Just went to the evening showing of Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory. This is a beautiful little theater. You feel close to the stage no matter where you sit, yet the seats are sloped enough that your view isn't blocked by anyone too tall sitting in front of you. Nice concession stand with sweets and drinks and wine. The show itself was great fun. I was so impressed by the young actors, and you could tell the whole cast was really enjoying the show. The set design was truly ingenious, and they handled some challenges of the show (the chocolate river, the fizzy lifting drinks, etc...) very creatively. I would definitely return for another show. They have "The Sound of Music" up this fall once "Willy Wonka's" run ends. read more

Wow, I was extremely impressed! Dr. Andrew and I saw the Suessical at the Julia Morgan Theater. We were concerned because as we waited in line it was mainly families with young children. We're both in our mid 20's. Dr. Andrew asked me what I had gotten us into.... I assured him that I read that it was for all ages! After about two scenes, we were both intrigued. He described it as "intense" and was taken back by the actor's talent (especially the young girl who played JoJo who was only in 5th grade, she was fantastic!). The adults were great, too. Such wonderful voices, everyone was in sync, I can only imagine how much prep went into this show! The show was uplifting, and we couldn't leave without a smile on our faces. I would highly recommend the Suessical to all ages, be prepared to be blown away by great acting (you feel like you're watching a movie) and by a very positive and fascinating story, especially if you grew up with Dr. Seuss. As an adult I can say that it was one of the most fascinating and entertaining musicals i've ever seen. I'd give it 5 stars by had to take one away for the crowd. I know I know, not Berkeley Playhouse's fault really... I know that they are catering towards children, but there were many badly behaved children there that were so distracting! The young child in front of me was shouting the whole time about how he wanted to leave, and the parents didn't even take him out to tell him that this was not okay. The children behind me were moving around and kept grabbing onto my seat and shaking me. Again, the parents just sat there...Parents, please explain theater etiquette to your children before you take them to plays (especially ones that cost about $30.00 a person!). read more

Just to clarify upfront, I am rating them 5 stars based on delivering what they intend to, "A Professional Theater For All Ages." Its neither parents sit through it for the sake of their kids children's' theater nor need to get a baby sitter purely adult's theater. With their performance of Suessical the Musical they managed to deliver an experience that was interesting and enjoyable for a theater experienced mom, a theater numbnut dad and 2 young boys. Its a small theater company with a cast of very mixed ages. I think that's part of the reason they can deliver to the mixed generational audience. Obviously the production value is not that of a big SF theater, the costumes were minimalist and the stage although effectively used, was small. But the seating climbs at a semi dramatic angle up which is of particular importance when the audience members are of drastically different heights. (One note on the stage, I am not sure what their relationship with the stage is, but it is not at the address location above which is probably their office. Suessical is performing at the Ashby Theater, 1901 Ashby, in Berkeley) The performance had a good sense of humor but once again, to be clear, the performers did not play strictly for children. The talented singer that played Horton delivered it with such honesty and heart that we wanted to take him home. The orchestration was also good and the restyling of some of the parts like the rapping wickersham brothers was welcome. Overall it was a great experience and well worth the drive into Berkeley. I am looking forward to their next production and my 5 year old had such a good time he insisted on wearing the suit jacket he wore to the play to school the next day. read more

We saw the musical Annie on Saturday. We previously saw Seussical, The Witch and the Wardrobe, and Cinderella. Each production was simply outstanding. Especially the young actors and actresses impress me. Our daughter (6) really likes it and is mesmerized as much as I am. Highly recommended. I would give it 6 stars if I could. If you want to catch dinner before a play, check out the nearby Le Bateau Ivre. Great, unpretentious French food in a small setting. read more

We saw the little mermaid. Theater seats were comfortable, but most of all offered lots of leg room. I noticed booster seats at the entrance for the youngsters. The theater was comfortable and the sound was great. The sets and costumes were very professional. Yelp check in got you a free coffee or soda. Our group of 7 tried just about every baked good, and they were all fresh and yummy. We did street parking two blocks away. I'm not sure if they had their own lot, but don't think so. Enjoyed it very much! read more

