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    Orpheum Theatre

    3.9 (1.2k reviews)
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    Stage
    Stef M.

    I went to see the Dracula Ballet . It's a great building haven't been in here forever since Dr Zhivago before the world now a happier time. The production was wonderful the costumes were fabulous. The walk up to the balcony was really no big deal. Beautiful everything in this building it's a real treasure. They offer snacks and drinks you may purchase in the different sets of stairs or have it brought directly to your seat if you wish . No photography is allowed during the performance due to copyright and other rules but it was really a lovely treat. The ushers were quite helpful and very professional. I hope to come for other performances.

    Lovely curtain displaying the war time and how Dracula became who he is.
    Priscilla L.

    For a limited engagement one week run it was pretty much a full orchestra when I went on Tuesday night after the 3 day holiday Fourth of July weekend. Fantastic bring Dracula from the movies live on stage was cool and fun and I never knew ballet could be fun and entertaining and did provide laughter and ooohhs and ahhhs. It was a great show and I loved it

    Robert W.

    Came here to watch beauty and the beast. Beautiful historic theater and easy access via civic center Bart , although we drove this time. We got our tickets via stub hub and were able to use our csr credit. They also occasionally have last minute specials- as I know some ppl were able to score some $10 tickets. Overall great experience, great acoustics and of course amazing cast and performance.

    Abel A.

    Yet another a great time out on the town. Went on Sunday this go round which made traffic and parking a little easier. Staff was nice and helpful. And Hells Kitchen was such a magnificent production. Highly recommend HK and the Orpheum. p.s. bathroom lines can get really long.

    Playbill for Phantom of the Opera
    Kylie S.

    First time at this theater and it was a great first visit. The theater is easy to find and the check in process is quick and easy! My husband and I chose to take the BART in which was nice to not have to worry about parking. The civic center station is the closest one to BART. You have to go through a quick bag check which really just entails a flashlight being shone inside your bag and a metal detector. Then you get your tickets scanned and BAM! You're in! They have ushers everywhere helping you find the right spot and your seats. There are men's and women's restrooms on all floors. There's also a bar including light snacks in each floor as well. The show started soon after 1:00 PM and it was absolutely amazing! Would definitely return to see another show.

    Taylor J.

    Got a chance to see Hell's Kitchen and it was absolutely beautiful! The venue was incredible, you know, I rarely see musicals and honestly I think that needs to change this year. First of all this place is beautiful and honestly there wasn't a bad seat in the house. Staff was great and directed folks in a kind and courteous way. Loved the show and will definitely be back for another some time soon.

    Wendi K.

    We watched the Michael Jackson Musical here and it was marvelous! The tickets (at normal price) are very expensive ($100+). The theater is beautiful and the ushers are able to keep the crowd respectul. We took the Caltrain so I can't speak for the parking situation.

    Nicole P.

    The Orpheum Theatre has been around for a long time and serves as a popular place for the performing arts in San Francisco. It's a chance to see Broadway shows in the Bay Area. I've seen several performances over the years but most recently I saw Hells Kitchen and it was amazing! Drinks are available for purchase, public transportation is nearby, and there doesn't seem to be a specific dress code so people can be comfortable.

    Program
    Trish A.

    Beautiful theatre, excellent staff with superior customer service. The Phantom of the Opera performance we saw was top notch. Only request is to PLEASE somehow make more women's restroom. That's the only reason I cannot give it five stars.

    Noren R.

    Can't complain. Saw phantom. Row L. Center right. Great view. Enjoyed the marquee lounge as well. Takes forever to exit once show is done. But that's expected.

    View from Balcony B 201
    Vinkin Ken T.

    Scored $40 rush tickets on TodayTix app for opening night of, Hells Kitchen. It was fairly easy to grab as minutes later they were still available. It was our first time sitting in lodge and we got first row. We were on the far side, so a bit of the view was obscured. I personally did have trouble hearing the words from the actors and it may be due to the music being louder than the vocals or it's from the seats. Nonetheless it was a great price and a good show.

    Lynn D.

    I love this opulent historic theater-beautiful inside! Perfect atmosphere to see Phantom of the Opera! Cocktails that we had there were very good, seats are comfortable and all staff is so helpful and friendly.

    Tracy B.

    Came here last night to see Phantom of the Opera. Let me tell you how amazing it was. The performance was just spectacular. Its a perfect place to see a great show

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    Page 1 of 31

    Orpheum Theatre Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - Orpheum Theatre

    What's the scoop on the new Marquee Lounge? Worth the price? and How early does it open prior to a show?

