The Old Globe

Performing arts theater · San Diego

The Old Globe

Performing arts theater · San Diego

1

1363 Old Globe Way, San Diego, CA 92101

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Highlights

Shakespeare to musicals, intimate theater, outdoor shows  

Featured in Conde Nast Traveler
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1363 Old Globe Way, San Diego, CA 92101 Get directions

theoldglobe.org

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1363 Old Globe Way, San Diego, CA 92101 Get directions

+1 619 234 5623
theoldglobe.org

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Aug 10, 2025

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The Old Globe – Theater Review | Condé Nast Traveler

"Give us the big picture: What’s the vibe of the place, what’s it like? Modeled after the Shakespeare-era Old Globe in London , San Diego's version keeps a similar classical vibe. It's tucked in the center of Balboa Park , with a large walkway leading the crowd to three separate theaters within the theater, including a 620-seat outdoor venue. What kinds of events can we see here? While the Old Globe puts on modern musicals and plays—Steve Martin has brought a couple of his own pieces here—it's best known for the Bard, a Shakespeare festival held outside every summer. Across the board, the theater hosts 15 productions and nearly 600 performances. What's it like inside the theaters? The three venues all have different vibes. The largest is the Donald and Darlene Shiley Stage (580 seats), used for bigger productions, while the round, 250-seat Sheryl and Harvey White Theatre offers the unique opportunity to get up close and personal with the actors, who will often work the room. By far the most enticing venue is the outdoor Lowell Davies Festival Theatre, a 620-seater (though it feels more intimate) under the stars. Airplanes do fly over the theater, but the acoustics generally keep outside noise to a minimum. Who usually comes here? It's typically an older crowd at The Globe, though they're trying to reach younger audiences with an Under 30 program, which offers discounted tickets to folks ages 18-29. But there's one time of year that brings out children in droves: the annual production of "Dr. Seuss's How the Grinch Stole Christmas!" Anything in particular that makes the Old Globe special? Part of the reason the lineup is so good is because Barry Edelstein is behind it. The artistic director previously worked at The Public Theater in New York, producing Al Pacino in "The Merchant of Venice," before landing in San Diego. If we’re going to be in town, what—and who—do you think this is best for? The Old Globe puts on fun, worth-your-money shows no matter the format, and with a location in Balboa Park—near great restaurants in Hillcrest and Bankers Hill—it makes for an easy dinner-and-a-show night for a date or with the family." - Archana Ram

https://www.cntraveler.com/activities/san-diego/the-old-globe
View Postcard for The Old Globe

Isaac Frutos

Google
Shakespeare's "All's well that ends well" Great show... all seats in out door venue are great... center stage is best.... acting was great and very well preformed..... suggest to order your INTERMISSION drinks at the beginning of show, so you don't have to wait in line. Bathrooms, clean and well stocked

Diann Marcone

Google
This theater is great. Pretty good viewing from all seats. This last time, I sat in the front row. I recommend a couple back. All the shows are excellent with talented casts. We have made a family tradition out of seeing The Grinch. Just saw, Noises Off last night and it was Fantastic.

Richard Siaba

Google
The carpenters make amazing sets for the main stage, white theater and the outdoor festival stage. Very professional looking!

David Frost

Google
Regency Girls marks our 45th anniversary of uber-fine theater- going to this national treasure. We have never, never been disappointed with OG performances. From Forever Plaid, to many Bard shows, to Waiting for Godot, and intimate Theaters in the round, this artistry makes us smile, or sometimes cry. Do not miss a performance, whether a visitor or a local.

Chris Carpenter

Google
A beautiful and easy layout. The outer courtyard offer a wide selection of beverages and snacks. Entering for a show is pretty quick and organized. You can bring beverages in it seems also. It seems that 85% of the seating is fairly great as the theatre is medium size. Many ushers to help guide you to seats. There are booster seats about 5 inches lift to help your little ones. There are a hard black plastic though, just a heads up. They have convenient restrooms near by and often photo opportunity areas. Currently they have a Who style Christmas tree that lights at 445. A wonderful Grinch show for our 4 year old and highly recommend taking kids and yourself to it.

