Mark Taper Forum Seating Guide for "Hamlet" – Best Views & Value

Smart Seat Selection at Mark Taper Forum's Intimate Theatre-in-the-Round

The Mark Taper Forum's unique circular stage design (only 739 seats) means every seat has excellent sightlines, but strategic selection can dramatically enhance your "Hamlet" experience. Here's our expert breakdown of current ticket options:

Best Value Tickets (Price + View Balance)

• Section B, Row F ($52): Front-side section with perfect elevation (no neck strain). These seats place you just high enough to see the full stage picture while maintaining intimate proximity to the actors' facial expressions.
• Key Advantage: 45-degree angle to stage avoids the "profile view" issue of front-center seats. Only 12 rows from the stage at this theatre's steep rake.

Sweet Spot (Good Availability & Price)

• Section Floor, Row C ($131): Ultra-close to the action (you'll see sweat on brows) but requires looking slightly upward. Best for those who want visceral actor connection.
• Warning: First 3 rows may miss some floor-level staging in this production - check with box office.

Higher Tier Options (Not the best deals)

• Section Floor, Row K ($160): Center section but very far back (18th row). Only recommended for patrons who prefer taking in the full stage picture over intimacy.
• View Note: You'll need binoculars to see facial details clearly at this distance.

Premium or Last-Minute Considerations

• Section Floor, Row P ($162): Only consider if you need 6 seats together. These are literally the last row - you'll hear everything perfectly but will feel disconnected from the emotional intensity.

Expert Recommendations

• Top Pick: The Section B tickets at $52 offer 90% of the premium experience at 40% of the cost. The Taper's design means side sections often have better sightlines than center.
• Budget Alternative: Wait for possible day-of-show rush tickets ($20-40), but availability isn't guaranteed for this Shakespeare classic.
• VIP Experience: Consider upgrading to donor-level seats if you want pre-show lounge access and the very best center-section placement (typically Rows D-G).

View Comparison Chart

• Rows A-C: Actor-eye level (may see backstage areas)
• Rows D-H: Ideal elevation (see facial expressions + full staging)
• Rows I-M: Comfortable viewing but losing intimacy
• Rows N-P: Full-stage view but distant connection

Final Advice

For this production of "Hamlet," we recommend prioritizing seats between Rows D-H in any section. The Taper's acoustics are flawless throughout, so focus on sightline preferences. Side sections often provide more dynamic staging views than the traditional "center is best" approach.