San Diego Civic Theatre Events

The San Diego Civic Theatre is the region’s largest and most popular venue for the performing arts! Since 1965 the theatre has played host to some of the world’s greatest concerts, dance performances, operas, comedy shows, and Broadway productions.

Latest schedule of events for the San Diego Civic Theatre. View listings and purchase tickets for the upcoming events.

This site links to resale tickets for events at the San Diego Civic Theatre in San Diego, California. This site is not an official ticket seller or box office. 

Broadway Shows

Moulin Rouge

What to expect

The Civic Theatre blends perfectly into the surrounding buildings of downtown San Diego. Outside, the tree-lined area and blue skies make the area feel light and fresh. A billboard informs visitors of upcoming shows, and the stone and glass exterior gives a modern feel.

Once you enter the impressive entrance hall, the grandeur hits you. A huge chandelier hangs from the ceiling, giving the crimson decor a classy glow. From here, you’ll go through security checks and be directed to your seating section.

Only once you enter the building do you appreciate its size. Thanks to the continental-style seating – with no central aisle – the rows feel very long. The sweeping balconies overhead add to that classic theater feel, all surrounding the large stage area.

Whether in the lower Orchestra section or the raised balconies, you’ll have excellent views and sound. A recent acoustic upgrade introduced new speakers around the venue, and the natural acoustics are also outstanding.

Whether you want to see a Broadway-style performance or a ballet, the San Diego Civic Theatre has something for everyone. Its impressive acoustics and seating arrangement means there’s plenty of choice when booking to see your favorite show or performance. But what can you expect when you walk through those famous doors?

Design and atmosphere

Stepping into the San Diego Civic Theatre on a performance night is an experience that blends grandeur with excitement. As the city’s leading venue for Broadway shows, opera, ballet, and live performances, it offers a sophisticated and immersive night out. 

From the moment patrons arrive, there’s an undeniable sense of anticipation. The beautifully lit marquee welcomes guests, and as they enter through the grand doors, they are met with the elegant architecture, rich detailing, and a warm ambience that define its timeless charm. Its historic yet well-maintained interiors, with plush carpets, soaring ceilings, and golden accents, create a regal atmosphere, setting the stage for an unforgettable evening.

Performances and acoustics

Once seated, guests will notice the carefully designed acoustics, which ensure a world-class auditory experience. The venue was constructed with sound quality in mind, allowing music, vocals, and dialogue to resonate beautifully no matter where one is seated. Whether it’s the soaring high notes of an opera singer, the delicate melodies of a ballet performance, or the booming theatrics of a Broadway musical, every sound is crisp and immersive.

The acoustics enhance the emotional weight of performances, making dramatic moments even more powerful and musical scores even more moving. Unlike many modern venues, where sound can sometimes feel overwhelming or uneven, the San Diego Civic Theatre strikes a perfect balance, allowing for clarity and depth that elevate the overall performance.

Those booking tickets to a performance can expect not just a show but a luxurious, fully immersive experience from start to finish. The auditorium offers comfort, grandeur, and artistic excellence, ensuring every visitor leaves with lasting memories. Whether it’s a first-time attendee or a seasoned theater lover, the San Diego Civic Theatre continues to dazzle, inspire, and bring the magic of live entertainment to life in a welcoming and magnificent setting.

On your visit, allow plenty of time to pass security. Lines can be pretty long, so it’s best to avoid missing the start of the show. If you pass through quickly, there are plenty of refreshment outlets inside. Please remember to bring a debit card, credit card, or mobile payment app, as the San Diego Civic Theatre is a cashless venue.

Your experience will vary by show. Some may be long enough to require intermissions, while others are shorter. Please check your event page when booking tickets for more runtime information.