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By Amanda Lim (25S03B), Foo Le Xuan Shanice (25S03A) and Tay Yu Ning (25S07A)

Welcome to Seat Dreams Are Made of These, your ultimate guide to navigating the seating options at The Star Theatre. Whether you’re gearing up for a concert, a theatrical performance, or a special event, understanding the nuances of the venue’s seating arrangement can make or break your experience.

In this guide, we’ll rank the seats across all categories based on a carefully designed rubric that considers proximity, visibility, and price. While sound quality is not factored into the rankings—thanks to the venue’s state-of-the-art delay speakers ensuring consistent audio throughout the hall—we’ll dive into other critical aspects to help you make an informed decision.

Key Considerations

1. Fan Benefits: Our rankings focus solely on the seating experience itself, so if you’re eyeing perks like fan interactions, meet-and-greets, or exclusive merchandise, you’ll need to weigh those benefits on your own.
2. Visibility: The Star Theatre’s seats are arranged in an alternating window formation, minimizing the likelihood of being blocked by the person in front of you. Additionally, the seats are slightly elevated row by row, ensuring a clear view of the stage. However, the steepness of this elevation varies—less noticeable in the front stalls but becoming more pronounced towards the back and in the circles.
3. Seat Map and Photos: For simplicity, we’ll use a standard seat map as a reference throughout this guide. However, we’ve also included specific photos taken from various seats below to give you a realistic perspective. All pictures were captured at 1x zoom vertically on an iPhone for consistency and fairness.

So, whether you’re splurging on VIP seats or hunting for a budget-friendly option, this guide has got you covered. Let’s dive in and find the perfect seat for your next unforgettable experience at The Star Theatre!

Overall view of the stalls

VIP

Proximity: 4/4 

It simply cannot get better than this. Some, including me, dare say that this is the best section in the entire theatre. You would be close enough to see your favourite celebrity’s pores! Speaking in terms of fan benefits, you are also most likely to be spotted and receive a handshake or a high five.  From smoke machines to confetti drops, you would be able to come across the full stage effects of the concert, making it an immersive experience.

Visibility: 3/4

With the VIP section only being limited to 11 rows, the chances of you being blocked by the person in front of you is statistically much lesser than if you were sitting in any other section. It is also located front and centre of the concert hall, giving you a proportionate view of the stage and screens. However, if you are seated in the front few rows, you might have to crane your neck up a little to view the full performance.

Price: 1/4

Alas, the gift of such a great view comes with a price (a pretty hefty one in fact). 

Things you can buy with $418:

• 92.8 packets of chicken rice (assuming each packet costs $4.50)
• 44.2 mcspicy extra value meals 
• 23.2 winter white dwarf hamsters
• 3 limited edition merlion labubus

In spite of all this, it is said that a once in a lifetime experience is priceless. It all boils down to however much you are willing to spend for an unforgettable evening with your favourite celebrity.

Overall: 8/12

Comments: 

Most VIP tickets come with additional perks like backstage meet and greets, as well as fan merchandise. It might be easier to justify the high cost after carefully evaluating the pros and cons.

CAT 1 (Box Seats)

Proximity: 4/4

I will admit, I was skeptical about the demand for box seats as they did not seem all that worth it to me. However, as soon as I stepped into the section, I realised we were actually very close to the stage. While definitely not close enough for a handshake, your favourite artists would definitely be able to spot you as they move along the stage. In fact, sometimes it may even feel like you’re on the stage as well. With that said, it also puts you in a very visible spot to the rest of the audience.

Visibility: 2/4

Since the box seats are usually located near the wings of the stage, you would only be able to see the concert from one side of the stage. You would not be able to see the screen nearest to you and getting a full view of the concert just isn’t possible. If you’re planning on getting box seats, it may be good to do some research on your favourite artist’s best side first! 

Price: 1.5/4

As there are only 8 box seats per side of the stage, it is understandable that the exclusivity would rack up the prices. Still, they are significantly cheaper than the vip tickets, making them slightly more affordable.

Overall: 7.5/12

Comments: 

“The climb up to the box seats may cause one to feel a little lightheaded.” – A very unfit pressie

With stairs being the only way up to the box seats, it might not be the best choice for those who are wheelchair-bound (or very accident prone).

CAT 2

CAT 2 seats in order: BV06 (1), CJ14 (2), CV17 (3), EA10 (4), EV10 (5), FV11 (6) 

Proximity: 3/4

All the seats offered in category 2 are located at the stalls, meaning that they are on the same level as the stage. 

Visibility: 3/4 (varies)

The seats on the front half of the stall seats are gradually elevated, meaning that even if your seat is located further back, your view would not be shortchanged. The second half of the stall seats are actually located on an elevated platform, so that your view would not be blocked by those in the first half. Furthermore, the seats in the theatre are also staggered in such a way to minimise blockage.