Support Team

Google
Disappointed at the Old Globe Theater – Where’s the Play Information? We attended One of the Good Ones at the Old Globe Theater and were surprised—and frankly disappointed—by the lack of essential information in the playbill. While the performance itself may speak for itself, the printed program did not. Rather than offering a synopsis, context, or even basic character descriptions, the playbill was packed with advertising and an author interview that, while interesting, did not provide any meaningful understanding of the play we were about to see. As frequent theatergoers, we’ve come to expect a certain level of engagement and insight from the materials provided—especially at a venue as reputable as the Old Globe. Most theaters include a brief summary, cast list with character descriptions, and some background to help orient the audience. None of that was present here. Theater is about storytelling, and that includes every element of the experience—not just what happens on stage. The lack of thoughtful program content made the experience feel commercialized rather than curated. We hope the Old Globe will consider returning to more audience-centered program design in the future.

Ro

Google
I loved the version of Romeo and Juliet they staged here in the open air of Balboa Park during the summer night. One of the best theatre experiences ever!

Scott

Google
We thoroughly enjoyed Voices Off at The Old Globe Theatre. The entire cast was simply amazing. I don't know how they kept everything straight. The staff was also very friendly and professional. Don't pass up seeing any play here.

Ghazala Z.

Yelp
Amazing setting for world-class theater. Their productions never disappoint- worth every penny! Kudos!!!! PS - I have a role in an upcoming production which does not influence my review. It has been a goal for a while.
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Cara N.

Yelp
A long time season ticket holder but never saw "The Grinch". I just saw it last week. What an amazing cast and performance! Young and old alike should see this show. Music is amazing. The ushers are helpful. The historic theatre is beautiful. Please support Local theatre and see this show!
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Kaleena B.

Yelp
The Old Globe Theatre is one of my favorite places in San Diego. I've been to countless shows over the years and am finally taking the time to review this local treasure! Built in 1935, the Old Globe was modeled after Shakespeare's Old Globe in London. Every season features a couple of Shakespeare performances in the summer, and every holiday season there are performances of How the Grinch Stole Christmas and Ebenezer Scrooge's BIG San Diego Christmas Show, and the courtyard is transformed with a Dr. Seuss Christmas tree for the festive holiday spirit. There are a couple of theaters but I've only seen performances in the main one. It's small enough that no matter where you are, you'll have a great view of the stage. Row N has a bit more leg room and no one behind you -- that's my favorite row to sit in! The seats are comfortable but are a bit narrow, so if you're plus sized you might feel a little cramped. Rather than overpriced snacks like at other theaters, there's Lady Carolyn's Pub that serves more substantial fare. You will only be able to bring drinks with kids into the theater though, so plan accordingly.
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John C.

Yelp
Have a pass to see so many shows here and they are all so well done and the acting, stage, and story-lines keeps me very intrigued. So far my favorite has been Destiny of Desire. Can't wait to see many more as they come. Great staff, awesome location, and super fun!
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Yueming Q.

Yelp
We came to watch Grinch! It is so impressive. The stage setup was nice. What I love the most is their performance, the actors are so professional. They act and sing so well. The whole show is just very beautiful. We enjoyed it so much.
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Jay G.

Yelp
Went to see The Merry Wives of Windsor while on vacation in San Diego. So so good! Beautiful set, great cast, wonderful performance. Sitting outside in the evening watching theatre was such a pleasure. We ordered intermission drinks before the show, and they were waiting labeled for us on a table at the break. Will most definitely go back next time we are in San Diego, loved it. What a great evening out! Worth every penny
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Nadia G.

Yelp
Very nice theater in Balboa Park. Visibility is the stage is good no matter where you sit.
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Kristin D.

Yelp
Love love love the Old Globe Theater. Come every year for the Grinch Play - Andrew Polec is the best Grinch they could've cast for the role. He's incredible! The theater is beautiful both inside and out, with lots to do nearby in the park.
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Gloria H.

Yelp
I love bringing my son here to see Shakespearean plays. It's such a wonderful night with the open air theater. I'm never disappointed with the talent on the stage. I'm going to miss it when I move away.

Angel M.