This place is so great. Homey community theater with great talent. I've seen three musicals here, and now I have season passes. The shows all have a live mini-orchestra! Parking is street... In a residential community so Lyft if you can. I love that they have no AC... So if you're tired of ffffffreezing in theaters, go visit Berkeley Playhouse! I can't wait for the upcoming shows. :) read more

My girlfriend and I had a wonderful time last night at the Berkeley Playhouse watching "Peter Pan". This most definitely secured our date night. This was a first time experience for us both and was quite pleased. The venue is situated in the residential area of Berkeley, close to many coffee shops, small mom and pop shops, and the occasional restaurants. I rarely go to this area but am quite amazed at what this city has to offer; which the Playhouse is one must see venue in this gorgeous city! The venue was spacious. Food and drinks were also served for a reasonable price. Okay, let's get to the good part of this review: the actual play. The cast killed it! I was engaged throughout the whole act and it felt so real, like I was one of the lost boys in Peter Pan. Also, I like the fact that it was also a musical. It gave the crowd this enchanted feeling of awesomeness. We will most definitely be back to check out other plays in the near future. read more

We saw the Berkeley Playhouse production of the Dr. Seuss-inspired musical "Seussical" tonight at the beautiful Julia Morgan Theater, and it was great! Not as professional as ACT or even Berkeley Rep, of course, but in some ways even more fun because of that difference. There were lots of kids and teens in the cast, and they did a terrific job, while seeming to have a blast doing it. It made me think of how great this kind of program is for the community, giving kids the opportunity to get involved in something that can help improve their self-esteem, teach them about working as part of a team, foster creativity, etc. So I felt like I was also getting involved with making my community a better place, just by supporting this production. The costumes were minimalist but nonetheless perfect. There was a definite tendency toward solid colors and stripes, as well as certain colors (esp. yellow, purple, and reddish orange), which gave the visuals of the show a nice continuity. The choreography impressed me, especially as so many young people were involved, and much of the singing was quite good. The acting didn't really grab me right away -- except William Hodgson, who was playing the playfully emceeing Cat-in-the-Hat -- but as the play went on I felt that the performances become more emotional. They even had several "Half-Price/Pay What You Can Nights," for which you can reserve tickets ahead of time online for half-price, or show up at the door and pay whatever you like. It's a nice way to encourage, include, and welcome people who wouldn't ordinarily be able to afford to go to the theater. I'm looking forward to next season and definitely plan to see more of their plays. They're a great community resource! read more

5 "BIG" STARS***** for the opening night of Peter Pan! What an awesome show with a cast that was second to none! My 102 year old Grandmother even gave it two thumbs up! From Peter Pan to Captain Hook to the Lost Boys and even the Crocodile the cast was spot on! Just totally an amazing production! If 10 Stars were possible we'd score it! Before the season is over I will make it back for another show as it was that good! Thank You for a Great Evening! read more

I'm writing this as a patron who attends multiple performances throughout the year. Berkeley Playhouse is a pretty solid community theater that often outperforms expectations. Sound of Music was one of the best performances and I really enjoyed the Wiz. Some of the points by other reviewers are likely valid. For example, I won an auction item from them but it took my several attempts to claim it. However, the performances are often pretty solid and the theater itself offers a pleasant environment. I do wish they would consider the shows to gain the broadest appeal -- I've had both season tix and have bought them ad hoc -- as there is usually a show or two that I have limited desire to see... despite my willingness to support the theater itself. If there is a show that looks appealing - there is no reason not to visit the Julia Morgan Theater - you'll likely be pleasantly surprised! read more

Berkeley Playhouse has impressed yet again. We saw Once on This Island last night and it was fantastic. Great singing and music. As mentioned below this theater group lives up to it's ideal of presenting theater accessible to kids, family and adults. We previously saw the BFG and were blown away, with my wife saying it was the best theater production she had seen. To date the two shows we saw were at Ashby Stage and I love the intimate setting. Our son is now in the K-1 Playlab course they are offering and is signed up for their summer camp - and he is loving it too! read more

