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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to California

Performing Arts

You want to be in the room when the performance happens, not watching it through a screen.

Based on 801 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
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Performing arts theater

Small historic theater offers an intimate vibe with comfortable reclining seats and customizable popcorn toppings. Shows include standup and live comedy musicals with a lively house band. Every seat has a good view, making it cozy and engaging.

Shows feature standup, sketch specials, and live comedy musicals with some of the best comics in the area. The historic theater offers comfortable seating and hosts unexpectedly high-quality performances in a quaint, retro setting.

People are saying

"It's such an intimate place, making you feel part of the show."

"It's a wonderful spot to catch a comedy show."

"This small theater is so fun and intimate."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $14 in the garage behind the theater.

2

Tickets are non-transferable and require ID at the door.

3

The venue is very disabled friendly, accommodating various needs.

02
Lifehouse Theater image 1
Performing arts theater

Intimate venue offers roomy seats and cozy atmosphere. Shows are family-friendly with Jesus Christ-centered themes. Actors bring professional energy in close, engaging performances.

Productions feature family-friendly, Jesus Christ-centered entertainment with many kids involved. Actors perform with professional energy in an intimate setting with comfortable, roomy seats.

People are saying

"I found the plays here to be amazing and outstanding."

"It's a wonderful local spot to see talented thespians."

"The play here is so Kid Friendly; my kids loved it."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for popular shows, especially during holiday seasons.

2

Tickets for most performances range from $10 to $25, depending on the show.

3

Family-friendly productions are suitable for all ages, making it a great outing.

03
Bob Baker Marionette Theater image 1
Performing arts theater

Quaint marionette theater offers intimate space with live organ music and colorful puppets. Cozy seating and nostalgic atmosphere create a family-friendly spot that delights all ages. Shows feature intricate marionettes and amazing front row views.

Shows feature intricate marionettes and high-quality lighting with organ music. The venue is cozy and colorful, offering amazing front row views and a nostalgic, intimate atmosphere.

People are saying

"The puppets here are so intricate and beautiful, it's really Kid Friendly."

"It's a unique and magical experience, like stepping into a colorful world."

"The marionettes in the performing arts shows were beautiful and fabulous."

Good to know

1

Tickets should be purchased in advance due to limited seating.

2

Parking can be challenging; arrive early to find a spot.

3

Shows are family-friendly and suitable for all ages.

04
Star Theatre image 1
Performing arts theater

Historic theater shines with great acoustics and intimate setting. Candlelight and floral decor add a romantic atmosphere. Talented musicians and community actors perform in a charming space.

A historic venue with great sound quality offers an intimate setting for plays and candlelight concerts. Community theater productions and school performances bring a charming atmosphere to the stage.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful, historic venue, perfect for intimate performing arts."

"It's a fun experience, full of puns and magic."

"It's a beautiful and historic place with a palpable sense of history."

Good to know

1

Food and drinks are not allowed inside the theatre, except for water.

2

You must arrive on time or you may not be allowed entry.

3

The theater has plenty of free parking available in the Civic Center lot.

05
OBCTheater image 1
Performing arts theater

Compact vintage theater offers intimate atmosphere and excellent acoustics for high-quality plays like Sweeney Todd. Phenomenal talent shines with impressive sets and costumes. Free, close parking adds convenience to this cozy, mini Broadway experience.

Quality theater productions run regularly with shows like Sweeney Todd and Something Rotten drawing strong reactions. Free, close parking adds convenience to the intimate theater experience.

People are saying

"The acting and singing in the performing arts here were wonderful."

"The seats were roomy and comfortable."

"This place has a lot of great history."

Good to know

1

The show runs from September 15-17, 2023, the last weekend of the performance.

2

Parking is free and conveniently located near the theater.

3

Tickets are priced at $30, offering good value for the quality of the show.

06
Moonlight Amphitheatre image 1
Performing arts theater

Outdoor amphitheater offers spacious seating and excellent sound for live shows. Performances include professional musicals with youth and adults. Atmosphere is energetic and fun, welcoming families and music lovers.

Outdoor shows feature professional musicals and plays with excellent sound and lighting. The venue welcomes food and drinks and hosts performances involving both youth and adults.

