The Pasadena Playhouse

Parking: if you don’t want to valet, the local neighborhood parking is available after 6PM.
Will Call: the box office is open from noon-​till show time. So you can pop by to pick it up whenever you fancy.
Theater: what I really liked about this place was the fact that you can see the stage very well no matter where you sit. Since the stage seems tall and the room wasn’t too large. They serviced alcohol outside and you could bring that into the theater. Sounding was great and the seats weren’t too shabby.
We went to watch the madwoman in the Volvo, it was really awesome.
I would look into more tickets and explore more plays. I’ll be back!

I recently won tickets on KOST 103.5 FM. Caller 20 wins tickets to a show, that all I heard. Called in thinking «I’ll never win…». Low & behold, I was caller 20! Kari Steele answered & announced that I was the winner (I sounded so dorky on the radio)! She took down my info & the next day, KOST called to confirm if I have received their email. All set & done. My tickets will be at the Box Office under the Will Call window for June 2, 2016. Pre party with Kari Steele (she’s such a cool person!) in the VIP Lounge or AKA The Library. Drinks & snacks are served while we mingle & gather the history of the place.
Plenty of street parking along with pay & park (flat rate $ 5). Beautiful architecture & charm. Pasadena Playhouse was originally called Pasadena Community Playhouse. Established in 1917 by Gilmore Brown. The now location on El Molino Ave. was built in 1924. The Playhouse built & operated one of the first TV Ststiin in So. Cal KTTV which is now FOX affiliate Channel 11. Lots of famous people graduated from this once theatrical school like Jamie Farr (he plays Clinger on MASH) George Reeves (Superman in blk & white era) Gene Hackman, Dustin Hoffman, Raymond Burr, Sally Struthers, & Leonard Nimoy (Spock in Star Treck) to name a few.
No photography or video allowed in the theater. It’s pretty big inside. The seats are very snug, air flow wasn’t really flowing (minus 1 Star). The show was called Madwoman In The Volvo by Sandra Tsing Loh. A memoir & about menopausal woman going through a mid life crisis. She touched base on many things that we all go through, marriage, friendships, & what male & female goes through during the different stages of life. What caught my attention is that majority of the people watching the show were 50+ year olds, gray haired. Boy did the Mr. & I stood out. We were the very few young ones! They have different shows all the the time & special holiday shows for the entire family so check out the listings.

The historic Pasadena Playhouse. Venue is smaller than I thought but definitely the right size so every one in the audience can have a great experience. I’ve been here multiple times for plays, musicals and other events and it never disappoints. The staff is really friendly and the venue is always clean. Crowd is respectful and not ratchet at all.
Parking is pretty easy. If you don’t want to circle around, there are lots for $ 5 or $ 7. If you want to save, there is street parking. I found one a few blocks down and the walk isn’t too bad.
P.S: No video or photos!

I’ve only been here once, but I’m already hooked. The Pasadena Playhouse is a beautiful Spanish mission style building right off Colorado. The theater is small enough that you get a more intimate experience with the performance, but not too small that you’re on top of your neighbor. Every worker I encountered was wonderful, and the usher even let us move 2 rows forward when it didn’t fill up. I saw Casa Valentina there and I was blown away by the performance and stage set up. The ticket price was very reasonable and I can’t wait to attend another play in this beautiful venue.

