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The Pasadena Playhouse
39 S El Molino Ave, Pasadena, CA 91101, United States
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Ul
Review №1

This theater has now become one of my favorites. I went to see Little Shop of Horrors. The production was phenomenal and the offerings for future productions looks really promising. I cannot wait to visit again. All the seats are good seats as the theater is small and intimate. The seats are not super crammed and there is lots of leg room.

Ji
Review №2

We watched Its a Wonderful Life and it was such a great experience. The theater itself is cozy and theyre doesnt seem to be a bad seat in the house. Lighting, sound, performances were all superb. We will definitely come back again.

Ch
Review №3

Being a new Pasadena resident I was excited to experience the Pasadena Playhouse for the first time.Parking was available across the street in a structure for $5. Easy in, easy out.The building itself was historical and very appropriate for a musical location. I had never heard of Ragtime, the musical so I wasnt sure what to expect.Once seated, youll notice right away the small stage and freight boxes stacked on top of one another. Lets just say, they do know how to do so much with so little! The stage was transformed into different scenes and done with good taste.The talent was amazing! Ive been to Wicked and the talent of everyone was right on par with that. I would definitely return, with friends toting along!

Kr
Review №4

Intimate theater setting. Fairly casual. Saw Alfred Molina as The Father. He was excellent and the rest of the cast did a great job. Take a second to check out the ceiling. It looks like a tile mosaic, but its actually an intricate burlap canvas.

Le
Review №5

Such a delight to have a delicious dinner next door & then see a great play on a Summer evening! Good Boys was wonderfully written and acted. Very intense, and disturbing story - but timely and poignant.

jc
Review №6

A small little play house on top of a Mexican restaurant. Perfect date night, have dinner and a few drinks at the restaurant then walk upstairs to the playhouse. Chairs are comfortable and you feel like you are in the middle of the play. The tickets were around $40 a piece and it was well worth it. Its open seating so come early to get the best seats.

My
Review №7

My husband and I saw The Great Leap as part of our anniversary celebration. The Playhouse is beautiful. It definitely has kept its vintage charm. Love the stage, seats are comfortable and staff is so welcoming, accommodating and helpful!

Da
Review №8

Such a great spot! We found tickets on TodayTix for Ragtime and loved it. A Pasadena staple with truly unexpected talent.

La
Review №9

Great play to see a play. I enjoy sitting in the balcony. Best to use the bathroom across the street. Figure out where you are going to park before you leave. Tons of restaurants around the Playhouse to eat at.

Do
Review №10

Old traditional theater with many architectural touches. We saw the Great Leap by Lauren Yee. Great play combining humanity and social change. The theater was a perfect venue. No parking lot, so come early to find parking and enjoy the restaurants.

Jo
Review №11

This theater is gorgeous, and the area surrounding it is lovely. It feels like old Pasadena mixed with modern amenities, and I love the symbiotic relationship that the theater has with the neighboring businesses (most especially Trejos Tacos). The parking garage directly across the street is very convenient and couldnt be easier to access due to the flashing pedestrian crosswalk. Looking forward to attending another performance here.

Rr
Review №12

Charming playhouse with a grand hall and a smaller theatre where we saw Bob Bakers puppet version of Nutcracker. The show itself was a gem and a treat for the kids. Staff at the ticket office are friendly. The outdoor courtyard is a beautiful place to relax and enjoy time before and after the show

Jo
Review №13

Nice historical theatre. The set design for Little Shop of Horrors was amazing. Hope to see more wonderful productions like that here

An
Review №14

One of the best close up places to see a play. The father was amazing play and this venue made so much so.

Sa
Review №15

Saw the production of Our Town by Deaf West and it was awesome. Beautiful theatre and great views!

Al
Review №16

Pasadena Playhouse block party is annual event that is free to the public. The event well organized and very safe. The isolated 2 blocks and an alleyway with vendors, crafts, small food court, and 2 music stages. All is fine though wish more vendors had variety and diversity. The items looked same at other venues. The music was real good and local galleries and boutiques were open to showcase their items. Its fun to spend a few hours with family, friends, or by yourself at the annual event.On a side note - Saturday, June 8, 2019 was very hot so be prepared to bring water, sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes. The organizes provided free water and had some shaded areas but it never hurts to be prepared.

Ar
Review №17

I saw PIRATES OF PANZAN and I got a cheap floor seat just in case I didnt like it. I didnt know what to expect and I had a blast. The play was great and the audience on the floor became part of the play. We moved like playing musical chairs as the play revolved around us. I laughed during the play and went home with a big smile on my face.

Sh
Review №18

Went with a few friends and had an amazing time. Parking was a little hectic but aside from that it was a good location and the performance was incredible.

ja
Review №19

The Father was an amazing play. Alfred Molina was spectacular.