People are saying

"This outdoor theater has the perfect atmosphere for a fun date night."

"I loved watching the amazing outdoor theater productions here."

"I loved watching the musicals and plays at this outdoor theater."

Good to know

1

The event is free to attend nightly through December 23rd, 2023.

2

Free parking is available at the venue.

3

You can bring your own food and drink to enjoy during events.

07
Joan B. Kroc Theatre image 1
Performing arts theater

Small, intimate theater offers comfortable seating and excellent acoustics for emotional performances. Candlelit stage and thoughtful decor create a magical atmosphere. Mezzanine level ensures great views from every seat.

A beautiful, well-maintained theater offers a personal experience with its smaller size and large seats with ample legroom. The facility supports a variety of productions and provides top-notch comfort and services.

People are saying

"The Joan B. Kroc Theatre is a beautiful and intimate community theater."

"The musicians were amazingly talented and the aerialists were spectacular."

"I found plenty of parking available here."

Good to know

1

Parking is free and easy at the venue.

2

All seats have a good view of the stage.

3

The venue is clean and well-maintained.

08
Roger Rocka's Dinner Theater image 1

Dinner theater offers intimate seating and Broadway-level talent with local humor. Shows feature talented young performers and fantastic costuming. Atmosphere is cozy and fun, perfect for a lively night out with friends.

Musical theater shows feature talented young performers and deliver excellent performances. The atmosphere suits a fun leisurely night out with friends.

People are saying

"I loved the delicious food here."

"You'll love the great shows and delicious food at these dinner spots."

"The live theater shows here are outstanding and always great."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner shows to secure preferred seating.

2

Parking can be difficult, especially on weekends; arrive early to find a spot.

3

The ticket price includes both dinner and the show, providing good value.

09
A Noise Within Theatre image 1
Performing arts theater

Small, intimate theater offers tiered seating and great sound quality for a cozy, immersive experience. Semi-circular seats highlight first-rate productions by a repertory company. Comfortable, modern space enhances every visit.

Gorgeous and intimate theater space features semi-circular seating that suits the plays well. Performances come from a repertory company known for first-rate productions, offering a unique experience unlike other theaters.

People are saying

"The performing arts here offer great views from every seat."

"I found the theatre to be small and intimate."

"The parking here is available and it's free."

Good to know

1

A Noise Within Theatre has a musical called 'A Man of No Importance' currently running.

2

Showtimes during the week are at 7:30pm and on weekends at 8:00pm.

3

Parking is available for free at the theater.

10
Long Beach Playhouse image 1
Performing arts theater

Small theater with intimate seating and no bad seats offers a cool, hip vibe and historic charm. Productions are well done and affordable, creating a personal, engaging experience with excellent acoustics and clear views.

An intimate community theater with no bad seats, making every audience member feel part of the play. Productions are consistently well done, organized, and offered at an affordable price.

People are saying

"The performing arts here are epic, with actors giving their whole energy."

"It's a small, intimate theater with no bad seats."

"Parking available can be challenging; it's best to go early."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging, especially during sold-out shows.

2

It's best to arrive early to secure parking.

3

The venue offers affordable drinks and snacks.

11
Mark Taper Forum image 1
Performing arts theater

Small theater offers an intimate setting with comfortable seating and no bad seats. Productions showcase creative staging and strong local talent, featuring both new works and musicals. Close proximity to actors creates a cozy connection that enhances every performance.

Small and intimate theater offers not a bad seat in the house with comfortable seats and close proximity to actors. Plays range from new productions to established works, including musicals and imaginative performances.

People are saying

"Every seat at this theater offers a great view of the performing arts."

"Parking was easy and convenient."

"The bathrooms were really nice and clean."

Good to know

1

Parking is available across the street and costs $10 after 6 PM.

2

Valet parking is offered in front of the venue for convenience.

3

The theater seats over 700 people with great sound and sight lines.

12
Maverick Theater image 1
Performing arts theater

Small venue with intimate seating creates a personal vibe. Art deco style and a period concession bar add charm. Performances are lively and interactive, featuring unique improv and musicals that engage the audience closely.

