I've been here twice for concerts and have been extremely pleased with the venue and the overall…read moreexperiences I've had. The campus is gorgeous that it sits on and the Center is absolutely beautiful inside. What I love most about the seating inside is that it's designed well with comfortable seats that aren't crammed together and you can actually enjoy the show. There are vents under each seat to keep you cool, which is also a plus on warmer seasons. The sound quality here is absolute perfection as well and I can't imagine why anyone wouldn't feel the same way as I do about this wonderful venue! What a true gift it is to have near us! Oh, the parking here is great as well and so are the attendants!!!

I'll start with a disclaimer: the Mondavi Center typically hosts classical and jazz…read moreperformances--great quality, just not the genres I usually listen to. Because of that, even though I've lived nearby for more than 20 years, I never made it out to a show. I finally made an exception to see the legendary Herbie Hancock at Jackson Hall, the larger venue that seats about 1,800 people. Even from the upper section, the sound was phenomenal. The acoustics are honestly some of the best I've experienced. The one downside to sitting up there is the seating layout: the rows are tight, and unlike other sections, there are no aisles. If someone in the middle needs to step out, the entire row--around 20 people on each side--has to shuffle to make room. Not ideal, especially for long shows without an intermission. Parking is close, but even on a Sunday (when parking is usually free), the lot across from the venue charged $19. Drinks are allowed inside only if they have lids, and there are no cupholders at the seats. Minor things, but they add up. Jackson Hall is a beautiful venue, and it definitely carries a "posh" or "elite" reputation that seems fairly accurate--it feels geared toward a more academic crowd. I probably won't return soon based on the current lineup, but seeing Herbie Hancock there was absolutely worth it.

The DMTC is a super cool little theater tucked away in east Davis! I had never been before and…read moreshowed up for an evening production of Little Shop of Horrors. Something that sets it apart from other community theaters is the setup of the stage and audience, which feels more intimate than most theaters do. I really enjoyed that they also have a live orchestra. The staff are all super friendly and helpful and the performances and drinks are affordable. I'll definitely be back!

Came to see Into the Woods for our first time attending a DMTC production. It was well done with…read moresome solid talent. Ticket prices can't be beat and the theater is cute! Not a bad seat in the house. Only complaint was the orchestra/pit. It's under the stage and the actors have to rely on a camera broadcasting to a TV behind the audience to keep an eye on the conductor. For a show with such a technically tricky score as Into the Woods, it proved difficult to keep the cast on key and tempo. Also, I think the musicians made some frequent errors whixh pulled me out of the magic and pushed me into "come on, you can do it" anxious mode. That was the only bummer, though.

Totally impressed that this theater group is run entirely by students. They put on plays as well as…read moremusicals complete with a band. Not only are all the actors students, but the artistic staff are also comprised of students and recent alumni. I have seen their productions of the play 'Spring Awakening' as well as the rock opera musical 'Rent'. I was impressed by the caliber of acting talent in 'Spring Awakening' -- their performance evoked a lot of emotion in a very challenging play. Before seeing 'Rent' I was dubious that a student group would be able to pull off an intense rock musical, but they did a great job. The theater itself is very unique -- Wyatt Pavillion used to be a barn -- so the director has to be particularly creative with the space. The front half of the stage is surrounded by the audience, and there is a tall platform that actors can access from backstage or by employing a ladder. The blocking (staging, in actor speak) was well-done, especially in 'Rent', which demands several different spaces for all the stories going on in the show at once. The student group takes on the challenges of each show and owns them. Mad props! They will all be fantastic when they move beyond college theater into the world of professional theater. TIP: Good theater always makes for an awesome date night.

Studio 301 Productions is an incredibly talented, student-run theatre group on the UC Davis campus…read more In the past couple of years they have put on several big name plays and musicals, including The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, Urinetown, The Pillowman, and Spring Awakening. It's definitely worth a visit to Davis to check them out. Their productions are top notch, with quality that far surpasses most other local theatres in the Sacramento area.

This rustic theater used to be a barn!…read more Nestled in the woodsy UC Davis campus, the grand trees surrounding the Wyatt Pavilion really make it picturesque. (http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/wyatt-pavillion-davis?select=3bB22cpFBl0iPFGH40O97g#YBOoUGak_3Io_Q-WotRl8A) Parking is aplenty in the two lots just off Old Davis Drive. Inside, the theater grants a unique experience. The seats surround the stage on 3 sides, granting the audience a deeper perspective. This view seems to encourage the actors to take their performances to the next level, as they have to be conscious of their expressions and actions from all angles. (http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/wyatt-pavillion-davis?select=3bB22cpFBl0iPFGH40O97g#c6SybqnrQ2TPjODc-sufdQ) This past weekend I had the pleasure of watching my good friend in the title role of Richard III, which was a product of the UC Davis Theatre Department's "Shakespeare on a Shoestring" project. The final battle scene is viewable from all seats in the audience. This photo captures the intensity of the play, which incorporated modern 'urban' costume elements and lots of rhythm. (http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/wyatt-pavillion-davis?select=3bB22cpFBl0iPFGH40O97g#hjwRqQoFqbtJmTaquTCxdA) I have seen several productions done here by both the student-directed group 301 Productions and the UC Davis Theatre Department, and have been impressed by the choices the directors have made using the stage. They creatively utilized all spaces, including a raised platform about 10 feet high at the back of the stage and staircases that lead up to this platform and offstage. The only downsides: 1. The pillars of death, should you be so unlucky to sit behind them. (http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/wyatt-pavillion-davis?select=3bB22cpFBl0iPFGH40O97g#s6SxsqV9uZjTEbufk-wzDg) 2. The horrible back-beating seats. The cushion doesn't quite reach the back of the chair, so you either have to slouch down so your butt lines up with the cushion, --OR-- force your butt into the crack at the back of the cushion. Which would you prefer? 3. There is no food within quick walking distance. If you're making a 2 - 2.5 hour commitment to watch a show, definitely bring some food! During intermission I inhaled a bag of chips like a voracious raccoon. Despite these setbacks, the shows have been incredible. Overall, Wyatt Pavilion creates an intimate theater experience that can't be missed!