Wh
Review №20

Visited the Pasadena Playhouse and had the chance to see Ladies In Vaudeville

J.
Review №21

This was my first visit to the playhouse and it was pretty amazing. I saw Its a Wonderful Life presented as a radio drama. So this is a review for the anxious individual. The aisle seats are the best. The seats are average size, very comfortable, and similar to the older movie theater seats. The venue is small and I would compare it to an elementary school auditorium when considering the distance you will be from the stage. Since the stage is raised you will have a wonderful view as the seats are tiered. The website says that restroom breaks are only allowed during intermission but I asked and the attendant said I could re-enter if I left during the performance. The restroom for women has only 4 stalls so there is a bit of a line before the start of the play. Parking is directly across and in an underground parking lot. $5 flat fee and closes at 11 p.m. There are also public restrooms in the building above the parking garage. They are very clean and less crowed than the ones at the playhouse.

Fe
Review №22

It is a reference when you are looking for a good play to enjoy in the city.

Ju
Review №23

Fantastic venue. Stunning architecture. Incredible show. I attend a lot of theatre and highly recommend this venue.

Na
Review №24

We enjoyed the Christmas program so much. This space has a charm that is undeniable.

Ra
Review №25

Very good production of Little Shop of Horrors. Talented cast who had fun. Had some difficulty catching all the lyrics. I recommend seeing this musical.

Ja
Review №26

Great medium-sized theater venue (686 seats) for plays and musicals, etc. Currently showing through December 23, 2018 is Its A Wonderful Life with Simon Helberg of The Big Bang Theory. Its A Wonderful Life is done as a live radio play with the other talented cast members Rebecca Mozo, Rob Nagle, Haneefah Wood and Ryun Yu. The whole production is a treat and fun to watch! $5 parking was available in the covered stucture directly across the street from the Pasadena Playhouse, entrance on El Molino Ave., for Saturday performances.

An
Review №27

I saw little shop of horrors tonight for the first time, and also my first time at the Pasadena playhouse. It was beyond amazing! The location is simply beautiful and the attendants were so nice and accommodating.

No
Review №28

The production was really impressive and great. Clean and well maintained too. The actors and actresses were really talented.

PR
Review №29

This is simply an amazing event, seeing The Nutcracker performed by Marionettes in a very traditional format. MUST SEE!

Lu
Review №30

Fabulous old style theater. Excellent productions!

Da
Review №31

What a beautiful theater and the people who I encountered working there made it all the more better. I saw a ragtime and it was wonderful. The production here are great. Everybody should come here to experience this place.

do
Review №32

The musical was super. Perfectly casted and audience totally the performance. Comfortable seating

Ru
Review №33

Small cozy theater that has all seats having a good view of the stage. The one missing star is due to ackward bathrooms. Lots of food choices near by as well.

ch
Review №34

GREAT CAST... poorly adapted to current day. Virtually ALL of Audrey’s comic moments are LOST because MJ is not wearing overtly tacky outfits & has zero connection to the 1950’s. “Somewhere That’s Green” should have been rewritten to have modern day references. Apparently there was not the writing talent to accomplish this.Also, I’m a puppetry fan but after seeing multiple productions of Little Shop I know that the technology is out there... for one thing, to have the giant plant swallow a live actress. The show starts STRONG but the finale is pretty lame. The potted Audrey II never grows!

Ma
Review №35

Visited the Pasadena Playhouse last month to see Tiny Beautiful Things and was blown away by not only the acting, but by the beauty and intimacy of the venue.Throughout the duration of the show I was overcome by emotions that I didnt know I had. There were parts of the play that made me laugh, parts that made me angry, sad, sick and even helpless. Shout out at the actors and everyone else who put this show together. I couldnt of asked for more.The arrangement of the theatre was nice as well. It was small enough to feel the audiences presence, yet large enough where every seat had the perfect view of the stage. Ive been looking for other shows to check out here so....until next time.

m
Review №36

Very nice venue. Very relaxed atmosphere. And a really nice downtown setting with plenty of nearby restaurants and cafes. Parking is a short walk across the street and is only $5 for the theater.There seems to be decent legroom and the seats were comfortable compared to other theaters

ca
Review №37

What a wonderful theater

De
Review №38

Old playhouse nice outing saw The Father

Ce
Review №39

What a classy venue! Such classy people supporting it! Went recently to see a spooky play there. From the Mgr as well as help staff we were made to feel very welcome. The venue is a state landmark and several people there were willing to share some of the history as well with us. We took note of the unique California period architecture. The open welcoming area done in Spanish cool tiles. The plastered interior and quaint main sitting area. This is a quiet gem any lover of theater or performing arts will really enjoy. They had refreshments and snacks also in the entry area. We opted for one of the local coffee shops (excellent, btw) a stones throw away instead.

