Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas! at the Old Globe Theatre in Balboa Park 2025

Christmas Tree outside the Theater for How the Grinch Stole Christmas

The performance itself is always beautifully done - from the sets to the costumes to the actors and music, it's an absolute family classic that feels straight out of Whoville. It's also apparent that the actors clearly put their hearts into it. I think it's that perfect mix of nostalgia, family fun, and holiday cheer.

In its adaptation of the classic Christmas tale by Theodor S. Geisel, better known as Dr. Seuss, The Old Globe Theatre really holds nothing back to bring this story to life on stage.

The Performers: Meet the Grinch and the Whos

The performance of The Grinch was written by Timothy Mason and directed by James Vásquez, based on the original production by Jack O'Brien.

Playing the Grinch for his fifth year now is Andrew Polec, who recently performed in The Beautiful Lady at New York's Greenwich Village. He's joined by Tommy Martinez and David Hibbard, who play young and old Max, respectively.

You'll also get to meet Cindy Lou Who, played by Sofia Barredo, and a whole host of other very talented actors and actresses populating Whoville.

The Music: Classic Songs That Will Warm Your Heart

If you've seen the original 1966 animated classic, you'll recognize many of the tunes in the stage play version. These timeless songs include "Welcome Christmas (Fah Who Doraze)" and "You're a Mean One, Mr. Grinch."

You'll also hear many new songs, like "Santa for a Day," developed especially for the live show. Credit for the music goes to the Music Director Elan McMahan, Book and Lyrics lead Timothy Mason, Composer Mel Marvin, with additional music by Albert Hague and complementing choreography by John DeLuca and Bob Richard.

The Sets & Costumes: Transforming the Stage into a Snow-Covered Wonderland

Taking cues from The Old Globe Theatre's artistic director Barry Edelstein, the set design of the play will have you convinced you're really in snow-covered Whoville!

Colorful, fun costumes will capture the imaginations of the kids (and kids at heart) in the audience.

Dr. Seuss's How the Grinch Stole Christmas is a magical event that I can only recommend you go to see at least once! But you can make your experience even more exciting with these activities.

Enjoying Refreshing Lemonaide at the Prado Restaurant at Balboa Park

Food and Beverages

Food is not permitted in the theatre, so I suggest you grab a bite to eat before the show.

When I go to a show at the Old Globe, I usually eat at Lady Carolyn's Pub, which is located right in the theatre. It opens 90 minutes before curtain drop offering a full bar and a fine selection of soups, sandwiches, and treats. Drinks can also be pre-ordered so they are ready for you at intermission.

As someone that's been to my fair share of shows at the Old Globe Theatre, below are a few additional pre or post show places I'd recommend to grab a meal or drink.

• The Prado at Balboa Park: Just steps from the theatre, The Prado is known for its world-class cuisine, California fare, happy hour deals, and excellent service.
• Mister A's: Located on 5th Ave on the west edge of the park, my wife and I love this 12th floor, French & American style elegant rooftop eatery featuring sparkling views of the San Diego Bay and Downtown San Diego skyline.
• The Corner Drafthouse: If you want local and easy, I recommend this gastropub for an all-in burger or ahi bowl and local Southern California beer. It's my go to spot to grab a craft beer and simple snack before a show.

Main Building of the San Diego Museum of Us in Balboa Park

Balboa Park Museums

Balboa Park is home to more than a dozen family-friendly museums my family really loves visiting. It's become a bit of a tradition that we check out one before we see The Grinch. Below are a few of our favorites.

• The San Diego Museum of Art: One of San Diego's premiere art collections, you can browse art from many periods and throughout the world. I'd recommend the museums especially for couples.
• San Diego Model Railroad Museum: A unique experience with a wide collection of model trains, my wife and I love to bring our kids!
• Museum of Photographic Arts: This museum includes more than 700 photos from about 850 artists with rotating exhibits of photography spanning history. As a local tip - I recommend bringing headphones so you can listen to the audio tour on the app.

The cheapest way to get into all of these museums as well as the San Diego Zoo in Balboa Park and about 50 additional attractions in San Diego is with a Go Visit San Diego pass using discount code GVSD5OFF. This is one of our team's top money saving suggestions to all of our friends and family that come in to see a show at the Old Globe or just visit the city.

More Holiday Classics at the Old Globe Theatre in 2025

Attending a winter play at the Old Globe Theatre like The Grinch is the perfect way to put yourself in the holiday mood. My family goes every year! Seeing the show has become one of the highlights of the season for us and for many San Diego families, as it's been the standout winter performance for the last 25+ years.

We love it so much that it's found a spot as part of our articles on the best ways to celebrate Christmas in San Diego and in our complete holiday guide, even earning an honorable mention as a great post-Thanksgiving activity. Honestly, though, you can absolutely get a jump start on Christmas by attending one of the pre-Thanksgiving November performances as well.

It's not just The Grinch, either - other holiday favorites like A Christmas Carol have also found their way onto the stage. Last year, my wife and I watched Ebenezer Scrooge's BIG San Diego Christmas Show at The Old Globe, which we loved, too! It's playing this year as well, so I'd say if you can, consider getting tickets to both shows.

Main Stage at the San Diego Civic Theater

Visit Other Incredible San Diego Performing Arts Venues

Shows like How the Grinch Stole Christmas! showcase San Diego's commitment to arts engagement. You don't have to go all the way to New York City to watch a Broadway-quality show with your family.

The Old Globe Theatre aims to make the arts in all its forms more accessible to the community. For more plays, musicals, and live performances, check out the La Jolla Playhouse, San Diego Civic Theatre, Spreckels Theatre, and the Cygnet Theatre, among other incredible arts venues in San Diego.