Why the hell I have I not known about this place?! As soon as I walked in to the courtyard I instantly felt like I was attending a party for President Obama at Toby Maguire’s house! I couldn’t been the leave of perceived exclusiveness of the courtyard and outdoor bar/​snack counter was actually wide open to any theater aficionado or any wino passing by for that matter!
My girlfriend and I were celebrating our 1 year and a half anniversary (yeah we’re cute like that), immediately appreciated the Mission style architecture and the spirit of this venue, and were walking toward the doors when we saw a gentleman take a bell hanging near the door and rung it loudly saying, «5 minutes to curtain!» This California mission style theater has a bell calling theater goers home like a church bell?! THIS is what sold me on this venue!!!
I know, I know, this is not a lot to go on, but as a guy that grew up in Los Angeles in Spanish mission style home («Spanish Revival» from the 1920s that is the trademark look of a uniquely SoCal home), attending a theate to the same style is nostalgic and fills me with LA/​California pride, and makes me feel very welcome in a theater venue! It makes me want to attend plays more often!
After rolling through the friendly and helpful staff, we found our seats and the Mission style of the theater was gorgeous!
You all probably hate me right now thinking, «Will this guy shut up already about the mission style architecture,» but don’t worry, I’ve got more to say.
My girlfriend and I went to see CASA VALENTINA, about transvestites in the 1960s, and was already very interested in how that would play out (no pun intended). Now it could be just this particular production, but everything about the visual elements of the play was superb. The set was amazingly detailed, masterfully constructed, and felt like a real person’s home on stage. The level of acting was so believable, every cast member was batting a thousand in their performance, the musical accompaniment, and the depth and levity of the script was nothing short of masterpiece.
Even after this play’s run is over, I plan on attending this theater whenever I find my self in the mood! Bravo! Bravo!

I saw this play Tuesday evening. I really enjoyed it and I was so glad that I saw it! What an interesting evening of watching these old friends get together in the Catskills, interacting with one another, and welcome a newbie into their sorority. The dynamics were so interesting. I am really surprised it didn’t have a longer Broadway run.
I have already recommended it to at least half a dozen of my friends!

I love going to the theater, I’ve seen a lot plays everywhere in the world, but somehow Pasadena Playhouse escaped me. I passed by it many times, read about it, always wanted to go, but it never happened. Till last Wednesday, courtesy to Unilocal (thanks Unilocal!!!) who offered free tickets for «Casa Valentina» (it goes till April 10).
The Pasadena Playhouse is a historic institution, well known for prestigious plays and famous alumni-​s. The building is very charming with its Spanish architecture, intimate courtyard, with a nice fountain, perfect to hang out on a balmy night. You can also buy snack and drinks here.
The interior doesn’t disappoint either, it reminded me of buildings in Spain, buildings that have character, age, but they’re well preserved. Everywhere you seat, you’ll be OK. They have a balcony, too. For «Casa Valentina» there’s a 15 minute intermission.
The staff is very professional, nice and helpful, everything is run very well. You’re in good hands.
We enjoyed watching «Casa Valentina» written by Harvey Fierstein, it has humor, but it goes deep into the lives of men who cross-​dress in the ’60’s, their lives, challenges, dreams, struggles.
I loved the production design, innovative and creative, the subtle direction (David Lee) and great acting.
Pasadena Playhouse can offer a great night out if you love theater, they always have new plays coming out. Check their site for updates and useful info before going to see a play. There are many parking lots in the area, we used the one across from the theater for $ 5 flat fee. There are many great dining options in the area, so dinner+a play= nice night out, date night or not.
This was a wonderful experience, a very nice evening thanks to Katie B for including me and organizing well another great Unilocal event.
I’m glad I finally saw a play here and I’m looking forward to check their repertoire again.

I just saw Casa Valentina at the Pasadena Playhouse as part of a Unilocal Elite event. I hadn’t been there to see a show in probably a decade and I forgot how quaint this theater is. There’s a cozy outdoor courtyard you enter before you even go inside. That’s where they sell snacks and it’s so nice to gather al fresco before the show and at intermission. The quality of theater and acting you will see is on par with anything playing in Hollywood or Downtown LA. But they don’t rip you off for parking like they do at the other theater areas. Literally every lot I passed within a blocks walking distance to the theater was $ 3. What a steal! There are also lots of restaurants nearby in walking distance. I chose to eat in old town and that was less than a 2 mile drive away so very convenient. The Pasadena Playhouse is definitely a community gem.
Review of Casa Valentina at the Pasadena Playhouse: I expected a smart and funny and poignant play since it was written by Harvey Fierstein and I was not disappointed. As someone who is part of the LGBT community, this play about cross dressing men in the late 50’s and their personal and political struggles had great resonance for me. So much has changed since then and yet so much has gone backwards (case in point: several states making it illegal for Transgender people to use the bathroom of their presenting gender). So for me the play really straddled the line between past and present. The acting was top notch — in fact I recognized several of the actors from their extensive lists of tv and film credits. Christian Clemenson especially stood out as the leader of «The Sorority» a group trying to push transvestites into acceptance.

