The Old Globe

The Old Globe San Diego: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Nestled in the heart of San Diego’s Balboa Park, the Old Globe Theatre stands as a beacon of theatrical excellence and cultural heritage. Since its founding in 1935 as a replica of Shakespeare’s original Globe, the Old Globe has evolved into one of California’s most respected not-for-profit theaters. Its impact extends beyond the stage, influencing San Diego’s cultural identity and serving as a cornerstone of the city’s vibrant arts scene. This guide provides a detailed look at the Old Globe’s history, notable productions, visitor information, and tips for making the most of your trip to this iconic San Diego landmark.

The Old Globe: History and Cultural Legacy
Visiting the Old Globe Theatre
Community Engagement and Achievements
2025 Season Highlights
Visitor FAQs
Conclusion
References

The Old Globe: History and Cultural Legacy

Origins and Early Years (1935–1946)

Constructed in 1935 as a temporary venue for the California Pacific International Exposition, the Old Globe Theatre was designed in just 31 days to replicate Shakespeare’s original Globe Theatre (San Diego Magazine). Initially, it hosted abridged Shakespeare plays, captivating exposition visitors and laying the groundwork for a permanent theatrical institution (SDSU Archives).

After the exposition, the local community raised funds to preserve the structure, and in 1937, the San Diego Community Theatre was established to oversee its transformation into a year-round cultural venue. The theater reopened that December, marking the start of its continuous operation as a vital part of San Diego’s arts landscape.

Growth and Professionalization (1947–1977)

Under the visionary leadership of Craig Noel, who became artistic director in 1947, the Old Globe expanded its repertoire and stature (San Diego Magazine). The launch of the San Diego National Shakespeare Festival in 1949, in partnership with San Diego State University, brought professional actors to the stage and established the Old Globe as a pioneering regional theater (SDSU Archives). Physical growth continued with the conversion of the Falstaff Tavern into the Cassius Carter Centre Stage in 1969, enhancing programming diversity and educational outreach.

Resilience and Renewal (1978–1985)

The Old Globe’s history is marked by remarkable resilience. Devastating arson fires in 1978 and 1984 destroyed major facilities, but each tragedy was met with swift community action and rebuilding efforts (San Diego Magazine). The main theater was reconstructed and reopened in 1982, while the Lowell Davies Festival Theatre rose in 1985, ensuring the continuation of beloved traditions like the Summer Shakespeare Festival (SDSU Archives).

Expansion and National Recognition (1986–Present)

The Globe’s post-reconstruction period has been defined by innovation and national acclaim. It premiered groundbreaking works like Into the Woods, which transferred to Broadway, and has been the launching pad for over 20 shows that made it to Broadway or Off-Broadway (The Old Globe Official Site). As of 2014, the complex includes the Old Globe Theatre, Lowell Davies Festival Theatre, and Sheryl and Harvey White Theatre, with nearly 1,500 seats in total. The Globe’s productions attract over 250,000 attendees annually and have earned 77 Tony Award nominations and 13 Tony Awards (GBSan; Wikipedia).

Visiting the Old Globe Theatre

Hours and Ticketing

Box Office Hours: Monday–Saturday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM; Sundays, noon–4:00 PM (hours may vary on performance days and holidays).
Showtimes: Evening performances typically start at 7:30 PM; matinees are offered on select weekends and holidays.
Tickets: Purchase online (Old Globe Box Office), by phone, or in person. Prices start around $30; discounts are available for students, seniors, military, and groups.

For up-to-date hours and ticketing details, always check the official Old Globe website.

Accessibility

The Old Globe is fully ADA-compliant, offering wheelchair seating, accessible restrooms, and assistive listening devices. For specific accommodations, contact the box office in advance (The Old Globe Accessibility).

Guided Tours and Education

Guided Tours: Available by appointment; check the website for current offerings.
Educational Programs: Workshops, student matinees, and community engagement programs are offered year-round (The Old Globe Official Site).