Locally owned and operated with so much love and passion. My girls have been thriving here since…read more2019. They navigated the pandemic amazingly, foster confidence and fun and have since added a "boys corner"! From recreation to competitive dancing, from tiny tots and special needs children to adult classes, this studio is just amazing. My kid got to experience opening for the Sacramento Kings w the studio, end of year show at Mondavi. Love watching my girls and this community thrive thanks to MIDC!!!

Every year that goes by our respect and appreciation for Mirror Image grows. They're giving our…read moregirls the gift of dance in a positive inclusive environment and we are truly grateful.

The Davis art center offers a variety of eclectic cultural arts classes. For instance the first…read morestudio to the left of the entrance is where three-dimensional art and ceramics class are held. Although I don't take 3-dim art classes here it looks like it would be rewarding to create beautiful mosaics from huge chunks of clay and chipped glass while listening to cool retro background music. There are dramatics classes who rehearse outside behind the stage for the "theatre in the park" productions. There are music classes, singing classes, and a variety of cultural dance classes. As an Added bonus... All DAC dance studio floors are solid tongue and groove wood. Did I mention that wood dance floors are almost nonexistent in Northern California? With that said its the floors that drew me to the Davis art center, as any respectable rhythm tapper would. As a community non profit organization taking classes at the DAC should not burn a hole in your octet book. Plus 1 star for that. Enrollment fees & tuition fees are nominal compared to a private studio plus you automatically become a member of the DAC after enrolling in a class. You should really check this place and take a class for fun. Go ahead and dust off that old Yamaha instrument in the back of your closet...you won't regret it. After all cultural arts classes give your mind an opportunity to create while making new friends from the community.

My first experience here was a dazzling evening of drumming with my dear friend Mamadu. This was…read moretruly a enriching and cultural gathering for all ages. I brought my Kambala djembe and jammed until the sun set. Djembe masters like Mamadu are rare these days and I was fortunate enough to have networked with him through the Sacramento drum circle rhythm community. There are people of all ages and backgrounds who share a collective interest in rhythm and the origins of music. The djembe is the roots! I will be back!

There's a fireplace here to warm yourself by when the weather gets cold! If that isn't enough to…read moreentice you then I don't know what is. Come early in the day or between classes to get your pick of the seats and tables! Most people just come in for a quick power nap between classes but whatever floats your boat. Just keep it quiet and no glares will be comingyour way.

Please note that the phone number listed is NOT correct. Your best bet is probably (530) 752 2222…read more http://campusrecreation.ucdavis.edu/content.cfm?contentID=44&redirectedFrom=content&redirectedFromID=240&CFID=382694&CFTOKEN=28245973

My experience with Applegate Dance Studio has been amazing, I recommend this studio to anyone…read morelooking for an adult dance program. Sign up for classes is easy, response time is almost immediate and very helpful. Instruction is excellent, love the instructors. Many levels of experience within each class are accommodated. A great feeling of community and positivity. Prices are also appreciated. This place is awesome.

I moved not too long ago from the Peninsula to Davis, had been looking for an adult ballet class…read morefor over 35 years and found a great one here with Applegate Dance Studio. My teacher, Rebecca, is thoughtful, encouraging and so professional. Students of all levels, ages and abilities feel welcome. For the joy of ballet, I highly recommend Applegate Dance Studio in west Davis.

James meets his students where they are at! My daughter has grown so much as an artist from Jame's…read morecoaching! I highly recommend him for vocal lessons and career coaching. He is knowledgeable and pushes his students to be their very best at their craft!

James Drips is hands-down one of the most passionate vocal and piano teachers out there. Every…read morelesson is high-energy, fun, and somehow makes learning feel effortless (and entertaining). He genuinely cares about your progress and brings the perfect mix of skill, humor, and motivation. If you want to learn, laugh, and actually enjoy your lessons--James is your guy.

If you're looking for entertainment that will genuinely wow your guests, I can't recommend this…read moremagician enough! He performed at our twins' birthday party, and from start to finish, the show was absolutely incredible. This wasn't the typical "pull a rabbit out of a hat" kind of magic--it was a truly interactive, engaging, and professional performance that had over 30 children completely captivated for an entire hour. What impressed me even more was that all 150 of our adult guests were just as entertained! There were laughs, gasps, and moments where everyone was left wondering, "How did he do that?" It was one of the highlights of the entire celebration and truly a show we'll be talking about for years. If you're planning a birthday, family gathering, school event, corporate function, or any special occasion, I would recommend him without hesitation. He has an amazing way of connecting with both children and adults, making everyone feel part of the experience. Thank you for making our twins' birthday so memorable--you were truly one of the highlights of the day!

Amasingh Magic was hands down the absolute highlight of my niece's birthday party! Calling him…read more"amazing" is an understatement--he had both the kids and adults completely hooked from start to finish. Watching the adults laugh and be just as amazed as the kids was priceless, but the best part was hearing my niece's friends say, "This is the best day ever!" If you're looking for an entertainer who brings top-tier magic, incredible energy, and creates unforgettable memories for everyone in the room, book him immediately. Thank you, Amasingh, for making her birthday so special!