Yelp
We read an incorrect start time from the Reader. Showed up early but we were actually late 15 min . The manager Katie made no effort to help us attend the play as it was a special occasion for my son and myself. Sorry I can't help you was all Katie could say as I explained this was a very special occasion. They you for making no effort whatsoever to help us. Maybe you need to be a wealthy patron of the arts to receive the care and consideration all theater goers deserve. The globe will ask us for a donation to support them but don't expect much from them if you're just a nobody.
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Bebe D.

Yelp
!PARKING SUCKS! The shows here are very close to professional. Very, very close. It's really as good as you're going to get this far south of OCPAC and of course Los Angeles. But this theater is in the middle of a city park. Once the sun goes down, stay at your OWN RISK. You will walk from the theater to your car in darkness and among homeless and yes, even some folks who are downright cray cray.
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Sami L.

Yelp
The Old Globe never disappoints! I've come here a few times for plays that spark my interest, and am always impressed by the professionalism and performances of the casts. They usher you in, and make everything go smooth. Love the Old Globe, and will faithfully support their causes!
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Steve R.

Yelp
We just enjoyed Cabaret at The Old Globe Theater in Balboa Park. It was the best production of this play I've ever seen. I had seen many variations and the role of the Emcee is so critical to the play. Joel Grey won an Oscar! He was good but the gentleman who played the Emcee for this production was beyond GREAT! Best ever! The cast was wonderful! It was the fastest 2 1/2 hours ever. The voices were great and the set was perfect. I can't remember the last time I enjoyed a production so much! If you can, GO! Sally Bowles was perfect! I could only say "Liza who?". Great voice! The best part is it's at The Globe, the most intimate theater in San Diego with top of the art productions. Better than anything I have seen at the Civic where you have to pay Third Party prices for less than professional productions. You will love this?
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Essie K.

Yelp
We had our first experience at the Old Globe this week at the Grinch Who Stole Christmas show. The show itself was fantastic with the combination of an excellent cast, music, props, and choreography! The theater is indoors but on the smaller side. A few things to note: - it is freezing inside! I'm talking even with your jacket on it's cold - there is barely any leg space (I'm only 5'5 and my knees almost touched the chair in front of me) so I can imagine it's uncomfortable for someone who's tall and it's impossible to get in and out of your row - don't go during the balboa December lights (you'll never find parking...balboa is already busy on most weekends but there was insane traffic during the December lights) - rush to the bathroom right as the show ends if you don't want to end up in a long line Overall, a positive experience!
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Jillian G.

Yelp
Great little theater with amazing actors and fantastic shows! I would highly recommend bringing the family for How the Grinch Stole Christmas. It's a very interactive, yet classic show for everyone!
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Shawnee B.

Yelp
Attended a showing of Shakespeare's Twelfth Night and can't recommend it enough, the whole cast was wonderful. It was my first time at the Old Globe and wasn't expecting two different stages. One is a standard indoor stage and the other (Lowell Davies) is outdoors. I was unaware and didn't dress accordingly. They normally have blankets to rent but due to odd weather, they got wet. Luckily I had a blanket in the car (which you are allowed to bring your own) otherwise it would have been a little rough. That being said, the stage is beautiful! It's amazing to watch a performance and admire the trees and sky above you. Their intermission is a standard time of 15 mins, I would recommend running to the bathroom first then grabbing a drink if you plan to. The line for the restroom got pretty long and the concession had no line. Parking was rough since there was graduations happening on top of construction so plan accordingly. We had an hour to kill to have pre show drinks, take pictures and look at Balboa's famous architecture. They let us in the theater roughly 15 mins before showtime. I would definitely come back for many more shows, just truly beautiful. We're very lucky to have a place like the Old Globe.
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Bert G.

Yelp
Another musical, another Five Star review. "Come Fall In Love", despite the somewhat sappy title, is a very entertaining and upbeat musical production. The singing was excellent, and the choreography was exciting and at times spectacular. As always, the orchestra was masterful. About a family with roots in India, I was concerned that the music might be too traditional. It's not, every song is an original, and each is very modern and upbeat. Predictable tension between a traditional parent and a modern daughter forms the basis for the story. There are some interesting romantic plot twists to watch out for. A great production, and you will leave feeling happy and uplifted. It's that kind of show. Great job, Old Globe.
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Lauralea S.

