
Berkeley Playhouse Julia Morgan Theater
A historic redwood church transformed into a cozy theater, offering captivating musicals and plays with a family-friendly atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Family-friendly shows

Berkeley Playhouse Julia Morgan Theater
Best Time
Family-friendly shows
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic redwood church transformed into a cozy theater, offering captivating musicals and plays with a family-friendly atmosphere.
"The cast was incredibly talented, the set was beautiful, and the atmosphere was so warm and welcoming for families."

🎟️ Book Tickets in Advance
Popular shows sell out fast! Secure your seats online early, especially for family musicals.
🧥 Bring a Jacket
The theater can get chilly inside, even on warmer days. Layers are your friend!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Live Musical Performances
Main Theater
Experience captivating musicals with talented casts and impressive sets. A perfect outing for families and theater enthusiasts alike.

Intimate & Welcoming Atmosphere
Auditorium
Enjoy a cozy theater experience where no seat has a bad view. The intimate setting makes every performance feel special.

Family-Friendly Productions
Main Theater
Discover shows designed to engage and delight audiences of all ages, making it an ideal introduction to live theater for children.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Popular Shows
Dress Comfortably & Bring Layers
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Tickets in Advance
Popular shows sell out fast! Secure your seats online early, especially for family musicals.
🧥 Bring a Jacket
The theater can get chilly inside, even on warmer days. Layers are your friend!
🚗 Parking Tips
Neighborhood parking can be tricky. Consider dropping off those with mobility issues first.
👍 No Bad Seats
The theater's design ensures great views from almost every spot.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Tickets in Advance
Popular shows sell out fast! Secure your seats online early, especially for family musicals.
🧥 Bring a Jacket
The theater can get chilly inside, even on warmer days. Layers are your friend!
🚗 Parking Tips
Neighborhood parking can be tricky. Consider dropping off those with mobility issues first.
👍 No Bad Seats
The theater's design ensures great views from almost every spot.
🎶 Support Local Theater
Enjoy top-notch performances and support the vibrant Bay Area arts scene.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Berkeley Playhouse for its talented performers, engaging family-friendly productions, and intimate theater setting where every seat offers a good view. The affordable ticket prices and the welcoming atmosphere make it a beloved local gem for both families and theater enthusiasts. Some minor points of consideration include the potential for chilly temperatures inside and the common challenge of finding convenient parking in the neighborhood.
"We took the kids to see The Sound of Music and had an absolutely wonderful time! The cast was incredibly talented, the set was beautiful, and the atmosphere was so warm and welcoming for families. The kids were completely engaged (and singing on the way home!). It was the perfect introduction to live theater for them. Highly recommend for a fun, meaningful family outing!"
Vica V. K.
"We absolutely love Berkeley playhouse - my kid has grown up watching their productions since they were just 4 years old! The quality of the shows are always top-notch and the theatre itself is structured in such a way that there really are no "bad" seats. We have been subscribers for many seasons and love supporting bay area theatre! If you haven't checked it out, do it now!"
Britt SchlaeGuada
"As a Berkeley resident, I couldn't be prouder of this playhouse! I went to see Prom last week, and it was an absolutely fantastic experience. This was my third musical at Berkeley Playhouse, and each time I’ve gone with different people who were all equally amazed by the quality of the performances. The staff were friendly and always eager to assist. I’m definitely coming back for Jesus Christ Superstar and The Sound of Music next year. I hope they continue to keep the ticket prices as affordable as they’ve been!"
Hanna Kang
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The theater is conveniently located in Berkeley, CA, and is accessible via public transportation. Many visitors utilize BART and then transfer to a bus. Parking in the neighborhood can be challenging, so arriving early or using ride-sharing services is often recommended.
Street parking is available in the surrounding neighborhood, but it can be limited and time-consuming to find. Some visitors suggest dropping off companions at the entrance before searching for parking.
Yes, the theater is well-served by public transportation. It's a common route for those using BART and then connecting via bus, making it an accessible option for many.
To avoid stress, consider arriving a bit early. If you have mobility concerns, dropping off at the entrance is a good strategy before parking.
Berkeley offers various attractions, including the UC Berkeley campus, parks like Tilden Regional Park, and numerous dining options. You might also find unique shops and cafes in the downtown area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets can be purchased online through the Berkeley Playhouse website. It's highly recommended to buy in advance, as popular shows often sell out.
While specific discount information varies by show, season tickets often offer significant savings. Keep an eye on their website for any special promotions or group rates.
The box office hours may vary, but online ticket purchases are available 24/7. For specific box office inquiries, it's best to check the Berkeley Playhouse website or contact them directly.
