New Village Arts

intimate locale stage set up was terrific light & sounds were exceptional easy to get to parking is available bar marvelous staff was outstanding we watched Mountain Top which was an astounding play the direction was prodigious and the acting by both DeAndre Simmons and Taylor Renee Henderson was stupendous

This is a really cool place. They have karaoke before the shows which is always fun. It is very clean here and everybody seems to be very nice. We saw eight track it was very good brought back lots of memories. The chairs are very comfortable to sit in once you get in to see the show. I would definitely recommend going here to see some plays

I have never seen a bad performance. Always a good time. Smaller more intimate theater that draws you into the shows. Great staff of people who run everything from the ticket counter to the ushering. Great friendly bartenders. Right in the center of Carlsbad with great places to eat and drink all around it... C'mon!! It's a no brainer if you enjoy live theatre. Check it out.

Had such a lovely experience with a girlfriend at this theater. From the moment we stepped inside, we were greeted warmly. The venue is laid out nicely, is clean with fabulous amenities. The play was captivating! They offer a variety of professional top-notch entertainment that you must experience. What a gem this local theater is!

Always a spectacular evening at New Village Arts. The staff is friendly and helpful, we love to browse the art on the walls (it changes every production), and the drinks are delicious and on-theme. We love the intimacy of a smaller theater and truly look forward to each and every performance. So happy to be season subscribers!

Had an amazing time at the Improv shows hosted by Stephanie and Village Improv. It was so entertaining, the venue is beautiful, and the drinks were great! Such a central location. So easy to take the Coaster there and a lot of food options in surrounding area. Will be going back and bringing more people. The host mentioned an improv workshop and jam session. Can’t wait to check it out!

Great venue. The Mountain Top outstanding performance. Go see it before June 22nd. Its so worth it.

We saw the preview for 8Track on Sunday and it was so fun! Most of us were of the vintage where this was our music and there was a lot of smiles and head bopping in our seats. I think at our ages we were a little too shy about standing and dancing in the aisles but the music was great. The set was simple but so evocative of the times, and the times were reflected very cleverly through the use of actual recordings and visuals of important periods and events. Go! You won't regret it; we had a great time. All the actor/singers were so good, but Juanita Harris was definitely a standout. Thank you for the memories!

A great evening of theatre. Excellent lounge / bar to meet people in the Arts. After party was a plus , especially the Salsa lessons ! T. Sallustro

We love NVA The shows are always amazing! The staff is so incredible and of course it's right across from Handel's ice cream so we can get a late night treat! We have enjoyed season tickets here and we have enjoyed every show! Such a unique experience and the staff will make you feel at home!

Beautiful space close to Poinsettia station, and great restaurants. . [title of show] excellent production with amazing actors.

After having heard about this theatre over the years, I finally went and saw The Color Purple, and it was fantastic. It seems like every seat has a great view of the Ray Charles Stage, and I chose seats in the front row for no distractions. (Haha, beware if you do that, as one of the actors jumped off stage right in front of us and startled me!) It was definitely easy to get immersed into the story, actors, and emotions being so close. It was clever how they created cocktails based on the play for purchase at the bar before and during intermission, including videos of the actors making them. I also didn't realize they had so many other activities and performances on their smaller stage in the lobby area as well. And grabbing dinner beforehand then walking over was easy--there are so many great restaurants. We found parking just one street over, and they also encourage parking at the train station behind them. They seem to have new performances every month or so, and I look forward to coming back soon.

I got a chance in May to go there and check out the Nerd Comedy show. It was a nice venue and there is plenty of parking nearby. The building is large, and there was a play going on in the theatre at the same time, on the other side of the building, but it does not interfere at all. The comedy show was funny, with 3 or 4 acts. They like to involve the crowd, so be prepared to answer questions and have some fun, and be a part of the show. At the end they do the competition, the Olympics, and that was fun too. You get to vote on which team is doing a better job. Unique and interesting, if you need something to do in Carlsbad, give it a try.

