kept and staffed theater. It was not a full house but the show went on and we really enjoyed ourselves. The on street parking was fine. We didn't want to pay $30.00 for event parking. We saw Pilobolus and it was was fantastic. Celebrating 50 years of performance. https://pilobolus.org/

Jack S.

Yelp
I saw America last week. Good show but balcony seats had enough legroom for a six year old. I am 6'0." Worst seat ever !!! I now have a back ache thanks to the piss pot seating.

Katarina L.

Yelp
I don't think I've ever been more uncomfortable sitting in a chair in my life, airplanes and church included. I feel like this theater was designed 100 years ago when people where very tiny and they only needed doorways to be made 5 feet high. (I checked. It opened 93 years ago, so really, there is no excuse...) Besides the terrible seats, it got so incredibly hot towards the end of the show. It's like they packed the place (it was a sold out show) and then decided it was a great time to block off all ventilation and turn off any sort of AC. So we were jam packed, hot and very uncomfortable in small seats. Thank God the show was amazing and totally worth it. We got these comedy show tickets around Christmas time and had been looking forward to it for months, and it was amazingly worth the discomfort, although I wouldn't do it again. I will say that check in was crazy easy. There was no line for checking tickets at all, no security lines and no concession lines. We got there like 20 minutes early so we had plenty of time for picking up a few snacks and drinks and everything from the concession stand were crazy cheap. If you plan on seeing a show here, I'd just prepare to not be very comfortable. If you are okay with that, go ahead. Every other aspect was great.

Colleen B.

Yelp
It's so nice to have a Broadway type experience local! We've seen several shows here and have always enjoyed ourselves. The staff manages the crowds expertly every single time. Seats are tight, especially in the balcony, but so are the seats in most older, authentic, theaters. We're excited to see Nate Bargatze in October and plan to see a few more shows next year.

Sara B.

Yelp
Not my venue of choice. This review is two stars alone because of how tiny and uncomfortable the seats are. I'm 5'7 and I had to bend my knees while sitting. I can only imagine how someone would feel if they were 6 ft tall or more. Check-in was an absolute mess. I was here for the second performance of a comedy show with two showtimes - 7 PM and 10PM. I'll also mention that both of these shows were sold out. Because their crowd control is so poor we waited on a 30+ minute line that was wrapped around several blocks. We didn't get in until at least 10:30 and the opener didn't come on until close to 11. Absolutely ridiculous. Part of the reason that check-in was so wonky was because each person had to put their phones in a case that locked during the performance. I get that this was probably at the request of the performer and not the venue, but still. This took an extra few minutes at check-in, which definitely delayed the check-in process for this sold out performance. Next time they should think about hiring more people to check-in, and using stanchions to create a better line flow. I don't think I'd come back unless there was a performer that I was dying to see. Even so, I'm not sure if those tiny seats would be worth sitting in for any performance.

Alan A.

Yelp
The Count Basie Theater originally opened in 1926 as Reade's Carlton Theater. After some funding and reconditioning it reopened in 1974 as the Count Basie Theater. It's a beautiful hall and a very nice venue for a concert. This was my first time visiting this theater but not my first time seeing King Crimson. On the stage before the show were two large signs telling the audience that the use of cell phones and recording devices would not be tolerated and if you were found using one you would be asked to leave the theater. They were not kidding, see my photos below. I liked this concept, this was the first concert that I've been to where I did not see one person holding up a cell phone or camera. This should be the rule in every venue. The sound in the theater was excellent and the lighting complimented the show. I don't think I'll be back as this was way to far to travel for a concert. But I was not driving so I didn't care. But if you live in the area and want to see a show there i could not think of a nicer venue. Sorta reminded me of the old Filmore East in NYC in the 60's. Crimson by the way was their excellent best as usual.

Paul C.

Yelp
Went to Disney Junior Live. Absolutely a joke. Will Call office was slow. Staff has no idea what they are doing. Constantly given incorrect information. They said there would be food/snacks. None were open during VIP time. The stand to sell souvenirs was unable to open on time due to employee incompetence. Will never step foot in that place again.

n b.

