The Vortex is the pinnacle of local theater. Some of the actors are amazing and the catalog of plays is diverse and comprehensive.

We enjoyed the high-energy comedy, The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged), at the Vortex and had a wonderful time. The theater comfortably seats 100 or more and all the theater staff are at the top of their game. Off-street parking is handy and free. Beverages & snacks are available in the lobby. The great thing about the Vortex is that the theater is small enough that wherever you sit, you're close to the performers on stage and so can really become involved with the story they're telling. When visiting ABQ, please check out what's playing at the Vortex - going there makes you feel like you're part of the neighborhood theater scene!

This little, out of the way theater was a delight to find! Ticket prices were good, they were having a buy one get one free deal for this evenings performance. The lobby doesn't look like much but the folks were very friendly. The theater itself was great; not a bad seat in the house, good acoustics and great stage setup. The actors were just terrific! A great evening. Will definitely return despite the one hour drive.

OK, so I have a confession... I had no idea there was a black box theater here in Albuquerque, and I've been here 7 years! Saw Hamlet here in January 2016 and I must say, it was pretty fantastic. Now, if you've never been to a black box theater, don't expect lavish costumes, huge sets, or incredible symphonic music... but that's the appeal! Everything is centered around the story and the actors portraying the characters. It's up close and personal. And let me say... The Vortex has some great talent! While everything about the acts in their Hamlet was spot on, what was even more incredible was the actors. Hamlet's character was certainly intense, as he should be. But Ophelia, oh my! There was a point during one act that was so intense and heartbreaking, that you could literally hear a pin drop between lines. I caught a view of some of the patrons faces, and there were tears... that's how great it was. I will definitely be back again, and recommend anyone who wants a little culture in a non-traditional way to visit the Vortex... you won't be disappointed.

We just saw All is Calm playing through 12/27. We went with a group and really didn't know what to expect! What we got is 60 minutes of first quality 13 acapella voices and some speaking illustrating the true story of the Christmas Truce of 1914 when all sides of WW1 battle stopped for just a few hours to celebrate the season. What voices! They sang nearly every Christmas carol and the juxtaposition of the war with the Christmas spirit is poignant. I could watch this every year! It reminds you of the humanity of war. The simple stage setting and bugle player were icing on the cake of a profound experience. I can't rave enough! There are a lot of Christmas activities in Albuquerque: Old Town Stroll; Central Avenue parade, River of Lights; luminary tour and probably some others we haven't discovered, but if you can get to this by 12/27, you will not be disappointed. (The modest ticket price ($22) is another benefit!!