Balboa Theatre

About the San Diego Balboa Theatre

The Balboa Theatre seating has been completely renovated to provide maximum comfort to our patrons within a historic venue. With a total seating capacity of 1,339 the Balboa Theatre features a Main Floor Orchestra and second level Loge and Balcony sections with center section seat numbers in consecutive order beginning with 101. The House Right sections, with even-numbered seats, begin with seat 2 on the center right aisle and move outward. House Left sections, with odd-numbered seats, begin with seat 1 on center left aisle and move outward. Orchestra rows are alphabetical from the stage beginning with row A. Please note that during certain performances where the Orchestra Pit or Extended staging is not required, 2 additional rows (AA and BB) may be added in front of row A.

San Diego Theatres, Inc. a 501(c)(3) nonprofit arts organization, operates both the Historic Balboa Theatre and the Civic Theatre in downtown San Diego. The San Diego Civic Theatre has been the region’s largest and greatest attended performing arts venue for nearly 60 years, and the 100-year-old Balboa Theatre hosts concerts, comedians, and more in the heart of the Gaslamp district. In addition to serving as the Home of Broadway in San Diego, the theatres also serve over 500,000 patrons each year through arts and entertainment presentations, many of which are produced by resident nonprofit arts partners, including: San Diego Opera, San Diego Symphony, La Jolla Music Society, Golden State Ballet, Classics 4 Kids, and more. San Diego Theatres’ mission is to deliver exceptional performing arts and educational experiences, foster collaboration, and partnerships, and create an accessible place for all people to enjoy the arts.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current show status amid COVID-19?

For updated information about current show statuses during the COVID-19 pandemic, click here.

Balboa Theatre

Are there accommodations for patrons with physical challenges? (Balboa Theatre)

The Balboa Theatre offers Accessible Seating, restrooms and parking access. An Infra-red audio assistance system is in use at the Theatre. Headsets are available in Theatre Lobby House Manager’s Office prior to performances (headsets are loaned at no charge, on a first-come, first-served basis). ASL and Audio Described Services may be offered for select performances, contact Broadway/San Diego at 619-564-3000 for more information.

What should I wear?

Theatre is fun – and historically had been a great time to dress up, however, in a true San Diego fashion we encourage our patrons relax and enjoy the show in comfort. While some patrons dress in a tux or sparkling gown on occasion, and others may wear a business suit/sport jacket or nice pants outfit/dress, there are many patrons who choose to wear a clean pair of jeans or nice shorts and a polo style shirt. Absolutely any of these wardrobe choices are perfect!

Will there be late seating? (Balboa Theatre)

Should you arrive at the theatre late or after curtain, you may be held in the lobby until there is a suitable seating break during the performance. Parking for Balboa Theatre events generally requires arriving at least 60 minutes prior to curtain to avoid traffic delays in and around the busy Gaslamp District.