Yelp
There was plenty of parking. Easy to get to by car. Very convenient if you're taking the train with the station only a few blocks away. Check-in was fast. The theater was intimate and had a nightclub ambience. The alcoholic beverages were excellent and reasonably priced. Staff was friendly. Restrooms were clean. Sound system was okay. My only problem was that the seating chart was a little deceiving. I purchased first row balcony seats and expected to be sitting in a chair overlooking a railing. But that was not the case. Balcony seats have bar stools at small circular tables that seat four at a time. Whoever gets stuck with the outside seats won't be able to see well. I was close to the railing and basically only saw the top of Robert Glasper's head. I would advise to purchase tickets in the front orchestra section for the best view. Be prepared to sit at tables on the lower level as well.

Jim D.

Yelp
We attend a couple of concerts at The Basie annually and so it is time for a review. Let's get the bad stuff out of the way first. Con: 1. Members get pre-sale access to tickets. So, if you want to see someone really good/popular, all the best seats will be taken before you get a chance to buy when they officially go "on sale". Sometimes it is slim pickings even when you are buying on the first day. 2. The bathroom situation is unacceptable. There is a small ladies room downstairs and a small men's room upstairs. Lines at intermission are ridiculous. Don't drink or wear a diaper. Actually, if they had more bathrooms they would undoubtedly sell more cool and refreshing (adult) beverages. 3. There is no elevator to the balcony/loge seats and men's room. Stairs might be a problem for some people. 4. They made a deal with The Devil some years ago and now you will see "The Asbury Park Sound Stage" in big letters above the stage when you enter. Probably get free ads in this dying rag. But, I gave The Basie 4 stars, so.... Pro: 1. This is a good hall to enjoy music. There are only 1568 seats, so almost everyone has a good view. Of course, in the orchestra from row S back you are under the loge/balcony so sound might be impaired. Also, sitting in the upper balcony, I doubt one feels the intimacy of the place. 2. The acoustics are great and the sound and lighting people are very professional. 3. They bring some good/great acts to Red Bank that we might otherwise have to go to NYC or Newark to see (in a larger hall). For example, Brian Wilson played Radio City on 9/23/17 and played The Basie on 9/26/17 (he was excellent). 4. The Basie is almost 100 years old. They made some much needed improvements (including putting in air conditioning) in 2008. They recently announced plans for some major improvements (hopefully some more urinals and toilets) and expansion to the complex (not to the 1568 seat hall) including adding a small theatre. So, check out their website. I'm sure you will find something you want to see.

Robin G.

Yelp
Good news is that - I know there is a $20million expansion plan, planned to break ground 2018-2019. Bad news is I don't think I could revisit before that happens. I've been to shows in NYC/Philly and I'm familiar with theaters and tight seating, however at 5"0', I even felt cramped, so I can't imagine what "regular sized" adults felt like! We got tickets to see Ron White performing in June 2017 (great show!) and paid for mezzanine seats. One member of my group has some slight mobility issues, but I didn't think it would be too much of an issue as long as there were railings. For MOST of the stairs, there were- but once you got to the actual seated section, there were no railings in sight - which made it very precarious for him to walk up & down the (too narrow IMO) steps without help. The theater has awesome history which is good, but it's in dire need of an update.

Steve A.

Yelp
It's a nice, smaller venue to catch a show, and Red Bank is a nice town to catch a show in. Nothing spectacular here, just your standard old-time theatre with a balcony level and all seating. I can't give 5 stars because there's no floor space here. I went to see Collective Soul and halfway through their set, several of us were starting to collect in the narrow aisles because you can't truly experience a concert from the seats, even when standing. The acoustics were good-not-great, and in particular there's a lot lost between front and back. It's a nice size to feel cozy and one with the band while still letting a decent crowd get in there and get loud. It's a strong 3 stars in my book and I'd see the right band here, but I would take the Wellmont or Starland over Basie any day for their standing room/pit if I had the choice. (I haven't been to the Stone Pony so can't comment there.)