I didn't know about this north county theater until I read about La Havana Madrid in the UT. It is another great local theater. Next to the train station, it is surrounded by independent eateries for a pre- or post-show nosh. Production and performances are high quality

Our family and friends attended a performance of Miracle on 34th Street and were overwhelmed by the superb production! This intimate theatre puts you right in the middle of the show, enjoying the fast paced action up close! The actors are able to provide a wide range of characters with excellent versatility delivering laughter and poignant moments with ease! Lighting, sets and sound were all top notch. We thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend this show! Do not missit!

If you like charming, comfortable spaces in which to enjoy live performances, this newly renovated theater is right for you. There is a generous reception/ lounge area, so come a bit early to see whatever art is on display and to enjoy some refreshment before your performance. Someone, at some level, decided to create an overall space which gives us the opportunity to move around and enjoy the event, rather than cram every seat possible into a moderately sized venue. ( Think airline seating as an opposite strategy). Inside the stage area, the seats are intimate without being crowded. For instance, you can actually pass through a seated aisle without stepping on anyone's toes. What a concept! I believe there are about 100 seats. I have seen two performances in the theater recently. Both were so enjoyable. It always amazes me how many talented people we have in this world. And the New Village Theater has found their fair share of them.

The color purple produced at the new Village Arts Theatre is absolutely fabulous. The cast is top-notch, the vocals are wonderful, and the storytelling is as good as I've ever experienced. Oprah would be very proud.

Went to the premiere of / the half life of Marie Curie last night and walked out of the theatre in awe of what I had just witnessed. The actors were beyond amazing, they carried me through many emotions and the way it was presented was fabulous. The writing, directing and the set was perfect. I have been going to all of the presentations since this theater opened many years ago, but this presentation was the most touching of all. I will say it again. The actors were amazing. Thank you so much!

I went to see The Color Purple. This was an amazing performance. I've read the book and seen it performed in Seattle and NY. I've seen the original and latest version of the movie but I tell you this, this cast was outstanding. I was waiting for my favorite lines like "I'm poor, I'm black, I might even be ugly, but dear God, I'm here. " and of course when Celie's cursed Mister: " Until you do right by me, everything you think about is going to crumble." This was unforgettable! You don't want to miss it. They thrilled the audience with superb singing. There were not a weak voice. The finale had the audience on their feet! When thy sang their final number!!! Like the color purple Where do it come from Now my eyes are open Look what God has done The chorus, dancing and acting was all fabulous. The seating was spacious yet intimate. There wasn't a bad seat in the house. I want to go again. I just don't want to go alone! One suggestion is to get there early so you can find parking. This is a high traffic location and popular night spot.

A very well done production with 2 incredible women actors. I learned something about 2 women scientists who suffered discrimination because they were women. Go see it.

I I have seen several really great shows at the theater in the last year. Madam Curie was absolutely stunningly spectacular acting! Loved it. Looking forward to more shows as I am now a season ticket holder.

Rosemary Watson is a star! What a talented singer/impressionist/comedian! Looking forward to her future performances.

Love the new Village Arts theatre. The lobby is so much more inviting- the bar has interesting drinks at a fair price with plenty of tables/seating prior to the show. The staff is kind, friendly and helpful. The show "Singing in the Rain" was top notch! The singing, dancing, acting was most impressive and I have told my friends to go see it! Can't beat the price for a great night out! THEN, go to Handels for ice cream before or after and all the great restaurants and bars that are within walking distance. Will return!

Just saw 8-Track. It is about the music and social times of the 1970's. For those of us who grew up in those turbulent times this show will bring many smiles and some tears. The four singers are all fantastic. Make time to see 8-Track.

