Attended the Dance Nation production last night. Moments that are Hilariously funny, heart breaking sad, with lots of music and dancing. A top notch acting showcase presented in a bare room. The theater seating capacity is less than 100 patrons. My wife was so impressed that we purchased a full year sponsorship. The bare bones "Off-off-off Broadway" venue is redeemed by the superior acting skills. For a $15 ticket, the value is top notch. read more

Big Idea Theatre - 2026. Great show! - Performing Arts Near Me - Sacramento, California

See all

What a pleasant surprise this theater group experience was! I was skeptical when outer friends encouraged us to join them for a season of Big Idea Theater. Such a small room with good seating and an excellent cast of characters made for a thrilling 2 hour presentation of Dance Nation. Don't be fooled by the low price and small production! Can't wait for their next play! read more

The three of us went to see POTUS and for two hours we could barely draw a breath we were laughing so hard. The play is FANTASTIC!!! The seven actresses are so full of energy and enthusiasm and acting ability that it is a miracle they don't drop from exhaustion! And hilarious does not begin to cover this experience. We were laughing and chatting with strangers during the intermission and after the play --- actually, "former" strangers, because by the end of the play everyone in the audience is bonded. Where do these seven women get their energy? From whence cometh their full devotion to their characters? How did this miracle happen? And how in the world can people act on a stage four feet in front of you and manage to keep their theatrical distance from the audience while grabbing their audience's sensibilities and entertaining the living heck out of them? I am going back again for more!!! I advise you to do the same, before this play gets carried off to Broadway and costs $200 a seat plus air fare!!! read more

I absolutely love this playhouse. We've seen the last 4 or 5 productions, and each has been rewarding, exciting, memorable, with more-than-professional acting. This place is the best. Come join the fun and analytical rewards!!! read more

Last night we went to a play here-first time. Intimate and delightful location. No frills and great seats! Play was about 5 women in different stages of life-each having their own life experience, and all interrelated. My comment is about Lonely Betty. She tore my heart out. A great actress who made me relate to her, cry for her when the voices in her head (a hand puppet) told her to just do herself in, and cheer her on when she fought back and became a roaring lioness at the end. Sorry I didn't scan the program so I could see other plays she is in. I'm looking forward to going back in September for their next show. read more

We took our teenage daughter to see a pair of One-Act plays at this theater in January 2023. It has a square stage about 25 feet across with stadium seating on two sides (about 5 rows each) - says it seats 60. Located in an older part of Sacramento, a warehouse/street store area, with only about 10 parking spots - most people will have to find street parking. Bathrooms in building are shared by other businesses, and were clean enough when we visited. They do offer snacks, and we bought a bottled water. Temperature was comfortable. Actors were pretty average, a bit of "over-acting" by some. Still, it was a fun experience and tickets were only $15 each, so we would go again. read more

This community theater is an appropriately named little bastion for big, bold artistic ideas right off of Del Paso Boulevard. They choose their productions wisely, whether they be something more obscure or a unique take on an old classic. Between the acting and the artistic commitment of everyone who works here, this is a theater every local supporter of the arts must experience. I came down to watch "The Exit Interview," a "philosophical comedy" and mostly two person show. The setup is small and the theater seats roughly 40. You'd never know how small it is once the production begins because the expert staging, set dressing and acting make you feel like the venue is much larger. The show was a hit and received a standing ovation. Mama Kim's, an acclaimed restaurant I have yet to visit, is located right in front so you could easily make an evening out of dinner and a show. The theater entrance is a little hard to find; it's back off the street through the restaurant patio. read more

See all

Another update! I feel it's important to update again because BIT has changed more than any other theatre in Sacramento. They've gone through many Artistic Directors in the past couple years because the Artistic Directors tend to become important commodities in the greater theatre world. Similarly, the company members rotate frequently as they move on to bigger things. This fact does benefit the audience, though, because now more local actors are willing to do shows here, which means a bigger pool to choose from. In the past, the more roles a show had, the more iffy actors you'd be seeing onstage. Lately it seems even smaller parts are filled with better actors than what they used to get. And play selection has become more interesting also. While you won't find fresh-off-Broadway shows - their last show was the 20+-year-old Wit (which was excellent) - you will find more recent plays sprinkled throughout than in past seasons. My only real complaint - other than their questionable space and annoying location - is their lack of a solid subscriber base. They are easily the best theatre for the money, but rarely do they get the audiences they deserve. It'd be nice if they got somebody on this, so they could grow... into a better location! read more

