I'm smitten with Orlando's new Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, with its two magnificent, and distinct, theaters. Now the state-of-the-art facility has introduced its own iPhone app. That sounds dull and self-serving, I know, but read on. This free download may become a true helpmate.
You can use the app to buy tickets, sure. You can also do that more comfortably on a nice big PC screen at home. But the app will send you alerts when the types of performances you prefer goes on sale. Choices range from classics to contemporary music, culturally adventurous and symphony orchestra.
The handy add-on will also assist with auxiliary services. Need a recommendation for a nearby restaurant? I wish you'd ask me (Rona does recommend, after all), but the app will guide you to nearby tables--and let you make a reservation. Members also receive dining discounts. Options include Kasa Tapas & Raw Bar, Hamburger Mary's, Dexter's Thornton Park, and Artisan's Table. The restaurant tags are bundled on a map, which lets you know what's close but makes it hard to see which dot is which. The restaurant names are also available in a list, which has info but not the distance from the theater complex. I'm sure that function will be tweaked with time.
Afraid you'll forget which lookalike downtown parking lot has your car? The app will let you know. Press Parking & Transportation, then Save My Parking Spot. A GPS will note the location, plus you're invited to type in "some notes about this spot."
The most self-serving aspect may also be the most fun: Take a picture and you'll automatically have a Dr. Phillips frame.
I tried it with my dog, Gigi. Once I took the image, I was invited to post it on Facebook, Twitter, and other social media sites, and to email it.
The app is "sponsored" by Mears Taxi. I guess that means it won't have a button for rides by Uber.
If only the app had a button for getting four Book of Mormon tickets for free.
Eat, travel and indulge in the arts enthusiastically,
Rona