Answers to everything you want to know about The Acorn
If we missed anything, contact us.
THE BASICS:
Where is The Acorn?
The Acorn theater is located at 107 Generations Drive, Three Oaks, Michigan. We are approximately 70 miles from downtown Chicago, 30 miles from South Bend and 20 miles from St. Joseph. Here are directions.
The theater is in the restored featherbone factory which also houses Journeyman Distillery and Staymaker restaurant.
For restaurants, accommodations and experiences in the local area, check our Tourist Information.
What is the local time zone?
The Acorn is in the Eastern Time Zone. However, we are only 15 miles from the border for Central Time. Because we are so close to the time zone border, phones and auto clocks may show Central Time. It can be disappointing to arrive an hour late to a show because of the time difference.
Where can we park?
Free public parking is available on the streets and in lots throughout Three Oaks. Overnight parking is not available. Please reference this map for details.
How many seats does The Acorn have?
Our maximum seating is 300 which includes 100 fixed auditorium seats. To view our seating arrangements, see our venue diagram.
TICKET & SHOW INFO:
How do we purchase tickets?
The fastest way to purchase tickets is online. You may also purchase tickets by calling our Box Office (typically open at 4pm ET on show days) - 269.756.3879.
Can I purchase tickets in person?
To purchase tickets in person, please check the specific event listing for box office hours. The Box Office number is 269.756.3879
I've purchased tickets. Now, what do I do with them? What do I need to bring with me to the show to check in?
Please add your tickets to your mobile device, or be prepared to show our staff your confirmation email. You can also print a hard copy of your tickets at home and bring that to the show to be scanned for check in. Your confirmation email contained a link to "view your tickets" which has an option to print, along with links to add your tickets to your Google or Apple Wallet.
What is General Admission seating?
The Acorn offers the majority of tickets for our shows as General Admission which means most seats are first come, first served. Check your individual event page for more details about seating at your event.
Can I reserve a seat? What's the difference between Reserved Floor and Reserved Stadium? Am I guaranteed an aisle seat?
Yes. The Acorn has a reserved seat donation program. When you view a specific show, you will see the donation option for a reserved seat in our Floor or Stadium section. Our Box Office will select seats for you/your party with optimal sight lines. A reserved seat does not necessarily guarantee an aisle seat.
To be considered a tax-deductible donation recognized by the IRS, we cannot guarantee a specific seat, however, patrons have the option to let us know whether they prefer floor or stadium seating. Reserved Floor is the section of banquet chairs set up right in front of the stage which sometimes includes small bistro table seating, but not always. Reserved Stadium is the section of cushioned theater seats on an incline.
To learn more about our reserved seat donation program, or to ask about a specific seating request, email boxoffice@acornlive.org.
Reserved Seat donors are eligible to receive a year-end report for tax purposes by request. Please email acornops@acornlive.org to request your year-end donation details.
Can we get on a waitlist for a SOLD OUT show?
In the event of a sold-out show, please check our ticketing page for a link to fill out an online form and be entered on the waiting list. Any tickets that become available for the show will be released first to patrons on the waiting list generally at noon ET the day before the show via a private ticket link sent by email. Quantities are not guaranteed and tickets are first come, first served and sales are online only. Any remaining tickets will be released to the public generally the following morning.
Please be advised NOT to attempt to purchase tickets via social media or other ticket reselling platforms. If someone online tells you they have tickets to one of our sold out shows, check with us first to avoid scams.
What are ticket service fees?
The Acorn charges a small fee to cover the cost of using a credit card. When tickets are purchased in-person at the box office using cash or check, there are no ticket service fees.
Am I able to transfer my tickets to someone else?
If you are giving your tickets to someone else, please share your mobile ticket with them and make sure they know the ticket holder’s first and last name for check-in. It's helpful to update our Box Office.
Can I hold tickets?
The Acorn does not hold tickets.
Can I get a refund?
No. All tickets are non-refundable.
Can I exchange my tickets for another show?
The Acorn does not allow for ticket exchanges.
I have extra tickets. What do I do?
The Acorn does not get involved in the resale of tickets.
I lost my hard-copy tickets. What do I do?
Provide your first and last name at check in and we’ll look up your record.
An artist announced a show, but I don't see it on your website. How do I buy tickets?
In rare instances, a performer will announce a show before it's listed on The Acorn’s website. Please join our email list and follow us on Facebook or Instagram. These are the first places we announce new shows and provide on-sale dates.
When do doors open for a show?
The Acorn typically opens one hour before showtime. Please check the specific event listing. The door-open time and showtime are also on your ticket receipt.
Is there a waiting area inside The Acorn if we arrive before doors open?
