Oakland Ballet Paramount Theatre - Oakland Theatre reviews
Kudos to COTA!
The COTA staff responded to concerns, ensuring that each day's experience improved. Anyone who followed the storied history of how Austin acquired the Oakland Ballet and constructed an impressive track knew that transportation would be the "deal-breaker" for year 2. It took less time to leave the track and reach our downtown shuttle stop than it did on the other two days.
The most amazing number of port-a-potties for any event of its kind, surpassing even NASCAR superspeedways! There was only a line after the race, and it was only 3 or 4 deep.
They were lacking in food vendors and had only a few venues to buy COTA "swag" and memorabilia, which was surprising. I waited an hour at the main Plaza tent to get a patch. More food vendors and merchandise vendors are needed to maintain fans' focus on the track rather than the lines.
The biggest challenge to be addressed is the trams for transportation around the track. Nearly non-existent on Day 1, Metro busses were added on Day 2, and on Day 3, signs indicating each bus's capacity were finally implemented. The entire loop system still needs organization, with busses required to go both ways and arrive empty at EACH turn pickup point during peak hours. Assistance for the disabled is necessary; at one point, over 15 people were waiting for help at one turn/gate. When the next tram arrived, there was no room for any of them, leading to more than a 30-minute wait for some to be accommodated.