Avoid parking problems at Vienna Boys Choir concert

The world-famous Vienna Boys Choir will present a concert at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 3, in W.M. Turner Auditorium as part of the SFA College of Fine Arts' University Series. Patrons are encouraged to arrive early and be familiar with parking options. Photo by Lucas Beck.

NACOGDOCHES, TEXAS - "Allow time for parking" is the general recommendation for East Texans who will be attending the Vienna Boys Choir concert in Stephen F. Austin State University's W.M. Turner Auditorium at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 3.

"We have ample parking for our patrons, but the number of spaces on Alumni Drive immediately in front of the Griffith Fine Arts Building is limited," said Diane Flynn, SFA Box Office manager. "Plus, many of those will be reserved for our VIP patrons who have purchased a special parking pass."

Flynn recommends patrons use the free parking garage at the corner of Raguet and E. College Streets or the parking lot at the corner of North and Wettermark Streets. The walk from either is equivalent to about two blocks.

"Free parking is also available along Vista and Alumni Drives and Griffith Boulevard, but those are sometimes filled by students who live in the nearby dorms or by people attending events in the Baker Pattillo Student Center," Flynn warned. For a small fee, patrons may be able to park in the Student Center Parking Garage accessible via Clark or Griffith Boulevards.

There are several handicapped parking spaces along Vista and Alumni Drives, and in a small lot off of East College Street behind the Wright Music Building. Drivers are also welcome to drop off passengers in front of the Griffith Building and then park and walk.

"We want the entire evening to be an enjoyable experience for all of our patrons," said Flynn. "That's why we're encouraging everyone to get to campus early so that no one is rushed to get to the auditorium."

Early arrivers are welcome to attend a 7 p.m. informative talk by Dr. David Howard, SFA associate director of choirs, in Griffith Gallery, located across the hall from Turner Auditorium.

The Griffith Fine Arts Building is located at 2222 Alumni Dr. A map showing available parking can be accessed at www.boxoffice.sfasu.edu and following the link for parking.

Tickets for the Vienna Boys Choir concert range from $35 to $17.50, with discounts available for seniors, students and youth. For tickets or more information, please visit www.finearts.sfasu.edu or call (936) 468-6407 or (888) 240-ARTS.

The event is a part of the 2011-2012 SFA College of Fine Arts' University Series and is sponsored in part by Lehmann Eye Center.