We just returned from a weekend night of Around the World in 80 Days. What an adventure! I am always up for an adventure. Especially, one that consists of "liveness". I purchased a book at the London National Theatre many years back that spoke to me on the subject. New Village Arts is our intimate, local and professional theatre. I want to see them succeed, so we support them. And, if you love theatre, you should too. Not everyone has a stellar performing arts theatre so close and accessible with such talent. It is truly a privilege. We often enjoy holiday musicals and plays to get into the festivities of the season. There is a concession stand pre-show and during intermission. I am highly impressed with the Forgotten Barrel wines, the company is local and the Pinot Noir is the best! There is custom made merchandise to support the show and to raise money for the theatre. I picked up a bandana (Around the World in 80 Days) for our dog, who could not make the show but can still share in the fun with us. Visit NVA in Carlsbad Village and let your adventure begin as we start the new decade. We need to do what we can to keep the "live" performance alive! There is much talent to see, many stories to observe and great inspiration to carry on. #CarlsbadVillage #NewVillageArts #Liveness #ForgottenBarrel #WeWentAroundTheWorld

Wonderful experience, like singing in the rain. We did see "Singing in the Rain." And, the dancing and singing were EXCEPTIONAL! These young performers were enthusiastic, talented, and attractive. Loved the staging on a small intimate stage. Great afternoon!

I've seen several productions with friends and family that never disappoint here. The venue is charming while being positioned in a family friendly beach town with plenty of restaurants in walking distance, just a couple blocks from the beach. REGARDING COMEDY SHOW Recently, a friend and I intended to see Singin in the Rain. He accidentally purchased the comedy show tickets, which we discovered upon arrival. Imagine every life-giving value and moral position you hold dear that has served you well. Then, put them in a basket filled with dynamite and watch as it gets lit by Pink Foxx, disintegrates completely, and the process is used as a form of branding and a badge of honor while he takes a victory lap laughing at your misfortune in it all. This is how offended you will be. If that's what you're wanting, this show is for you. I would have given the venue six stars, but took away three for lack of judgement. This is Carlsbad, and whoever signed Pink Foxx didn't read the room. It was awkward for most in the audience. I could see it on their faces. Yes, it's comedy. Yes, it can still go "too far".

These days, there seems to be a great divide in our nation. The new normal is cultural warfare, tribalism, and hate-speech. On social media, cable news, and reality TV... we're bombarded with divisive rhetoric... despite being 99.5% identical to each other in terms of DNA sequence. Where did intellectual curiosity go? All one needs to know on any given subject, is what side your tribe is on. Reinforcement is found from "locked in" media outlets. How did we get so myopic? Is there anything that can inspire us to examine an issue, empathize, and perhaps find a common understanding?... I believe it may be the arts: literature, visual, and performing arts. Imagine the theater experience. You're not allowed to speak. The phone is put away. You sit down while the lights dim, pay close attention, and learn about others. Your emotions and thoughts are awash with momentous waves of passion and drama and soul. New Village Arts is where we go to exercise these listening and deep-thinking skills, and bulk up our muscles of compassion. The live theater performance -- via speech, gesture, stagecraft, music, and dance -- invites us / forces us to think deeper, and feel deeply. For example, we saw how the group of characters who befriend each other while 'Into the Woods' set aside their differences to work together and defeat the Giant (and live happily ever after.) Shakespeare, in 'A Midsummer Night's Dream' suggests: 'Love looks not with the eyes, but with the mind.' It shouldn't matter what a person looks like, what matters is what's inside. The production of 'God of Carnage' showed us how our ingrained venality and bile can degrade our civility and good nature, and devolve into child-like bickering. From re-imagined fairy tales, to adaptations of favorite literature, to brand-new musicals... these performances enlighten us to who we ARE as diverse people, but indistinguishable humans. And why we should care. As Shakespeare's Julius Caesar proclaimed: "It is not in the stars to hold our destiny, but in ourselves". Pro tip: Tickets are $20-50, there's not a bad seat in the house. In their 17 seasons, NVA has earned more than 20 Critics Circle Awards.

We watched A Weekend with Pablo Picasso here, and besides the fact that the play was fantastic, there were no bad seats in this six row only theater. There is a nice art studio that is inside the building and adjacent to the theater itself, where local artists paint and display their works for sale. Refreshments and light snacks available in the theater lobby, no lines, friendly efficient staff, and great performers. Fantastic evening well spent.