Small and intimate venue with every seat close to the stage. Productions are unique and creative, often incorporating different locations in clever ways. Known for challenging and fun performances like improv and musicals.

People are saying

"I had so much fun watching the well done, professional productions here."

"I loved the intimate setting for the performing arts here."

"Parking available right across from the metro link stop."

Good to know

1

Parking is available across from the Fullerton train station and nearby street parking.

2

Reservations are recommended for popular shows like 'Night of the Living Dead' as they sell out fast.

3

Arrive early to secure parking and enjoy nearby restaurants before the show.

13
Berkeley Playhouse image 1
Performing arts theater

Intimate theater with aged redwood architecture offers Broadway-level quality performances in a family-friendly atmosphere. Almost every seat has an excellent view of passionate musicals like Jesus Christ Superstar. Tickets stay very reasonable, and public transit access is easy.

Small community theater offers beautiful MainStage and youthstage performances with excellent views from almost any seat. Ticket prices stay incredibly reasonable for musicals like Jesus Christ Superstar and other passionate productions.

People are saying

"The actors and singers in the performing arts here are fantastic."

"It's a perfect introduction to live theater for kids."

Good to know

1

Ticket prices for performances are very reasonable.

2

Street parking is usually available near the theater.

3

Public transportation options are nearby, including BART.

14
Sunshine Brooks Theater image 1
Performing arts theater

Small theater offers intimate seating and excellent sound for live shows like improv, comedy, and music. Walls and lobby display local artwork, blending visual arts with performances. Creative classes and summer camps add to the vibrant arts scene.

A variety of live entertainment fills the theater, including improv, comedy, music, and plays. An art gallery complements the performances, and classes and summer camps add to the creative offerings.

People are saying

"You'll love the variety of live entertainment, from comedy to musicals."

"It's such an intimate space with excellent sound and lighting."

"The Galleries here display local art for sale."

Good to know

1

Parking in the area is easy, but arriving early is advisable.

2

Getting tickets online is very easy and recommended.

3

There is only one bathroom, so get in line quickly during intermission.

15
Zephyr Theatre image 1
Performing arts theater

Small theater with 70 comfortable seats offers a warm, cozy atmosphere perfect for classical and avant-garde plays. Guests enjoy a friendly, interactive vibe and can buy drinks and snacks before shows. Venue feels unique and low-key, ideal for intimate performing arts experiences.

An intimate theater with open seating hosts a variety of plays, from classical to avant-garde. A dedicated staff preserves its historic yet trendy atmosphere, and guests can buy drinks and snacks before shows.

People are saying

"I loved the intimate feel of this theater's performing arts."

"The bathroom here is surprisingly spacious and comfortable."

"It's a unique, magical experience unlike any other venue."

Good to know

1

Parking is a challenge; arrive early for limited street parking.

2

Snacks and drinks are available for purchase before the show.

3

There are two clean single-occupant restrooms on site.

16
TheatreWorks Silicon Valley at the Lucie Stern Theatre image 1

Old theater on beautiful grounds offers cozy seating and excellent sightlines. Performances feature phenomenal actors in powerful stories like Fanny Lou Hamer's spirit. Strong air conditioning keeps the space cool during shows.

Packed audiences enjoy well-crafted plays that highlight powerful stories like Fanny Lou Hamer's spirit and social change. The theater offers a casual, intimate setting perfect for community and regional productions, including one-woman shows and new plays.

People are saying

"I found the performing arts venue to be great and well known."

Good to know

1

Tickets are available at a discount for certain performances.

2

The theater hosts readings of new plays before they are fully produced.

3

Expect a casual atmosphere, especially during summer performances.

17
The California Theatre of Santa Rosa image 1

Intimate theater offers comfortable seating close to the stage and a big dance floor for lively events. Diverse shows include improv and karaoke, creating a creative vibe. Bar and mellow 70's feel attract a varied crowd for music, theater, and dancing.

A diverse lineup of plays, music, improv, dancing, and karaoke fills the theater. The space supports a creative atmosphere that respects artists and draws a varied audience.

People are saying

"I loved the variety of live performing arts, from music to plays."

