On my frequent visits to San Clemente, I've seen this playhouse and thought it would be great to see a show there one day. Well, one day happened and my wife and I saw The Spitfire Grill here. It was a wonderful show, well-acted with lots of energy, in a small and very charming 60-seat theatre. Pre-show and during intermission, you can grab a drink in the charming garden area and there was a nice, friendly buzz in the air. I understand that this theatre has been staging shows for some 70 years. Now that I've experienced this gem, I'll make a point of returning frequently in the future. Plus, its great location near Avenida Del Mar makes it perfect for a dinner and show evening. read more

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Such an intimate playhouse! Only 60 seats and stage production is quite impressive. Watched its latest musical The Spitfire Grill and it was wonderful! There's a nice patio to linger on before, during intermission, and after the show to meet the cast. There's a whole lineup of musical productions to check out in the next few months such as 80 Days Around the World and Adam's Family. Don't miss it! read more

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The Cabrillo Playhouse is a quaint spot right behind Del Mar Ave in San Clemente. It has been a staple in the town with rich history. While it's very small, it has a uniqueness about it. I like that it's not pretentious, but the actors and staff are all still very professional and true artists. Tonight we saw "The Miracle Worker" and it was a true treat. The actor who played young Helen Keller was truly incredible! Looking forward to more plays to come soon. read more

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We were absolutely engaged in this small but mighty Cabrillo Playhouse and its release of 'Breaking Up is Hard To Do". And a little plug for my super talented niece (and the entire cast, of course) who had a role in this most enjoyable play ft. the music of Neil Sedaka. I was impressed. They had a 4-piece live band that played the music while the cast performed and sang. The band sounded awesome. And the cast was most impressive. Ticket price: $35. very reasonable Seating capacity: 66, super cozy. A fine production, well made musical. Our first time in this playhouse and it will not be the last. Allow time for parking and a coffee break down the street. It is walking-distance from many eateries, cafes, small shops, and farmer's market depending on the day. Make it a day trip and enjoy! P.S. you can enjoy light snacks and beverages in the patio during intermission. read more

Cabrillo Playhouse - Performing Arts Near Me - San Clemente, California

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The theater is still an intimate experience but with an amazing stage and lighting renovation making the experience memorable. Check it out and keep small theater alive. read more

Just saw Grease and we were wowed!!! The cast was so amazing. The acting and singing was phenomenal. They all played their characters perfectly!! This was our 1st time at Cabrillo Playhouse and we can't wait to come back. read more

An enjoyable evening for all at the sold out performance of Night at the Moulin Rouge . A musical venue filled with songs, some love songs, some comedic, truly all heartfelt. There's something for everyone. read more

Cabrillo Playhouse - Performing Arts Near Me - San Clemente, California

If you are looking for a fun, entertaining night at the theater, look no further than our local Cabrillo Playhouse. The current production of "Sweeney Todd" is amazing! The music, singing and acting is top notch. read more

Cabrillo Playhouse - Performing Arts Near Me - San Clemente, California

Fabulous community theatre We are looking forward to the next show. Who knew, this is tucked away in down town. read more

Cabrillo Playhouse - Performing Arts Near Me - San Clemente, California

A wonderful little playhouse in San Clemente. Close up view of all the actors. The outdoor patio for wine and snacks is great.

Just went to Rocky Horror Picture Show and was blown away by the great performances. The actors/singers were first rate. What a fun show! All actors are volunteers; it's amazing to me that these dedicated people put so much into the show. Very cute, historical building with refreshments before the show and at intermission. It's quite impressive what this small theater can do. Can't wait for Phantom in Sept.! We are lucky to have this great little playhouse in our "Spanish village by the sea". read more

Theatre was small but the play and the actors were great. Can't wait for the scheduled remodeling to be complete.

Fun and touching It's a Wonderful Life Radio Play! Actors very talented inn a fun play great for the Christmas season!

My first time in this theatre. I could not be more impressed, it was an excellent production. I will be back for more.

A hidden gem in San Clemente. The productions are amazing. Some of the actors could be on Broadway.

I just saw The Marvelous Wonderettes at this sweet little intimate Theatre. It was wonderful! No such thing as a bad seat. Friendly staff, cute patio for drinks and snacks at intermission. Just a great experience! read more

Loved this charming little place! Came on Friday for a production of "Arsenic and Old Lace" and it was SO well done. The performance was at 8:00 so we got there a little early and had coffee on the little patio. It is literally a house turned theater. The kitchen and living room of the house still look like a kitchen and living room and the little backyard served as the concession area before the show and during intermission. Parking is a little tight, but there are several public lots on this street (Avenida Cabrillo) so you'll find a spot eventually. The theater seats maybe 50? The stage is average size, but the set was so nicely done, probably one of the best I've seen at a community theater, amazing detail. The acting was superb, the show was hilarious and overall it was just a really fun time. The one thing I will note is that it gets HOT in there. I looked up and saw a fan, but it wasn't on...I think someone mentioned it during the intermission because for the last 20 minutes of the show the A/C was blasting to the point of it being TOO cold...haha they need to word on the ventilation and temperature control, but other than that it was very comfortable and I'm so glad we went. I will definitely keep checking for new shows. read more

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Went with my wife, son, and my parents. We saw Holmes for the Holidays. It was a good experience. The sits are a bit tight, but the place is pretty small which adds to the charm in my opinion. I'd go back! read more

