Concert FAQ

Can I bring food or drinks into the concert hall?

Drinks purchased at the Holland Performing Arts Center may be taken into the Peter Kiewit Concert Hall for all Omaha Symphony performances. Snacks and beverages with lids are permitted in the venues.

All events held in the Strauss Performing Arts Center must adhere to the UNO Food Policy and as such, outside food and drink is prohibited.

How can I access my ticket?

All purchased tickets can be accessed and scanned using the Ticket Omaha App. You can also speak to a Ticket Omaha agent, located on the ground floor of the Holland Performing Arts Center or the Strauss Performing Arts Center - depending on the location of the performance.

  1. In the Ticket Omaha App, Go to "My Account & Tickets" in the navigation and click on "My tickets."
  2. Select the event you are attending and the barcode will appear for scanning. Please note, barcodes will appear 48 hours prior to the event.
  3. Need to share a ticket? No problem. Click the "send to a friend" button at the bottom of the ticket. Enter their email and click the "send to a friend" button. Your friend will receive an email with a link to the ticket.

What should I wear?

Although attending the Omaha Symphony is often a special occasion, tuxedos and evening gowns are not required. Most concertgoers dress in business or semi-casual attire. Wear whatever makes you comfortable!

May children attend?

For the respect and consideration of all Omaha Symphony patrons, children under age 5 are admitted only to our Family Series concerts, the Physicians Mutual Omaha Symphony Christmas Celebration, and select Education concerts. All patrons attending an Omaha Symphony concert must have a ticket.

When do I applaud?

Applause at Omaha Symphony performances is meant both as a greeting and to show appreciation for the artists. Traditionally, patrons applaud to greet the concertmaster and again to greet the conductor and/or soloists. Once the performance begins, you'll notice that many musical works have three or more movements/sections. A short pause often follows each movement. It is customary to refrain from applauding during these pauses. After the final movement of a work, applaud to your heart’s content. You may also applaud when the conductor either turns around or steps off the podium. If all else fails, you can always wait for the rest of the audience to begin clapping.

May I take pictures?

The use of still, video and digital cameras, or audio recording equipment is strictly prohibited at all times.

How can I learn more about orchestral music?

There are so many ways to learn about orchestral music!

1. Sign up for our newsletter for inside stories, interviews, and features.

2. Attend the Pre-Concert talks at 6:45 p.m. preceding each Masterworks concert all season long.

3. Access the Digital Program Book using the Omaha Symphony App or view it directly from the concert page.

4. Print the full program notes at home or read the condensed program provided prior to the concerts.

5. In addition, through a partnership with Classical 90.7 KVNO (FM), excerpts from Omaha Symphony concerts can be heard every weekday morning at 7:45 a.m. during Symphonic Sunrise. Full concert programs can be heard at 2 p.m. every Sunday afternoon during In Concert with the Omaha Symphony.

5. Follow us on social media - we're always sharing information about the musicians and the music.

6. Read our blogs!

Is the Holland Performing Arts Center accessible to everyone?

The Holland Performing Arts Center is accessible to everyone under the criteria established by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Requests for accommodations should be made when purchasing tickets. More information about accessibility can be found here.

What do I need to know about parking and arrivals for the Holland Performing Arts Center?

The Holland Performing Arts Center has a variety of parking options. Street meters are free after 9 p.m. on weekdays, and free on Sundays, while paid parking can be found in nearby garages and surface lots. The most convenient paid parking areas are the Omaha Park Eight Garage located adjacent to the hall on the corner of 13th & Dodge Streets and the All Right parking lot at 12th & Dodge Streets.

The drop-off zone is located on the south side of the Holland Center on Douglas Street. Courtesy wheelchairs are available and can be requested upon arrival by asking security or an ambassador.

Due to downtown construction, we will no longer be able to offer pre-paid valet, however, valet may still be available on a limited basis.

Check this link for information about nearby bus routes.

What do I need to know about parking and arrivals for the Strauss Performing Arts Center?

The Strauss Performing Arts Center is located on University Drive North between the Criss Library and the Milo Bail Student Center, parallel to Dodge Street.

Parking lots D, E, F, and M are the closest options and will not require parking permits on the day of the event. We will also have posted signs but be sure to arrive early.

Handicap parking can be found in Lot E (just west of Strauss) and Lot M (south of the Criss Library).

Download this map for detailed view.

Where are the programs?

You're in luck! If you have a smartphone, the digital program and everything you might possibly need is just a few clicks away. You can access the digital program by following one of the listed steps below:

1. Download the Omaha Symphony App and tap the program icon.

2. Text PROGRAM to 833-448-0156.

3. When you arrive at the concert, point your camera at one of the QR codes you see for an instant link.

You may also print your program at home from the concert page on our website.

We also offer a condensed printed program at all concerts - just find our table in the lobby!

What information can be found in the digital program?

The amazing thing about going digital is that we can include so much more information that will make your concert experience better. Information such as:

  • Welcome letter from our CEO, Music Director, or other leadership.
  • Detailed program of tonight's concert.
  • Detailed program notes for each piece.
  • Musician and guest artist biographies with pictures.
  • Concert sponsors.
  • Leadership biographies and information.
  • Board of Directors and Governing Members.
  • Guilds.
  • Omaha Symphony staff.
  • Upcoming performances.
  • Omaha Symphony supporters.
  • Link to our donation page.
  • Frequently Asked Questions.
  • Student Rush Tickets.