Planning Your Visit
Everything you need to make your trip to The Human Race Theatre a roaring success
Getting Here
Directions
The Loft Theatre is conveniently located in the Metropolitan Arts Center at 126 North Main Street in downtown Dayton, between First Street and Second Street. We’re located next door to the Victoria Theatre. Just look for the big red sign! Once inside the lobby, take either the stairs or the elevator to the third floor.
Parking
There are so many convenient options.
The cast of 8-Track, 2011; photo by Scott J Kimmins
Valet Service
For the 2025-2026 Season, we are excited to now offer valet service directly in front of our building.
To make your valet experience as smooth as possible, follow these 3 easy steps:
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Before you leave for the theatre:
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enter your phone, car and credit card info
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When you arrive:
give the valet attendant your phone number
The attendant will give you all the details about payment ($12) and requesting your car.
We will continue to refine the process to make it easier and more convenient.
On-street Parking
On-street parking is free on weekends and after 6:00 p.m. on weekdays in permitted spaces.
Surface Lots and Garages
There are several paid-parking surface lots and garages available within walking distance of the Loft Theatre. Be aware that some garages may not be open on weekends or late evenings on weekdays.
This year, renewing subscribers received a discounted parking rate at the Arts Garage on the corner of 2nd and Ludlow.
Ride the Flyer to The Loft Theatre
Take the Free UD Flyer to Bus stop #2103–N.Main St. @ E 2nd St. to The Loft Theatre, home of The Human Race Theatre Company.
Dining & Hotels
Make a night of it downtown
The cast of The Revolutionists, 2021; photo by Scott J Kimmins
Dining Near The Human Race Theatre
There’s often more to a trip to the theatre than just seeing to the show. If you’re looking for a place to grab a bite beforehand, here are a few restaurants and hotels near the Loft Theatre and beyond to help plan your trip. We strongly recommend you contact restaurants in advance for reservations and hours of operation.
Downtown Area
Farther Afield
Hotels Near The Human Race Theatre
If you’re coming in from out of town, you might want a place to rest your head afterward.
Here are a few hotels near the Loft Theatre and beyond to help you plan your trip. We strongly recommend you contact hotels in advance for reservations and hours of operation.
At the Theatre
House guide and policies
The cast of Man of La Mancha, 2009; photo by Scott J Kimmins
House Guide & Policies
The Loft Theatre at the Metropolitan Arts Center is managed by Dayton Live, provider of box office, concessions, security janitorial and house management services for The Human Race Theatre Company.
Accessibility
Our theatre and public facilities are fully ADA accessible. Take the Elevator to the Third Floor, and use the ramp to access the theatre level. Ensure that the box office knows of your particular seat and equipment requirements before coming to the theatre.
Should you require ASL or audio descriptive services, please request these through the box office no later that 48 hours before your desired performance.
Latecomers
For the consideration of our patrons, we will not seat anyone in their regular seat while a performance is in progress. Latecomers and patrons leaving during a performance for any reason will be seated on a seat-available basis to the rear of the house at the house manager’s discretion.
Health & Safety Policies
The Human Race follows the science and guidelines as set forth by the CDC and local government agencies. The Human Race also follows the mandates of Actors’ Equity Association – the union for professional actors and stage managers in the United States.
Masks are welcome at the Loft Theatre, but not required. If you are feeling ill, remember that we can reschedule your tickets for another performance.
We encourage getting the vaccine and booster to keep yourself and others around you safe.
Children
Some productions at the Loft Theatre may be inappropriate for children. Parents are advised to use their own discretion, or attend our Parent’s Day Out performances.
Recording and photographs
All video or audio recording of any portion of our productions is strictly prohibited. The taking of photographs is also prohibited.
Theatre etiquette
Please turn off alarms, pagers, and phones. For everyone’s enjoyment of the performance, please refrain from talking, unwrapping candy, text messaging, or the excessive use of perfume. If you experience a disturbance, please notify an usher and the situation will be handled discreetly. Remember to turn off your phone again after intermission.
Beverages
While beverages purchased at our Loft Bar may be taken into the theatre, we remind you to be sensitive to our other patrons.
Smoking
The Metropolitan Arts Center is a smoke-free building. All onstage smoke, fog and haze effects are created with water-based, non-toxic materials.
Emergencies
Emergency Phone Messages can be received during the performance by leaving your name and seat location with the house manager. Leave our emergency phone number (937) 225-3503 ext. 1, with those who may need to reach you. Messages will be delivered to you as soon as possible.
All set? Grab your seats.
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