I love the Pasadena Playhouse. I’ve come here on a few occasions and have always loved the venue and performances.
It’s a fairly intimate venue, no matter where you are seated. We’ve been up front and in the back and there’s not a single bad view! Plus, the tickets are reasonably priced and won’t make you feel like you had to dig too deep into your wallet to take your friends/family/S.O.‘s for a nice night out.
Plus, great courtyard to get drinks/​snacks beforehand or head out down the street for a dozen food and drink options before /​after the shows.

Unilocal Challenge 2016– ¹⁰⁄₁₀₀
The Pasadena Playhouse is an historic 1924 venue and it was my pleasure to attend «Fly» (running 1÷26−2÷21) on an uncharacteristically warm February evening. Orchestra tickets, courtesy Unilocal and CM Katie B., were provided to several lucky Unilocalers, including yours truly.
«Fly» tells the story of the Tuskegee Airmen– the first African-​American Army Air Corp pilots who fought bravely during World War ll. Eight very talented actors frame this story of the fight against fascism, racism, prejudice and discrimination.
Of particular interest was the stage design with beautiful moving images of clouds. To add emphasis and focus, one character, Tap Griot, used fierce tap dancing sound & movement to demonstrate the anger and triumph felt by these aviation and civil rights pioneers.
«Fly» is thought-​provoking and contrasts how far we have come as a nation in terms of equal rights. The play begins with President Obama’s Inauguration (to which the surviving Tuskegee Airmen were invited) and ends with the same. Although we have come a long way, we still have further to go.
Tuskegee Airmen Historical Facts:
15,000 missions
150 Distinguished Flying Crosses
744 Air Medals
8 Purple Hearts
14 Bronze Stars
2007 Congressional Medal of Honor
200/1,000 of these men and women are still alive today…

An evening at the Pasadena Playhouse seeing the play «Fly», representing the Tuskegee Airmen. Superb performance with the perfect mixture of comedy and reality touched with a bit of song and dance. The tap dancing was outstanding and complex. The story line was in keeping with the historical basis and the timing of the actors was impeccable. This is a play where it was very evident these people are doing what they love.
The soundstage was balanced with minimal props and a sound system that projected their voices clearly with the music not overwhelming. One thing I have always liked about this venue is the seating. The seating is comfortable and intimate while not being crowded. Parking is an ease, with street parking available and a paid lot approximately a block north of the playhouse.
The Pasadena Playhouse has a rich and length history. Built in 1916 it was known as the Pasadena Community Playhouse. The theatre was designed in Spanish Colonial Revival style. There are some who say the playhouse is haunted. Is this true. .. maybe.

Love this show! Went to see «FLY» on Saturday night. It was sold out. I can see why. It’s wonderful! Such a fitting tribute to the Tuskegee Airmen!
Every actor in the show is spot on perfect! This show will make you laugh and touch your heart! Love you Pasadena Playhouse for bringing this show to Southern California! Bravo!!!

Absolutely in love with this theatre.
I am a patron for the last 8 years, I go with my friends or take my kids to performances at this theatre at least 6 – 10 times a year. Every single time my experience was nothing short of amazing. It’s a great way to introduce your children to theatre or spend time with your friends. Theatre is small, I have bought seats upfront and waaaayyy in the back, never had issues with seeing/​hearing the stage action. Balcony seating is also good, so if it’s your first time don’t be concerned with seating as much as you would at Pantages or Kodak.
Compliments to the entire administration for always having friendly and prompt staff.