Yelp
The play, Leonardo DaVinci Notebook was WONDERFUL! The setting was lovely. However, buying a ticket even on the main floor does not guarantee visibility. I ended up sitting behind a man with a VERY large head. Luckily, there were some empty seats to my right so I took the opportunity to move to these seats, with the hope that I wouldn't have to move. I didn't and enjoyed the show. My question is--what can be done about this common occurance? My other question is regarding providing augmentation for those of us who are hard of hearing. I wish there had been a way of viewing the words on a device to enhance our viewing of the play. There was no accommodation for this as far as I could tell.
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Tracie M.

Yelp
We saw A Midsummer Night's Dream recently. I have not been to the Old Globe for many years. Our seats were three rows back from the stage which was perfect. I don't think there is a bad seat in the Lowell Davies theater. The play itself was absolutely incredible. The costumes were delicious, the colors so brilliant. Will definitely be back for more!
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Danielle B.

Yelp
Saw twelfth night recently and it was amazing. The venue is open air so bring a blanket to keep warm. Would love to see another performance here
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P H.

Yelp
Last night we went to see Hair at The Old Globe Lowell Davies Festival Theatre, which is outdoors. Our seats were front row center, but there's not a bad seat in the house. The show was delayed about 45 minutes because of a freak thunder and lightning storm. Luckily there was no rain. I've seen Hair 3 times before and all I can say is that last nights' was "the best production ever." The singing was phenomenal and the music was exceptional. I may be going again before it ends October 3, 2021 I highly recommend it.
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Milly B.

Yelp
I went to see the Grinch with my family, it was a pretty cool experience. The place is beautiful and the production was very well executed. The actors all did an amazing job! I was very surprised to see the kids because they were young but very talented and remebered their lines so wellits a bit pricey but def a good experience. Also plan ahead arrive early because it was pretty busy at Balboa park and we had to find parking and walk a bit.
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Keith A.

Yelp
Nestled in the iconic Balboa part this famous theater is home to the best of the latest cutting edge productions while grounded in the traditional musings of "The Bard" himself. Come experience the transforming experience of live theater in the heart of San Diego.

Max M.

Yelp
I want to love the Old Globe. It is an amazing venue.... Unfortunately , I have tried 3 plays this year at The Old Globe San Diego and I have not enjoyed them. I'll try back in a couple of years.
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Esme A.

Yelp
I went to the Lowell Davies Festival Theater for the first time this weekend to see A Midsummer Night's Dream. The show was incredible! Full house at 8p on a Sunday night. It's a shame reading some prior reviews where 2 out of 600 audience members felt they could not have their minds expanded at an art and cultural event - ironic. The venue is excellent - all seats are close to the stage with great visibility and sound. This show was funny and vibrant and I had so much fun watching. It was truly entertaining. The set was beautifully designed and the colorful costumes added to the fun. My favorite part was the prologue of the play within the play - the music was perfect and watching each cast member watch was hilarious. Yes, one of the four couples in the play is represented by two females and why not?! This play is over 400 hundred years old; life has changed, this story can change too. I definitely recommend this play and venue for all ages.
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Sheila C.

Yelp
Great venue for a show. There are lots of food and drink options available during the show. Everyone is friendly and accommodating. Every seat has a great view. The production and actors were amazing.
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Shay M.

Yelp
What a beautiful theater! There isn't a bad seat in the house. Located in the amazingly gorgeous Balboa Park lies the historic Old Globe Theater. While not cheap, the Old Globe Theater is a wonderful theater that puts on spectacular performances! I recently saw Almost Famous here and I couldn't have been more pleased. Although it was $109 per ticket, it was absolutely worth every penny. This is a splendid venue, tucked in the vast garden that is Balboa Park. There is a nice selection of beverages, alcoholic and non, available at intermission so drink up. Also, the venue did not prevent us from bringing in a few of our own personal water bottles before the show, which was great. Fun fact: Balboa Park is bigger than Central Park in New York. The only downside is the parking. Since there really isn't dedicated parking for the venue, you're likely going to have to walk a long way from your car to the venue. I highly recommend dropping off anyone in your party right outside the venue if they have any issues with walking. Can't wait to return for another play! FYI, tickets to the shows here are a hot commodity so I highly recommend purchasing in advance! Cheers!

