City Ballet of San Diego

Discover the fantastic talent and storytelling through the delicate art of dance at the Historic City Ballet in the heart of downtown San Diego.
Todd Sarouhan
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Discover the Fine Art of Dance at City Ballet of San Diego

City Ballet, located in The Historic Spreckels Theatre in the Gaslamp Quarter of Downtown San Diego, was built in 1915 by sugar magnate John D. Spreckels.

This baroque-style Theatre has been in almost continuous use since its opening. It has played host to legendary performers such as Judy Garland and Charlie Chaplin.

In 1993, City Ballet was formed. 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!

City Ballet offers its patrons a one-of-a-kind experience. Inside this grand and historical Theatre are performances of timeless, classic, modern, and contemporary ballets.

Spreckels Theatre and the City Ballet are stapled destinations for locals and tourists. So, stop by Broadway and 1st Avenue and enjoy a show from world-class choreographers and dancers.

The entrance to 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, offers a bright prism of color. The color balances the white and black of the marble and onyx of the original architecture.

The design places you both in the past and present simultaneously.

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What’s Inside: The Timeless Art and Dances You Can Expect to See

Once inside the 1,463-seat Theatre, 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 Theatre is traditional in design, yet modern in function. Performance of any kind at this historic Theatre would be a timeless memory.

City Ballet offers both classical and contemporary performances such as:

  • The Nutcracker
  • Romeo and Juliet
  • Carmina Burana (A 1920’s piece choreographed by resident Choreographer Geoff Gonzalaz)
  • Straw Feet (Choreographed by Elizabeth Wistrich)

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Introduce Your Loved Ones to Ballet on Family Ballet Saturday and Other Popular Events

Saturday is the best day to visit the Theatre. On Saturdays, the Ballet hosts “Family Ballet Saturday,” where they present the audience with ballet performances for all ages.

Some of the popular family ballet shows they perform are:

  • Adventures in Color
  • Alice in Wonderland
  • The Nutcracker

Local Tips
Want to Become a Dancer?
Dancers interested in becoming an Apprentice or Trainee must attend the company’s three-week Summer Intensive program.

Spreckels Theatre also provides dance classes! The classes range anywhere from children to adults, and even pre-professional courses are available as well.

Summer may be another great time to visit. The Summer camps open and welcome all of those that are ages four and up.

Finally, you cannot forget the Nutcracker! This timeless classic is the performance everyone thinks of when you mention the word ‘ballet.’

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Get Your Tickets Now to Enjoy These Amazing Performances

The Spreckels Theatre offers multiple ways for you to purchase tickets for one of their breathtaking performances.

You can order your tickets through their website or by calling the office at (619) 235-9500. Or order in-person through their walk-up Box Office located inside their Grand Lobby.

The Spreckels offers curbside drop off for those who may have difficulties getting to the doors otherwise. Also, Companion seating is available. Please call the Theatre if you require any further accommodations.

Additional Information and Tips to Make Your Ballet Trip a Memorable Experience

Hours of Operation

During non- performance weeks, the Box Office is open Monday through Friday from 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm for show information and ticket sales.

During performance weeks, it will be closed on Mondays. However, the Box Office is always open for ticket sales two hours before any ticketed event. Be sure to check directly with the theater holding the performance for any updates to normal operating hours.

A Few Tips for Parking

The Spreckels Theatre is accessible by all major freeways, the train station, and the airport.

There is plenty of parking available on B Street, through the onsite parking garage, and valet services.

City Ballet would like you to arrive at least 45 minutes before the show. Arriving early will offer you plenty of time to find parking. You can also grab a snack and drink from the concession stand and find your seat.

Make it a Date Night!

Dining around the Theatre is second to none! Within walking distance, you can find burgers, tacos, Greek kabobs, BBQ, Thai, pizza, vegetarian and vegan restaurants, and so much more!

Food and beverages are available before and during intermission for all shows. The venue does require that all food and drink stay in the Grand Lobby of the Theatre.

Additional Area Attractions

Within walking distance or a short drive from The Spreckels, you will find:

And so much more!

You do not want to miss this fantastic opportunity to see the stage where Judy Garland and Charlie Chaplain once performed. You will not be disappointed!

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