Santa Monica Playhouse - Image 1
1 / 3

Santa Monica Playhouse

4.6
·37 reviews·Santa Monica, United States

A cozy Santa Monica theatre known for its hilarious Drunk Theater improv and engaging children's shows, offering an intimate and memorable live perfor...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Friday & Saturday evenings

Peak energy for improv shows

CrowdHigh
Loading map...
Santa Monica Playhouse - Image 1

Santa Monica Playhouse

Best Time

Friday & Saturday evenings

Peak energy for improv shows

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A cozy Santa Monica theatre known for its hilarious Drunk Theater improv and engaging children's shows, offering an intimate and memorable live performance experience.

4.6
(37 reviews)

"The Drunken Improv here is an enjoyable show for the most part but there were some less than stellar observations."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Drunk Theater Early!

This show is incredibly popular and sells out fast. Book your tickets online well in advance to guarantee a spot!

🤣 Embrace the Improv

For Drunk Theater, expect the unexpected! The performers are talented at interacting with the audience for a unique show every time.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.6 · 37 reviews

Type

Performing Arts Theater

👶 Good for kids♿ Wheelchair accessible🅿️ Accessible parking🚻 Accessible restroom

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Drunk Theater

Drunk Theater

Main Stage

Hilarious and interactive improv show where performers take shots, leading to unpredictable and laugh-out-loud moments.

Children's Theatre

Children's Theatre

Main Stage

Engaging and imaginative productions designed to entertain and inspire young audiences.

Intimate Atmosphere

Intimate Atmosphere

Auditorium

A cozy and welcoming theatre space that offers a great atmosphere for diverse productions.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Book Ahead for Popular Shows

Tickets for the Santa Monica Playhouse, especially for popular shows like Drunk Theater, can sell out quickly. Booking online in advance is highly recommended to secure your spot and avoid disappointment. Check the official schedule for showtimes.

Arrive Early for Best Seating

While there might not be a strict seating chart for all shows, arriving a bit early can help you snag better seats in this cozy theatre. This is especially true for interactive performances where proximity to the stage enhances the experience.

Best Times

When
Friday & Saturday evenings
Why
Peak energy for improv shows
Crowd
High
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Ideal for children's shows
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🎯 Book Drunk Theater Early!

This show is incredibly popular and sells out fast. Book your tickets online well in advance to guarantee a spot! Reddit

🤣 Embrace the Improv

For Drunk Theater, expect the unexpected! The performers are talented at interacting with the audience for a unique show every time. Reddit

♿️ Wheelchair Accommodations

The staff is known for being accommodating and making efforts for guests with disabilities. Reddit

🎭 Check the Schedule

The Santa Monica Playhouse hosts a variety of shows, from adult improv to children's theatre. Always check the current schedule. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Drunk Theater Early!

This show is incredibly popular and sells out fast. Book your tickets online well in advance to guarantee a spot! Reddit

🤣 Embrace the Improv

For Drunk Theater, expect the unexpected! The performers are talented at interacting with the audience for a unique show every time. Reddit

♿️ Wheelchair Accommodations

The staff is known for being accommodating and making efforts for guests with disabilities. Reddit

🎭 Check the Schedule

The Santa Monica Playhouse hosts a variety of shows, from adult improv to children's theatre. Always check the current schedule. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(37 reviews)

Reviews Summary

The Santa Monica Playhouse is praised for its intimate and cozy atmosphere, offering a great variety of productions, especially the highly entertaining Drunk Theater. While some minor issues like perceived false advertising in shows have been noted, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive, with staff being accommodating and performances consistently drawing laughter.

"Love drunk theatre here! They’re so amazing. The staff is really kind too and made accommodations for my wheelchair which I really appreciated."

Brooke Lynn

"The Drunken Improv here is an enjoyable show for the most part but there were some less than stellar observations: The show advertises that a member of the cast will take 5 shots prior to the show's start but they actually only end up taking 3. I thought I had heard wrong until within the audience I heard someone say "Did you see that? They switched the glasses." And the crowd only verbally shouted for 3 shots. So, false advertising but they did slide in a magic show. They did add an additional shot after intermission but still.....

