Michael Turner
Recommendation: Carry a transparent zip-top tote (commonly about 12″ x 6″ x 12″) or a compact clutch that fits beneath a seat; oversized carriers such as daypacks, knapsacks and duffel bags are typically refused at the checkpoint. All bags are subject to visual inspection and handheld screening.
Security notes: Expect metal-detector screening and bag checks on performance nights. Acceptable items normally include a phone, wallet, keys, basic medication, and small diaper supplies; professional camera gear with removable lenses, tripods, outside food or beverages, and sharp objects are generally prohibited. Present items in a single small pouch to speed entry.
Practical tips: Arrive 30–45 minutes before showtime for large events, stow bulky items at a hotel or nearby luggage storage service, and contact the box office ahead of arrival for questions about accessibility or medical needs. Keep tickets and ID accessible and use a clear bag to minimize delays at the gate.
Bag Policy for the Midtown Performance Venue
Leave large rucksacks at home; only small clutches, clear totes (maximum 12×6×12 inches) or compact crossbody satchels are admitted at the venue.
Permitted items and size guidance
Allowed items: clear plastic, vinyl or PVC bags no larger than 12×6×12 in; small clutch bags without handles (approximately 4.5×6.5 in); one small personal item such as a slim purse or phone pouch; medically necessary supplies and devices with supporting documentation. Daypacks or larger shoulder bags will be refused at entry. Cameras with detachable lenses, tripods, selfie sticks and professional recording equipment are not permitted for most performances.
Security screening and storage options
All patrons and possessions are subject to security screening. Expect handheld wands and bag checks; arrival at least 45–60 minutes before curtain reduces wait time. If coat check is offered for a specific event, checked items are accepted at the patron’s risk and fees may apply; availability varies by performance and may close once lines form. For medical exemptions, present physician note or medical ID at the security checkpoint.
| Allowed | Prohibited |
|---|---|
| Clear bag ≤ 12×6×12 in | Large packs, rucksacks, duffels |
| Small clutch or slim purse | Suitcases, coolers |
| Medications & medical devices (with ID) | Weapons, sharp objects |
| Compact point-and-shoot cameras (non-professional) | Professional cameras, detachable lenses, tripods |
| Sealed infant formula, baby food, diapers | Outside alcoholic beverages, large food containers |
Venue bag rules: approved pack sizes and allowed materials
Use a soft-sided daypack no larger than 14 x 14 x 6 inches; clear plastic totes up to 12 x 6 x 12 inches speed security screening and are routinely accepted.
Approved dimensions and categories
- Clear bags: maximum 12″ x 6″ x 12″ (transparent PVC or vinyl, single compartment preferred).
- Soft packs/daypacks: up to 14″ x 14″ x 6″ (canvas, nylon, unframed fabric packs).
- Small purses/clutches: roughly 4.5″ x 6.5″ or smaller; wristlets allowed.
- Large luggage: suitcases, rolling bags and duffels exceeding listed dimensions are not permitted.
Allowed materials, construction and common prohibitions
- Permitted: clear PVC/vinyl, mesh panels, plain canvas or nylon with no rigid internal frames.
- Not permitted: hard-shell cases, framed packs, luggage with wheels, metal-reinforced openings, rigid handles.
- Hardware and decorations: heavy metal studs, spikes, chains or rigid attachments typically trigger denial.
- Hidden compartments: bags with concealed pockets or removable liners subject to additional inspection and may be refused.
- Straps: detachable straps are acceptable when the item fits size limits; excessively long or looped straps may require removal for entry.
Packing and screening tips:
- Place electronics and liquids in outer pockets for quick X-ray access.
- Keep medications in clearly labeled containers and bring supporting documentation if practical.
- Arrive early when carrying a larger permitted pack to allow extra screening time.
- For maintenance of fabric linings and mesh pockets after events, follow cleaning guidance such as how to clean a foot scrubber.
Enforcement: items that exceed size limits or include prohibited materials will be refused entry or must be checked with coat/baggage services; staff reserve the right to open and inspect any article.
How security screens bags and which items trigger confiscation
Guests should carry only clear, venue-approved bags and place all electronics, loose metal, and liquids on top for X-ray inspection to speed screening and reduce the chance of seizure.
Screening process
All bags pass through an X-ray conveyor; personal items are expected in open trays. Metal detectors and handheld wands screen for concealed metallic objects; manual searches occur when alarms sound or when an item appears suspicious on X-ray imagery. Sniffing dogs are used occasionally for explosives or narcotics detection. If an alarm activates, security will remove the item, ask for identification or documentation when relevant, and either return the item to the patron after secondary screening or retain it.