My first time coming to the Pasadena Playhouse and I loved it!!! I came here to see Peter Pan and Tinker Bell — A Pirate’s Christmas.
Granted, it was an interactive kiddie production, but I loved it! Two level seating — I sat in the lower bottom (orchestra section — two rows in front of the stage). The cast was terrific, funny, so energetic and engaging with the crowd. And of course, amazing musical moments, especially since majority of the cast are from, and/​or did starred in a Disney show/​movie at one point.
My favorite moments were:
Sabrina Carpenter as Wendy — this lovely 16 years old definitely has some musical pipes! She did a great job singing cover songs along with the plot — my two favorite songs that she sang were «Close to You,» and «The Voice Within,» — both Karen Carpenter (no relations) and Christina Aguilera would have been proud. I was actually moved by those two songs.
Parvesh Cheena as Smee — he played such a smart ass Smee as opposed to the lovable, dorky Smee in the Disney film. He was so engaging and charming, he started off the movie as narrator, character and final narrator — on point!!! He reminded me very much of Drag Queen — Bianca Del Rio — character was feisty and fierce!
The Lost Boys Dancers (Green Team) and the Kikiwaka (Tribe) Dancers — those Lost Boys Dancers were A-​MAZ-​ING, especially breaking out the break dancing in the beginning!!! It was like watching ABCD (America’s Best Dance Crew on MTV), but Disney style, lol! I also loved it when the Kikiwaka Dancers did their dances to techno music, omg, I was cracking up!!! The kid in front of me had a glowstick and I was tempted to steal it from him and dance along, lol!!!
Chrissie Fit as Tinker Bell — I like how she played Tinker Bell with an added twist — with some feisty fierce Latina flare since she is a Latina actress. Brava, chica!!!
Overall, it was a wonderful show to watch. The Pasadena Playhouse itself is a beautiful theatre and does remind me of the San Gabriel Mission Playhouse. This theatre is beautiful, clean, spacious and the seats don’t hurt my butt, and not too claustrophobic against my seat mates, lol!
Parking — there’s $ 5-​$ 7 lots. If you’re on El Molino Ave., there’s a $ 5 lot after you pass the $ 7 lot to your right.
Restrooms: The moment you enter the theatre:
Women’s: RIGHT side. They also have one pass the patio and up the stairs. Men’s: LEFT side.
Snacks and Drinks — hella pricey!!! $ 3 for a water bottle, yikes!
Would I come back? You bet!!! :) Especially, whenever Unilocal does their free showings too! :D

Was given complimentary tickets from Katy.
The venue is a beautiful historic building with a courtyard that has a bar.
It is a moderate sized structure so every seat is pretty good. To access the mezzanine you walk up the stairs.
I hope to return soon.
Thank you Katy.

After watching «Breaking Through at an OYE,» I’ve reaffirmed my beliefs in the Pasadena Playhouse.
While the rest of Old Town is evolving into a new outdoor mall and is essentially losing its old town charm, the Playhouse maintains the feel of Pasadena before corporate capitalism wandered in. Just down the walk from Zona Rosa, it’s still perfectly situated on (what used to be) a quieter street, surrounded by palm trees and sometimes accompanied by a food truck.
The playhouse itself is a beautiful venue from the inside out. Walking in through the gate of palm trees, there’s a courtyard with a fountain, tables and chairs, and a beverage bar. The Playhouse is the epitome of a California theater.
Entering, the ushers were pleasant and kindly directed us to our seats. The décor of the theater is something else, beautiful arches and ceilings, the architecture is definitely from a different time. Even though we were halfway up on the Mezzanine, we had a great view of the stage, which is something that couldn’t be expected at larger theaters. The seats were comfortable enough, though obviously well-​used.
Recently, additional restrooms were added across the street for guest use. Although it might be a hassle to leave the venue for the restroom, the wait is shorter (and you can’t expect to rebuild such a historical place for that reason).
All in all, it’s a lovely place to (get classy dressed to) watch a play.

Yes, a BREAKTHROUGH indeed! Main, Alison Luff was simply amazing. Her powerful, and projecting voice blew me away. Attractive cast, with a relatable story that goes beyond just the music industry. And the Pasadena Playhouse was the perfect venue to showcase this new musical. Thanks Katie B. @Yelp for the experience!

Had to opportunity to attend this theater to watch the premier or Breaking Through. This is my first time to this theater and I’m in love! All the seats are set up to have a great view of the action (even the upper corners of the theater). The set, music, and lighting really brought the performance alive along with the amazing performance of Alison Luff– her voice was amazing! The whole set up is so cute.
Side Note: I would recommend getting here early and hanging out on the patio of the Jazz café for some dinner and drinks before.