It's possible, but not guaranteed, especially for popular performances. Booking in advance is the safest way to ensure you get to see the show.
Policies can vary, so it's advisable to review the specific terms and conditions on the Berkeley Playhouse website at the time of purchase. Generally, exchanges might be possible for a fee or for a different performance of the same show.
🎫 🎭 Onsite Experience
The theater is designed so that there are no 'bad' seats, offering good views from most locations. The intimate setting enhances the viewing experience.
Absolutely! Berkeley Playhouse is renowned for its family-friendly productions, making it an excellent introduction to live theater for kids.
Most attendees opt for comfortable, casual attire. It's recommended to bring a jacket or sweater as the theater can be cool inside.
Typically, theaters offer concessions like snacks and beverages. It's best to check the Berkeley Playhouse website for specific offerings and operating hours during your visit.
Performance lengths vary depending on the show. Most musicals and plays will have an intermission. Check the specific show's page on the Berkeley Playhouse website for estimated run times.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Berkeley offers a wide array of dining options. You can find everything from casual eateries to more upscale restaurants, many of which are popular with theatergoers.
Many visitors enjoy exploring the diverse culinary scene in Berkeley. Popular choices often include spots offering diverse cuisines, from American to international flavors.
Generally, outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the theater. Concessions are usually available for purchase. Check the venue's policy for specifics.
Berkeley has many restaurants that cater to families. Look for places with varied menus and a relaxed atmosphere, which are often recommended by locals.
Berkeley is known for its diverse food scene, with a strong emphasis on fresh, local ingredients. You'll find excellent options for Californian, Italian, Mexican, and Asian cuisines, among others.
📸 📸 Photography
Typically, photography and videography are prohibited during performances to avoid distracting the actors and other audience members. Check with the venue staff for specific policies regarding photos before or after the show.
The Julia Morgan-designed building itself, with its unique architecture, can be a great subject. The surrounding Berkeley area also offers picturesque spots, especially if you're exploring before or after your show.
Photography during the performance is usually not allowed. However, you might be able to take photos of the set before the show begins or during intermission if permitted by the venue.
The building, originally designed by Julia Morgan, has a distinct architectural style that is often noted. Its historical significance and unique design elements make it visually interesting.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, can provide beautiful lighting for exterior shots. Daytime offers clear views of the architecture.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider attending a matinee performance for younger children, as these are often scheduled with their attention spans in mind. The overall atmosphere is welcoming and relaxed, making it easy for families to enjoy the experience without stress. Don't forget to bring a jacket, as the theater can be a bit cool.
🎭 Theater Enthusiasts
The intimate setting of the Julia Morgan-designed building enhances the theatrical experience, making you feel closer to the action. It's a true hidden gem for those who appreciate the art of live performance and enjoy supporting local arts organizations.
Budget-Conscious Visitors
While parking might require some effort or cost, the overall value of the performance experience is highly regarded. It's a great way to enjoy a cultural outing in the Bay Area on a budget.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Gem: Julia Morgan's Design
This historical significance adds another layer to the experience of attending a show. Visitors often remark on the unique ambiance of the building, which feels both grand and intimate. The redwood construction contributes to a cozy atmosphere, making it a memorable venue for live theater.
While the building's original purpose was different, its adaptation into a playhouse has been successful, preserving its charm while providing a functional space for performances. The blend of historical architecture and modern theatrical production creates a unique setting that patrons appreciate.
A Family-Friendly Theater Experience
The theater's design plays a crucial role in this family-friendly appeal. With an intimate setting where there are truly no 'bad' seats, children can easily see and connect with the performance. This thoughtful arrangement ensures that the entire family can enjoy the show without feeling distanced from the stage.
Parents often express their delight in seeing their children's reactions, from singing along on the way home to being completely absorbed during the show. The playhouse has become a beloved institution for many local families, fostering a love for theater across generations.
Community and Local Support
The affordability of tickets is also frequently praised, making live theater accessible to a broader audience. This commitment to keeping prices reasonable, combined with the high quality of performances, encourages repeat visits and season ticket subscriptions.
Beyond ticket sales, the playhouse seems to foster a welcoming environment for both performers and audience members. The friendly staff and the overall positive atmosphere contribute to its reputation as a cherished community institution.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit