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Local picks in California

Symphony and performing arts

The lights dim and the room goes silent just before the first note of the symphony fills the air.

Based on 727 Opinions
+724
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Renovated hall features state-of-the-art acoustics and stunning interior details on ceilings and walls. Performances showcase a world-class orchestra with impeccable sound and sight lines. The venue offers a modern, glamorous atmosphere suitable for music lovers and special outings.

Symphony Hall features a beautiful renovation with cutting-edge technology and bright video projection. The orchestra delivers outstanding performances with superb acoustics and good sight lines.

Immaculate detail on the walls and ceiling creates a stunning visual backdrop. The venue hosts high-caliber, well-curated performances and offers a state-of-the-art entertainment experience in a beautifully restored old theater.

People are saying

"The San Diego Symphony's orchestra is truly outstanding."

"The theater's glamorous interior is a stunning visual feast."

Good to know

1

Free parking is available at the symphony building.

2

Food options are available at the venue with plenty of choices.

3

Plan for parking ahead of time as it can get busy.

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Intimate performing arts theater with excellent acoustics and comfortable, spacious seating offers clear sightlines and a gorgeous, modern auditorium. The atmosphere balances cozy energy with the capacity to host larger crowds, supported by friendly staff and accessible parking options.

Orchestra performances happen on a stage with spacious orchestra seats and a small balcony. Concerts include opera selections and feature soloists like Golda Zahra with the Dream orchestra.

A beautiful, clean theater with 499 seats offers excellent views from every angle. Friendly staff and convenient parking add to the experience for musical and poetry performances.

People are saying

"I found the theater beautiful and very clean."

"The symphony here is a true delight with excellent acoustics."

Good to know

1

Parking is free and easy to find at The Broad Stage.

2

The venue has 499 seats, ensuring no bad views from any seat.

3

The theater is accessible with ramps for those with mobility issues.

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Historic performing arts theater offers gorgeous, elegant interior with comfortable seating and nearly perfect acoustics. Atmosphere feels energetic and vibrant during live performances, with excellent sound blending and no bad seats in the house.

The Granada Theatre hosts performances by the Santa Barbara Symphony and the London Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. Shows include works like Mozart's Requiem conducted by Vasily Petrenko.

A wide range of performances fills the space, including ballet, live theater, and musicals. The venue's design recalls European theaters and hosts drama, lectures, dance, and opera.

People are saying

"The performing arts venue is gorgeous and beautiful."

"The Symphony here transports you to a different era."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy to find directly behind the theatre with access from Anacapa Street.

2

I recommend picking up tickets in person at the box office if possible.

3

In February 2023, The Granada Theatre still required masks for attendees.

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Concert hall showcases exceptional acoustics and plush seating within a beautifully renovated interior featuring opulent decor. Atmosphere remains romantic and elegant, attracting an audience with generally good decorum. Views from most seats are excellent, enhancing the overall experience.

Jacobs Music Center offers near perfect acoustics especially in the center back of the orchestra section. The symphony performances feature first class orchestra and take place in a wonderful music hall.

The theater stands out as a masterpiece of craftsmanship and design with excellent sound quality. It offers great access from the freeway and maintains a beautiful, well-kept environment for performances.

People are saying

"The Symphony's acoustics are amazing and top-notch."

"I found the theater's gorgeous design and intricate details breathtaking."

Good to know

1

Parking is available across the street, but can be challenging during events.

2

The venue has limited ladies' restrooms, leading to long lines at intermission.

3

Expect a full house during popular performances, so arrive early.

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Opera house features beautiful architecture with elegant chandeliers and a majestic interior. Atmosphere feels classic and chic, with a packed theater and stylishly dressed audience. Acoustics are generally excellent, enhancing the experience even from upper levels.

Performances feature orchestra and singers at their best with standing ovations. Costumes and set design add to the amazing opera experience.

A large theater with loge and balcony seating hosts packed performances. Shows include a cinematic tapestry of drama, poetry, and art, like the five-act opera based on Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet.

People are saying

"The performing arts here are wonderful, with excellent direction and acting."

"The Symphony venue is beautiful."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $10, and cash payments are easier.

2

The venue is accessible with courtesy wheelchair services available.

3

Food venues inside the opera do not accept cash.

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Performing arts theater showcases beautiful contemporary design with intimate auditorium and great acoustics. Atmosphere feels quiet and welcoming, with spacious, comfortable seating and multiple bars on each floor. Accessible features include valet parking, elevators, and seating options for all guests.

Pacific Symphony delivers consistently wonderful performances with excellent musicianship. The venue offers a great view of the orchestra and full stage, enhancing the concert experience.

A large, beautiful theater hosts a variety of performances including musicals, ballets, and plays. The venue is clean, well maintained, and offers a friendly atmosphere with affordable experiences.

People are saying

"The theater is beautiful and hosted incredible shows."

"Every seat has a great view of the Symphony."

Good to know

1

Valet parking is available right in front of the entrance.

2

The venue is wheelchair accessible with elevators and accessible seating.

3

Expect long lines for women's restrooms during intermissions.

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Intimate performing arts theater with great acoustics and comfortable seating offers clear views from every seat. The modern architecture and vibrant atmosphere create an inspiring and enjoyable environment for concerts and plays.

Live performances feature a full orchestra with a beautiful symphony house setting. The South Coast Chinese Orchestra delivers magnificent shows.

Julianne and George Argyros Plaza hosts concerts and musical events with great acoustics. The theater offers easy access and a short walk from parking, though seating can feel cramped during musicals.

People are saying

"The symphony was beautiful and magnificent."

"The acoustics for performing arts here are really good."

Good to know

1

Parking across the street at S. Coast Plaza saves $15-20 on garage fees.

2

George’s cafe offers reasonably priced food options at the Arts Center.

3

The plaza hosts various artistic events, including concerts and dance classes.

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Event venue offers intimate theaters with comfortable seating and excellent acoustics. Multiple stages vary in size, ensuring good sightlines and sound quality throughout. Parking is ample and reasonably priced, supporting easy access.

The venue hosts the New West Symphony performing pieces like Beethoven's Symphony No. 5 and programs titled Brubeck to Beethoven. Concerts take place in the Kavli Theater, offering a range of symphony performances.

The Civic Arts Plaza offers a variety of performances including ballet, symphony, comedy, and musical theater. The Fred Kavli Theater seats 1800 and combines a large space with an intimate feel, featuring a bar with good drinks and connected parking garage.

People are saying

"The performing arts venue here is wonderful and rivals the big ones."

"I found the symphony here to be a great local performance."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in an adjacent structure, with fees around $8.

2

Water is not allowed inside the theater.

3

The Civic Arts Plaza hosts a variety of performances, including concerts and plays.

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Compact performing arts theater offers intimate setting with excellent acoustics and comfortable seating. Lighting and sound systems support a range of performances, including dance and live music. Audience enjoys great sightlines and a cozy atmosphere that feels personal.

Symphony concerts take place in a venue where part of the stage covers the orchestra pit. Some performances, like the Nutcracker show, do not feature a live orchestra.

Good acoustics and clear views make every seat feel close to the stage. Shuttle and golf cart rides help with easy access, and performances cover theater, music, and dance with consistent quality.

People are saying

"The performing arts here have great acoustics and comfortable seats."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $10 in the parking structure next door.

2

There is plenty of paid parking available close to the venue.

3

The venue is well maintained and clean, providing a comfortable experience.

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