The show was fun enough that there was one woman who was literally shrieking with laughter but the cast called her out towards the end of the show. Not cool. Right after, you could tell she quieted down, as did the crowd. Way to humiliate your paying crowd.

Then to conclude, they jokingly say, if you didn't like anything about the show, don't tell anybody. Cheers."

Melanie Carlson

"Visited to see Drunk Theater on Friday and it was a hilarious evening! They're so talented. Grab a group and go laugh the night away."

Heidi Coughlin

What People Like

Hilarious Drunk Theater
Cozy atmosphere
Talented performers

What People Dislike

Minor advertising discrepancies
Occasional audience call-outs

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Santa Monica Playhouse is located in downtown Santa Monica. It's accessible by public transportation, including bus lines that serve the area. Parking can be challenging in Santa Monica, so consider ride-sharing services or public transit if possible. Reddit

Street parking is available but can be limited and metered. There are also parking garages in the vicinity, though fees may apply. Arriving early can help you find better parking options. Reddit

Several Santa Monica Big Blue Bus lines stop near the Playhouse. The Metro E Line (Expo) also has a station within walking distance, making it a convenient option for many. Check local transit schedules for routes and times.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets are typically available for purchase online through the Santa Monica Playhouse website. It's highly recommended to book in advance, especially for popular shows like Drunk Theater, as they can sell out. Reddit

The Santa Monica Playhouse schedule varies depending on the production. They offer a range of shows, including children's theatre and adult improv. You can find the most up-to-date schedule on their official website. Reddit

While it might be possible for some less popular shows, it's not guaranteed. For popular performances, especially Drunk Theater, buying tickets in advance online is the safest bet to avoid disappointment. Reddit

The Santa Monica Playhouse is a cozy theatre, and seating arrangements can vary by production. For some shows, seating might be general admission, while others may have assigned seats. It's best to check the specific show's ticketing page for details on the seating chart. Reddit

Discounts may be available for certain performances or groups. It's advisable to check the Santa Monica Playhouse website or contact them directly for any ongoing promotions or group rates. Sometimes, local deal sites might also offer discounts.

🎫 🎭 Onsite Experience

The Santa Monica Playhouse hosts a variety of performances, including engaging children's theatre productions and the highly popular Drunk Theater, an interactive improv show. They aim to provide diverse theatrical experiences for different audiences. Reddit

Yes, the Santa Monica Playhouse is well-regarded for its children's theatre programming. These shows are designed to be entertaining and educational for young audiences, making it a great family outing. Reddit

Drunk Theater is an improv comedy show where performers consume alcoholic beverages during the performance, leading to unpredictable and hilarious outcomes. It's known for its interactive nature and audience engagement. Reddit

Yes, the Santa Monica Playhouse is known to be accommodating for guests with disabilities, including wheelchair accessibility. The staff is often praised for making necessary accommodations. Reddit

The theatre is described as a 'wonderful cozy theatre' with a great atmosphere. Its intimate setting contributes to a more personal and engaging experience for the audience. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Typically, small concessions like water and snacks might be available for purchase. However, it's not a full-service restaurant. For a meal, explore the many dining options in downtown Santa Monica before or after your show. Reddit

Outside food and beverages are generally not permitted inside the theatre. It's best to consume any food or drinks before entering the performance space. Check the venue's specific policy if you have concerns.

Downtown Santa Monica offers a wide array of restaurants, cafes, and bars. You can find everything from casual eateries to upscale dining experiences within walking distance of the playhouse. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Generally, photography and videography are prohibited during live performances at most theatres, including the Santa Monica Playhouse, to avoid distracting performers and other audience members. Always check for posted signs or ask an usher if unsure.

While photos during the show are restricted, you can capture memories of the theatre's exterior, lobby, or perhaps take a quick photo before the performance begins. The intimate setting itself can be a charming backdrop.

You may also like

Santa Monica Playhouse (2026) – Best of TikTok, Instagram & Reddit Travel Guide