The Egg

The Egg in Albany, also known as the Empire State Plaza Performing Arts Center, is an iconic and unique architectural gem. Shaped like, well, an egg, this distinctive venue offers a variety of cultural performances and events.

The exterior design is intriguing, resembling a spaceship, and it stands out amid the government buildings that surround it. Inside, the performance spaces are well-maintained and acoustically impressive. The intimate atmosphere provides an up-close experience with artists and performers.

It's a great place to catch concerts, dance performances, and other artistic events. The location in the heart of Albany makes it easily accessible. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor, The Egg is worth a visit for its architectural quirk and the diverse array of shows it hosts.

I haven't been to the Egg in Albany for a very long time. The exhibits on display are wonderful. There's an installation dedication for Vietnam. They've added dedication memorial monuments of service for both EMT and FDNY. All around the mall are art installation pieces by some very well-known artists. It was wonderful walking the perimeter and taking in the beauty and relaxing.

Staff and event was very organized for what I believe was a sold out crowd. The venue is excellent, good lighting, very clean, great speaker system. I couldn't find the free parking mentioned on the ticket and had to pay to park in the garage but not a big deal.

I have only been to the egg once, and it was to see John Petrucci of Dream Theaters solo tour. It was a little confusing getting to the venue, but once we arrived it was very nice. I did not expect a venue like the egg to host a rock/metal show with how nice it was inside. Taking a elevator up with a designated staff member was a first for me. Once we got to the venue we got waters and merch at the designated area, and went to go find our spots.

The staff was very good at helping us find our section and area of the theater.

Once we sat down the show started, maybe I missed a memo but I didn’t know that you couldn’t record the show, so I had a event staff come up to me and tell me to stop recording, but pictures were allowed. Which I respect and appreciate the staff member for doing his job, I wish I would have known before entering the show, that way I wouldn’t record the show! I did get a couple pictures from the show that I will attach. But that was mainly the only reason I gave it four stars, and while it’s probably in their rules, or maybe it was only enforced at that show due to the musicians, I felt clueless and left out.

I definitely recommend visiting however, and hope they bring more rock and metal related bands to the theater. I can definitely see more sophisticated prog metal bands playing the venue in the future!