The Old Globe: San Diego's Theatrical Heart

Located in the heart of Balboa Park, The Old Globe stands as San Diego's flagship arts institution and one of the country's leading regional theaters. Since its establishment in 1935 as part of the California Pacific International Exposition, it has grown into a cultural gem, attracting both locals and tourists with its outstanding performances and striking architecture. The Old Globe was initially designed by Richard Requa to mirror London's Globe Theatre, even featuring an open roof. It presented abridged versions of Shakespeare's plays during the exposition. Saved from demolition after the event, it was renovated and transformed into a permanent structure, becoming home to the San Diego Community Theatre. Today, The Old Globe produces around 15 plays and musicals annually, offering a diverse repertoire of classic, contemporary, and new works. The complex houses three distinct theaters: the Old Globe Theatre (a 580-seat indoor theater with the Donald and Darlene Shiley Stage), the Sheryl and Harvey White Theatre (a 250-seat theater in the round), and the Lowell Davies Festival Theatre (a 605-seat outdoor venue). The theater's history has been marked by both triumphs and challenges, including two arson fires that led to rebuilding efforts. Despite these setbacks, The Old Globe has consistently delivered exceptional theatrical experiences, earning a Tony Award and launching numerous productions to Broadway. Its legacy is intertwined with figures like Craig Noel, whose decades-long leadership shaped the Globe's artistic direction and national recognition.