I've probably seen 20+ shows at the Gothic. I like punk and hardcore music and the Gothic is a good venue for it with its open floor set-up.
Like the Filmore, the Gothic is big on pit space and short on seating. I love the Gothic for that fact. However, if you want to get a seat, get in line early.
The other big key are the bathrooms. The one bathroom on the first floor is just there to distract the newbs.
There are full bathrooms up the stairs. The mens' room is up the right set of stairs as you enter the Gothic. The ladies' room is up the left set of stairs as you enter the venue.
In the last couple of years, I've come to appreciate the Gothic's staff. They are good at distinguishing between jerks who are ruining the experience for everyone and people who are having a good time. The jerks get kicked. Folks who might do something dumb in the name of fun get warned before being asked to leave. Secondly, the Gothic staff have lent me duct tape (so I could get in the pit) and even a personal cell phone (when a friend left with my car keys). No, the Gothic staff isn't over the top friendly. Then again, this isn't freaking Chili's. The Gothic staff is much more like good lifeguards at a pool. Mostly all business - there to ensure that folks are safe but willing to overlook the occasional dunking. I appreciate them for it.
Pros: Relatively intimate concert venue with nice staff
Cons: Very few ""all ages"" shows - 18+ or 21+ show only
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