Stephanie B.

Yelp
Fantastic!! We were in San Diego visiting and purchased tickets for Cabaret. The show was absolutely amazing! Such a professional theatre. The performers were outstanding, the orchestra was outstanding, the set, the lights- all outstanding. We were so impressed and would 100% attend another show if we are in town again.
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Justin N.

Yelp
Always a class act. Have enjoyed every play or musical we have seen (maybe 12 so far). Most recently, Hair was a fantastic production. Great, great, great that they protect their staff and customers by currently requiring a vaccination or a negative covid test to enter (began late august and currently into Sept). Our hats off to you for making hard decisions for the benefit of the community- thank you. We also have done valet several times- it is pricey ($12 or $17) but it is convenient and nice to not fight for parking in the summer. Highly recommend Old Globe
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Loving San D.

Yelp
We saw the Grinch and were very impressed. The acting was great, the sets were awesome, and you can't beat the allure of being at the Old Globe. It's definitely a San Diego classic worth visiting!
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Jen I.

Yelp
Phenomenal venue that harkens back to the Olde Globe in London. We were blown away by the wonderful version of The Taming of the Shrew.

Robert S.

Yelp
Trouble in mind was not good. Too artificial and too political. I go for entertainment. Left at intermission. Sorry. Robert
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Jose G.

Yelp
Wifey and I bought some tickets for us and her grandma to come watch How the Grinch stole Christmas. We bought our tickets ahead of time, so we had no issues. Parking in Balboa on a weekend is always a challenge, so come early and just hang out in their little courtyard before doors open. Once inside, they kept things pretty organized and bathrooms were fairly easy to access. It was our first time here so my first impression was that it was a fairly small theater, but it wasn't too bad since sometimes too many crying children can spoil a show. The show itself was super cute, and the actors were great. Definitely worth the money. Only thing I would advise would be to bring a jacket... the A/C in this place is top notch and I was freezing towards the end!
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Kate S.

Yelp
Wonderful service especially if you are willing to make the drive and buy your tickets at the window. Very friendly staff!
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Pooja B.

Yelp
I came here to see DDLJ the American version (Come fall in Love) of the Indian movie which is absolutely one of my favorites. It was by word of mouth as I am not so familiar with theaters around San Diego, this was my first show. It was absolutely wonderful. The acoustics and the stage was set up perfectly I had pretty good seats for the cost. The ushers were great, kind and very helpful. The atmosphere outside the globe was like a midsummers dream, I can't describe it but something about going to the theater at the Old Globe. I've been to the Pantages multiple times but this was enlightening, the atmosphere I mean. I decided on valet because I couldn't walk the distance but if you can it's better to walk than paying the $20 parking fee. They were very kind as well as they parked right in the front so I could leave immediately. This was a great evening and I hope there is another play I would be intereste to see.

Corinne H.

Yelp
Twelfth Night was amazing! Cast was phenomenal and venue was perfect:) would def return and recommend!
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Christian L.

Yelp
Neat old theater that's like the Shakespeare Globe in London. In fact; this is its twin! They had hand sanitizers and even some stations to charge your iPhones. All around pretty theater, friendly folks. Rebel review: 5
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Katherine C.

Yelp
My husband and I went to watch "Midsummer nights dream" and we had to leave during the half time. Since when they started using female actress for a male role for intimate scenes? A heavily mixed-up roles made an old classic change its taste, which made us, theater-loving people, very disappointed

tom w.

Yelp
Went to see A Midsummers night dream, last evening . What a disappointment, and a waste of money, We left at intermission. The preformance was a political statement for the in-vogue, woke movement. We get enough of this indoctrination, from kindegarden through high school, and even in college. We go to the theater for entertainment, education and some thought provoking, This preformance was none of these. Wish I could get my money back, and BTW make that 3 out of 600 , try to improve on the Bard, is almost a joke. no matter how expasive our minds. t
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L. D.