However, if your seat is located closer to the sides of the hall, you might have to keep your neck turned throughout the duration of the concert. For the seats nearer to the back of the section, your view might also be blocked by the roof above (as shown in picture 5 and 6)

Price: 3/4

Category 2 seats are relatively affordable, and can be paid off by a few days of part time work during the holidays. You won’t be leaving the concert with nothing to your name at least. 

Overall: 9/12

Comments: 

Getting Cat 2 seats are a gamble as there are vastly different views offered for the same price. Since you probably can’t choose which seats you get offered in the section during purchase, it might be wise to check first before checking out. 

CAT 3

CAT 3 seats in order: NA01 (1), NA11 (2), LA01 (3), KA17 (4), KN10 (5)

Proximity: 2.5/4

You’re closer than you think! While Circle 1 might look far back on the map, it’s actually perched above the back half of the stalls, not behind them — giving you a much closer view than you’d expect. And if you manage to snag seats in section N or G, consider yourself especially lucky! You’re essentially getting a taste of the coveted box seats without the price tag.

Visibility: 3.5/4

It’s almost as good as it gets! You can see the entire stage clearly, with no neck-craning or awkward angles. The only catch with sections N or G is that if you end up at the extreme edge seats, the box seats might slightly block your view of the stage edges. But honestly, with the main action right in front of you, who’s going to notice?

Price: 3/4

As the second-cheapest category, this is a blessing for those of us who want the perfect balance of “close enough” without eating instant noodles for a month.

Comments:

In our interview with our very special Star Theatre insider (our tour guide) he shared that his seat of choice is in the front row of Circle 1 — right in the middle of this category.

Overall: 9/12

CAT 4

CAT 4 seats in order: UA05 (1), UE18 (2), SA15 (3), SL10 (4), US16 (5)

Note: All reference pictures in this guide were taken from Circle 2 only. However, the rankings are based on the entire seating plan, so keep that in mind when choosing your seat! 

Proximity: 1.5/4

Okay, let’s be real: these seats are as far as it gets. But the silver lining of a smaller theatre is that “far” isn’t that far — unlike, say, the nosebleeds at the National Stadium, where you might as well bring binoculars. The exact distance from the stage to the last row of Circle 2 is 59 metres — or roughly slightly less than 1.5x a shuttle run. Fun fact: the seats in Circle 2 might actually be closer than the furthest seats in Circle 1 for this category. It’s a gamble, but if you trust fate (or TIcketmaster’s random seat allocation), you could end up with a prime spot closer to the stage in Circle 2.

Visibility 2.5/4

For the most part, you’ll get a good view of the stage, but sitting further back can mean a lot more ceiling action in your line of sight. And if you’re on the sides, the screen effects might be partially blocked by the speakers. On top of that, similar to sections N and G, sections V and P suffer slightly from box seat obstructions. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s not ideal if you want to make your money’s worth by truly getting the full experience.

Price: 4/4

The best thing about Category 4? It’s the cheapest category (tied with Restricted View) and super kind to both your soul and your wallet. Who doesn’t love scoring a seat that leaves you with enough cash to splurge on overpriced concert merch?

Overall: 8/12

CAT 5 (RESTRICTED VIEW)

CAT 5 seats in order: MN18 (1), VA08 (2)

Proximity: 2/4

This category is all over the place when it comes to distance, as demonstrated by the wildly different views in the reference pictures. The good news? Restricted View in Circle 2 is surprisingly decent — just limited in availability because there are only a handful of seats. If you’re feeling lucky and trust Ticketmaster to bless you, go for Circle 2 in this category. You might just hit the jackpot!

Visibility: 2/4

As the name implies, the view is restricted — but maybe not in the way you’d expect. Depending on your seat, it could be speakers, box seats or even the roof cutting into your view. If you’re in Circle 1, the roof might bock a larger portion of the screen than Circle 2. But hey, most of the stage is still visible!

Price: 4/4

At rock-bottom prices, these seats are perfect for anyone looking to save up your allowance. If you manage your expectations, you could walk away feeling like you scored a great deal!

Comments:

Don’t let the ominous “Restricted View” label scare you — it might just scare everyone else away, leaving you with your pick of the bunch.

Overall: 8/12

Our Concluding Thoughts

Choosing the right seat can significantly enhance your experience at The Star Theatre. From the immersive proximity of VIP seats to the surprisingly decent views in the budget-friendly categories, there’s truly something for everyone. While fan benefits and personal preferences might sway your decision, our rubric provides a solid foundation to help you evaluate your options.

Ultimately, the best seat is the one that fits your budget, priorities, and expectations. So, take your time, review the rankings, and pick a seat that aligns with your dream experience. Whether you’re up close and personal in the VIP section or enjoying the panoramic view from Circle 2, The Star Theatre promises a night to remember.

Happy seat hunting, and may your next visit to The Star Theatre be nothing short of spectacular!

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