Do not look anymore if you want your kid or kids or grandkids etc... to experience the best drama camp around. My son Dylan is very shy but he always loves drama and being on stage. The second he goes on stage he shines. The teachers are so nice and always want to kids to succeed and work with them above and beyond any other drama camp would do. Hands down the best and only place I will send my son too. Bonus ... at the end of the session there is a performance for all to see.... amazing place read more

Such a beautiful theatre. Not a bad seat in the house except maybe one. Truly a great experience with kind and caring staff and organization that makes the place runs smoothly. I saw part of the professional season, Avenue Q, and the cast was phenomenal. So talented and versatile, playing to different parts at once, not to mention changing those voice, but also learning how to perfect the art of puppetry! WELL DONE!! read more

Took my favorite 5 year old to James & Giant Peach and it was a perfect couple hours of first rate singing, dancing, choreography, all star orchestra and creative props. The kindergartner knew the book so she got way more than I did about who was doing what to whom, but no matter. Loved the evil aunties!! This is one classy neighborhood theater--have seen a couple shows a year here for last three or four years and it never disappoints. read more

My wife and I went to see "Billy Elliot" today. We walked out right after the first act. We have seen a few high quality plays here but this one was a total flop. We were bored the entire time. The actor who played Billy Elliot- just went through the motions- it seemed like he didn't want to be there. Casting director gets an F. He couldn't act, dance, or sing. read more

The Berkeley Playhouse gives the gift of professional theatre for the community. The productions are often provoking, and always entertaining for all ages and backgrounds. Recently, the youth classes of the BP delivered a delightful Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory (with two casts running simultaneously) at the refurbished stage of The Julia Morgan. And just opening at The Ashby Stage is their top-notch Once on This Island with amazing music, wonderful dance, and charming cast. BP's commitment to high quality production values and worth-while theatre makes every production memorable, and Once on This Island is no exception. Berkeley Playhouse is quickly becoming a mainstay and certainly make you feel welcome and part of the theatre family of the Bay Area. Good people, good times! read more

Berkeley Playhouse - The BFG - Performing Arts Near Me - Berkeley, California

i love this little theater. not only do they bring great, kid-friendly theater to our community, but they do it so well. with outstanding, DIVERSE casting and fantastic music and energy. we have seen three shows here now, and i'm always leaving with a smile on my face. and i have to chase my children down as they rush to get pics with the stars. this theater has really given mine a love of the arts and i love that. my youngest is currently taking theater classes and i love that for the pre-K kids there is no pressure, only an emphasis on the joy of story-telling. she is always so happy when she comes out of class. for my older daughter, i can't even tell you what it means to me (or to her) to see an african-american Beauty (of Beauty and the Beast). thank you for giving actors of color roles they deserve and children of color the role models they deserve. i feel so lucky to live in this area and have a community theater that supports ALL actors so my child can grow up knowing that she can audition for any part she wants. that said, be sure to read the descriptions of plays carefully to see if it's appropriate for your little ones. i just spoke with the founder and she said they don't put ages anymore because it's berkeley and parents always argue about what's appropriate for their little genius babies. my girls can generally sit through two and half hours if it's a story they know and love already, but i will wait on bringing them to the stories they don't until they are a little better at sitting. but we look forward to being able to attend all the shows in the next few years as they mature a bit more. read more

I've gotten season passes the past 2 years and have already bought my pass for next year! The productions here are always fabulous: professional sets, costumes, lighting, and actors/actresses (and they aren't afraid of a diverse cast- no white washing here). The playhouse is very cozy with comfortable seats, and even if you sit in the back row you can see the stage very well (unlike large theaters where you need binoculars). The only con is that there is no parking nearby, but there is a 51B bus stop across the street. I do wish they had popcorn, however I appreciate that they don't because it keeps the theater clean and free of distracting crunching noises during the show. read more

I saw the show on opening night. I was cautious regarding adults doing Charlie Brown. Yet, it was an amazing show. The director "got" everyone, creating the dysfunctional but awesome family Schultz created over 50 years ago. Snoopy, played by Alex Rodriguez seemed to fly through the air as the Red Baron. He captured Snoopys on and off switch perfectly. It was fun to see with a 10 year old tween. Highly recommended. read more

