The Criterion OKC: Your Ultimate Guide To Oklahoma City's Premier Live Venue

Introduction: Unveiling The Criterion OKC

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Oklahoma City's bustling Bricktown district, The Criterion OKC stands as the city's undisputed premier destination for unforgettable live moments. Since its grand opening in March 2016, this state-of-the-art venue has redefined the entertainment landscape of Oklahoma, consistently drawing in crowds with its impressive lineup of national touring acts and diverse events. Whether you're a devoted music aficionado or simply seeking an exciting night out, The Criterion offers an unparalleled experience, blending cutting-edge facilities with an atmosphere that truly brings performances to life.

Operated by Levelland Productions, The Criterion has quickly cemented its reputation as a cornerstone of Oklahoma City's cultural scene. From electrifying concerts spanning every genre imaginable to engaging community events, it serves as a dynamic hub where memories are made. This comprehensive guide will delve into everything you need to know about The Criterion OKC, from its prime location and versatile seating options to how you can secure your tickets for the next must-see show, ensuring you're fully prepared to experience the magic.

A Bricktown Gem: Location and Ambiance

The strategic placement of The Criterion OKC within the heart of Bricktown is undoubtedly one of its greatest assets. Located at 500 E Sheridan Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, right on the corner of Sheridan Ave, the venue is effortlessly accessible and surrounded by the district's energetic pulse. Bricktown itself is a testament to urban revitalization, transforming from a historic warehouse district into a thriving entertainment and dining hub. This vibrant backdrop ensures that a visit to The Criterion is more than just attending a show; it's an immersive experience within one of Oklahoma City's most dynamic and celebrated neighborhoods.

The moment you step into Bricktown, you're greeted by a lively atmosphere, with the canal winding through, offering boat rides, and an array of restaurants and bars buzzing with activity. The proximity of The Criterion to these amenities means you can easily plan a full evening, from a pre-show dinner to post-concert drinks, all within a short walk. This integration into a larger entertainment ecosystem significantly enhances the overall appeal of The Criterion, making it a convenient and exciting destination for both locals and out-of-town visitors. The venue's exterior, while modern, blends seamlessly with the district's industrial-chic aesthetic, hinting at the sophisticated experience that awaits inside.

State-of-the-Art Entertainment: The Venue Experience

When it comes to technology and infrastructure, The Criterion OKC lives up to its "state-of-the-art" designation, setting a high bar for live entertainment venues in the region. Every element, from the meticulously engineered sound systems to the dynamic lighting rigs, is designed to deliver a superior audio-visual experience. The acoustics within the main hall are carefully tuned to ensure clarity and impact, making every note and lyric resonate perfectly, whether you're front row or at the back. This commitment to technical excellence ensures that whether you're watching a high-energy rock concert, a nuanced acoustic set, or a captivating theatrical performance, the production values are consistently high, enhancing the artistic delivery and immersing the audience fully.

One of the most defining and innovative features of The Criterion is its remarkable seating flexibility. Unlike many traditional venues that are fixed in their layout, The Criterion boasts removable seating. This ingenious design allows the venue to transform its configuration to suit the specific needs and desired atmosphere of each event. For some shows, particularly those featuring high-energy bands or electronic artists, this means providing a true general admission (GA) setup. In this configuration, the floor is open, creating an energetic, standing-room-only environment where fans can get up close and personal with their favorite artists, fostering a sense of collective excitement and freedom of movement.

Conversely, for events that benefit from a more structured and comfortable viewing experience, The Criterion can be configured for fully reserved seating shows. This versatility is a significant advantage, allowing the venue to host a wider array of performances, from intimate acoustic sets and comedy shows to large-scale concerts requiring precise audience management. With a capacity that can accommodate up to 4,000 people in a general admission setup and 3,500 in a seated configuration, The Criterion offers a scalable and adaptable space. This adaptability makes The Criterion OKC an incredibly versatile space, capable of hosting a wide array of events with tailored experiences, truly catering to both performers and patrons.

A Calendar of Diversity: Concerts and Events at The Criterion OKC

The programming at The Criterion OKC is nothing short of eclectic, reflecting its commitment to catering to a broad audience across Oklahoma City and beyond. It hosts concerts for a wide range of genres and artists, ensuring there's always something for everyone, regardless of their musical taste. From chart-topping pop stars and legendary rock bands to soulful country crooners, cutting-edge electronic dance music acts, and even stand-up comedy specials, the venue's calendar is consistently packed with high-profile events that attract diverse crowds.

