Once Again! Are you kidding me!!! Absolutely a GEM of a theater! Came to watch Sweeney Todd and left in awe!! Cast was truly phenomenal!! Love the home feeling this theater has. Small and intimate, full of life and love. You can feel the art and dedication overflowing here! Please if you have not visited yet, what are you waiting for!? Buy your ticket now! I surely will be back. Thank you Gem! read more

Gem Theater - Performing Arts Near Me - Garden Grove, California

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"Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street" is a must-see production. I was seated literally front and center on opening night, and I'm still riding that high. Legitimately the best live musical production I've ever experienced in my life, and you would not believe that I only paid $30.00 flat for a performance of that caliber and parking was free. THEATRE IS BACK LIKE IT NEVER LEFT, BABY!!!!! It's hard for me to review musicals and plays because I want to share enough to promote the show and encourage people to get out there and see it, but I also don't want to spoil anything. That said, both the storyline and the movie have been out there long enough by now that if you still don't know the plot... that's on you!!!! When people tell you to support local talent, you're probably imagining someone's uncle on stage with a saxophone. But what if I told you that behind the curtains of the Gem Theater is a full-fledged orchestra dedicated to this incredible production? I'm a Gustavo Dudamel girly as much as the next person (shout-out LA Philharmonic), but goddamnnnnn, the Gem Theater orchestra was REALLY throwing it down back there. I would've loved to see them come out from backstage to take a bow and receive a round of applause alongside their conductor and the rest of the cast because they were putting in werk, too! I also loved the actors and actresses cast for this production. In addition to their obvious musical capabilities, their facial expressions and body language in each scene were impeccable. I was especially impressed that the casting decisions weren't simply what Hollywood has conditioned us to expect these characters to look like (i.e., Helena Bonham Carter and Johnny Depp doppelgangers). Everyone brought their own interpretation to the roles, and it worked beautifully. My favorite part of the show was the way "By the Sea" came together. Sweeney Todd has been my favorite musical since I was in middle school, and I've always wanted to see it performed live but never had the chance until now. I was genuinely curious about how the cast would pull off this scene because in the movie, they could obviously record and overlay multiple clips of Mrs. Lovett and Todd, but the way they handled it live was so lighthearted, witty, and genuinely delightful. It was honestly such a healing experience for my inner child...... which is such an ironic thing to say about a musical involving themes about c*nnibalism, murderous meat pies, and Victorian misery, LMAO. The costuming was also SCRUMPTIOUS. I'm not sure if they have an in-house designer or what their secret sauce is, but I'm sure we'll see them at London Fashion Week soon enough because those outfits were absolutely sooooo cunty (respectfully). One suggestion I have is for Gem Theater to consider setting up themed display cases or exhibits related to the current production as a way to drive additional foot traffic to the venue. For Sweeney Todd, imagine having different pieces from Mrs. Lovett's and Sweeney Todd's wardrobes, a pie, the barber shears, and other display props on view in the theater. I personally LOVE seeing Broadway props and production artifacts, and I'm sure other theater kids would be in the same boat. Obviously, this would depend on whether the theater has the capacity for it and isn't already doing something similar, but I think it could be such a fun addition. It's something I've seen done at El Capitan Theatre and The Bridgerton Experience in the past, and I think it could really resonate with theatre patrons here as well! :-) I also read online that Gem Theater used to have a sale on Halloween costumes back in the day, and I'm curious if there are any plans to bring that back sometime? I love thrifting and upcycling, and I think that could be a really fun event if they ever decide to revive it! Anyway, the final takeaway is: everyone needs to get their tickets to see this rockstar production while they're still available! There really isn't a bad seat in the house, and if that isn't enough to sell you, you should know that their air conditioning is also fully functional and a godsend in this 90+ degree Southern California weather. Thank you again to Damien, Victor (with the amazing hair), and Gem Theater for this delightful experience! I can't wait to see what you put on next, which is hopefully either The Greatest Showman or re-runs of Hairspray and Avenue Q because I dropped the ball and missed them first time around (but I promise to not be as foolish this time!). read more

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Whoa!! The talent on this stage blew me away!! We came to see their Footloose performance and it was amazing! So great! Granted this play is ending but yet each and every single actor gave their absolute best performance! I was truly blown away! From the main actors to the background all of them gave outstanding performances. Bravo all!! I have lived in Garden Grove for 3 decades, my family owned the coffee shop on Main Street and I have never stepped foot inside this theater, but now I will be back over and over again! This year they will be performing Sweeney Todd and Fiddler on The Roof and I am in for it! I hope next year's plays are amazing too!! Can't wait to see the lineup!! Get your tickets today!!! read more

