Your Quick & Easy Guide To The Oakdale Theatre in Wallingford, CT

Oakdale Theatre History

Long one of the most unique live performance venues not just in Connecticut but the whole Northeast, the Oakdale Theatre spent its first life as a summer stock venue in the 1950s. A transformation in the ‘90s preserved the intimacy of the original theater-in-the-round design while expanding the Oakdale into two extraordinary spaces: a 4,600-seat auditorium with a proscenium stage and a 1,649-capacity secondary venue called The Dome. Now proudly sponsored by Toyota, it was previously known as the SNET Oakdale Theatre, ctnow.com Oakdale Theatre, careerbuilder.com Oakdale Theatre and the Chevrolet Theatre.

Oakdale Theatre Performers

Danny Kaye and Ethel Merman were among the first luminaries to visit the Oakdale during its original era as a stop for Broadway shows in the 1950s. As a music venue in the ‘60s, its spinning stage was occupied by such greats as Harry Belafonte, Led Zeppelin, Tom Jones and The Who. Country music has always been a major part of the Oakdale’s lineup, so it was only fitting for Brooks & Dunn to break in the newly built auditorium in 1996. (The Kinks’ Ray Davies became the inaugural performer in The Dome a while later.) More recent visitors have ranged from legends like Steely Dan and Chicago to younger superstars such as Drake, Lady A and Demi Lovato, along with productions of Sesame Street Live and other family favorites.

Planning Your Visit to Oakdale Theatre

Visitors to the Oakdale have an array of choices for eating and drinking not far from the facility. Across the street, Serafino’s is a well-loved destination for great Italian food. Arles & Boggs Vegan Eatery is a family-owned place much appreciated for its plant-based comfort eats and local brews on tap. Favorites in downtown Wallingford include Jake’s bar and Trackside Brick Oven, which serves up tasty pies in a genuine 1920s Philadelphia subway car.

Oakdale Theatre Frequently Asked Questions

What are the parking options at the Oakdale Theatre?

On-site parking is included in the ticket price. VIP spots are located in the lot closest to the facility’s main entrance and available for an additional charge.

Does the Oakdale Theatre serve food?

Yes. The Oakdale offers a variety of traditional items at multiple concession stands.

What are the seating options at the Oakdale Theatre?

Most events in the Oakdale’s main auditorium are reserved seating, with Orchestra seating on the main level and Loge and Balcony seating on the second level. Some events may also offer a general admission pit near the front of the stage. Events in The Dome are general admission and standing room only. All facilities are fully ADA accessible.

What are the Oakdale Theatre safety & security guidelines?

Prohibited items include laser pointers, weapons and large bags. Please note updated policies regarding health and safety, and see here for general venue guidelines.

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