Yelp
This past Saturday, wife & I saw a powerful, epic play. "Jitney" (link below) plays at the Old Globe through February 23rd. https://www.theoldglobe.org/pdp/19-20-season/august-wilsons-jitney/#?startDate=2020-02-01&%3FendDate=2020-02-29 What drew us to the play was LA Times review, link below: https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/story/2019-11-25/august-wilson-jitney-mark-taper-forum-review Wife & I were able to get good seats in second row from the stage for $39 each. This low price surprised me when I purchased tickets online. Then when we got to the theater, we noticed some empty seats. This seemed strange considering stature of this play. Side note, I always attend 2pm matinee showings as I don't like 8pm start times. Normally when we attend matinees, we seem to be youngsters among the 80-year-old audience. Not true at Jitney, this was a younger and more diverse audience. Jitney is written by playwright, August Wilson (link below). Noteworthy is August won two Pulitzer Prizes! https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/August_Wilson Honestly, this is one of the more memorable plays I've ever seen. Wife and I were seated to far left facing the stage and in second row. We loved these seats as we could see raw emotion up close. The play orientation seemed to flow to these seats. Given choice of sitting further back to view entire set, I'd choose up front to see and feel the emotions. Most tickets are in the $80 to $110 range. Yet there are still a few of the cheaper seats still available. I looked at 2pm shows weekend of 15th-16th and saw a few cheaper seats up front on the side, rows A and P4. Or you can choose better seats more centered. Please see Jitney before it ends, you will love the play!
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David H.

Yelp
Come fall in love was a phenomenal play that my wife and I attended at the old Globe theater. The production value, acting and music and singing especially were world class. I highly recommend "come fall in love" for a first time theater experience or a seasoned attendee.
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Devi K.

Yelp
Love this theater. The productions are fantastic and there really isn't a bad seat in the house! I've seen several shows in their three theaters over the years, and each theater is charming in its own way. I love the intimacy of the Sheryl & Harvey White theater-in-the-round. There are just 5 rows around the theater, and the view is amazing from all seats. I also love the Donald and Darlene Shiley stage. The seats are comfortable and they have plenty of booster seats available so kids can get a better view. The orchestra seating goes to row M, and the view is great even at row M. The outdoor theater is nice, too, though the seats are narrow. Today my family went to see The Grinch on the Shiley stage and it was fabulous! Such a great production! I see us going back again in the years to come! Parking can be an issue depending on day and time. I've always found free parking near the Spreckel's amphitheatre, but if there's another event happening, PLAN for it. You can also do valet at The Prado or book valet through the Old Globe when purchasing or upto 48 hours prior to the show. Also the traffic getting there from North County for a 7pm show can be (and was today) a nightmare. So plan for that, too! Enjoy the show!

Barrett C.

Yelp
Tried subscribing, wasn't happy with assigned tickets, but not to worry: Ed called and fixed things immediately. Understandable, as they get back to normal. The Old Globe is a fantastic theater and everything here is top quality. Highly recommended! Seen so many great productions here, Almost Famous (and met Cameron Crowe there!), Allegiance, Kiss Me Kate (3 times!), etc. The Lorax was amazing two years ago. Please bring it back! Thanks again to Ed and the great Old Globe staff.
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Martha P.

Yelp
For years my dad has been giving me a set of plays for my birthday and Christmas, I'm rarely disappointed, the season before the current was slightly disappointing but that's probably due to it being the first one back since covid. This season is amazing, and they are doing an amazing job at taking older plays and making them work in a modern world, this is shown very well with the current "Dial M for Murder" and "A Midsummers Nights Dream" the prices really can't be beat, the most I get tickets for is $60-something and there's never really a bad seat.
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Jen G.

