San Francisco has a long history as a thriving community for theater, and the area has dozens of high-quality theater venues. A number of San Francisco theaters have won Regional Tony Awards. San Francisco even has its own unique style of improv comedy, where the shows will last for two hours, include an intermission, and follow a single story.

San Francisco frequently hosts productions before they move to Broadway. Many famous Broadway shows got their start in San Francisco. Some of those plays include American Idiot, Fences, Legally Blonde, Mama Mia, and Wicked.

If shows have already made it to Broadway, they’ll often come on tour to San Francisco and play at either the Golden Gate Theatre or the Orpheum Theatre. Disney’s Aladdin, The Color Purple, School of Rock, On Your Feet, and Waitress are some of the plays that make up the venues’ 2017-18 seasons. The Golden Gate Theatre dates back to 1922. It originally opened as a vaudeville house and was later converted into a movie theater. The theater went into decline during the 1970s and was ultimately renovated at the end of the decade. When it opened its doors again, the Golden Gate Theatre became one of San Francisco’s most important performing arts venues.

If you head down Market Street a little ways, you’ll find another of San Francisco’s most important venues: the Orpheum Theatre. The original Orpheum Theatre was built in 1926, and the venue was renovated in the late 1990s to make it more suitable for Broadway theater. The Broadway hit Mama Mia! was first performed at the Orpheum. You might also see the venue referred to as SHN Orpheum Theatre, after its owners. The Orpheum seats over 2000 guests.

Looking for something more kid friendly? Both Oakland’s Oracle Arena and San Jose’s SAP Center host productions of Disney on Ice.

What’s the best place to see theater in San Francisco?

If you’re looking for a Broadway show, your best bets are the Orpheum or the Golden Gate Theatre, but you can also check out any of the city’s dozen or more options. You might even get to see the next big thing before it goes to Broadway.

What theater is happening in San Francisco this weekend?

Our “Events this Weekend” section can show you listings and tickets for San Francisco’s theater options over the weekend. Scroll up to check it out.

Tips

Don’t restrict yourself to only seeing shows you’ve heard about from Broadway. San Francisco is also well known for its improv theater, and many shows that start in San Fran make their way to Broadway. The city’s many theaters also put on Shakespeare plays and other genres that aren’t as common.

How much will I pay to see theater in San Francisco?

San Francisco is one of the top theater destinations in the country, with a wide variety of venues and performances. Fans of all types are able to find a price point they’re comfortable with. For a look at ticket prices for upcoming theater, scroll to the top of the page and see events today, this weekend, and this week.

What show should I see while I’m in San Francisco?

You’ll have a lot of options. San Francisco itself is home to many theaters, and neighboring cities like San Jose and Oakland have theater scenes as well. Explore the listings above to see what’s available. You can look through shows happening tonight, this weekend, and further in the future. You can also visit our Theater Page for all available shows.

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