California isn’t just about sunshine and surf — it’s also home to some of the most iconic and historic theatres in the United States. From opulent movie palaces that harken back to the Golden Age of Hollywood to modern architectural wonders and intimate stages for Broadway-style shows, the Golden State offers a vibrant and diverse theatre scene.
Here are the 10 best and most famous theatres in California that continue to entertain, inspire, and captivate audiences.
1. Pantages Theatre – Hollywood
Located on Hollywood Boulevard, the Pantages Theatre is a stunning Art Deco masterpiece that opened in 1930. Originally a movie palace, it now serves as one of Los Angeles’ top venues for Broadway musicals, concerts, and live performances. With seating for over 2,700 people, its glamorous interior and star-studded history make it a must-visit for theatre lovers.
2. Dolby Theatre – Hollywood
The Dolby Theatre, famous worldwide as the home of the Academy Awards, is located at the Hollywood & Highland Center. Opened in 2001, it was designed specifically for live television events. With a sleek, modern aesthetic and a capacity of 3,400 seats, it hosts concerts, lectures, dance performances, and touring Broadway shows year-round.
3. War Memorial Opera House – San Francisco
One of the most elegant venues in Northern California, the War Memorial Opera House in San Francisco opened in 1932. It is home to both the San Francisco Ballet and San Francisco Opera. Designed in a Beaux-Arts style, it stands as a cultural landmark and offers acoustically rich experiences for classical music and opera fans.
4. Hollywood Bowl – Los Angeles
An iconic open-air amphitheater nestled in the Hollywood Hills, the Hollywood Bowl has hosted the biggest names in music and performance since 1922. Known for its distinctive band shell and scenic backdrop, it seats over 17,000 guests. From orchestras to pop concerts and live film score events, it offers an unforgettable California experience.
5. Ahmanson Theatre – Los Angeles
Located at The Music Center in Downtown Los Angeles, the Ahmanson Theatre is a major venue for large-scale theatrical productions, including national tours of Broadway hits. It opened in 1967 and is part of one of the largest performing arts centers in the U.S. The theatre is known for premiering new plays and musicals before they reach Broadway.
6. Berkeley Repertory Theatre – Berkeley
A cornerstone of California’s artistic innovation, the Berkeley Repertory Theatre (or “Berkeley Rep”) has earned a national reputation for producing provocative, original, and high-quality theatre. Founded in 1968, it has hosted several world premieres and is known for developing works that go on to Broadway or Off-Broadway success.
7. Geffen Playhouse – Los Angeles
The Geffen Playhouse in Westwood offers a more intimate setting, with under 600 seats, and focuses on thought-provoking plays and storytelling. Opened in 1995 and housed in a historic building from 1929, the theatre has become a cultural staple in LA’s Westside, attracting both rising talent and A-list performers.
8. Fox Theater – Oakland
The Fox Theater in Oakland is a beautifully restored 1928 movie palace that now functions as a major concert and performance venue. With its lavish Middle Eastern and Indian-inspired architecture, the 2,800-seat theater provides a dramatic setting for live music, comedy, and cultural events. It’s one of Northern California’s top entertainment destinations.
9. Segerstrom Center for the Arts – Costa Mesa
Located in Orange County, the Segerstrom Center for the Arts is a premier complex that houses multiple venues, including the 3,000-seat Segerstrom Hall. Since its opening in 1986, it has hosted Broadway shows, international ballets, orchestras, and world-class opera productions. Its sleek, contemporary design sets it apart in Southern California.
10. La Jolla Playhouse – La Jolla
Founded in 1947 by Hollywood actors including Gregory Peck, the La Jolla Playhouse is renowned for its commitment to new work and theatrical innovation. It has been the birthplace of several Tony Award-winning productions, including Jersey Boys and Come From Away. Its beautiful location on the UC San Diego campus makes it a creative haven for artists and theatre fans alike.
Conclusion
California’s theatres reflect the state’s deep love of the performing arts, from historic movie palaces in Los Angeles to avant-garde stages in the Bay Area. Whether you’re catching a Broadway hit in Hollywood or discovering a groundbreaking new play in Berkeley, these iconic theatres offer a unique experience that blends cultural richness with world-class entertainment. Whether you’re a lifelong theatre buff or a curious traveler, these ten venues promise unforgettable performances in unforgettable settings.