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Super cute community theater right in the heart of Garden Grove! First time here and I came to see Footloose--and wow, it did not disappoint. You could really feel how much people love this place. It was sold out and the crowd energy was great. The cast? So talented, super energetic, and just fun to watch from start to finish. The space itself is perfect... intimate, comfy seating, and not a bad view in the house! Plus, there's a bar for drinks and a snack stand, which is always a win. Definitely a spot I'd come back to support! If you're looking for a fun night out and want to support the arts, this is it! read more

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This was my first time at The Gem and I loved it! Everyone at the theater was super nice and welcoming! We saw Footloose. Great singing and dancing. Looking forward to seeing Sweeney Todd and Fiddler on the Roof next. read more

Gem Theater - Performing Arts Near Me - Garden Grove, California

An I N C R E D I B L E Musical production of GREASE on a Saturday afternoon! I took Nama fir her birthday! The theater is charming! They had a cute car fir photo ops! The Manager was personality plus! The singers and dancers extraordinary! A darling theater in Garden Grove! Celebrating 21 years there! Very clean restrooms! A cute bar/snack bar with popcorn and fun theater snacks! Just a super enjoyable afternoon! We will definitely come back! read more

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The Gem Theater in downtown Garden Grove has to be the coolest little theater in Orange County. It's an intimate room with only 158 seats. There isn't a bad view in the house. The staff are dedicated to theater and always courteous. The productions they put on range from Broadway fare to unique rarities. Fun fact- back in the 90s I volunteered as a stage manager for a time. It was a lot of fun. read more

A superb performance tonight at The Gem. We saw the final presentation of Footloose and it surpassed many performances we have seen at La Mirada Theater of Performing Arts or Orange County Performing Arts. The theatre was clean with nice comfortable seats, offers of alcohol, popcorn and fresh baked cookies. Parking was awkward but not impossible to find as Garden Grove has a multitude of small city parking lots surrounding the theatre. We were very impressed and will be back. PS. Follow the debuting actor, Jackson De Lange. He reminded me of a young Paul Newman with an extraordinary singing voice. read more

I attended my first musical last night and it was so much fun. This theater has a really nice charm to it. All of the staff were exceptional in service. I sat at one of the tables and it was such a great experience. I definitely will attend a future show there. read more

First time to this theater - it was really an amazing experience. It truly is a hidden "Gem". There is tremendous heart and soul in this historic place. The cast of Footloose did an amazing job . Huge kiddos to the owners who made this evening so special . We will definitely be back!! read more

Grease was Wonderful. So much effort and skill involved in this production. June 19, 2025 I saw Patsy Cline at its last production a few years back. It was SMASHING!!!! Support this Jewel if a theatre. read more

The show was fantastic! It's an intimate space with tons of energy from both the cast and the audience. I loved it all and will definitely be back!! read more

I just saw Grease. OMG!! I didn't really care for the movie with Travolta and Newton-John. I was thinking about skipping this one but I'm SO GLAD I didn't!! The live musical was amazing!! The cast was enthusiastic and lively and having the time of their lives!! It showed in the performance. Danny ( Jack Janowicz) was suitably hot, but had serious competition from Kenickie (Myles Williamson). All of the ladies were lovely. And can all of them SING!! Yes they can, double OMG! One of the highlights was the "Beauty School Dropout" number. Nothing like in the movie. Tean Angel ( Trevin Stephenson) was amazing!! He channeled his inner James Brown and did the man proud!! Amazing!! Just a wonderful experience. If you haven't been to the Gem, this is a terrific first time musical. GO!! read more

I have attended a few shows at the GEM theater over the years. It's an old venue on historic main street adjacent to the Village Green park. There is a sense of early 20th century glamour here. Beautiful crystal sconces, a winding staircase, and a baby grand piano grace the lobby. There is booze for the preshow and intermission. There are lovely cakes and cookies to nosh on. Normally I would remove a star for the seating area, but the venue is old and our grandparents apparently had far less need of leg space. At any rate, I cannot give less than 5 stars. The positive attitude and enthusiasm of the GEM team make up any shortcomings. This is the place to come to see community theater. We heard some incredible voices and enjoyed ourselves immensely. read more