Was very pleased when my favorite local theatre re-opened, so was gravely disappointed to discover something was not the same. There evidently has been a shift in direction - a move from providing an enjoyable night for the patron to a more exclusive focus on in-house convenience. Trust me, I'm aware of what all businesses are having to do to make up for the months of non-income, and think most of us are quite able and willing to make our own adjustments to meeting the establishment halfway - to do our part to help in keeping the business alive. But really, we also know when we are no longer the whole point of being open. That's just taking advantage of our pleasant memories without bothering to remember what, and who, it takes to thrive.

Absolutely love this adorable intimate theatre--we saw Return to the Forbidden Planet last weekend and it was a lot of fun! The theatre itself is very charming and the people who work here are really enthusiastic about what they do. The seats are comfortable and the rows are spaced at a comfortable distance. Lots of free parking nearby including at the Coaster station. There are also lots of cool restaurants nearby--unfortunately we weren't able to partake this time but hope to next time. p.s. Check out Goldstar for discounted tickets...that's how we found out about Return to the Forbidden Planet

"Hidden Gem" might be a rather over-used headline but after 11 years living in Carlsbad I can vouch that the NVA Theatre truly deserves hidden gem status . Watching the matinee performance of Around the World in 80 Days yesterday afternoon, we were struck by the simple old fashioned authenticity of it all. very friendly reception and service, live backing band and well arranged vocals on stage, a simple production that didn't rely on satellite technology, it could have been produced this way in 1969! I hope the theatre continues to find new audiences and goes from strength to strength, we'll certainly be back :-)

This is a hidden gem. I never knew that it was in Carlsbad. This tiny, little theater has great productions. I've been twice and each time I wondered how they were going to do it in such a small venue, and they truly it pulled it off. They have a little bar in the lobby area which is nice. Drinks aren't too expensive and you can take them into the theater.

This theater is AMAZING!!!!!! I love to come here to see their plays that they put on! I've been a fan of theirs since 2001 when they first began. I loved watching their shows in the summer when the do their William Shakespeare shows. They also have amazing and awesome season shows and have the best and most talented cast that I have ever seen!!! They are located on State Street in Downtown Carlsbad. They have an amazing staff that works their box office and a wonderful lobby full of beautiful artworks and quilts!!! This place is just amazing and I love this theater!!!!

Wow! There is a reason this place has a five star rating. It's a great theatre! We brought the kiddos there for a special performance of Cinderella Loves Rice and Beans. How great is it that they put on a special show for families? They boys LOVED it! Thank you NVA for hosting such a great event!!!! Btw, I've also been to this gala for years. It never disappoints. If you are looking for something to do on a Saturday night in March, I would highly recommend this gala! So entertaining and fun!

Black Family Christmas was fantastic! So well written and acted. I even liked the music in this wonderfully diverse performance. It was so great to be back to live theater again. The vaccine verification at the door, and 100% mask wearing, it made me feel comfortable. The review in the Union Tribune today was spot on. I simply loved this story of this black family Christmas at their home on the water in Carlsbad. It just made me feel good!

This Saturday was my first time visiting the New Village theater, I came to watch Little Shop of Horrors with my boyfriend. I knew nothing about the play but seeing the poster outside intrigued me to want to watch it. Wow, I was so blown away by the talent showcased. The acting, the set design, the vocals... just superb. I did not expect such a put-together show from what seems like a small local theater. The show was captivating, hilarious, I could stop laughing, the actress that played Audrey really had perfect comedy delivery. The girl that plays Audrey 2 blew me away with her voice, wow. ALL these actors belong on Broadway, wow just wow. I am looking forward to Into the Woods next year.

I have attended about a dozen plays here. Cannot get a bad seat and the matinee saves some money as well. Near the train station, plenty of parking and small audience makes it a real find. Some of the best plays included the Christmas special and "of mice and men", "to kill a mockingbird". Actors are friendly and engaging. Reasonable prices, small concession stand and they allow you to bring drinks to your seat. Please Bring back the 1950s Prom /themed New Years Eve Party - that was a real treat. Put down the smart phones and tablets--go there with your friends and see whatever is playing. You can thank me later. Support your local theater!