Amanda H.

Yelp
I have been to Count Basie theater multiple times and have had an amazing time with amazing service until tonight. I went to see a concert. I was told multiple times I was "being too loud" at a CONCERT. People next to us and all over the venue we're in the isles having a great time and singing. I was confused why i was singled out from the entire venue. I was continually told to "have a good time" but how was I supposed to have a good time when everytime I tried to have a good time I was told I was "too loud". I am VERY disappointed with the service I was given and the treatment. I felt VERY singled out among all the other fans who were having a great time singing and enjoying their time.

Charles C.

Yelp
I came to the Tusk Fleetwood Mac concert and was harassed by several ushers because I was singing along. Several other people were singing and I felt targeted. Never coming back. Such a shame. But when you employ rude ushers like that, what can you expect?

Timothy T.

Yelp
I've been to several shows here over the years and the artists vary but Count Basie Theatre is pretty much steady. It's a great venue to enjoy a show. They have roughly 1500 seats, so all of them are fairly close to the stage. I guess it's possible to get a bad seat but I haven't got one yet. This week I enjoyed two concerts there (Brian Setzer Orchestra & Joe Bonamassa)so it is fresh in my mind. They've recently had renovations done to the theatre that make it quite attractive. A new outdoor bar adds to the Basie's coffers and is enjoyable to the pre show tippler in the warm weather. I find the ushers are cordial and helpful even to those patrons who can't get to a concert on time for whatever reason (planning maybe?) Box office personnel ditto. No place is perfect. Parking can be horrendous in Red Bank. Street parking available only to those who come early. Municipal lots are free after 6 PM but they fill up fast. Come early or prepare to walk. I've enjoyed great acoustics and have been seated in varied areas. I recently sat in the second balcony right in front on the rail. The leg room is practically non existent but you get a non restricted view of the stage. No 6'7" guy in front of you nor a yahoo raising his cell phone right in your view of the stage so he can video damn near the whole concert. Like any venue some seats are louder than others. Deal with it. Prices are high but not Basie's fault, talk to the artists. They are high everywhere. I don't mind that they have several bars here. I just wonder why I have to sit next to the guy who has had 3 beers and I have to get up to let him out. Oh well. Still worth it.

Mady A.

Yelp
I have only been here once for a concert. It's a cool venue, a little on the older side but with a great historic feel. Any seat in the house is a good seat and that's always a plus. The sound is great but tickets can be pretty expensive compared to other venues I've been to. There is a nice outdoor area which was nice to hang out in during a summer night. Bathroom lines get long pretty quickly as do the bar/concession stands. There is a Parking lot located conveniently right across the street and if that's full, there's a free municipal parking garage about 3 blocks away. There are also a lot of restaurants nearby if you wanted to grab a bite to eat before a show.

Tom R.

Yelp
Planned a concert for tomorrow 12/15but just found out it was rescheduled to next week 12/20 was Trying to call box office to see if in fact it's true good luck waited on line for 25 mins hung up and checked the date and for sure it was changed without notification. Thanks to the restaurant which we made reservations prior to the concert in letting us know. Shame on you Count Basie and it's management team

Terri A.

Yelp
Used to go to Count Basie quite often but now that they have been taken over by Hackensack Meridian, not as appealing. I put in for tickets for Dennis and Judi, radio hosts on 101.5. Tickets are $18 each. Very reasonable. That's $36 for two tickets. I see the total is $63.25. How can that be? There was $27.25 in a combination of a service fee/facility charge/order processing fee. Are you serious??? Do the math. $36 for two tickets then $27 in fees. I have always preferred to go to smaller venues to see performances because of the atmosphere, and, they don't gouge you with all sorts of ticket fees. Now I see Count Basie has joined the rest of them with excessive ticket fees. Have a good life! Bub-bye

Ally O.

Yelp
0 stars. Cancelled a show with NO NOTICE with no extra compensation. A complete joke and they limit their social media comments so you can't warn people to stay far away. Skip this place