The Acorn does not have a waiting area inside the building. If you arrive early, you can either queue in the line or relax at one of our local bars or restaurants.
Is there an opening act?
Check the specific event listing to find out if there is an opening act.
How long is a typical show?
Most shows are about two hours.
ACORN INSIDERS INFORMATION / ACORN INSIDERS FAQ:
How do I get involved?
Signing up is easy! Enroll through the form at our website where you’ll also choose the frequency and amount of your tax-deductible donation.
What are the perks?
Benefits of your Acorn Insiders membership will vary depending on the level of your donation. Everyone who signs up receives access to pre-sales for high-demand Acorn shows. Other perks include drink tickets, exclusive Insiders merch, invitations to member events, special donor recognition, complimentary reserved seat upgrades, and even an exclusive backstage tour.
How does this benefit The Acorn?
The Acorn, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, relies on charitable contributions from individuals and businesses to bring our mission to life. In short, your tax deductible donations directly support our ability to serve the community. When your gift is recurring, the impact is even greater for our organization, which makes the Acorn Insider donor membership program so crucial.
Am I guaranteed a good seat with my donation?
Certain membership levels include a limited number of complimentary reserved seat upgrades. Our reserved seat donation program is another important way for you to support The Acorn, and is separate from Acorn Insiders. When you choose a Reserved Seat ticket for a show, you are guaranteed seats with optimal sight lines. Reserved Seat donors are eligible to receive a year-end report of these tax-deductible gifts for tax purposes by request.
To learn more about our reserved seat donation program, or to ask about a specific seating request, email boxoffice@acornlive.org. Please email acornops@acornlive.org to request your year-end donation details.
When do passcodes get sent after a presale is announced?
You can expect to receive an email either the morning of a presale, or the evening before, which will contain instructions for how to access the exclusive presale for that particular event, along with a private passcode.
I've just signed up for Insiders, when do I get my code?
If you sign up for Acorn Insiders once a presale has begun, someone from our Team will reach out to you directly to make sure you have the information you need to participate in the presale. If you have any questions in the meantime, you can email our Box Office who will be able to assist you.
OTHER INFORMATION:
Is The Acorn ADA accessible?
The Acorn is fully ADA accessible. If you have special needs, please e-mail us at boxoffice@acornlive.org or call the box office at 269-756-3879. To better accommodate you, please contact us at least 48 hours in advance.
Are pets allowed at The Acorn?
Though pets are prohibited at The Acorn, we welcome service animals as defined by Michigan law. Comfort animals and emotional support animals will not be allowed to enter the theater.
Do you have any age restrictions?
No, unless noted in the specific event description.
Can I buy a gift certificate?
Yes. Acorn gift cards make wonderful gifts when you want to give the gift of an experience but can’t decide on a particular event. To purchase a gift card, click HERE. Acorn gift cards expire 5 years from date of purchase.
Gift cards are redeemable for tickets only. To redeem gift cards, select ‘Use Gift Card’ at checkout and enter your gift card number. If you have questions about your gift card please email our Box Office.
Is photography allowed at The Acorn?
Photography is allowed during most performances at The Acorn, but flash is not permitted. We request that our patrons respect the experience of others and refrain from blocking anyone’s view or recording for extended periods of time.
Do you have a bar?
The Acorn has a full bar with an exciting array of cocktails, an extensive beer list plus traditional bar snacks.
Where can we get a drink or meal before or after a show? Where can we stay and what can we do when we are in the Three Oaks area?
A truly one-of-a-kind accommodations experience awaits you right above The Acorn theater at The Loft! Rent our spacious, industrial-chic apartment above The Acorn theater and enjoy sound from the performance below! Click here for information and booking.
For restaurants, information on other accommodations and experiences in the local area, check our Tourist Information.
How can I find out more information about performing or producing at The Acorn?
For information on booking shows, please go to our PRODUCERS page. To reach our Talent Buyer to inquire about performing at The Acorn, email booking@acornlive.org.
I’d like to perform at an Open Mic. What should I do?
Please contact openmic@acornlive.org. Acorn Open Mics are curated which means that all Open Mic performers submit an audio or video recording before being scheduled for an Open Mic.
Is The Acorn available for a corporate event?
Please email nikki@acornlive.org for more information.
Is The Acorn available for weddings?
At this time, The Acorn is not available for weddings.
Is The Acorn available for other private events?
We can sometime accommodate private rentals for events/parties. Please email nikki@acornlive.org for more information.
What is the current COVID-19 Policy?
Policy updates are kept up to date at our ACPA COVID-19 Policy Page.
Is public transportation available?
No. There is no cab service. Uber and Lyft are currently not available.