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I love musicals. My family introduced me to the Gem Theater last year with their production of Avenue Q and I fell in love with this theater. It's small and intimate. Well-mantained, beautiful, and clean. They offer food, such as hot dogs, chili, chips, and desserts. There is a full bar. Everything is priced very fairly. I have seen every show they've performed since Avenue Q in 2022 and every show has been excellent. The cast and crew put their hearts and souls into each performance and it shows. The sets, the lighting, the music, the costumes, the singing, dancing, and acting are all top-notch. Each performance is full of feeling and they move me every time whether I'm laughing or crying. Two nights ago I saw La Cage Aux Folles and it had me in tears during parts of the musical and giant smiles in other scenes. It's one of my favorite musicals and I'm so happy to have seen it at the Gem read more

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First time attended performance March 2025. Enjoyed a live stage performance. Will attend again!!!

Every show here is top notch! We saw Avenue Q this last Saturday and as every show at the the Gem was fantastic! Go see it before it's too late! Small intimate theater with great prices on tickets. It's right in Garden Grove on Main Street with restaurants that you can go to before the theater. Don't wait. Go now! 5 's read more

Love this theater! Gives you great Gatsby vibes! Not only are performances Broadway quality, they serve cocktails, hotdogs and popcorn!! These actors are the best I've seen and you just need to experience this theater!!! A+++++ read more

We came on a whim to see Evita with some friends and loved the performance. Our seats were all the way in the back; I would argue that there is not a bad seat in the theatre. The concessions they had were priced fairly and drinks were strong. Downtown garden grove is tiny, but it's cute at night and there is plenty of parking. Come check out this local theatre for something different to do and support their productions! read more

Gem Theater - Performing Arts Near Me - Garden Grove, California

Seussical the Musical is a must-see at The Gem Theatre in Garden Grove! The lights!, camera!, action! of this show will bring you right back to your childhood and you'll leave feeling warm and happy. This play is based on the stories of Dr Seuss but weaves it's own tales to bring you feelings of joy and tears - and a gamut of other emotions. The costumes are brilliant and the staging an avant-garde explosion of unexpected color! And then the actors: Cat in the Hat (Jack Janowicz) is both evil and clever, with a mixture of Snidely Whiplash and Mr Rogers. Horton (Peter Crisafulli) is affable, tragic and sweet. Gertrude (Nicole Casseso) is full of longing - until she gets what's she's longing for and then realizes she's been asking for the wrong thing all along! The Bird girls add an element of Vegas showgirl with their bejeweled bodysuits and plumage, designed by Costume Designer Luis. And then there's Maysie (Adriana Sanchez) whose charisma charms your pants off and vocals blow you out of the water. Last is Niles Gray as Jojo: a newcomer with the face and voice of an angel! The cast contains 25 actors every one of whom are talented and entertaining. A special shout out to Matt Rangel, a dancer, whose Monkey Boy takes this production to another level altogether. Don't miss this delightful production - get your tickets today!!! Support your local theatre before it goes away!! The Gem Theatre 12852 Main St, Garden Grove, CA 92840 read more

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The GEM theater in Garden Grove really is a little hidden gem. We came here for AVENUE Q play and the performance was superb! I love the vibe. It's intimate, good acoustics, and good views from every seat. Alcohol is served here (not as pricey as some other shows I've been to), an assortment of pastries and cakes are also sold prior and during intermission. Staff was amazing and best of all, everyone was down to Earth! One downside, the parking. Parking is limited so we had park across the street at coastline community college campus. I'll definitely be returning in the future. Come by and check out THE GEM THEATER in Garden Grove and help keep this Non Profit theater going for years to come! read more

This is a nice, quaint, family venue in downtown Garden Grove. They have a variety of musicals and focus on enriching lives through the arts. They have many repeat artists that can show versatility in playing varied roles. They have a concession stand that sells alcohol and baked goodies for a reasonable price. Season ticket holders get a few free drink tickets to use throughout the season. There is ADA seating to the side of the stage. Some seats may have a slightly obstructed view depending on the side stage and balcony. Overall a gem of a theatre. read more

Gem Theater - Program - Performing Arts Near Me - Garden Grove, California

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Sad fact - only 9 small theaters out of over 50 in so cal survived Covid lockdowns. Gem Theater is just that - a freaking GEM! The seats are very comfortable. It's an intimate theater and is filled with soul, heart and true community. The owner came out go address the audience before the show and during the intermission. You could really feel the passion he has for running this company. The drinks and snacks are all reasonably priced. The only con is the parking, definitely arrive early and have a bite nearby before the show. Looking forward to returning in 2023! Support your local theaters! read more

