You’ve decided to attend a Candlelight concert at one of Orlando’s most gorgeous venues and your mind might be buzzing with questions of how to best prepare for it. After all, Candlelight is not your typical musical experience. So we’ve rounded up a list of things to know before going to a candlelit performance that covers everything, from how to get the best seats to planning your journey and the dress code.
1. Learn more about the venue
These intimate performances typically take place at historic and culturally significant venues in Orlando, such as The Abbey and The Azalea Lodge. If you want to make the experience a little more meaningful, look them up and pick up interesting facts before you arrive. By all means, you won’t be quizzed by the staff and musicians. But knowing a few anecdotes beforehand doesn’t hurt. It can only enhance the whole experience.
For instance, did you know that The Abbey on Eola has been a church, movie theater and speakeasy-style party venue? The Gothic style structure has lived many lives and hosted a huge range of cultural and social events. This fantastic spot will look like something out of a fairytale as it’s decorated with thousands of candles, illuminating the theater’s gorgeous features.
2. Plan your journey beforehand
Candlelight venues are usually centrally located but doors close on time and you might not be allowed in if you arrive late. Doors usually open 30-60 minutes prior to the start of the show so there’s really no excuse if you’re late. That’s why it is crucial to plan ahead and check the public transport options with time.
Remember that you only reserve the section and not the seats. So try to arrive early, find a good seat and enjoy the magical spectacle created by the candles.
3. Is there a dress code?
Most guests follow a smart casual dress code, but you can wear what you want within reason. Although Candlelight recreates popular songs and compositions in the classical form, there is definitely no obligation to dress up in your finest attire. You’ll be sitting for 60-65 minutes so you should be comfortable and relaxed.
4. What to expect at the venue?
Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by Candlelight’s helpful staff, who will scan your tickets and take you to your seats. As you approach the stage, prepare to be struck by the warm light of thousands of flickering LED candles. And they look like the real thing, minus the risk of fire. What’s more, depending on the venue, drinks might be available for purchase and the stage could be elevated.
5. Can you sing along?
In some cases at the end of the concert, the musicians invite audiences to clap or rarely, even sing along. But if unsure, just read the room. You don’t want to be the only person falsetto-ing and ruining the experience for everyone. So, just look around, if it seems appropriate and other people join in as well, then it might be okay to hum along.
All that’s left now is for you to enjoy the show. And if it’s as awesome as you imagined and know somebody else who might love it too, you can give them the gift of Candlelight, thanks to our handy Candlelight gift card.