PLAN YOUR VISIT

How can I get more information?
For information on tickets, performances, programs, parking, restaurants, or anything else having to do with your BDDS experience, call our World Wide Headquarters at (608) 255-9866, or browse our website to learn more and sign up for our e-mail newsletter.

What should I wear to a BDDS performance?
We’re happy to say that we have no dress code. Most people opt for business casual, but jeans are fine, too. We want you to be comfortable, and whether you wear a great print on your shirt or body part, everyone is welcome at our concerts.

How long do most concerts last?
Our concerts last about two hours, including door-prize drawing!

What’s up with your name? Do I have to dance?
We encourage your brain to dance while listening to our concerts; you may even feel like moving to the beat in your seat. What we do best is perform chamber music.

Are there reserved seats at any of the venues?
All seating for ticket-holders is general seating and is on a first-come basis at all venues EXCEPT for Overture Center, which are reserved. Also, prime seating can be purchased for an additional $6 per ticket.

When should I applaud?
We love your enthusiastic applause! During our concerts, it is customary to hold your applause until all movements are complete. We list the number of movements for each work in our program.

Can I bring my children to concerts?
Introducing children to the spectacular world of chamber music is a gift that will last a lifetime. Children six years of age and older are welcome to enjoy the music.

What if I have special seating needs?
BDDS is dedicated to making sure each patron enjoys its concert. Wheelchair and other special-needs seating is available at the Overture Center in Madison and in Stoughton, with limited availability in Spring Green. The Playhouse at Overture has assistive listening headsets. (Visit www.overturecenter.com). Please call (608) 255-9866 for information or to inform us of your needs. You may also contact an usher at one of our performances.

What if I arrive late?
As concerts begin promptly at the scheduled time, latecomers will be seated at a natural break in the music. If you must leave the hall during the performance, please do so quietly. Re-entry while the concert is in progress is at the discretion of our ushers.

Are there any other concert hall policies?
Use of cameras or recording devices is strictly prohibited inside the concert hall. Smoking, drinking (other than bottled water), and eating are also not permitted. We also ask that you turn off cell phones, beepers, alarm watches, and anything else that might go “beep” during the concert.

Can I exchange tickets for another performance?
Tickets are non-refundable but exchanges are permitted with 48 hours notice. Please contact the BDDS at (608) 255-9866.

Will I have to pay fees when I purchase my tickets?
The Overture Center requires a nominal per-ticket facility fee ($3). The fee goes to Overture and does NOT profit BDDS. Overture also has a service charge for web and telephone orders.

How can full time students enjoy BDDS?
Full time students with a valid student ID can purchase a BDDS student ticket for only $5.00 for any available seat in the house (with the exception of prime seating at Overture)! Please show a valid student ID at the ticket window.

What if I can't make it to the concert?
If you can't attend concert for which you’ve purchased tickets, consider donating them back to the BDDS for resale. Call BDDS at (608)255-9866 until noon on the day of the concert. We will mail you a receipt acknowledging your tax-deductible donation.

I want to bring a group to a concert - do we receive ticket discounts?
Absolutely! Enjoy music with friends for 25% off the regular ticket price (for groups of 10 or more). Please call BDDS at (608) 255-9866 for more information.

Do I need to “prepare” for BDDS concerts in order to appreciate the music?
While you can always enjoy the music as it is performed, you can enhance your concert experience with a better understanding of the background stories behind the music. In addition to musicians speaking about the music from the stage, you will find notes in our concert program about what you will hear. Occasionally, we will hold pre-concert chats prior to performances (please call (608) 255-9866 to confirm). Another great way to learn about some music is to do a little Internet surfing.

Where do I park?

• Overture Center, Madison: www.overturecenter.com/directions.htm
• Stoughton Opera House: On-street parking can be found on Main Street and adjoining streets.
• Hillside Theater, Taliesin, Spring Green: There is a designated parking lot near the Theater.

What are the performance halls like?
Each performance hall is special in its own way.

• The Playhouse at the Overture Center is a brand-new, state-of-the-art theater of about 340 seats with a thrust stage.
• The historic Stoughton Opera House is inside of the City Hall and has been beautifully restored.
• The Hillside Theater at Taliesin is the original theater that Frank Lloyd Wright designed and built. With only 100 seats, it is a perfect setting for chamber music.

All theaters are indoors. Each hall is air-conditioned, but the Hillside Theater has a less consistent temperature. See the maps page for thumbnail images of each one.

Where can we eat in Spring Green?

BDDS thanks Driftless Depot for feeding us between concerts. When in Spring Green, you might also consider visiting Arcadia Bookstore, the General Store, Riverview Terrace Cafe, or the Shed. Please call ahead for hours of operation.