The Theater: Definitely a historic theater in Pasadena. There is a restaurant on site and a bar at the courtyard. Mid size 2 levels theater, very intimate, every seat is a good seat.
The Parking: The theater is selling parking for $ 4. Private parking lots nearby $ 3-​$ 5 depends on the shows. If you don’t mind walking a little bit further, some side street has 2 hours free parking.

Beautiful venue! Right near Old Town. Parking is easy – there’s a garage right across the street (just be aware that it closes at 11pm), as well as a bunch of lots on the surrounding blocks. The courtyard is a wonderful place to enjoy a drink/​snack before the show or during intermission. The theatre itself is a nice size – not too big, with great acoustics. I really enjoyed seeing «Real Women Have Curves» here. Amazing actors, set, etc. The Talkback Tuesday event right after the performance featured a discussion between the actors, the playwright, and local female leaders (Gloria Molina and Nicole Esparza, a professor from USC) talking about the immigrant experience and women in the workplace. Fascinating!

4.5 Star! Had a blast with 5 old friends today. First at El Portal for lunch and drinks then onto see Janice Joplin at the playhouse!
It was a great afternoon spent with people I’ve known for 50 years, all of us revisiting our teens with Janice! Great show & a good time had by all.

Very nice place to see a show. Comfortable seats. You don’t feel «crammed» into a space. Good sound and lights.
I think this theater is about the right size for a show. It isn’t a total mob scene during intermission to get to the ladies room or the small concessions area.
Theater is well taken care of and courtyard/​entrance area is a nice place to hang pre and post show as well as during intermission.

This is a nice laid back theater located in Pasadena. It’s got a nice courtyard out front where you can grab something to drink beforehand and also a couple adjacent restaurants next door.
The theater itself was comfortable, I came here to see «Waterfall». The play itself was good but I did find myself dozing off a couple of times.
In terms of the ushers, I don’t really remember if they checked my tickets at all. It seems like one could walk in to the theater at any time, especially since the entrance is an open courtyard. I actually went next door during intermission and was never asked for tickets on my way back in. Just saying.

My boyfriend and I snagged free tickets from Unilocal to see Waterfall at the Playhouse. What an amazing experience. I’m from NYC, so whenever I go to the theater, the experience has to compete with Broadway in my mind. The Pasadena Playhouse was awesome. As was the play (which will be on Broadway next year). This place is elegant, beautiful, old-​world looking.
During intermission, we dashed around the property taking photos like tourist. We will definitely come back here. I’d like to eat at the restaurant that’s adjacent.
Oh, and we simply parked on the street for free. On a Saturday night. Double points.

This was my first time going to the Pasadena playhouse! I didn’t have any expectations since its a rare treat to watch a musical. I can’t even recall the last musical I watched. Lol. The playhouse continues to inspire, move, and uplift audiences with vibrant, culturally rich productions that nourish the heart and mind alike.
The playhouse is a smaller auditorium compared to the other places I have gone in the past! There are a few parking lots to select for for about $ 5. Or if you get lucky, you can find street parking for free. Valet is also available if you are in a rush. There is no time limit after 6 pm. The size of the playhouse is perfectly made for intimate and entertaining events. The staff and ushers were extremely nice and great at directing you to your seats! The bathrooms are located on each floor. Ask your friendly usher for the nearest restrooms. Drinks and snacks can be purchased outside of the playhouse. Drinks can be brought inside. But the food has to stay outside.
The musical I watched was «Waterfall»!!! It’s a romance musical set which took place in war world ii in Bangkok and Japan. In a nutshell, it’s about forbidden love mixed with influences of different cultures. They did such a wonderful job delivering a beautiful set with vibrant colors and very creative set changes. The performers all had great voice and the costumes they wore were so amazing!!! I highly recommend watching this musical if you have a chance. I would also come back for another musical in the near future!!!