Te
Review №40

Saw Little Shop of Horrors here on my birthday, it was a great show, had a great time, and everything was very organized, no long lines or waiting to get in and seated.

Sh
Review №41

Great place to watch plays. Modernized, but maintains its historic charm.Ive been here many times and all of the performances Ive seen have been excellent.

Ca
Review №42

Pasadena Playhouse definitely a historic theater. There is a restaurant on site and a bar at the courtyard. Mid size 2 levels theater, very intimate, every seat is a good seat.All the performers have great voice! Good production~The theater is selling parking for $4. Private parking lots nearby $3-$5 depends on the shows.

Br
Review №43

Fantastic historic venue that is a mirror facsimile of the Tucson Temple of Music and Art (or vice versa). A classic West coast opera house.

ma
Review №44

What a great place to see and enjoy live plays .I always have good fun at this venue a real gem in LA .

Sa
Review №45

It was wonderful and beautiful and 100 years old! Outstanding acoustics!

An
Review №46

Any where you sit is a great seat.

Dh
Review №47

Nice old fashioned theater

Ti
Review №48

Theres really not a bad seat in the house. Parking for $5 directly across from the theater. FYI.. During intermission dont wait for the . Walk directly across the street and use the very clean line free parking structure about a 30 second

Jo
Review №49

I was enthralled by _Tiny Beautiful Things_, the recent production of Ragtime was wonderful, and I have generally had a good experience each time Ive been to the playhouse. We are fortunate to have it here in Pasadena.

Sa
Review №50

Its a gorgeous theatre with excellent acoustics and it didnt hurt that The little Shop of Horrors was AMAZING in fact saw it twice!!

Cy
Review №51

Loved this historical venue. Wonderful just to visit and read the historical markers as a self tour. Amazing history! Excellent venue. Great acoustics and seating. Al starts have a good view. Opening night has a complimentary pre-show wine mixer. Nice to unwind and make friends.

A
Review №52

The Father. Amazing

Cy
Review №53

The Pasadena Playhouse has an earthly aura that gives its audience an ambience for the imagination. The Woman In Black was startling, brilliantly acted and exquisitely presented with its lighting and special effects. A spooky, beautifully written play made for Halloween.

My
Review №54

Took my teen daughter to her first play, and it was an awesome time. Definitely, making this a tradition with her a few times a year as, long as she lets it!

sh
Review №55

The production was excellent, the restrooms were clean, the ushers were friendly and helpful and the aisles in the theater were wide enough for people to walk through. Little Shop of Horrors was an extremely well done production with a stellar cast.

Bi
Review №56

Its small, but its really beautiful inside.

ne
Review №57

Trejo tacos...good: food was good, but not mind blowing.

ca
Review №58

What an exceptional performance! Ragtime is stellar, the music is inspiring, and the voices are amazing. A great view from every seat. Dont miss it.

Ch
Review №59

Incredible play: Ragtime. A journey into the past both with the illustrious stage and the play itself. Jolly Good

Iz
Review №60

Little shop of horrors was the best show I have ever seen! The play house was beautiful and the staff were so kind

An
Review №61

Beautiful historic theater, not a bad seat in the house.

Sc
Review №62

Very cool venue. Saw Ragtime and loved it. A very intimate space.

Ch
Review №63

A gorgeous and historic venue.

XH
Review №64

Because i had t[ work there and every9was very chill

Ra
Review №65

My dog bud loves to play in fountain here.

Ma
Review №66

It doesnt seem like there is a bad seat here! I especially love the very community-feel of the courtyard where you get your tickets & drinks. Highly recommend it if youve never been!

Me
Review №67

Saw an amazing play called The Good Boys. I hope I can see another play soon.

Mi
Review №68

Just saw Native Gardens written by Jason Alexander. Very funny. I had a great time. I love the Old Pasadena Playhouse ambience.. if you havent been I would highly recommend it.

De
Review №69

Atmosphere was nice, seating was nice.. overall, a nice place and really enjoyed the Play.

Ch
Review №70

Awesome special Tour of historical landmark of 1920s first full functioning Theatre,performing arts school and more. Learned about innovation of the benefactor and contributors,many famous actors,stage managers,set design,etc. started here.Came here especially because supposedly my Great Grandmother performed Vaudeville here..still researching because of her alias. Recommend this tour.

Ju
Review №71

I love the Pasadena Playhouse. The history of the theater itself is amazing. However, I was not thrilled with the show that I saw this time. The acting was superb, the show was very dark and intense, it made me very uncomfortable at times. In the past I have seen marvelous plays and musicals at the Pasadena Playhouse. I highly recommend it!

je
Review №72

The most prestigious and cultural icon of all of San Gabriel, and worthy of our community support. Live theater is nutritious, digital streaming is corrosive.