Charming local theater in Berkeley! Highly recommend going to see a play at the Julia Morgan Theater. The venue is small and intimate. Any seat in the house seems relatively close to the stage. You really get the neighborhood feel and sense of the community there. Friend and I went to see Avenue Q a few weeks ago. Cast was very talented as was the orchestra. Ticket prices are about $40 and they play Broadway hits/classics. Support local theater! Wonderful establishment for the performing arts! Go with friends, family or date! Free street parking in surrounding residential area. Location is a few blocks down from restaurants on College Ave. Will be back this season to see To Kill A Mockingbird and The Little Mermaid! read more

We saw Beauty and The Beast tonight and it was an excellent performance, quite professional and fun for the whole family- and I mean that in an un-ironic way. It's playing through mid-December. The music was excellent too - highly recommended esp for families with children. read more

I LOVE their shows!! I'm also in some of them, too. They have family friendly musicals,kiddy musicals and some more adult musicals. I definitely recommend coming here. They also have amazing directors. read more

I signed up my 6 year old son for the Mulan Theater class this Spring, based on the positive reviews on BPN, but our experience was terrible! As 2 other Yelp reviewers have indicated, my experience is also that these classes are extremely poorly run, the teachers (there were 2 in this class) don't know how to engage children who have not taken theater classes there before, and many of these classes (at least 5 which is over half of the classes) were wasted on arts/crafts and "games" to get to know each other. My son, who was not considered to be shy by any of his school teachers was also ignored, made to make some Chinese fans (which weren't even used in the show in the end), and not taught the songs. Throughout the semester, he kept telling me he was bored, but I was told by the teacher it would get more fun. However, my son continued to not want to go to theater class and when I told the teacher I'd like to stay to watch, I was made to feel that wasn't appropriate. Although my son was given only two lines, I didn't mind, since he has been in school plays before in his Kindergarten class and there are typically shared songs or lines for all the children to learn. At the final showing, my husband made special arrangements to take the afternoon off only to see my son whisper just 1 line (which is unlike him) and not know any of the songs. They had cut his second line and didn't finish the show for an unknown reason. The majority of the lines and songs were given to 2 children, and concentrated on no more than a handful of kids. Actually most of the kids didn't know the songs and the accompanying music was played loudly to make up for it. Additionally, each time the teacher said she would send me an email, she never did. I had to call them after the 3rd or 4th class to pay and enroll for the class. Now I think I shouldn't have bothered at all, as she was probably hoping we wouldn't enroll! Based on the other 1 star review from Liz L from 2/22/14, it sounds like they didn't fix this problem and shouldn't have ran this class in the first place. What a HUGE waste of time and money! I have already spoken my complaints to the education director but she has not gotten back to me in over a week except to say that the teacher for that class will not be asked to return. My advice: First, beware of any teacher that won't let a parent watch what they do in class. Second, trust your children; they know when something is wrong. And lastly, $300 can be better spent elsewhere! Wait until there are positive reviews again for the children's theater classes before you consider sending your child here! read more

We just saw the matinee production of Annie at the Playhouse and it was fabulous! The venue (Julia Morgan Center) was intimate and cozy and the staff and volunteers were very helpful. The cast was engaging and endearing, even Miss Hannigan. Kids and adult alike enjoyed this performance and you will too. It is not to be missed. read more

Cute playhouse that had a fair amount of seats. We went to see Billy Elliott and thought it was great. The cast and the kids were amazing with their accents and energy through a long production. I took one star off for parking and the lobby/bathrooms are small for the sold out crowds we encounter. read more

The Berkeley playhouse is an amazing venue. Great location and the area is wonderful. Last night, I took my 12 year old son to watch Narnia and it was outstanding!! The cast delivered a powerful and well put together show. I was worried that my son may not like it, at the end of the show he said he loved it and can't wait to come back for another show. KUDOS for mommy!!! read more

Went to the Sound of Music Saturday night and I left saying wow a really good job brought back a lot of good memories,Thanks Berkeley These are some of my favorite things... Would recommend this to everyone... I believe this is playing for another two weeks so hurry... read more