"The bathrooms here are really clean and nice."

"I found the entertainment here to be top-notch and varied."

Good to know

1

The California Theatre hosts a variety of events, including music, theater, and comedy.

2

Parking is available across the street, often free or inexpensive.

3

The venue offers a short menu of food items and drinks.

18
Newport Theatre Arts Center image 1
Performing arts theater

Small theater with 100 seats offers a cozy, quaint setting and no bad seat in the house. Performances include musicals and plays with high-quality acting and playful productions. Enjoy a great beach view nearby.

Small theater seating about 100 offers a cozy and quaint setting for performances. Shows range from musicals to plays, consistently delivering fantastic productions in a friendly community atmosphere.

People are saying

"This small theater delivers big performing arts shows."

"Parking can be tricky, but it's available if you arrive early."

Good to know

1

Parking is tight, so plan to walk a bit.

2

Bring cash for donations and snacks at the concession stand.

3

Reservations are recommended for popular shows.

19
Cheaper Than Therapy image 1

Small black box theater offers intimate setting with comfortable stadium seating. Crowd enjoys local comedy in a laid back vibe. Nearby full bar adds convenience without pressure to drink.

An intimate black box theater creates a unique charm with its small, cozy setting. Comfortable theater seating replaces crammed tables, enhancing the viewing experience in this hidden space below the stairs.

People are saying

"The comedy shows here are a blast with great comics."

"The comedians at this comedy show were hilarious and had great vibes."

"The stand-up comics were hilarious and offered different humor styles."

Good to know

1

Cheaper Than Therapy has shows on Wednesday through Sunday.

2

The comedy show lasts about 1.5 hours with multiple acts.

3

Arrive at least 15 minutes early for first-come, first-served seating.

20
Carpenter Performing Arts Center image 1
Performing arts theater

Medium to large theater offers intimate seating and crystal-clear acoustics. Vibrant musicals and plays, including Rock n Roll shows, entertain all ages. Lobby showcases music memorabilia, adding a warm, elegant vibe.

Intimate theater offers clear views from every seat. Vibrant musicals and plays, including Rock n Roll shows and fairy tales, fill the schedule. The venue suits all ages and hosts concerts regularly.

People are saying

"I found it to be a fantastic venue for performing arts."

"Parking is available and was not expensive."

"It's an intimate venue with no bad seats in the house."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $10, but can be $15 during busy events.

2

There is ample parking available, but it fills up quickly for popular shows.

3

The venue has easy access for handicapped individuals.

21
La Jolla Playhouse image 1
Performing arts theater

Intimate theater features excellent acoustics and a thrust stage for close views. Enjoy world-class performances with innovative plays that often reach Broadway. Cozy seating and an on-site bar create a welcoming atmosphere for mingling.

An intimate theater with great talent hosts innovative plays that often move on to Broadway. The venue offers world-class performances in a beautiful setting.

People are saying

"I saw amazing theater performances with impeccable quality."

"Parking was super easy to find and access."

"It's an intimate theater where you get a great view from almost every seat."

Good to know

1

Parking at La Jolla Playhouse is free and included with the performance.

2

The shuttle from parking to the theater is convenient but may not always be available.

3

World premieres and new works are regularly showcased at La Jolla Playhouse.

22
Lobero Theatre image 1
Performing arts theater

Historic theater shines with classic architecture and intimate seating that boosts acoustics. Beautiful Deco design enriches live performances, making every show special. A picturesque courtyard and lobby bar offer cozy spots to relax during breaks.

An intimate venue with a beautiful Deco design hosts bands, theater, and plays. Renovated for live events, it offers a historic atmosphere that enriches every performance.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful, historic venue for performing arts."

"It's a lovely, intimate venue, perfect for smaller concerts."

"The red velvet seats were very comfortable."

Good to know

1

Parking Lot 9 is located behind the theatre.

2

There are pay parking lots close to the Lobero Theatre.

3

The Lobero Theatre has a capacity of 600 people.

23
La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts image 1

Small, intimate theater offers fantastic shows with talented actors in a cozy atmosphere. Lounge and lobby feature fireplaces and an outdoor cafรฉ for drinks and snacks. Comfortable seats and ample parking make every visit special.