Pasadena Playhouse is currently under Artistic Director Sheldon Epps and Executive Director Elizabeth Doran. This grand historic theatre has been around since 1925. The theatre’s rich history includes world premieres by renowned playwrights and authors including Eugene O’Neill, William Saroyan, Noël Coward, F. Scott Fitzgerald and Tennessee Williams and prestigious alumni of its equally famous school of theatre arts include Raymond Burr, Rue McClanahan, Charles Bronson, Jamie Farr, Gene Hackman, Dustin Hoffman and Sally Struthers.
In 1937, the Pasadena Playhouse was recognized by the State Legislature as the State Theatre of California for bringing national and international renown to the state as a center for dramatic art.
Patrons can enter the open-​air courtyard to mingle and get refreshments. I also recommend everyone to explore the Georgia T. McClay Friendship Center for interactive exhibits before or after the show.
The first play I watched here was «Intimate Apparel.» The last I watched was «Waterfall.» Based on the Thai novel «Behind the Painting» by Sriburapha, «Waterfall» is a musical romance set in pre-​World War II Bangkok and Tokyo. It is beautiful. It’s very lush. It’s about a young Thai student who falls in love with the American wife of a Thai diplomat. I was amazed by the gorgeous sets and innovative set changes as well as the authentic and spectacular Thai and Japanese costumes. The sets and costumes are beautiful. REALLY beautiful. Sasavat «Ja» Busayabandh is the scenic designer from Thailand, and «Waterfall» is the first production in the US that he worked on.
The show has a book and lyrics by Richard Maltby Jr, a Tony Award winner for directing the Broadway musical «Ain’t Misbehavin’» in 1978, and music by David Shire, who shared an Academy Award for best song for his work on the movie «Norma Rae.» The choreographer of «Waterfall» is Dan Knechtges, a Tony Award nominee for «Xanadu.»
“Waterfall” director Tak Viravan is the leading figure of Thailand’s burgeoning theatre scene, where he has directed 14 musicals and plays and has presented many international touring productions. «Waterfall» is adapted from an earlier musical, «Behind the Painting,» which Viravan directed in Thailand.
Thai superstar, Bie Sukrit created the role of Noppon in the musical «Behind the Painting» in 2008. This time Bie reprises his role as Noppon, but the character is quite different. He idolizes American culture and people, and he’s worried that his life will not matter because he came from a humble background. The story emphasizes the difference of cultures and the different perceptions of the world. It also touches upon the sensitive issues of race and discrimination in the US. I had quite a blast watching Kumiko (the beautiful and talented Lisa Helmi Johanson), Santi (Jordan De Leon), and Surin (Colin Miyamoto) warn Noppon against loving America so blindly.
If you have a chance to see this play, do not hesitate! It is well worth the time and money. The songs will be stuck in your head for quite some time.
«…One perfect day and in that one moment, life is a work of art…»

Not a bad seat in the house which is what all other theaters should strive for as well. Even from the next to last row in the Orchestra section I could still see clearly to the stage and everything that was going on. I noticed the ushers are a little more relaxed and this does lead to a bit of annoyance from patrons being allowed to get up and leave in the middle of the play or be seated in the middle of the play. It’s a bit sad to see people have so little respect for the actors/​actresses. At least wait til intermission people or a dark scene, please, manners people, manners.
Also, what I love is an usher who came to the long womens restroom line and led us to the upstairs restroom with no line. Love this little secret.

Pygmalion! Amazing show!!! Wow! For my first Unilocal event I am beyond impressed! The Pasadena play house although noticeably smaller than the Pantages, does not lack in comfort or class despite being smaller!
Parking is in the back of the building and paid by space also.
The ushers were very friendly and most of them are volunteers and can tell you some history of the play house if you’re interested. Beverages are sold outside the courtyard and include alcohol and non-​alcoholic beverages.
Will definitely be back for more plays and may even purchase packages!

Awww man where do I begin ,
First I won tickets on KOST 103.5 for «the sleeping beauty and her night «and let me tell you that play was so funny and humerus and just entertaining. As this was my first play. I would go back again
But enough about the play, this is about the playhouse .
The playhouse is just so nice. With helpful staff and comfortable seating and anywhere you sit to enjoy a play or what not is worth the money. As every seat is in full view and you don’t feel like it’s far from the stage at all.
They have a gentleman to ring a bell as it’s about to start 5min after and then during intermission same thing. As intermission is ending the guy rings the bell again alerting everyone it’s about to start. A nice way to do it.
I loved this place I would recommend this playhouse to anyone.
FYI just make sure you read the signs all around the area, as parking not free and you have to pay, no biggie, just make sure to place it on your dashboard.