San Diego Theatre Guide – All You Need to Know
In Theatre Trip’s local theatre guide series, we are delving deeper into what’s going on in theaters across the globe. For each city, we will be sharing local theatre companies, projects, festivals, and organizations. And today we’ll be covering all things related to the San Diego theatre scene.
[Location: San Diego, California]
The San Diego theatre scene is strong and solid. From interactive dinner theatre shows to timeless Shakespeare, this city has you covered! And whether you live in the area or are planning a trip for the future, here is a list of some must-see theatre in San Diego.
San Diego Theatre Companies and Stages
This is where San Diego’s touring Broadway shows happen. If you only have time to see one show in San Diego, this is a safe bet! However, the theatre does have room for 2967 visitors, so make sure you don’t sit in the back! This year, the San Diego Civic Theatre hosted the touring cast of Hamilton, Les Misérables, School of Rock, The King and I, and The Phantom of the Opera!
If classics are more your thing, you’ll feel right at home at this beautiful open-air theatre. The Old Globe specializes in Shakespeare performances. However, they produce new and modern works as well. That said, just being in this magical theatre is an experience that you’ll remember for a long time to come!
Since this theatre is on the National Register of Historic Places, seeing a show here will allow you to multi-task your theatre going and sightseeing needs. The lineup here generally has something for everyone. This year, you’ll find theatre, lectures, award shows, orchestras, and various musical acts!
If you’re looking for more of a fun and light night filled with improv comedy, the National Comedy Theatre is your best bet! These improv shows have been going on for two decades. And with multiple shows a week, you’ll find it easy to set aside a night just for laughter.
Located in the center of beautiful La Jolla, this theatre is focused on creating what’s “new and next” in American theatre. The La Jolla Playhouse puts on a range of shows. Additionally, they tend to select pieces that inspire further thinking and discussion.
Lamb’s Players Theatre is a unique, intimate, and boutique-style venue offering a broad range of theatre for your enjoyment. They are constantly on the receiving end of rave reviews and have been producing quality theatre for 47 years!
Diversionary Theatre is focused on providing an inspiring environment and a theatrical platform for the LGBTQ community. As a recent winner of three San Diego Critics Choice Awards (including one for “Outstanding New Play”), this is definitely a theatre you should add to the list.
The reviews for New Village Arts Theatre are glowing! With a mission of awakening the human spirit, this theatre has been able to do just that. And not only do they produce quality theatre, but they also provide numerous educational opportunities for those who love to get involved!
The Moxie Theatre is an award-winning and intimate theatre with a goal of creating more diverse and honest images of women. The pieces you’ll see here are written by female playwrights and generally defy any of the typical female stereotypes.
Off Broadway Live has been getting rave reviews from the online community! They specialize in musical revues that you can enjoy over the course of a dinner. And, on top of theatrical shows, they offer simple dinner concerts with great live music.
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Have something to add something to our San Diego Theatre Guide?
If so, feel free to send us a message or share in the comments so that we can add it to the list. And in the meantime, you can always read up on our other theatre visits!
Author: Stacy Karyn
Stacy Karyn is the founder of Theatre Trip, author of The Thespian’s Bucket List, and creator of The Cast Album List. She holds a BA in theatre, a TESOL drama certificate, and has worked and interned with Broadway and Off-Broadway theaters.
I have never been to san diego but it is on my life! Thanks for all the wonderful recommendations. The mystery cafe looks like a ton of fun!
Cant believe there are so many in San Diego! We love theatre and will keep this in mind when we visit San Diego — hopefully soon!!