Quality theater is often hard to find. Theater that provides diverse, unexpected, mind blowing products is even harder to find. This theater offers up that and more, providing Sacramento with exceptional productions. I thoroughly enjoy coming here and couldn't recommend their shows more. Every aspect of their products, from the house management to the actors are of amazing quality. Plus they have Thrifty Thursdays, where tickets are only $10! They make theater affordable too! Help support Sacramento theater! read more

Well, it's a downright shame. Let me explain. We've now been to three shows at Big Idea Theater ("BIT") and each has been absolutely wonderful. In each case, spirited, superb, fully competent performers have put on a unique and truly entertaining show in a small theater with an intimate, neighborhood feel. We love the grand productions at the big stages in Sacramento and Folsom--and there are several--but the small theater at BIT is warm and rewarding. The ticket prices at BIT are, in any comparison, an incredible value allowing us to see several performances a year which would otherwise be unaffordable. And, we think a "live show" in a pleasant theater is far more rewarding than another night of TV or fighting the crowds at a local movie theater. But, I digress. I cannot overstate our appreciation for the fine performances we have seen. In fact, after seeing As You like It (Shakespeare set in Sacramento and our second show at BIT) we were so impressed we purchased "balance-of-the-season" season tickets. We just saw Private Eyes which brings a five member cast to the stage in a wonderfully intricate and thought-provoking story line ("do we really want to know the truth about those whom we are in a relationship with"). The cast presented the story without a fault; we absolutely loved the show. Besides the show itself, the theater is small and comfortable promoting a sense of involvement in the presentation. So, what's the shame here? At the end of each show the actors take their traditional bow. My wife and I (and we sensed others) wanted the cast to take a second and third bow but the applause of twenty or so people could not sustain that. The shame is that these hard-working actors and actresses and their performances should support much more attendance than they do and therefore provide for them increased reward for the their work. Yes, BIT is out-of-the-way and not in a location where you might expect to find such quality acting and interesting plays so BIT remains, for the present, a "hidden gem." But, with a world-class restaurant and an art gallery in the same building it's not as out of the way as it might seem. We love BIT and if you like good acting and interesting plays in an intimate theater I'm all but certain you will too. read more

There is no way I would've ever discovered this place if it weren't for word of mouth and with the further help from Google. I've purchased tickets this past week to see "Killer Joe". I've heard about this from my theatre arts professor and was dying to see it. I've never been to Big Idea Theatre before and really didn't know what to expect. First off, for someone extremely terrible with directions, I felt like this place was fairly easy to find. They do have their own private parking lot although there are many other parking in front of the buildings. Not necessarily their own, but there are a lot of slots from the nearby stores. It is 2 hour parking for most of them; but it's free after 8PM. Big Idea Theatre is in such a dingy and ghetto neighborhood with many old and abandoned buildings down its street. I was early for my show so I decided to park my car in front of the theatre and walked around for a bit. I was trying to find a diner to try out and about two blocks down, I started realizing that it was a mistake. There were crackheads walking around the neighborhood. High school kids kicking it in the parking lot. A lot of stores I did not recognize and many weren't even opened. A lot of the buildings looked tore up. There was only one diner called "Lil Joe's" almost right next to Big Idea but it looked sketchy (plus I of course yelped them and eh...nothing impressing). Overall, I DID NOT FEEL SAFE AT ALL BEING IN THIS AREA. Soon, it was show time and I entered the theatre through the black gates. You can do so on the side as well which is supposed to be the main entrance, but either one will do. I entered the small room where there are big comfortable chairs and a window with a very sweet cashier verifying my information of the purchase of the ticket. There are also snacks & beverages to be purchased there; most are a dollar each. I bought a bag of skittles, accepted my program and went into the actual theatre room to pick my seat. I saw that there were a couple of reserved seating, but the audience got to pick our own seat for the most part. The layout of this theatre is what they call an alley theatre with the audience on two sides. Shapes like an "L" is the best way I am able to describe it. I love this set up. I feel like I could've sat anywhere, and even for a tiny person, I'd be able to have a very good and close up view of the play. Which I most certainly did. There were different levels of the seating like in a big movie theatre room (even though it is nowhere nearly as big as that). The seat raises as you go up the steps and the main stage is down below on ground. It bothered me quite a bit how their seats do not come with cup holder. Where are you supposed to put your snacks and drinks??? Overall though, a great theatre. "Killer Joe" was a tremendous show that I'd totally watch it again if I hadn't gone to the last show. GREAT CAST. Everybody played their part so well and they've captured my attention all the way through. I didn't even want the 15 minute intermission! I just wanted to keep watching them. Amazing. read more

