The Theater Scene in San Diego

Big shows such as “Legally Blonde,” “101 Dalmations,” “Mamma Mia!,” and “Hair” can be found at two of San Diego's bigger rooms. The 2,940-seat San Diego Civic Theatre in Downtown San Diego is the region’s largest and most-attended theatrical venue. It's sister house, the historic Balboa Theatre near Horton Plaza, first showcased vaudeville performances before being transitioned into a movie theater in 1932.

San Diego's Old Globe is an internationally heralded, Tony® Award-winning theatre that may just be one of the most renowned regional theatres in the country, with over 70 years of works. Three stages frame 15 annual productions, including a Shakespeare Festival. This year's slate features “Lost in Yonkers,” “The Taming of the Shrew,” “The Whipping Man,” and more.

San Diego Repertory Theatre brings audiences intimate, vivid works, set on promoting inclusion in the community, along with progressive political and social values. “Culture Clash in AmeriCCa” and “A Weekend with Pablo Picasso” are both fine examples on their 2010 calendar.

Acclaimed in international circles, the La Jolla Playhouse has garnered 21 Tony Awards among their 300+ honors. Founded in 1947 by Gregory Peck, Dorothy McGuire and Mel Ferrer, their presentations include classics, new plays and musicals. John Leguizamo's “Diary of a Mad Man” and Terrence McNally's “Unusual Acts of Devotion” are part of the offerings on tap.

The award-winning equity ensemble of Lamb's House Theatre showcases in two different houses: one in Downtown San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter and the other in the island community of Coronado. Their productions range from musicals to comedies, including “miX tape” and “Harvey,” among others.

If potentially provocative works are of interest, ion theatre company might be your best bet. From revivals of classic pieces to new works from emerging playwrights, ion is known for its uncompromising commitment to presenting bold projects.

Other venues of interest include the Coronado Playhouse, New Village Arts, Starlight Theatre, Sledgehammer, and the Poway Center for the Performing Arts, which plays host to children's theatre, concerts and other events. Here's are some excellent date ideas for San Diego.