DAY TRIP Old Globe Theater

The Old Globe was created in the fashion of the Globe Theater in England famous for Shakespeare’s plays.

It came to be in April 1935 as an attraction at the new California Pacific International Exposition at Balboa Park in San Diego.

Built in 32 days, the theater construction cost a grand total of $20,000 and was designed by Thomas Wood Stevens who was also the theater’s founder.

The theater opened later that year in May with a repertory of 50-minute versions of Shakespeare plays.

It would expand its playlist in 1937 when a not-for-profit organization leased the theater and opened “The Distaff Side” by John Van Druten.

The U.S. Navy acquired the theater and surrounding area during World War II.  

Both were returned in 1947 and the theater was open until 1978.

In March of that year, the building was destroyed by arson.

But the spirit of the place was strong enough that the members of the board rebuilt the theater on the same ground and reopened in 1982.

ADMISSION

Prices vary based on performance.

The Old Globe’s “How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” on sale now, ranges from $19 to $31 for children and $39 to $59 for adults.

DIRECTIONS

Take the Golden State Freeway to San Diego. Exit at Sassafras Street and follow Kettner Boulevard to Laurel Street (second stop light). Turn left (east) on Laurel and drive straight into Balboa Park.

HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS

The Old Globe has been performing the classic Dr. Seuss tale for 10 years and this year’s performance will have a few surprises. With three new songs, a new costume for the Grinch, along with a few other adaptation changes, the performancewill treat kids and parents to an old story with new twists. Kevin Bailey stars as the Grinch. It is on stage from Nov. 25 through Dec. 30.

The Old Globe offers a special family experience during stagings of “How the Grinch Stole Christmas.”Families can go backstage where cast and staff members are part of the fun that includes a Whoville celebration, with food, music, puppet shows, and arts and crafts workshops. A backstage VIP opportunity is available as well, after the matinee performance of the show. Profits are used to benefit the educational opportunities the theater produces.

CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING

As the curtain opens so will the Old Globe Christmas Tree be lit. Created by the play’s designer, the tree will remain at center stage in the middle of Globe Plaza for the entire run of the show. Those who purchase tickets to the first 4:30 p.m. showing will also receive free admission to the lighting. STAR 94.1 radio personalities Laura Cain and Little Tommy will join members of the cast for the holiday celebration.

TOURS

The Old Globe offers tours for that give a peak into the life of actors backstage, as well as a history of the Old Globe theater. Guests will learn about the green room, visit the costume and scene shops, and see the theater backstage. Walk-up tours are at 10:30 a.m. Saturdays. Tickets are $5 for adults, and $3 for students and seniors. Group tours are available by reservation during most weekdays.

— Daniel Tedford