Gem Theater - Performing Arts Near Me - Garden Grove, California

This is my favorite theater! It has a cozy, family feeling. The shows are always great. The actors are top notch, excellent quality. Costumes, music, food, drinks, laughter, just a very happy place. So proud that they survived Covid and I want to see them full for every show. Parking is easy. You can see great plays and musicals for a good price and if you live close by it's super easy, compared to driving to LA. Give it a try if you haven't been! read more

Just saw the latest musical Oklahoma! here. Wow! It's absolutely incredible! I wanted to get up and dance right along with the ensemble. Yeah, it was that exciting. Great classic Oklahoma songs, great vocalists, loved the costumes, and the musical ensemble - 11 piece and on stage. This theater is small and quaint but the talent is big. read more

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Such a beautiful theater. Shows are always fantastic! Cabaret nights are intimate but lively! Highly Recommend!

i love this theater, and the performers. however not very happy with them now, as i bought a platinum package at $1500 last july 2024. i was told it was good for a year, which would make it go to july 2025. this package was suppsoed to give me and a guest access to the tiffany room, before performances and during intermission and during performances, which gives you unlimited drinks and snacks/appetizers. i was happy to do this as it also helps out the theater. but for this last performance, which started march 6th, the gala, which was supposed to be part of getting the tiffany room, in addition to paying $85.00 each,for myself and my daughter for the gala, i received a voicemail on march 6, 2025, stating that we would not be able to partake in the tiffany room, because they were only going to let the diva packages, which is $5,000 partake in it. no, this is misrepresentation of the package i bought in july 2024 and what victor, who took us on the tour told us. my daughter and my son were there and witnessed what we were told and that is why i bought this package. i was going to renew this july, but now i will not. my daughter and i have also been volunteering at the gem theater during the times they have performances. this i have lost the desire to do, as this company seems to have no scruples. i did get my $170 refunded to me, however, as i told them we would not be going to the gala or the performance, sincew they are reneging on our having the tiffany room experience, as promised. apparently my money is not good enough anymore, as from what the message said, the rates were raised in january 2025. that i can understand, however, my contract was from july 2024 to july 2025, and should be honored. i have lost my respect for this organization now. which is a shame as the performers are wonderful and most of the staff is fantastic. read more

I absolutely LOVE this theatre. They always put on FIRST CLASS entertainment. I saw their last production of La Cage Au Folle (twice). The singing and dancing were totally excellent! The costumes, make-up, AND choreography was FABULOUS! I wish they would do it once a month! The staff and actors are so friendly and helpful. I can't wait to go back to see Holiday Gem! read more

All Shook Up What an outstanding cast! Thoroughly enjoyed this production! Looking forward to the next event I'll be ble to attend. read more

Beautiful small theater. There is not a bad seat. Great productions, fun, and reasonably priced. Love it!!

We attended this little gem for the local musical "A Christmas Gem" with a 7-yr old and sat in the front row. Parking is easy for an evening show, there's spots right across the street. They have home baked delicious refreshments that match the style of the show so it was Christmas cookies and cake tonight. Plus they have a relatively full bar for patrons. The shows are local and performed by local players, so they purposely speak to individuals in the audience, like our little guy. Made for a really special experience for him. It's an old renovated theater, still needs a little work. It's very comfortable for a fun show like this one, other local OC theaters are drafty, and a bit unsettling. Well recommended, we will return. read more

Me and my boyfriend go see plays here. Very talented performers! The singing, dancing and acting are always fantastic.

Since the musical ' Oklahoma' is one of my all-time favorites, we decided to give the Gem a try. It was truly a wonderful, professional, and intimate experience. There was practically no bad seat in this small theater. We have gone to many local theaters large and small as well as many in New York and London. The singers and dancers in this show with a live 7- piece orchestra and a cast if well over 20 were simply amazing. We attended 5 shows last June at the West End of London , the only show which came even close to this one was Moulin Rouge. Parking can be difficult to find and you should consider getting there earlier than the 30 minutes recommended. There is a lounge in the lobby where you can enjoy a drink prior. I hesitated to write this review for fear that the theater may be overwhelmed. But this group certainly warrants our support. read more

The musical Pippin was a wonderfully cast high energy production. Hayden Magnum who played Pippin has an enchanting voice, and perfectly portrayed the ethereal romantic ingenue essence of his character. The dance ensemble filled the stage with sexy mysterious exuberance. Beth Hansen, the Iconic Diva, belted out her experience filling the room with an invitation to join the fun frolic. Mary Desmond charmed hearts in the second act batting butterfly eyelashes between vivacious smiles. Tim Klega, the king, was a royal caliber actor who you really believed was King Charlemagne. You have until March 31st to see Pippin. read more

This theatre is aptly named. It's a real gem. The plays here are amazing!! Not a bad thing to say about this place. We love it!