We saw Aladdin tonight and it was amazing! The cast was fabulous especially the Genie, he was absolutely hilarious! Well they were all very good. Don't pass up the chance to see this great show for kids and adults. My daughter is 5 but I think I enjoyed it more than her...=) read more

We really enjoyed the performance of Guys and Dolls! The singing was Broadway quality, which surprised us considering that it's a small regional theater and the audience was composed of a large number of families with young kids. I look forward to the possibility of seeing other shows there. read more

This place is amazing!! I have watched many of there theatrical performances, and I'm always amazed and blown away! The last one I saw was Ragtime, and it was absolutely AMAZING! I would absolutely recommend going here. You can see no matter where you sit. The snacks they provide are inexpensive, and delicious. The community of people going there is very nice. The only slight "lol" down fall is the terrible line to the ladies room - but what can you do...nature calls...! lol read more

My daughter recently participated in the CORE conservatory class and I was blown away with the quality of the production! Since the classes don't allow parents to observe, I had no idea what to expect and the performance was so much more than I could have hoped for. My daughter learned a ton about stage presence, projection, ensemble work and using one's body as a tool. She was so sad when the class was over and immediately asked to be signed up for the next one. The CORE class is a great experience for kids who are serious about being on stage. It definitely sets them up to participate in more professional performances. She is eager to move on to the Kids' Stage productions, but will take one more CORE class before doing so. Parents will be truly blown away by the final production. read more

Berkeley Playhouse has been a haven of learning, fun, and positive relationships for both of my kids. My oldest has been participating in shows at BP for the past six years. BP has been the most important place and community for my daughter outside of our family. Through BP she has gained confidence, happiness, community, love and yes - wonderful theatre skills! Very importantly, the BP staff has taken the time and made the effort to get to know my daughter in a deep and authentic way. They know her well enough to provide her a sense of home, and safety where she can thrive and to challenge her to reach higher levels of performance and theatre skills. In my daughter's own words from several years ago, "I am in a play. I am doing it with Berkeley Playhouse. I have met 12 people and all of them are my friends! I have tons of lines that I have memorized, of course I have because our first show is in 20 minutes! This is importand to me because since I started this I have been 100% more happy. I have met 1 of my best friends. I love it so much I am going to do their next show." Now it must be clear why I can only give a 5+ starr review to Berkeley Playhouse - the gift of a lifetime for my kids. I know BP has grown quickly and there are glitches in any system but my kids will be there for years and if there were not glitches they would still be very small and fewer kids would have BP opportunities! read more

Both of my kids (one age 9, other age 5) have both been enjoying Berkeley Playhouse camps, conservatory classes, and shows since we discovered them. My older child is very shy, but she has developed great confidence and absolutely shines on stage. My younger child is not shy, and she has also grown tremendously during her experiences with Berkeley Playhouse, not to mention they both have made a number of great friends and continue to have a wonderful time. We have tried other local theater programs and classes, but Berkeley Playhouse has certainly been the most consistent in its quality of programs, instructors, and organization. Big fans! Update: friends have asked if we thought recent reviews regarding communication challenges were warranted ... my response: every organization has communication and organizational challenges. Berkeley Playhouse Conservatory has been responsive to our questions & concerns and every teacher my kids have had has been outstanding. My kids love it there, they are learning a lot, and they are having a great time. That's why we keep going back. Could the parent communication improve? Of course. But I have yet to experience an educational institution that has perfect communication with parents. In our experience, Berkeley Playhouse staff are responsive to concerns from parents and make changes where they are needed. read more

From the time I was a little girl I have loved the movie & soundtrack to Fiddler on the Roof. My first introduction to the character Tevye was Zero Mostel, as an adult I saw the play in San Francisco with Topol. Both are top notch actors. Nothing could have prepared me for the Berkeley Playhouse performance of Fiddler on the Roof. Michael RJ Campbell as Tevye was a performance you would expect to see on Broadway or any world famous theatre. Every single actor carried their role in the highest of regard and gave their all to their character. Our friend Jennie played Yente and blew me away with her voice inflection of a perfect Yente! I was so proud of her!!! The orchestra was fantastic, and the dance performances were so creative. The dream scene left everyone with their mouths open in surprise. I actually don't think once is enough for me on this performance...I'm going for round 2! read more