Travel Tips and Nearby Attractions

Location: In Balboa Park, between the San Diego Museum of Art and the Museum of Us (Balboa Park), with easy access to gardens, museums, and the San Diego Zoo.
Parking: Free in Balboa Park lots, but spaces fill quickly—arrive early or consider public transportation. The Balboa Park tram offers convenient on-site travel.
Dining: The Lady Carolyn Pub offers refreshments before shows and during intermission; nearby restaurants like The Prado are ideal for a pre- or post-theatre meal (Go Visit San Diego).

Photo Opportunities

The Globe’s Tudor-style architecture, lush gardens, and scenic surroundings make it a favorite spot for photos, especially at the outdoor plazas and Festival Stage.

Community Engagement and Achievements

Artistic Impact and Awards

Broadway Success: Over 20 productions have transferred to Broadway or Off-Broadway, earning 13 Tony Awards, including Dirty Rotten Scoundrels and The Full Monty (GBSan; The Old Globe Achievements).
Notable Leadership: Artistic Director Jack O’Brien and founding visionary Craig Noel helped elevate the Globe to national prominence (SDSU Archives).
Tony Award: The Old Globe received the Tony Award for Outstanding Regional Theatre in 1984 (Wikipedia).

Signature Events and Educational Outreach

Dr. Seuss’ “How the Grinch Stole Christmas!”: An annual family favorite.
Shakespeare Festival: Running since 1949, it is a mainstay of the Globe’s summer programming (SDSU Archives).
Educational Initiatives: Globe Education Tours, Thinking Shakespeare Live!, and workshops for all ages (BroadwayWorld).

Resilience and Evolution

Rebuilding After Arson: Two major fires (1978, 1984) led to community-driven reconstruction and modernization of the complex.
Campus Expansion: The 2009 opening of the Conrad Prebys Theatre Center and ongoing improvements keep the Globe at the forefront of American theater (The Old Globe History).

2025 Season Highlights

The Old Globe’s 2025 season continues its tradition of innovation and diversity, featuring world premieres, Shakespearean classics, comedies, and musicals (BroadwayWorld; Go Visit San Diego).

Major Productions:

Appropriate (Jan 25 – Feb 23, 2025): San Diego premiere.
One of the Good Ones (May 24 – June 22, 2025): Heartwarming family comedy.
All’s Well That Ends Well (June 8 – July 6, 2025): Shakespeare in the Festival Theatre.
Noises Off, Deceived, Huzzah!, SMALL, and more.

Venues: Donald and Darlene Shiley Stage, Lowell Davies Festival Theatre, and Sheryl and Harvey White Theatre.

Tickets: Start at $30; season subscriptions from $125 for five plays. Discounts for groups, students, military, and seniors.

Visitor FAQs

Q: What are the Old Globe’s visiting hours?
A: Box office hours are Monday–Saturday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM, Sundays noon–4:00 PM. Showtimes vary; check the official website.

Q: How do I buy tickets?
A: Tickets are available online, by phone, or at the box office.

Q: Is the theatre accessible?
A: Yes; wheelchair seating, assistive listening devices, and accessible restrooms are provided.

Q: Are tours available?
A: Guided tours are offered by appointment—see the website for scheduling details.

Q: What else is nearby?
A: The San Diego Museum of Art, Museum of Us, San Diego Zoo, and many gardens and restaurants within Balboa Park.

Conclusion

The Old Globe Theatre is more than a venue—it’s a living testament to San Diego’s cultural vitality and a national leader in theatrical innovation. From its historic roots and resilience in the face of adversity to its continued artistic achievements, the Globe stands as a must-visit destination for locals and travelers alike. Whether you’re enjoying a world-class performance, participating in an educational workshop, or exploring Balboa Park’s cultural treasures, the Old Globe promises a memorable and inspiring experience.

Plan your visit, explore the 2025 season, and immerse yourself in the rich tradition where history and innovation meet on stage. For the latest shows, ticket information, and exclusive content, download the Audiala app and follow The Old Globe on social media.