A quick glance at past and upcoming events reveals the impressive scope and caliber of talent that graces The Criterion's stage. The venue has previously welcomed iconic acts that evoke nostalgia, such as Howard Jones, ABC, and Haircut One Hundred, bringing a touch of classic entertainment to the Bricktown district. This blend of heritage acts with contemporary stars ensures a broad appeal. Looking ahead to 2025, fans can anticipate a thrilling lineup that promises unforgettable nights, including:

  • Jason Bonham's Led Zeppelin Evening (Oct 13, 2025 • Mon 7:00 PM) – A powerful tribute to rock legends.
  • Home Free and The Longest Johns (Oct 10, 2025 • Fri 8:00 PM) – Showcasing unique vocal harmonies and folk sounds.
  • Chevelle w/ Asking Alexandria and Dead Poet Society (Sep 14, 2025 • Sun) – A heavy-hitting lineup for rock and metal enthusiasts.
  • Djo w/ Post Animal (Oct 13, 2025 • Mon) – Featuring indie and alternative sounds.
  • Dayseeker, Kim Dracula & more, Hell of a Summer Tour (Aug 12, 2025 • Tue) – A dynamic showcase of modern rock and alternative bands.

This diverse roster, which also includes internationally renowned artists such as Los Tucanes de Tijuana, country sensation Charley Crockett, and global pop phenomenon The Kid Laroi, underscores The Criterion's status as a major player in the national touring circuit. The venue's consistent ability to attract such varied and high-profile talent speaks volumes about its reputation, its state-of-the-art facilities, and the quality of the experience it offers both artists and their enthusiastic audiences. It truly is a cultural cornerstone, continually bringing world-class entertainment to the heart of Oklahoma City.

Securing Your Spot: How to Buy Tickets for The Criterion OKC

Getting your hands on tickets for an event at The Criterion OKC is a straightforward process, designed to be as convenient as possible, with multiple reputable avenues available to ensure you don't miss out on your favorite acts. The key is to know where to look, how to navigate the purchasing platforms, and how to leverage the available resources to your advantage.

Ticketmaster, Bandsintown, and Beyond

The primary platforms for purchasing tickets to events at The Criterion are well-known and trusted names in the live entertainment industry. You can reliably buy The Criterion tickets at Ticketmaster.com, which often serves as the official ticketing partner for many of the venue's shows. On Ticketmaster, you can find comprehensive venue concert and event schedules, detailed venue information, precise directions, and crucial seating charts that help you visualize the layout and choose the best spot for your preferences. This platform is typically the first stop for anyone looking to secure their entry.

Another excellent and highly recommended resource for discovering and purchasing tickets is Bandsintown. Here, you can find tickets for upcoming concerts at The Criterion, get additional venue details, review event schedules, and even read valuable fan reviews which can offer insights into the live experience. Bandsintown also provides a convenient way to track your favorite artists and receive alerts when they're playing near you, including at The Criterion.

For those who want to stay ahead of the curve and ensure they don't miss out on high-demand shows, signing up for ticket alerts specifically for The Criterion venue is highly recommended. Many ticketing platforms offer this service, notifying you as soon as tickets go on sale or new events are announced, giving you a competitive edge, especially for popular performances. Remember, the adage "Buy tickets today and save" often holds true, as ticket prices can fluctuate based on demand and proximity to the event date, making early purchase a smart strategy.

VIP Experiences and Special Offers

For those looking to elevate their concert experience beyond standard admission, The Criterion OKC occasionally offers exclusive VIP packages. These packages can significantly enhance your visit, providing a range of perks that go beyond simply gaining entry. While specific offerings may vary by event and artist, past VIP packages have included highly sought-after benefits such as:

  • **Fast Pass Entry or Escorted Entry:** Bypass the general admission lines and gain quicker, more convenient access to the venue, allowing you to secure your preferred spot or simply enjoy a smoother entry process.
  • **Table Service:** Enjoy the convenience of dedicated table service for food and beverages, meaning less time spent in lines and more time enjoying the show from a comfortable, reserved area.
  • **Exclusive Bathrooms:** Access to private, less crowded restroom facilities, adding a touch of comfort and exclusivity to your evening.
  • **Premium Drink Tickets:** Often, a set number of premium drink tickets (e.g., four) are included, adding significant value to your experience and allowing you to enjoy a selection of beverages without additional immediate cost.
  • **Meet & Greet Opportunities:** For select artists, VIP packages may include the ultimate fan experience – a chance to meet the performers, take a photo, or get an autograph. This was notably offered with the Asking Alexandria meet & greet VIP package, providing an unforgettable personal connection.

Additionally, special offers like Citi® Cardmember Preferred Tickets are sometimes available, providing exclusive access or benefits to Citi credit cardmembers and Citi debit Mastercard holders. These can include early access to tickets or special seating options. It's always worth checking the official ticketing sites like Ticketmaster for these types of promotions and VIP package details when planning your visit to The Criterion, as they can transform a great night into an extraordinary one.

Planning Your Visit: Directions, Seating, and More

A seamless and enjoyable concert or event experience at The Criterion OKC begins with good planning. Knowing how to get there, where to park, and understanding the

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