How cute is this place?! Just steps from Del Mar street (a block) off El Ranchitos restaurant. A old spanish villa nestled right off of downtown San Clemente/Pier. Catch a live performance here. I was lucky to catch Man of La Mancha. Bravo! Very tight and compact inside. The main entrance is the ticket window and immediately to your right is the entrance to the main theater. Very tight yet holds many seats. Try getting seats in the back center, best view of your performance and leg room! There is a patio on the side back of the house to your left. Prior to each performance there may be a small reception of drinks and or snacks (if you're lucky). Intermission as well. The end of each performance you may sneak back to the patio and do a meet greet with your fellow patrons, guests, and or actors themselves! Enjoy the summer and spring months here, it's well worth it! The parking is scarce. Either find a good spot to park on Del Mar, street parking or 2hr parking at the lot diagonal from the villa (be careful and watch your time here or you'll be towed from this lot). So come early enough to snag a parking space. Perfect for a first date or date night with your significant other. Easily to walk to lunch/dinner at the local fine dining nearby on Del Mar. I do recommend South of Nicks for lunch or Nick's for drinks / dinner. The pier is quite a ways for walking, so you would need to drive down to the pier if you want to take a stroll there to view the ocean. read more

Wow! After living in San Clemente for over seventeen years, the stars finally aligned and my husband and I went to see, "The Marvelous Wonderettes". What an adorable play/musical!! Themes of jealousy rivalry, abandonment, betrayal, all wrapped up in songs of the fifties and sixties, made for a delightful evening of entertainment. The harmonies were exceptional!!! The acting was as good as anything one might find in Los Angeles. The complimentary beverages and cookies before the show and during intermission were a pleasant surprise. Because it's a small venue, every seat in the house is good. Parking is a bit tricky; but as long as a little walk is fine, free city parking a couple blocks away works ok. read more

It really is a house. Just a few rows of seats in the back of the theater make any show an intimate experience. Coffee and cookies at the intermission outside in the manicured little garden area. Located in beautiful downtown San Clemente an easy walk from all of the best SC bars and restaurants. What a nice change of pace. The play/acting itself?....well, nobody's perfect. read more

This is a great little community theater. We visuted the first time years ago and went back to see the newest production, Simply Simon. And what a great choice. I was an evening of laughs and good fun. read more

Cabrillo Playhouse - Performing Arts Near Me - San Clemente, California

Love this playhouse. Super-tiny, quaint, and typically put on decent shows. Awesome little gem in our awesome little town:-)

Went to see my first play last night, The man from earth. Great storyline and I was captivated to the fullest! The staff at this theater is cheery and hospitable! They serve complimentary wine and other refreshments before and after the show and give you a chance to mingle with guests and performers. Combined with Dinner on Del Mar st. It made a perfect date night for my fiancé and I! read more

Charming Casita that houses a theatre. Small intimate setting makes the current performance seem like it's all being done just for you and your friends. Here's what I did when I visited the cozy beach town of San Clemente. I started with a house salad followed by homemade pasta at Sonny's. He still makes the sauce every morning and it's recipe is still a secret. Head to the playhouse for the evening (or matinee) performance. Enjoy the show ~ I saw "The Bikini's" and it was fabulous! It was so entertaining that particular night that an audience member (a cool, hippie-type baby boomer chick) got up and danced, sang and even added a few lines to the already hilarious beach themed musical. Kudos to the cast for ad-libbing along and to the band as the live music added to the fun of hearing our favorite oldies. After the show, I hobnobbed with the cast and crew. Even the volunteers were a delight. After spending the night at the local Inn, I dined at the Sugar Shack Café where Christina and family took great care of me. The food was served hot and delicious with a not just a smile but a giggle. My friends and I will be back for "Boeing, Boeing" (you see, we're retired stewardesses) and we plan to check out Ellie's Table North Beach for tacos. Don't forget to stop by and see Kimberly at Kimberly's Flowers; she's at 2320 S. El Camino Real, she sells beautiful bouquets for a excellent prices and my Dad loved it. read more

Went on Father's Day as my gift from my daughters. Saw Godspell for the 4th time, but never on a small stage! It was terrific. Everyone did an outstanding job as their character and voice in the play. We had front row seats and it felt as if we were a part of the play. Definitely will go back again for another production. read more

Complete shock. I think I'd go there to watch anything now. It's like 60 people going to your grandma's house to watch a play in the living room. We saw The Importance of being Earnest, and everyone had a great time. The aunt in particular channeled her Dame Dench and stole scenes from the leads in perfect dry fashion. read more

Only a week left to enjoy this wonderful performance of 50ish. The two-person show is worth much more than the ticket price, believe me. Set in this small intimate theater with much interacting between audience and stage, it is a real party! Great voices and funny lyrics. A must-see before it goes on to bigger things in New York. read more

Nice, very nice old and charming community theater in San Clemente. Been there for a number of plays and never been disappointed. It is closed to everything and within walking distance to a number of great restaurants. All 66 seats are good and the patio at intermission is cute. I recommend this playhouse 100% read more

Charming and intimate venue. Seats are reserved so you get to enjoy the complimentary beer and wine before the show without being rushed. See terrific stand-up comedy here for a night that is so much better than larger venues. Andrew Norelli March 31 and April 1- doesn't get any better. read more

Actors had potential but the staging was so terrible, we couldn't take it anymore and had to leave at intermission.