Items that typically trigger confiscation
Weapons and sharp implements: firearms (real or replica), knives of any type and length, box cutters, multitools with blades, razors, throwing stars, and ballistic items.
Self-defense and tactical gear: pepper spray, mace, stun devices, tasers, brass knuckles.
Explosives and combustibles: fireworks, flares, lighter fluid, gasoline, aerosol cans with flammable propellants, and chemical irritants.
Professional recording and bulky gear: cameras with detachable lenses, external audio recorders, tripods, monopods, professional lighting, and camcorder rigs without prior press accreditation.
Large containers and prohibited items for safety/obstruction: coolers, large beverage containers, glass bottles, camping chairs, umbrellas with metal tips, poles/sticks attached to signs, and oversized banners that block sightlines.
Recreational and electronic items: drones, hoverboards, skateboard decks, golf/softball bats, and often e-cigarettes or spare lithium battery packs, which may be confiscated or handled case-by-case.
Exceptions and permitted-but-screened items: prescription medication, medical devices, baby formula and sealed baby food, and necessary mobility aids are allowed after declaration and inspection; keep prescriptions and original containers accessible for verification.
To avoid loss, leave prohibited goods at lodging or in a vehicle, use the coat check when available for allowable items, and pack compactly with visible documentation for medical supplies. Valuables that would be confiscated are best stored offsite rather than surrendered at the checkpoint.
Where to check, store, or return an oversized bag before admission
If external dimensions exceed the venue’s allowed size, leave the item at the on-site coat check or a pre-booked short-term storage point; measure external length × width × depth, allow an extra 30–45 minutes before scheduled arrival, and keep the storage receipt visible on a phone screenshot.
Off-site short-term storage options
Use vetted luggage‑storage marketplaces (examples: Bounce, Vertoe, LuggageHero) that list nearby shops and lockers by walk time; typical rates range $5–15 per day per item, with most listings including basic insurance coverage of roughly $1,000–3,000. Pre-book online to reserve a spot, show the booking confirmation and photo ID at drop-off, remove high‑value items or transfer them into a compact hard case–see best luggage hardcases–and confirm operating hours (many locations close 30–60 minutes after evening events). Typical walking distance from a Midtown theater is 0.1–0.5 miles; choose a location with flexible pickup hours if the outing runs late.
On-site holding, hotel, and return procedures
On-site coat check: present a government ID and accept a ticket stub; fees usually start around $5 and may rise for larger items. Hotel concierge: registered guests may request short-term storage or day hold for a small fee; call ahead to confirm size limits and identification requirements. If security retains an oversized item at screening, approach the Guest Services/Lost & Found desk immediately with photo ID and any provider receipts; expect the venue to hold the item for the duration of the performance and for a limited post‑event retrieval window (ask staff for exact hold period and lost‑item claim process). For family needs, consider a compact double stroller as an alternative to carrying a large item – see best lightweight twin umbrella stroller.
Variations by event type: concerts, tours, private shows, and VIP rules
Recommendation: arrive 60–90 minutes before doors for major concerts; peak nights deploy multiple screening lanes and merchandise queues, and general-admission floor access often enforces compact-item policies and no on-floor storage. Allocate an extra 30–45 minutes for merch pickup, concessions, and security lines; late-entry restrictions frequently apply once the performance begins.
Recommendation: for guided venue tours, plan arrival 15–30 minutes early for check-in and expedited screening. Tours typically permit small handheld items; tripods, rolling gear, and large cases are disallowed unless pre-cleared. Mobility aids accepted with advance notice and photo ID; commercial photography equipment requires prior production approval.
Recommendation: private events and corporate rentals operate under bespoke security protocols: strict guest-list verification, credentialed-only entry, and dedicated cloakroom services that may accept larger items than public events. Hosts commonly contract third-party security and publish a tailored prohibited list–follow event-specific communications and coordinate deliveries directly with the organizer or production office.
Recommendation: VIP ticket holders and credentialed guests should use designated entrances and aim to arrive 20–45 minutes ahead of general admission as specified on credentials. VIP lounges generally allow small personal pouches; press, crew, and artists with camera kits must submit credential requests and an equipment manifest in advance. Backstage or meet-and-greet access requires visible credentials and separate inspection; any items intended for talent exchange must be processed through production advance for clearance.