    90 minutes before curtain. Haven't been there yet, but accidentally bought lounge tickets for Mrs Doubtfire. Anyone been to the lounge yet? Enough "small bytes" for a small lunch? Our showtime is 1:00pm, so was thinking a small lunch at the lounge… 

    Best parking that's fast with running late?

    I downloaded the ParkWhiz app and was able to book a spot at a hotel parking lot half a block away. Only takes a few minutes.

    How's the parking situation? Going to see Hamilton tomorrow night, BART not an option for us.

    jump on Spot Here and park at 1188 Mission St (33 8th) the Trinity Place Garage. I just checked and there IS spots open for $25!! It's a safe lot right across the street from the theatre. Have the best time being in the room where it happens!

    Is it safe to buy tickets from goldstar?

    Yes, they are legit. I bought Hamilton tickets last month through them. Orchestra seats w/ a nice full view of the stage.

    Want to see Hamilton, Goldstar only notes "Orchestra rear/side or Mezz rear/side Does anyone know if those are decent seats?

    You'll be fine. That's basically what we were offered. I selected the Orchestra seats. We had Row Y, seats 15, 17, 19, 21. We were very happy. No complaints, & I'm just 5' tall. :)… 

    Is the seating at the orchestra lever slope upwards as the seats go further back, so that the back rows are a little bit higher than in front?

    Yes. The view is generally good from any row.

    Which is better seating: the back of the orchestra floor (1st level) or the back of the mezzanine (2nd floor)?

    if it's for Hamilton - I guess the back of Mezz for the Ariel view of the turn table. BUT...if you can get orchestra row S-W....I personally would choose that. Anything past W - you'll have the overhang blocking some of the top of the stage. Hope… 

    Is it mandatory to wear formal?

    Not at all. However, most people are looking pretty sharply dressed.

    One commenter said you can bring bottled water in to the show and another said no. So which one is it? If you can, must the container be a clear water bottle or can it be any type of water bottle?

    I always carry a stainless steel bottle of water with me to shows. They do open my handbag and see it, and nobody has confiscated it. I'd give it a try. In the unlikely event they do confiscate it, they'll have to give it back after the show.

    Rear mezzanine side mezzanine or rear side orchestra? Found some cheap seats, wondering which is better for Hamilton.

    We sat middle mezz. Perfect! Check out "View My Seat" people post their locations at venues! Enjoy Hamilton! I've seen it 5 times!

    Can I bring in bottled water?

    Yes! But any other drinks require their special cups to bring into the actual theater.

    What do I do in the case of misplaced tickets? UPDATE: Thought the SHN website says to call their…

    Depending on how you got the tickets, you can visit the ticket booth for them

    How do you pre-order drinks for intermission?

    Hi Ashley! You would prepay for your drink at any bar that is open before the show starts. The staff will have your drink ready with your name on for pick up at intermission. The bartender will let you know where the drinks will be waiting for… 

    Are minors allowed to enter the theater to watch a show without an adult?

    Yelp should be paying people to answer these questions from their own staff and not get us public to do their homework for them for free. Hard limit is 5yrs old with an adult I think.

    Has anyone experienced sitting in the Pitt section? If so, how was the view and experience. Looking for honest answers. Looking to take my mother to a play and she can't see very well. Thanks in advance.

    You mean the orchestra section which is not in the pit. Those are the best seats in the house. The closest. The mist pricey. But by far the most enjoyable. If you like seeing their faces and watching the actors emote there is no other place to be

    Do we have to print the tickets? I don't have access to a printer?

    They can scan a ticket barcode on your phone. I just arrived and asked the box office to reprint my… 

    Has anyone tried to get will call tickets for Aladdin? If so, how's the process and do you need to be there super super early before the two hour mark?

    No. 45 min before show is ideal for will call tickets.

    Beat seats for small children?

    First row balcony would be great. But the real tip is that they have cushions in each level of the lobby to boost you up. I am 5 foot 3 and I use one. Your kids could use 2 or maybe even 3.

    Orpheum SF. Loge, seat A2. Any photos of the view from this seat? Sound obscured? More details on the view much appreciated?

    I uploaded a pic for Loge Seat B2. Seat and sound from the seat B2 was not obstructed.

    Going to go see Hamilton at the Orpheum tomorrow. Do people dress up for it ? Or is it San Fran casuals?

    Casual

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    Review Highlights - Orpheum Theatre

    They always have impressive performances here such as Phantom, Wicked, Miss Saigon, and Book of Mormon.