Do yourself a favor and grab tickets to Little Shop of Horrors!!! Performers were beyond excellent and I've never laughed so hard. Nice cozy venue, bar for a cocktail before the show and friendly staff. Actors/singers were absolutely AMAZING.

Intimate venue.All good seats and parking at the Coaster lot. Just saw the Buddy Holly story. Wonderful music with great acting and singing.

My mother and I went to the New Village Arts Theatre for a preview of Mark Twain's Tony Award winning musical, Big River. The theatre is conveniently located in an art compound right across the parking lot from the Carlsbad Village Train Station; right in the heart of downtown Carlsbad. It's one huge building, and connected to the theatre is an art studio that has a lot of wonderful art on display. The acting was stupendous! I counted only three hiccups (which is very few for a "preview") in the entire 2 hour performance. I also loved the fact that they sold beer at the concession stand! They sell Stone IPA by the 12oz bottle for $5, not bad! They also sell wine, water, sodas, and snacks. My only complaints are the lack of AC and the shortage of restrooms. It was quite warm in the theatre, even with the four floor fans they had. The fans really didn't help much. Also, there is only one men's restroom (one single toilet). I spent about 10 minutes of the 30 minute intermission waiting in line to use the restroom. I don't think either of those issue will stop me from checking out another play/musical at this excellent establishment. I'll surely be back!

Love the intimate setting ...the top notch talent ...and their willingness to take chances with colorblind casting r it's nice to have a An amazing innovative theater in north county finally. I've seen Oklahoma I thousand times never been my favorite musical but I have to admit that this production of Oklahoma completely changed my mind I wanted to get up on the stage and sing.

Really loved the show and the partnership with the Flower Fields is an excellemt idea!

Great 99 seat theatre in the heart of Carlsbad. Six shows a year range from modern comedies to classic dramas and musicals. Very high quality theatre, live music and artist studio. Previews are often Pay What You Can.

What a delightful little venue! A well-acted play, not a bad seat in the house, and even a small bar where you can purchase drinks and carry them into the show! During intermission you can wander through the art studio that shares the building space. Very fortunate to have this venue so close to home.

We've seen two plays here and enjoyed them both immensely. The actors are talented, the sets were perfect for the plays and the service from theatre staff is very good. Coming from North Park in San Diego, it's a drive for us but totally worth it. Especially when we arrive early enough to have a nice dinner down the street before the show.

We saw The Santaland Diaries here back in December. It was a great show adapted from the David Sedaris short story. The theater is pretty small and we had front row seats which was pretty awesome. I would definitely come back to see another show here!

Saw an Excellent production of Men on Boats here this evening. Wow. GREAT piece of theatre........skillfully directed, wondetfully acted, and very well produced! Wish I lived here so I could see more of their wonderful work! BRAVO New Village Arts!

Love, love, love this theatre! I've been to 3 or 4 plays here so far, and thoroughly enjoyed all of them. My first time was when a friend called at the last minute because her theatre date couldn't make it. I was SO happy that I was able to jump in and make the play! I enjoyed every minute of it! It was a Christmas version of Forever Plaid, and was done to perfection! You cant get a bad seat in this theatre, as it seats- probably under 150. The last play saw there was The Full Monty, and had only 1 disappointment- that it was at the end of the run when I saw it! I SO wished I could go back with a huge group of my "gal pals" and see it again! It was so outrageously fun, I can't begin to say! The cast was great, the play is great- and the charm of this theatre is AMAZING! Another selling point for me? They serve their drinks (and you can get mixed drinks there!) are served in REAL GLASSES! I absolutely hate drinking wine or a mixed drink out of a plastic glass- AND you can bring them into the theatre! What fun is cramming down a drink during intermission? Then you have 1 choice- drink or hit the potty- but no WAY can you do both! This is the civilized way to enjoy the theatre! The location in the Village of Carlsbad adds to the charm. If you want to hit Coyote for appetizers before the show, or a number of other restaurants- they are all within walking distance. If you haven't been to this fabulous gem, you are missing out!