What a fabulous theater. Saw Fiddler on the Roof over the weekend. This is our second show here - Hairspray being the first. I continue to be blown away by the quality of their productions. Wish I had know about them earlier - could have exposed my kids to so many more musicals. Oh well. Rather inexpensive too compared to catching a show in SF or Broadway. We went with our parents and our children in tow and everyone enjoyed it equally. Such a welcoming place for the family. An East Bay gem! read more

I usually never rate on yelp but have always viewed other ratings, but I just had to after watching Hairspray. Loved every minute of it! Was pleasantly surprised at how well the production was put together. The actors, singing, and just overall performance was very entertaining. This was my first time at the theater and I didn't know how small it is and how close the first row is to the stage which is where we sat. Next time I'll get a seat a few rows back. Because of this performance I plan on watching other shows there. read more

Saw Sister Act on Oct 15. Wow! An exceptional performance: acting, singing, sets, choreography, comedy. Each cast member put everything into his/her performance and the audience could feel it. It was energizing. I found myself bursting out (loudly) in laughter at the comedy. I loved the movie and did not expect that it could be equaled. It was and in ways, exceeded. read more

This review is primarily about Berkeley Playhouse's educational programs, versus their shows (which are also great). Berkeley Playhouse has become my daughter's home away from home. She doesn't want to do any other camps or after school activities - it's all Berkeley Playhouse, all the time. She's participated in camps, Kid Stage, and Main Stage shows, and I've seen tremendous growth in her performing skills and self-confidence which I think is a direct result of her participation in their programs. But even more importantly for a youth program, I've been impressed with the positive social dynamics that I've observed among the kids there, fostered by the wonderful teachers and directors they employ - the kids are so cooperative and supportive of each other. It's wonderful to see my daughter so happy and engaged. I've seen some other posts commenting about the disorganization of the staff, and I'll admit, I've had some of my own frustrations in the past. But I'm happy to report they've hired some new staff in key positions, and I'm already seeing big improvements in the level of communication with parents and the openness and responsiveness to feedback. I think they are really working to make the Berkeley Playhouse experience as positive for parents as it is for kids. I suspect in another few months I'll be ready to upgrade this review from 4 to 5 stars. read more

My wife and I just saw "You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown", presented by the Berkeley Playhouse Mainstage at the historic Julia Morgan Theater in Berkeley. As a Cal student in the 1970's I had often walked by this building, which was then St. John's Presbyterian Church, but had never gone inside. What a treat to see the inside of this historic building now serving the community as a comfortable, intimate community theater. Upon arriving for the performance, we were welcomed at the door by very hospitable ushers, box office and refreshment stand staff. Since we bought our discounted tickets through Goldstar.com, we each received a complimentary food item (the cookies donated by Adeline Bakery were sumptuous), and a free gift from their theatrical closet of past show memorabilia. This is a family-friendly theater where children are welcomed and families are allowed to eat in the theater during the show. We were totally surprised and delighted by the professional and thoroughly entertaining acting and singing performances of the cast in this joyful musical. It was just as good as anything we've seen at ACT, and perhaps even better because the inclined seating area in the 300-seat capacity theater gave everyone a great view of the performers on the raised stage. The live music was also delightful and the amplified sound system and speakers was perfect. We had such a great time that we'll certainly consider signing up for season tickets to see their remaining 2015 season performances of Hairspray and Fiddler on the Roof. These season tickets will bring the cost per person to an amazing value of about $20 per person, which is even less than the Goldstar.com tickets. Anyone who enjoyed reading Peanuts comic strips or watching the many Peanuts TV cartoon specials will have a great time seeing "You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown, and bringing their children and grandchildren along to experience the joy. The show runs through March 15, 2015, so get your tickets soon! read more

Just saw the Little Mermaid with my 5 yr old granddaughter...great show...fabulous costumes and staging. Enjoyed the scene with the Chef preparing the meal for Ariel and the Prince...and loved Sebastian and Ursala...all and all a fun wonderful production. Go before it's over end of July. read more