    Mentioned in 230 reviews

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    San Francisco Playhouse - Seat E109 view - M. BUTTERFLY by David Henry Hwang

    San Francisco Playhouse

    4.4(353 reviews)
    0.7 miUnion Square

    Purchased tickets with ease, was given the option to add to calendar with full info which I always…read morelove! I did two separate purchases with blind seating, we added a fourth person later, it was not possible to select seating purchasing blind. We were completely ok sitting separately. Day of when ticket email came and seats were viewable all seating had been placed together which was REALLLLLLLY appreciated and not expected!! The theater is old, and stunning all the details in the architecture. Due to its age the seating is not elevated which is NO current fault. However it did cause all spectators to move their heads around to see the production. The row above us was empty we ended up climbing up a row in order to see. When I book again I won't book blindly and will select my seats. The production was cast WELL!!!! Chemistry isn't always evident among theater cast, it was present here.. Very present!!! Choreo was on point, vocals were Spectacular, energy was high, not one person in the production skipped a beat!!! We all really thought Hairspray was PHENOMENAL!! Will I return: ABSOLUTELY!!!!!! Great customer service, easy purchasing, small details like grouping tickets purchased separately, PHENOMENAL SHOW......: I'll be back sooner than later!!!!! We used spot hero app to find parking at 520 Mason Street which was underground and secure!!!!! The plus was it was literally around the corner and a one minute walk to the theater!!!!!

    I hadn't been to the SF Playhouse in ages, not since it was the Post Street Theater! It's a great…read moretheater with very good sightlines from every seat. I was there for "Dracula, A Feminist Revenge Fantasy, Really" and had a wonderful time. The sound system was pretty good; I heard most of everything that was said on stage, but whatever I missed can be blamed on my hearing, not their sound system! Seats were relatively comfortable and the legroom was at par with other theaters. The bathrooms, which were not separated for men and women, were clean with seat covers and plenty of toilet paper. It was a bit strange seeing men walk out of the stalls in the bathroom, but it didn't bother me. I would really prefer that the seat is returned to a downward position, though, and happy the floor was dry!

    Photos
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    Stage and playbill

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    Show posters for Flex

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    The Speakeasy

    The Speakeasy

    4.4(336 reviews)
    1.4 miNorth Beach/Telegraph Hill, Russian Hill
    $$$

    Hidden two floors below China Live Restaurant on Broadway Street is an entertainment space called…read moreThe Speakeasy (also the Palace Theater). I went to see a show " Italiani Veri "  last night. Fabulous cabaret-type show with performer Arianna. She's a true (veri) Italian from Milan who sang, danced and explained Italian culture as part of the entertainment. She has an amazing voice! She could have been a finalist at the San Remo Music Festival - the most famous singing festival in Italy. She fessed up saying she had been an Italian Mouseketeer! The venue has a bar/lounge to enjoy cocktails then a few steps down further is the theater. You need to be mobile since there are a lot of steps. Seating is first come-first serve. I have to admit that seating is quite tight. You are shoulder to shoulder with your neighbors. Get cozy folks. They typically have magic shows here! If you want to see a historic night club, this would be the venue to come to and enjoy a show. Italiani Veri show was a real treat! Highly recommend it!

    My hubby and I had an amazing time!…read more We attended the 8P show for: We Call It Jazz, A Journey to The Heart of New Orleans. I bought our tickets through FEVER and got the rail seating. Very good view From entering to sitting down, we were well taken care of I had bought two tickets online but when checking in, it only showed one- I pulled up my ticket and the usher at the front quickly apologized and got us situated I really appreciate the quickness Everyone was super friendly We stopped by the bar before the show started and got some drinks Music was spectacular One of the best live shows I've got to experienced Definitely made me want to check out their other events 10/10 phenomenal!

    Photos
    The Speakeasy
    The Speakeasy
    The Speakeasy

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    Secret Improv Society - Some of the Secret Improv Cast with our new T Shirts

    Secret Improv Society

    4.5(216 reviews)
    0.7 miUnion Square
    $
    Full bar
    Large group friendly

    Incredibly fun and very inexpensive. Beware, outside a sign just says "better than therapy" which…read moreis a comedy club in an adjacent room at the same address. Also it was good that we got there a bit early in time to get drinks (a nice large selection). Small to moderate intimate theater with very talented keyboard player who "improvised the music" with each skit all night long. "Actors" were very personable and talented--so much fun--we will reco to all SF friends and family