Yelp
Located near Balboa Park and the Air & Space Museum, this gem was another new discovery thanks to my #YES Karen N. (lucky charm) and Isabella B. They won 4 tickets to the Huey Luis musical, The Heart of Rock & Roll, and brought me & my bestie, Susan M., as their Plus Ones! Plenty of free parking, you just have to walk a bit. But there needs to be signage & better lighting for walking back to your car afterwards. I had to use my iPhone flashlight. This poor lady was lost and couldn't see, so Susan. M. & I gave her a ride circling around each parking lot until we found her car. Good thing neither of us were bad guys with a gun. In hindsight, neither parties were probably too bright to do that. Remember the lesson, don't get into cars with strangers?!? TIP: try to pee here and not the bathroom en route to the parking lot. That one was the most disgusting bathroom I've ever been in. Seats could be a wee bit more comfy & updated. Same goes for the bathroom. It was decent just a bit worn. But still pretty much Jen G. Approved, unlike the ones by the parking lots. Having said that, the outside of the theater is charming & has lots of great photo opps for #YelphieSelfie Time! I know the review is for the actual venue, but I just gotta say if you get a chance to see the musical, do it. It's one of the best shows I've seen. Should be turned into a TV musical movie! I loved it. The show was 5 stars. I'd come back here for shows & events! Had a great time with my Yelp Elite Sistas!
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Michael L.

Yelp
My time here was fantastic. Came on a Sunday to see the matinee for How the Grinch Stole Christmas and the staff/ manager were so accommodating to the children and elders of their needs that it really warmed my soul. The building is beautiful and the seats are pretty comfortable. They put on shows every year and are all family friendly. The seating is limited because it's a smaller venue but makes it all so much more intimate. Also, ticket prices are pretty reasonable for San Diego. Lorax is coming in the spring so be prepared and keep a look out for tickets! I will definitely be back for another show for the holidays.

Dean Z.

Yelp
I have been attending the OG for 45 years. They need to revisit their management/policies. One day they will need new blue hairs to be in business (that's me shortly). Alienating a significant portion of the population will have long term repercussions. I will not be taking my family until changes are made. Additionally, I will make sure fellow patrons are made aware of their tactics to divide our community who have been supporters. You have a stage but this type of theater will put you out of business.
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Gayle P.

Yelp
My cousin wanted to see a play here since she'd never been before. Musicals are one of my all-time favorite pastimes, so it was a no-brainer to go with her. We saw "Dr. Seuss's How the Grinch Stole Christmas!". This show apparently is an annual show, or so it seems to be, according to our Lyft driver who had grown up in SD, and saw the same play when he was younger... which come to think of it makes me question how old he really was haha. Anyway, the actor that played the Grinch was amazing, he was super Jim Carrey-esque and was enjoyable the entire time. The cast of kiddos were amazing too. It really made me miss stage acting and theatre. There are not a lot of seats in the place, so come ON TIME, otherwise, you won't get to sit at the seats you paid for. It's a small theatre so wherever you sit, you get a good view in my opinion. Sound in the theatre is good, no complaints there. Bathrooms are outside. Parking, I think is free. We took a ride-share. There are snack vendors outside, and all the amenities of Balboa Park if you come early or want to hang out after the show. The runtime for the play was about 1.5 hours, not too long. I thoroughly enjoyed it, and just in time for the holidays!
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Giena L.

Yelp
I've seen a musical and a Shakespeare play here. Their programs are varied, as well as their venues. They have an indoor theater and the "festival" theatre which is outdoors. The have concessions outside, which do serve beer and wine (that won me over). Staff is friendly and helpful. Pretty much any seat you get, is great. You can kill time before or after with a walk through Balboa park too. Also, if you're under the age of 30, they have a great program called "20 under 30," where you can get tickets to shows (they have specific times and days) for $20!
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Sandra M.

Yelp
Recently came here to watch the play American Mariachi. This was my first time here too! I really like the layout of the theater and I also like that it's smaller making it a little bit more intimate. Our seats were on the second floor in the balcony area and we had a great view, the seats were not as comfortable, but they were not terrible either. There is a small cafe outside and they sell snacks, drinks, and couple of small items such as soups, salads. Me and my friend got there pretty early, so I ended up getting a hot chocolate and she got a soup with a salad and a cider. I didn't get to try the food, but my friend did say she really liked it. The play was great, the actors did a really good job. I really enjoyed it because I was able to relate to the music. I grew up listening to mariachi bands at all the main family gatherings so it was nice to get a little taste of mariachi out here. I love that the theater is located in Balboa Park because you can always plan on walking at the park before or after any show or even grabbing a bite at one of the nearby restaurants. Looking forward to watching more shows at the Old Globe.