Ma
Review №73

The playhouse is a good size. The lobby area is small and the restrooms are not that big. When I went there was a bit of a line for the restrooms so go early to make sure that you can make it to your seats on time for the play. Light snacks and soft drinks are sold outside in the courtyard. But Im not sure if they will let you take them into the playhouse. The seats were movie styles seats and were at a lever so I didnt have any trouble seeing the stage. And since the theater is a good size every seat had a great view of the stage.

Mi
Review №74

Traditional theatre at its finest

Fr
Review №75

Great show and were very accommodating to my friend who has issues climbing stairs; he was given seating in the orchestra section. Every seat is good.

Mi
Review №76

The venue is beautiful. Not too small. The nicest seats that I have ever seen in a playhouse. Supposedly the 2nd oldest playhouse still operating in the United States. Lots of good places to eat and drink nearby.

St
Review №77

Such a great place to see a show. Dont think there is a bad seat in the house! Lots of nice restaurants to go to before or after the show.

Go
Review №78

Stay away until the artistic director stops using this facility as his own propaganda machine. Unprofessional and irresponsible. Mr. Feldman needs to start serving the community rather than his massive ego.

Ki
Review №79

Beautiful Playhouse wonderful production.

Le
Review №80

A beautiful historic building celebrating its centennial in 2017. Lovely theater. Great performances. Innovative choices in plays: some original works, most socially conscious. Designated as Californias official State Theater.

Th
Review №81

Quality theatrical productions in a historic theater! Accessibility needs work... and yes, it can be done without marring the historic building.

Br
Review №82

The theater is a nice size. Great seat no matter where you sit!

Ma
Review №83

The show was in the smaller Carrie Hamilton Theater which I had never been in before, but was perfect for the intimate production of Gather .

Ri
Review №84

When it comes to local theater devoted to the most interesting and timely of subjects in the Pasadena area there is nothing like it. We saw plays about subjects as diverse as the actor Buster Keaton and the Supreme Court justice Anton Scalia. There is really nothing else like this in Pasadena.

Mi
Review №85

Tiny Beautiful Things is inspirational. Not for children. Has adult content.

Be
Review №86

Beautiful and amazing service!

Te
Review №87

Historic theater with dining places nearby. Productions are almost always outstanding with few busts. Most seats have a good view. Sound is generally clear and full range.

Po
Review №88

Been going there for years. Fist time Sept 1961 on blind date with my now loving & great husband!

J
Review №89

World class theater. Never miss an opportunity to come. No bad seats.

D
Review №90

Great show, great stars, amazing memories. This theater only lacks more conventional theater snacks. Dont even let that stop you from seeing a phenomenal show however. I went and say OUR TOWN and I have absolutely no regrets.

Jo
Review №91

A historic theatre in an easily accessible location.

ju
Review №92

Nice old refurbished theater. A local fixture with lots of good shows. Very good parking and near the revitalized Old Town ambiance so fun evening.

Ba
Review №93

Attended a matinee performance. Parking was easy and reasonable. Lovely old theater. Not a bad seat in the house. Lots to do and places to eat afterwards within walking distance.Absolutely love Pasadena!

Pi
Review №94

Great place to see a performance. I love the stately architecture and the location. While I am not always thrilled with the plays I see at the Pasadena Playhouse I do enjoy going there every time. Its nice to see older California architecture still around!

sh
Review №95

Awesome Lively Place. Saw Border Towns. Well done. Even my 14-year-old that complained having to go to a play loved it.

Ma
Review №96

The Pasadena Playhouse has a wonderful historic charm about it, and is a very good theater venue. Cinderella was delightful experience, and the Playhouse added to its charm with great views of the stage, lighting effects and good sound. Although there is no elevator access to the upper seating areas, the staff were very helpful and courteous. Overall, Recommended for a wonderful theater experience!

Ha
Review №97

Only the best of the best performances happen here. My most recent favorite is Our Town, absolutely stellar performances all around: from the lighting, to the acting, to the set design and my personal favorite -- the integration of deaf actors and the use of ASL within the cast. Bravo!!

Ir
Review №98

Beutiful building in downtown Pasadena. Right next door to Trejos Cantina.

Di
Review №99

Beautiful Spanish style playhouse with super friendly and helpful volunteer staff

Ir
Review №100

Fun times great shows and relatively inexpensive

Information
100 Photos
100 Comments
4.7 Rating
  • Address:39 S El Molino Ave, Pasadena, CA 91101, United States
  • Site:http://pasadenaplayhouse.org/
  • Phone:+1 626-356-7529
Categories
  • Performing arts theater
  • Event venue
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair-accessible entrance:Yes
Amenities
  • Good for kids:Yes
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