    We attended this event at the Shelton Theater on a Saturday night and loved it! A lot of small…read morethings added up to an amazing and memorable experience... Free oreos before the show, the light effects during the different acts, having an audience member play the guitar on stage during a few of their bits (especially when that audience member is my bf, and he did such an awesome job :), the cute lounge/waiting area outside the auditorium, unconventional artwork and decor throughout the venue creating the perfect ambience for date night (or any night really!), the delicious cocktails at the bar (especially When Life Gives You Lemons with starburst- infused vodka), and the fact that the bar closes late, so you can get drinks throughout the entire show. By the way, the entrance to Secret Improv Society was on the lower level, door to the left that says "Cabaret Stage". The show was hilarious, and had me laughing all night. The performers were entertaining and know how to work a crowd. And I saw some new skits/acts I haven't seen before with other improv events I've attended. It's definitely worth returning, since with improv, it's a new show every time. And this group made us feel welcome and made sure we had fun. Secret Improv Society, I "soup" you :D

    Photos
    Secret Improv Society - Stage during show

    Stage during show

    Secret Improv Society
    Secret Improv Society

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    Palace of Fine Arts Theatre - Inside the theatre

    Palace of Fine Arts Theatre

    4.1(79 reviews)
    2.5 miMarina/Cow Hollow

    Loved the cozy, intimate nature of this venue and comfortable seatings…read more We visited for the Demetri Martin Quick Draw Tour, and it was a perfect size for a standup comedy show. Demetri was able to engage with the audience in ways that aren't typically possible in a larger venue (like the Masonic). Note that the venue can be hard to find, especially if the event was advertised as being at the "Palace of Fine Arts." The Theater is around the corner, and there are very limited signs. Like many reviewers, we spent time wandering around trying to find the entrance. It is on the west side of the venue, not near the famous dome. If you're driving/Ubering, be sure to enter the destination as the Theater, and not just the Palace of Fine Arts, as the entrance are on opposite sides of the property. There is very limited food and drink offered, and you're not allowed to bring any food into the auditorium (covered drinks are allowed). This was a bit of an inconvenience for a show running 7-9pm right during dinner time. We were hoping for at least some popcorn for during the show. Bathrooms are small and awkwardly laid out, leading to long lines, confusing, and tight spaces. This is made worse by the fact that each row is ~50 seats across with the only aisles on the ends - this makes it very hard for anyone not seated on the very ends to leave during the show to go to the restroom. As a result, there was a massive rush to the restroom after the show and a 20 minute wait for the men's restroom (I shudder to think how long the women's line was.

    Wow! I visit San Francisco 2-3 times a year for over 3 decades and just finally got the chance…read moreexplore...parking is always horrible, but I stayed at a nearby hotel in walking distance. The architecture is absolutely amazing and breathtaking...it's straight out of Italy, Greece, Star Wars, Star Trek or Lord of the Rings movie. Words can't describe it...see the photos or really just go see it for yourself in person!

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    Palace of Fine Arts Theatre
    Palace of Fine Arts Theatre - Inside the theatre

    Inside the theatre

    Palace of Fine Arts Theatre

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    New Conservatory Theatre Center - we are continuous by Harrison David Rivers

    New Conservatory Theatre Center

    4.4(83 reviews)
    0.4 miCivic Center, Hayes Valley

    I've been a fan of the shows at this space for over 15 years I guess. Recently saw Ride The Cyclone…read moreand Ruthless there. We enjoyed them both. The staff is always pleasant and the 3 different theater spaces each have a special charm. I hope they continue to thrive even though this current terrible administration has cut a lot of funding to non profit arts organizations.

    From the moment you step inside the New Conservatory Theatre Center (NCTC), you feel it--this is…read moremore than just a theater. It's a vibrant, inclusive home for creativity, growth, and community. Located in the heart of San Francisco, NCTC's mission to support artists, youth, and the queer and allied communities isn't just words on a wall--it's felt in every class, every conversation, and every corner of this beautiful space. I recently completed their Adult Scene Study class with the incomparable Jeffery Draper, and I can honestly say it was one of the most enriching and inspiring experiences of my adult life. Whether you're just stepping into acting or sharpening your skills, this class offers a fun, supportive environment where you can take bold risks, discover new layers of your craft, and connect with other passionate creatives. Each week, we explored character, motivation, and storytelling in ways that were both challenging and rewarding. Jeffery's direction was equal parts insightful and encouraging, he meets you where you are and helps you rise. The space itself is warm, professional, and beautifully maintained, from the intimate black box theater to the cozy lobby and rehearsal rooms. If you're looking for a place to grow as an artist, to be seen and supported, or just to try something new in a welcoming environment, run to NCTC. Their adult drama classes are exceptional, and the community they've built is something truly special.

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    Orpheum Theatre - theater - Updated August 2026

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