FAQ & Newcomers Guide

Welcome! We hope that if you’re reading this page that you will be enjoying one of our concerts soon!

At the Danville Symphony Orchestra you will encounter a variety of great music from classical pieces to family-friendly concerts that feature talented guest artists, local performers, and of course the skilled musicians of the Danville Symphony Orchestra.

We are passionate about growing our audience and are dedicated to ensuring those “new” and “seasoned” concert attendees have a great experience before they even sit in their concert seats! We want you to keep coming back, concert after concert and season after season, so we have compiled a list of questions commonly asked by those visiting the DSO. Have additional questions? Give us a message on Facebook, e-mail, or call our office!

Where do we perform?

The DSO is based in Danville, Illinois, an east-central Illinois town with a remarkable history in the performing arts. The hometown of such international legends as actors Dick Van Dyke, Jerry Van Dyke, Donald O’Connor, Gene Hackman, jazz performer Bobby Short, among others, continues to honor their legacy alongside sister arts organizations. The Danville Symphony Orchestra 2025-2026 season takes place at the Dick Van Dyke Auditorium at Danville High School, 202 E Fairchild St.

What should I wear?

Many of our patrons enjoy dressing up for concerts, while there are some that like to keep it casual. We want you to be comfortable at our performance, so your attire is your choice.

Which seats are good?

All of our patrons have their own preferences. Each seat in the auditorium offers its own benefits - center (not too close to the stage and musicians but not too far away), the front of the balcony (for a great view of the orchestra), and aisle seats (easy access).

How much are tickets?

Regular ticket prices are $35 for standard seats and $45 for premium seats. Tickets for students (including college) may be purchased for $10. If you are looking to save, purchase a season subscription! Subscribers receive lower ticket prices for each concert, hold the same seat for the entire season, and have priority seating options before tickets go on sale to the public.

When should I arrive?

Auditorium doors opens half an hour before concert time, so you may arrive any time between then and the start of the concert. We encourage patrons to arrive early so you can find your seat, silence or turn off your cell phone, take a look at your surroundings, and have time to look through the program book.

If you are late, there are guidelines:

Open the door and enter when you hear applause - as no one is performing at that time. When you do come in, quickly pick a seat in the back.

Need to leave the auditorium? The best times are during intermission and at the end. If you must leave, except in the case for emergencies, wait for the right time, either during applause or in between pieces.

What happens at a concert?

At the start of the concert, the concertmaster (the first chair violinist) will walk on stage. The audience claps as a welcome sign of appreciation to all musicians on the stage. Once the orchestra tunes to the oboe, the Maestro will take the stage as the audience applauds. Then it all settles down and the music begins. There will be an intermission in the middle of the concert. In between, though, just relax and enjoy the music!

Can I bring my phone?

We ask that you please keep your phones silent or off during a symphony performance. However, we encourage you to take photos when the orchestra is not playing, but don’t forget to tag us, we love to see your faces! You can find us on Facebook at “Danville Symphony Orchestra” or on Instagram @dsodanville.

Can I take photos?

You are more than welcome to take photos of yourself, friends, and family when the orchestra is not performing. However, as soon as the house lights go down, we ask that you please refrain from camera use.

Can I bring my children?

It’s up to you. Generally, most standard-length classical concerts are not recommended for small children as these concerts require an attention span more suitable for older ages. If you chose to bring your child, we ask that you please be considerate of others enjoying the concert and exit the auditorium if your child is unable to remain silent.

Food or drink?

Food, candy, and drinks (except for water) are not allowed in the Dick Van Dyke Auditorium. However, water is accepted, and we do sell bottled water during intermission for $1 (cash only).

What if I have special seating needs?

Wheelchair-accessible seats* and companion seats are available on the main floor at our concert venues. For more information about these tickets, please call the DSO Office at (217) 443-5300, hours 1-5 weekdays.

Patrons who use walkers, canes, or crutches may want to consider purchasing seats near or on an aisle for better accessibility.

*These seating areas are specifically designed for parking a personal wheelchair.