I am giving a five-star review to NVA's current production, "Suds." This is a 1960s musical featuring a wide range of "oldies but goodies" -- the music that I still love so much! As a huge plus, the young cast -- complete with bouffant wigs and 1960s clothing -- even saddle shoes -- is incredibly talented. Their voices are strong and melodious. Three of the cast members are actually from San Diego County. The other one is from LA. I had no idea we had such amazing talent so close to home. This Thursday and Friday (July 18 and 19) one hour before showtime -- 7 p.m. -- you can gain admission by paying what you want to pay rather than full price. I urge you to take advantage of this great opportunity!

My wife and I attended a Thursday evening performance of the "Buddy Holly Story" at the NVA Theatre. The threatre, located in downtown Carlsbad, is an intimate (only six rows of seats) venue. The performance was well attended with only a couple of empty seats. The show was excellent with a fine cast that did a very good job. The show lasted a little over two hours with a short intermission. As far as we could tell, the show was enjoyed by all ages in attendance. They were called back for an encore. We thoroughly enjoyed our experience at the NVA theatre.

I cannot say enough good things about NVA. Love live theater and having this gem just five minutes from my house is beyond incredible. I agree with other reviewers that the staff, actors and singers are committed to bringing excellent theater to Carlsbad. Not ever production is my cup of tea, but that's the fun, as well. I like to pick and choose which productions I'll attend.

Just went here over the weekend and was so impressed! Every seat in this place is amazing- but I recommend sitting in the second row which is where I sat. The front row for some reason feels intimidating for me ;) You are right there in front of the performers and there isn't much leg room, I would be nervous I accidentally tripped the actors! The only thing I have to complain about which wasn't the theaters fault, we had an elderly man talking in the front row. Within the first few seconds, he was already talking out loud to himself/his wife, I was so annoyed. This is a performance for goodness sake, keep your mouth closed unless you're laughing. I hope/recommend the owners to maybe keep and eye or ear out to inform people to be quiet during intermission. Other than that disturbance, I really loved coming to this little theater. It's run off donations and I was more than happy to donate some money. I love supporting business in downtown Carlsbad since I've lived here forever. Definitely go and see a play, or more! See a bunch! It's right in the village and you can get dinner/drinks/lunch after! The owners/employees all were lovely, they even had a themed drink for the Wait Until Dark performance- a Wait Until Dark and Stormy. ADORABLE! I will return!

Bravo. The entrance is inviting and a nice reception before Santaland Diaries. They served wine and snacks. Everyone was in the Christmas spirit. Great theater. Small and intimate and comfortable. Acoustics were solid, but then again, with only 10 rows (i think), hard not to have good acoustics. The performance was awesome. A good mix of people and the one man play kept everyone paying attention. The funny parts were hilarious. The serious tones kept us paying attention. Darren Scott played this well. This was my first time going and i will go again.

I am a proud season subscriber and a "lifer." This little company is consistent, edgy, daring, lovable, spontaneous and fabulous. Everyone who works at the theater or volunteers is wholly committed to this little gem. Kristianne does an amazing job bringing new shows and great ideas to Carlsbad and North County. I am a die hard fan of New Village Arts! Thank you.

We saw the Nutcracker (musical) here and loved it! Cozy theatre and great performance. Some of the audio was a little garbled for one character (rat king) but otherwise a wonderful show! My two older kids really liked it too, we had a great outing there. The reason for the 4 stars instead of 5 is that a grumpy stagehand barked at my kids to "get off the stage" as we were exiting, they were peering at the fake "snow" which they were fascinated with, and had put one foot on the edge of the stage. So there was a bit of a sour note at the end, but overall a great experience. which

For a local theater NVA does an excellent job of casting and stage production. It's a perfect place to see a musical/play as it's in the heart of Carlsbad Village with loads of great restaurants for pre-theater dining, an intimate theater experience with incredibly talented actors, and a post show ice cream cone made this one of the most entertaining, fulfilling nights of my summer!