When you think of San Diego, most people picture beaches before they think of ballet companies. But performing arts lovers know that San Diego ballet shouldn’t be missed, and I’m confident you’ll think so too after seeing a performance by the City Ballet in Downtown San Diego.
The City Ballet offers its patrons a one-of-a-kind experience. Inside this theater are performances of timeless, classic, modern, and contemporary ballets.
The City Ballet is a staple destination for locals and tourists, so plan a visit to the Balboa Theatre and enjoy a show from world-class choreographers and supremely talented dancers.
Where to See the City Ballet of San Diego: Then and Now
The City Ballet of San Diego has an incredible historic home and two additional theaters playing host for the coming years. Read on to find out more.
Spreckels Theater Closed During the Pandemic in 2020
The Historic Spreckels Theatre
In previous years and for as long as I can remember, the City Ballet performances were given at the historic Spreckels Theatre, located in the Gaslamp Quarter at Broadway and 1st Avenue. The venue was built in 1915 by sugar magnate John D. Spreckels.
This baroque-style theater has been in almost continuous use since its opening. It has played host to legendary performers such as Judy Garland and Charlie Chaplin.
The entrance to the Spreckels Theatre greets you with a two-story Grand Lobby decorated with Predora onyx. Multicolored stained-glass windows, designed by experimental sculptor and artist Yaacov Agam in 1985, offer a bright prism of color. The color balances the white and black of the marble and onyx of the original architecture.
Once inside the 1,463-seat theater, you will marvel at the allegorical paintings by Emil Mazy over the stages’ ceiling. A giant mural depicting two angels sprinkling out a horn and the ancient sea god Neptune is bringing the Riches of the Ocean to San Diego.
The design places you both in the past and present simultaneously.
Frida Kahlo Exhibit at the CA Center for the Arts, Escondido
The Balboa Theatre & The California Center for the Arts, Escondido
As of 2021, the Spreckels Theatre closed for renovations, and we don’t yet have a date for its reopening.
While we’re sure the renovations will be stunning once the theater is open again, for now, you can catch City Ballet performances at Balboa Theatre year-round and at California Center for the Arts, Escondido during holiday performances.
History of City Ballet
The City Ballet was formed in 1993. It is now under the guidance of former dancers turned creative directors and resident choreographers Steven and Elizabeth Wistrich.
Each season, the ballet offers its visitors four significant productions, including:
- Balanchine works
- Original pieces
- Full-length ballets
They even produce a sensory-friendly performance of The Nutcracker in winter!
Want to Become a Dancer?
Dancers interested in becoming an Apprentice or Trainee must attend the company’s three-week Summer Intensive program.