The GEM THEATER is a small, comfy, basically single-story theater, with every seat giving you a great view and audio. There is accommodation for wheelchairs, walkers, etc. It probably isn't a venue for some children. Mostly a venue for adults, in my humble opinion. The GEM looks to be a small theater, but it is so comfortable, and every show is an offering of entertainment that will surround you like a huge hug of human emotion. I think you will be very comfortable at the GEM THEATER and feel that it was time well spent with loved ones and/or friends. I haven't seen a "bad" play yet! Try something special for an evening (or an afternoon). ;~ ) read more

Cute little theater. We saw Joseph and the amazing technicolor dream coat. It was amazing!!! Maybe 150 seats , so very small but they did an amazing job. Will be returning for future productions. read more

Just saw La Cage Aux Folles and it was marvelously entertaining! My first time at the Gem but certainly not my last. Thank you for a laugh filled Evening. read more

My husband decided to treat me to the production of "Always Patsy Cline". This was our first time at this theater, what a true "GEM" it is, such a quaint theater in Garden Grove, which is publicly funded, we were so pleased to patronize this place, to keep the arts alive and well, I give hats off to the cast & crew of this establishment to put on such a beautiful play. The story is of Louise Seger & her friendship with Miss Patsy Cline, from 1961 to 1963, Patsy passed away, in 63 due to a awful plan crash that took her life at only 30 years old. Being a huge fan of Patsy's due to my father, Patsy was his ultimate favorite, my husband took me to enjoy this production last night. We both were so impressed with the full band of musicians they were straight out of that wonderful western swing era.Outstanding band, the perfect setting to this story, the music and song selection carried this play beautifully. The Stage is set to make you feel as if you were at the Grand Old Opry in the beginning, then as the show progressed the songs carried you to how their friendship came to be. Every song was paired exactly to make this story flow so wonderfully it took you to Texas for a tale of laughs, fun and emotion. These leading ladies were amazing a perfect duo for this show, such chemistry. Nicole Cassesso sang beautifully and with such emotion, that brought a few tears to my eyes due to the connection of certain songs. Dee Shandera played Louise what a funny lady with Va-va-voom she brought such a spark to this character. This theater is cozy and so warm perfect setting for this play, not a bad seat in the house. This is a "TRUE GEM" for the upcoming artist's who keep live theater alive and thriving wonderful~wonderful experience here!! I look forward to attending more shows here !! Thank you to the outstanding staff, cast & crew, making this a beautiful night enjoying a live play with amazing music from beginning to end! You will have a wonderful time here, patronize the arts & live theater, Patronize the Gem Theater, there is nothing like it!! Thank You Once Again Such A Beautiful Time From Beginning To End!!! read more

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Sometimes a theatre space can be a release from the ordinary. We go to these raised stages and fall into darkness hoping to lose ourselves or perhaps find pieces we lost along the way. Located on Main Street at the cusp of old town Garden Grove is a theater who's name does provide itself as a shining beacon to new talent and hungry arts: The Gem Theatre. The exterior has a large marquee with shiny bulbs to light up the silhouettes of the outside world. Inside, the deco of this theatre reminds you of a tiny version of community college drama classrooms. It is hardly larger than two living rooms placed together with a slight elevation from front row to back. The stage is adequate though it could probably hold no more than an ensemble of 10 people plus setting without squeezing the stage for space. The lobby area has a concession stand next to the restrooms and it feels quaint but also as lonely as a discount movie theater lobby on a school night. It all feels oddly familiar and a little sad at the same time; like watching one of your favorite movies when you were a kid but now grown up. The plays that come here range widely. From small independent plays of local talent to the bigger productions of famous musicals, this theatre has an eclectic variety of shows coming through its curtains. Not all are great. You can see how some of the indie shows arise with modest and even humbler acting. However, I would argue it is by that very nature of raw talent and passion which fuels the genuine novelty of such a venue. It is the effort and dream manifested with each play that brings to life and truly lives up to the title of this being a gem of a theatre. So if you find yourself at this theatre for a play, whether big or small, just take a breath of atmosphere and know you are helping take flight someone's search for the stars. Hopefully that will help you float along too. read more