The Old Globe theater is a cultural staple of the arts in San Diego, hosting plays and musicals ranging from timeless classics to contemporary shows and first-run new works. Annually more than 250,000 attendees enjoy performances or participate in the Old Globe theater's arts engagement programs.
The Simon Edison Centre for the Performing Arts complex is composed of three separate theaters offering different experiences across each stage. Whether you’re interested in a classical Shakespeare performance, a lively modern musical, or a family-friendly show, the Old Globe offers a diverse year-round slate of productions.
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Highlights of the Old Globe
The historic Old Globe is a multi-story space modeled after Shakespeare’s Old Globe in London, housing a generous stage and great acoustics. Intimate performances are hosted in the Sheryl and Harvey White Theatre, a unique theater-in-the-round space where the audience surrounds the stage on all sides. Open-air performances are offered in the Lowell Davies Festival Theatre, a large outdoor amphitheater.
A long legacy of award-winning titles have been produced at the Old Globe, including "A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder," "Allegiance," "Bright Star," "Dirty Rotten Scoundrels," "The Full Monty," and "Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas!"
photo by Bernard Gagnon (CC BY-SA 3.0) modified
Good to know when visiting the Old Globe
Each summer the Old Globe hosts its annual Shakespeare Festival, honoring the theater’s long legacy of producing quality Shakespeare productions. Attendees travel from around the country to enjoy outdoor performances under the stars in Balboa Park. The Old Globe also offers numerous summer education and outreach programs to the public in conjunction with the Shakespeare Festival.
Diverse engagement programs, tours, and workshops are hosted year-round as part of the Old Globe’s commitment to making theater arts accessible to the community. Free cultural events led by local artists and craftspeople are often held on the Globe’s outdoor plaza.
photo by Roman Eugeniusz (CC BY-SA 3.0) modified
Old Globe
Location: 1363 Old Globe Way, San Diego, CA 92101, USA
Open: Hours vary based on showtimes
Phone: +1 619-234-5623