I have to admit I had relatively low expectations of "As You Like It" at Big Idea because I had never heard of the theater. I am a transplant to Sacramento and I was looking to get out there and see what the city has to offer for live theater. I stumbled across Big Idea's website and figured for the low ticket price I would give it a try. I have to say I was VERY impressed with Big Idea Theater. First, the actors were sensational. I've seen Shakespeare done on bigger stages and more prestigious venues and this production was in so many ways better than those productions. The theater is so small that there are no bad seats. The size means you can really see the actors and, because they were so good, you get sucked into the story with ease. Another perk, there is a great restaurant in the same building that will give you a drink in a plastic cup to bring into the theater. There are no assigned seats, so now I can invite all my friends to join me at the next production and we can sit together without a reservation. After seeing only this one show, I bought season tickets. I have no idea what the other shows are about, but I am confident after seeing this production that they will all be worth seeing. If you haven't been to Big Idea, give it go and see if you don't get hooked, too! read more

DANGER. Unless you move fast, you will miss a drama that stops the entire audience's breathing. Several times. "THE PILLOWMAN" A flawless cast creates life, stark and brutal, in a discomforting story of a man trapped in a hellish fascistic situation. Martin McDonagh's play is subtlely and artfully produced by Big Idea Theatre. Tonight we gave a standing ovation. See it....you'll do the same. read more

This is a great theater with spirited actors putting on incredible performances!

I love this theatre because it contains so many reminiscing memories that sadden yet enlighten me. The movies are beautiful too :)

Came for the first time and liked it. Nice little theatre. Very cute. Is cute the right word to say for me? Well, me and my date saw Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde. Recommend it the show. Will check out other shows. read more

I had no idea what to expect. This is a tiny theatre, maybe 35 x 50 feet inside, with 60 or so seats. There are four or five rows of seats on two sides, so there are no bad seats! You're close enough to really see the actor's faces and feel their intensity. We went to see Private Eyes because an acquaintance was in it, and we really enjoyed the experience. They have reduced prices on Thursday night so it's a bargain. The theatre itself is located in a mixed use space with Mama Kim's Eats and an art gallery. Perfect for date night! read more

If you have never experienced a small local theater before, you really should try it. It's a completely unique art form with advantages beyond anything like TV or Hollywood. The theater is small compared to a movie theater or Broadway show - you are close enough to clearly see the actors. There are no bad seats. These are seriously talented people who boldly put themselves out there, heart and soul. You will laugh and you will cry. Then you can even meet the actors afterwards! read more

I've been to two productions here and both were fantastic (more soon to come). I could not recommend more highly. Especially because of the intimate setting it is theater like you've probably never experienced it. The stories they choose are unique. The actors are talented. The tickets prices are a steal. Try it once and see if you aren't itching to come right back. It's definitely a unique and memorable experience! read more

Recently saw a production of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde; excellent performances, direction, costumes, and set. The is a nice little theater; I am definitely a fan and will come back. Very impressed. read more

Absolutely love this theater! I had the pleasure of seeing Outrage and was amazed by the professionalism, dedication, and passion these actors have. We will definitely be back. I'm ready to be a season ticket holder :-) read more

