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03.06.11 at 11:00 a.m.
Michael Coppens

Before the Curtain Rises: Dinner & Drinks

In my last Centerstage post, I explained why it is important to let the day go before settling down for the a performance in the Theater District. Now while I did say thirty minutes was ideal, I prefer taking a bit more time to relax. That said, you'll generally find me somewhere near the performance venue with friends enjoying a glass of wine (or two) and appetizers.

I generally kick my nights at the theater off about an hour and a half before the curtain rises. One hour to enjoy myself, thirty minutes to get to the venue and find my seats. Please note this is something I've been doing for a while. Keep track of your time, and make sure you don't get too caught up at the bar to the point you miss the curtain. Not to worry, I'm going to give you a couple of tips to make sure you enjoy your pre-show activities.

Tip #1: Don't Trust Your Server

NEVER assume your server is watching the clock for you. Inform your server of your evening's plans and/or ask for the check when you've been served your food and/or last drink. You don't want to miss the start of a performance because of a backed up credit card machine.

Tip #2: Keep It Simple

I rarely, if ever, try to fit dinner in before a performance. It's just not practical. I limit my pre-performance to appetizers and cokctails. It's faster, prevents me from getting too hungry during the performance, and allows me to relax after a full day at work.

Tip #3: Keep It Small

You want to keep your pre-performance group fairly small. 4-6 people is ideal. More than that, and you're going to risk delays, particularly if you have to split a check. If you're sitting at a table, make sure you tell your server that you want to split the check. That, or find a friend who uses Square.

Tip #4: Keep It Close

It goes without saying you should stick Downtown for any pre-performance activities. And, really, I'm talking about walking distance. Parking two times is just not practical. Where, you ask? Check out my next Before the Curtain Rises for my favorite pre-performance spots.

bars, cocktails, downtown, houston, performance, restaurants, Square, theater district