Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall Rules

The Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall has some of the hottest concerts and special events around. But to make sure it’s fun for everyone, there are a few rules that you have to follow.

Make sure you read the rules below so you know what to expect. They will help you avoid any issues during your visit to the venue. Please note that some events may have slightly different rules and management reserves the right to modify their rules for each event.

If you have any questions, you can contact The Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall at (503) 248-4335

Accessibility Policy

The Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall is dedicated to providing as many appropriate accommodations as possible. This includes ADA-approved seating throughout the theater that includes companion seating. In addition, guests can call ahead to request necessary accommodations including assistive listening devices.

If you have any other questions regarding accommodation needs, you can contact The Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall at (503) 248-4335

Camera Policy

Generally, cameras are not allowed. If an event allows personal and non-professional cameras then flash is never allowed. Cameras and recording devices may be confiscated if used against the express wishes of the artist and house.

If a specific event has an exception, then it will be noted if you call the venue to ask.

COVID-19 Related Policy

Please check the relevant event page on this website for details specific to your performance, which may include accepted forms of documentation, accepted tests and timelines, and any age restrictions for the event.

All ticket holders, regardless of age, are required to show proof of full COVID vaccination or a negative test result (taken within 72 hours prior to showtime) from a healthcare provider for entry into the theatre.

“Fully vaccinated” means that ticket holders have received their final vaccination dose of either the two-dose regimen of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines or one dose of Johnson & Johnson at least 14 days before your performance date. Be sure to have your ID (name must match documentation) with you as well.

Proof of vaccination may be in physical printed form (original vaccine card or photocopy) or in digital form (photo or scan on your mobile device).

Negative test results must be from a test administered by a licensed healthcare facility, and can also be in either print or digital form. At-home tests are not accepted at this time.

Also, in accordance with state and local guidelines, face masks are required for entry. Masks must completely cover the nose and mouth. Gaiters and bandanas are not acceptable. If wearing a face mask that does not comply with Metro policy, Portland’5 will provide a face mask for patrons. Masks must be worn at all times except while eating or drinking for brief periods. Prolonged periods of mask removal are not permitted for eating or drinking – masks must be worn between bites and sips.

Please contact the The Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall office at (503) 248-4335 for any questions relating to current COVID-19 related policy.

Lost and Found Policy

Lost something during your visit? Then please check with event staff during the event for information on where lost items are sent. You can also try calling the venue at (503) 248-4335 after the event to check if anything was found or turned in.

Please be sure to give your complete contact information as well as a detailed description of your lost item(s).

Mask Policy

In accordance with state and local guidelines, face masks are required for entry. Masks must completely cover the nose and mouth. Gaiters and bandanas are not acceptable. If wearing a face mask that does not comply with Metro policy, Portland’5 will provide a face mask for patrons. Masks must be worn at all times except while eating or drinking for brief periods. Prolonged periods of mask removal are not permitted for eating or drinking – masks must be worn between bites and sips.

Please contact The Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall office at (503) 248-4335 for any questions relating to current COVID-19 related mask policy

Prohibited Items

As a guest, you cannot bring firearms into the building except under limited circumstances, such as being in possession of a concealed weapons permit. However, while the venue cannot ban those with concealed weapons permits from carrying firearms into this public building, individual event licensees may choose to ban weapons from their specific events. Security personnel reserve the right to inspect bags and implement additional security measures as needed.

The venue also strictly enforces alcohol policies. All alcohol served backstage must come from an OLCC-licensed and permitted entity approved by the Production Department. Front-of-house alcohol sales are managed by the venue’s contracted concessionaire.

Please do not bring the following items to the venue.

  • » No food
  • » No outside beverages
  • » No drugs or drug paraphernalia
  • » No chains, chain wallets, or spikes
  • » No weapons of any kind
  • » No fireworks or explosives
  • » No professional cameras (a professional camera is any type of DSLR or a camera with a removable lens) 
  • » No GoPros
  • » No audio recording devices
  • » No sharpies
  • » No lasers or laser pointers
  • » No pets (with the exception of documented service animals) 
  • » No selfie sticks
  • » No iPads or tablets
  • » The venue does not currently offer onsite storage for prohibited items, so please plan in advance. 

These could be subject to change per the artist request. The venue reserves the right to adjust the items on this list.

The Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall reserves the right to search anyone, and their belongings, who enter the premises.

Re-Entry/Entry Policy

Generally, re-entry is not allowed.

Smoking Rules

Please contact the venue regarding where you can smoke during the event.

Understanding the rules and policies at the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall helps ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for all guests. The venue maintains specific guidelines designed to preserve the historic building, respect performers, and enhance audience enjoyment. Familiarizing yourself with these expectations helps you prepare for your trip.

Arrival Times

The house opens one to two hours before the scheduled show time. Typical curtain times in Portland are between 7 p.m. and 8 p.m. for evening performances. Matinees generally start at 2 p.m.

Photography

Many performers prohibit photography and video recording during shows to protect intellectual property and prevent distractions, but it varies by event. Check your specific event information or contact the box office if you have questions about photography permissions for your scheduled performance.

Smoking

The Oregon State law and Metro policies dictate that smoking and vaping are not permitted within 10 feet of any exterior doorway or air intake. However, since the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall is a publicly owned building, the prohibited distance typically extends to 25 feet. 

This prohibition applies to all tobacco products, including electronic cigarettes. The only exception applies to theatrical productions where smoking is an integral part of the scripted performance, and this situation requires special permits.

Audience Conduct Expectations

You should arrive at your seat before the performance begins to avoid disrupting other patrons and performers. Late seating policies vary by event, with some performances requiring latecomers to wait for an intermission in the program. The ushers will direct you to your seat and can answer questions about the facilities and available services.

The concert hall welcomes children to family-friendly events and strives to create an inclusive environment. However, children’s entry depends on the specific event, as some performances have age-related recommendations. If they attend, the child must demonstrate the ability to sit quietly through a performance and remain under an adult’s supervision. 

The guardians or parents of the child should also consider the sound levels and take responsibility for ear protection for younger audience members. The hall’s Event and Production Services Department balances the artistic vision of performers with the safety of audiences, but rock concerts will naturally feature higher volumes than classical performances.