Intimate theater offers fantastic shows with talented actors performing a variety of plays and musicals like Frozen and Come From Away. The venue provides good seats and ample parking for a comfortable experience.

People are saying

"The performing arts here are world-class and truly amazing."

"The parking here is plentiful and free."

"It's a nice, intimate theater that feels just the right size."

Good to know

1

Parking is free at the theater, avoiding the $30 fee charged elsewhere.

2

There is limited restroom availability, which may be inconvenient during events.

3

The theater has a clean and spacious environment with comfortable seating.

24
Berkeley Repertory Theatre image 1
Performing arts theater

Small, intimate theater offers semi-circular seating for great views and a cozy atmosphere. Performances bring thought-provoking drama with lively action, enhanced by innovative sound and lighting. Courtyard and snack bar provide relaxed spaces before and after shows.

Productions feature thought-provoking concepts and lively drama in a beautiful, intimate venue that offers excellent views from anywhere in the theater.

People are saying

"I found the performances here to be excellent."

"Parking was easy and close by, with a garage right across the street."

"The seats are comfortable and you get a good view from everywhere."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in a garage across from the theatre at a reasonable rate.

2

The venue requires everyone to wear a mask inside.

3

Tickets purchased in person incur a $9 surcharge.

25
Hyperion Theater image 1
Tourist attraction

Massive theater with art deco details offers a true old-school Hollywood vibe. Broadway-level shows like Roger's The Musical feature stunning special effects and crisp sound. VIP lounge and virtual queue add convenience, while seating ensures great views from all levels.

A spectacular Broadway level performance plays in a massive, beautifully designed theater with art deco details. The production of Roger's The Musical offers amazing production quality and a great atmosphere.

People are saying

"I thought the musical production was spectacular and Broadway level."

Good to know

1

Arrive 30 minutes early to secure a good seat for the show.

2

VIP tickets offer extra perks and priority seating.

3

Rogers the Musical runs until August, so plan your visit accordingly.

26
The Guild Theatre image 1
Live music venue

Intimate venue offers vintage vibes and legendary sound quality for live music. Small theater layout ensures great views and a cozy atmosphere. Perfect for close, high-quality performances in a beautiful setting.

An intimate theater with vintage vibes hosts small group musical performances in a beautiful setting.

People are saying

"It's an intimate venue, perfect for connecting with performers."

"It's a beautiful and well-managed venue for performing arts."

"Parking was easy to find and free."

Good to know

1

Parking can be a challenge near The Guild Theatre, so arrive early.

2

The venue has only standing room unless seating is offered for specific shows.

3

Expect great sound quality at The Guild Theatre for all performances.

27
The GEM Theatre image 1
Performing arts theater

Small theater offers intimate atmosphere with cozy seating and top-notch choreography. Shows like La Cage Aux Folles bring strong emotions and smiles. Enjoy snacks and drinks at the indoor bar during intermission in a well-maintained space.

Small size creates an up close and personal experience. Productions like La Cage Aux Folles and Avenue Q bring strong emotions and smiles. The theater stays well-maintained and beautiful.

People are saying

"The performing arts here are amazing and electrifying."

"The dancing here is lively and full of infectious energy."

"It's a small, intimate theater with a fantastic setting."

Good to know

1

Current ticket prices are $50 for adults and $40 for seniors.

2

The theater has a seating capacity of 158 people.

3

There is plenty of parking available nearby the theater.

28
Downey Theatre image 1
Performing arts theater

Small theater offers intimate atmosphere and great acoustics perfect for live shows. Comfortable reclining seats and clear sight lines make every seat good. An attached outdoor area and full bar create a relaxed vibe for families and community events.

Great acoustics make the theater ideal for musical and live performances. The venue is small but beautiful, with a luxe and clean lobby and bathrooms, suitable for families and community events.

People are saying

"It's a nice, intimate venue for performing arts."

"Parking was plentiful and easy to find."

"The bathrooms here are really clean."

Good to know

1

Parking is free and plentiful at the venue.

2

The theater is clean and well-maintained.

3

Seating layout allows good views from almost every angle.

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