Saw Wonder Of The World here last week...without question one of the FUNNIEST plays I've ever seen! Folks who are even slightly incontinent should plan accordingly. What a powerhouse of comedic talent! The owner of the theater co, as I understood it, was the lead--she's worth the price of admission. And just WAIT till you see the talented Laura Kaya take on not one, not two, but FIVE roles...her helicopter pilot will leave u with a new cache of one liners. DO NOT bring the K-8 crowd, but highschoolers will LOVE the mature humor. HURRY! It closes Sept 3rd! I'm a new Big Theater lifer! Can't wait to see what's next. read more

Looking for something to do on date night we're always a little hesitant to venture too far outside of suburbia with the sitter meter ticking. Faced with the prospect of another uninspired Sandra Bullock chick flick, I was inspired to search high and low for something different, somewhat out of our comfort zone, something unique, and something to entertain during the precious few adult hours we have away from our kids. The play we saw at the Big Idea Theatre last night, "A Contemporary American's Guide to a Successful Marriage copyright 1959," was everything we could have hoped for and more. Venue, acting, storyline, refreshments, and staff were all excellent. We especially agreed with the other reviews in that there really isn't a bad seat. Also, although we didn't eat at the restaurant across the hallway this time, we will plan on it next time because the food looked great. We did order a drink from the bar and since they served it to us in a to-go cup we were able to enjoy it in the theatre during the show instead of rushing it during intermission. We will definitely be back and next time will recommend it to our friends for a double date. read more

Unique community theatre with a variety of productions. Intimate / casual setting, fabulous staff, & high quality shows. Recently enjoyed a night of comedy here. Highly recommend supporting this collaborative artist community when you're looking for a place to go for a fun night out! read more

This is an awesome space very much like some of the smaller theatres in San Francisco, and a really well put together stage. The acting and production is great and of a high caliber; it's clean, comfortable, and the plays they stage are a good mix of modern and traditional. I always appreciate when theatre companies put on a range of challenging and interesting productions, and don't just do crowd pleasers to try and fill seats. We saw '7 Mammoths' and really enjoyed it. We will be back! read more

This small theater offers FABULOUS, imaginative performances with LOTS of incredible actors (not a paltry 1, 2 or 3 like STC which has a huge budget & giant stage, shame on them for cutting corners!). And, what a bonus to have MAMA KIM's restaurant right next door (eat there before the shows)! We are so lucky in Sacramento to have so many Quality theater groups. BIG IDEA has been such a delightful discovery. Cloud 9 was great & funny, 33 Variations was wonderful, so many excellent performances! BUY THE SEASON PASS EARLY (it helps them pay bills!) read more

The Big Idea Theater is worth checking out. Because it is a small theater it is easy to hear and see the show. The shows that I have seen were well done and engaging. read more

I love this place! Love performing there, and love attending shows there. Their shows are always top-notch and they truly care about putting together a quality product. I would recommend BIT to anybody looking for the best theatre in Sacramento. read more

This theater is a real sleeper gem for this "interesting" neighborhood which also boasts some delicious restaurant fare very nearby. BIT has a low-key exterior and fabulous talent within. The snack bar is humble, the bathroom funky fun, and the thespian line-up a real treat. I will return regularly to see what the various casts are up to. Two enthusiastic thumbs wayyyyyy up! (Monica F, Carmichael, CA) read more

This is a great venue to catch a live play. Very intimate and the acting is fabulous!! Been there a couple of times and will go back for more. read more

We really enjoyed opening night of Inventing Van Gogh this weekend. Loved the script, which really left us thinking. The actors ranged from very good to excellent. We love the small Black Box theater intimacy and intimate neighborhood feel. It was great to see the audience was 50% people under 40. Yay! we have a new live theater to support! read more

Wow, this place totally amazed. Its a small intimate theater with great performances. Perfect date idea! :) will definitely come back for another showing! read more

BIT isn't in Roseville anymore, but in a neat little space next to the Supper Club on Del Paso Boulevard. It's just a few short minutes from downtown, and every show I have seen there has been outstanding! Big Idea Theater does interesting work with a bit of an edge - it isn't your typical blue-hair theatre. Highly recommended. Check it out. I just found the address - 1616 Del Paso Boulevard, Sacramento. read more