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    Carpenter Performing Arts Center

    4.5 (97 reviews)
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    Christopher T.

    Fantastic venue at CSULB. This is my second time here. Easy parking (pay parking lot and/or structure) or free street parking). Lovely and grand lobby filled with the Carpenter records and info plus upcoming events. The theater itself is very intimate, whether your seat front or the last row, you can see the stage or the performers clearly...you can see their facial expressions (depending your your eye signs that is - I got contacts). The room is nothing special but with the height, you felt you're in an arena. Well lite and audio is great. So glad that they have events (shows & performances) that I like to check out instead of going all the way to downtown LA. This is my second time here and love it especially when they have solo performances show. Just lovely.

    Debbie F.

    Great theater! This was my 2nd time watching a performance here and it was wonderful. The acoustics are perfect, the rows are nice and wide, the seats are comfortable, and it's very clean. The talent was been incredible! Both shows i've attended, we have sat 15-20 rows up and still felt very close. Perfect distance for busier sets. Parking is abundant and easy pay machines for quick payment. It's also very quick to get out of the parking area. I'm excited to see more products here!

    Annie B.

    A great place to enjoy a play, concert or any other type of event. Just think it's here in Long Beach, you can see all the gold records from the #carpenters when they were a cool pop duo. Parking was 10.00 which can be paid through an app or can be paid at the venue by credit or debit card. Can't wait to see whats happening in the near future.

    Into The Woods
    Tiffany H.

    The staff working here were so nice. The seating is very comfortable and despite not having great seats our seats were great. Every seat has a perfect view of the stage. We saw Into The Woods last night and it was phenomenal. It was very easy to get in and out and I appreciate how smoothly everything ran. We loved walking around and seeing all The Carpenters memorabilia. We will back in October for Hello Dolly.

    Tracy K.

    Musical Theatre West put on an excellent performance of Spamilton. It was hysterical. You probably should see Hamilton prior to seeing this performance and you should know the background of Lin Manuel Miranda and all of the musicals that have come before Hamilton. They pay tribute to the all in a way that will keep you laughing

    Heather V.

    super organized venue. I recommend arriving early and be prepared for long bathroom lines that go pretty quickly because the staff is very efficient.

    Anthony D.

    Named after former students Richard and Karen Carpenter, the Carpenter Center for the Performing Arts is a jewel of a theater located on the campus of CSULB. The architecture is modern, clean and tastefully designed, the seats and aisles are comfortably spaced and there is a bar available before shows. Friendly staff, too. Parking is $8.00 and is available directly in front of the center, but it can take some time getting in due to having to pay the attendant. The highlight for me was the exhibits of Carpenters memorabilia on display in the front lobby area. The exhibits include Karen's drum set and "Lead Sister" shirt and one of Richard's keyboards. Also on display, are their Grammy Awards, and People's Choice Award, as well as, awards for Carpenters Gold and Platinum records. This was my first time at the Carpenter Center. I was there tonight with some friends to see the usually hilarious Sandra Bernhard, however, she was fighting a case of laryngitis and much of her humor was lost in translation because you could not sense the sarcasm that comes along with her story telling and jokes. It was a little disappointing, but I appreciate her giving her professional best under the circumstances. We did have great seats, although, I don't think that there are any bad ones in this venue. I am looking forward to going back, and I recommend that you enjoy a great show there sometime. Their seasons are packed full of many diverse entertainment options.

    George Takei! They have the best shows and talks here!
    Danielle B.

    We love theater and have been to the Carpenter Center on three different occasions. We have been lucky each time and snagged a street parking spot right out front however they do offer parking for around $5 (cash). We have seen Ira Glass, George Takei, and Lily Tomlin. Each time is its own unique experience. We love coming here because each time we get tickets for an event we get them based on a name we like and then always think "I have no idea what this is going to be about." They are not your usual theater performances but are always entertaining or insightful. They do serve beer, wine, and snacks that are allowed in the theater. The only con I would have to say is that there is no middle aile which means if you're not close to the end then you have to walk in front of several people to get in and out.

    Jean Y.

    Watched Mary Poppins last Sunday. What a show! Better than movie. We all loved it.

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    The lack of air filtration combined with the smell of old carpeting untenable. Sadly, we will not be returning.

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    Great venue. Love the cabaret series. Especially seeing David Burnhams! And hosting Musical Theatre West.

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    Page 1 of 3

    Ask the Community - Carpenter Performing Arts Center

    Does it cost to park?

    Typically no. Special events may charge, but most do not.

    What is playing on Saturday, February 24th, 2018?

    Guys and Dolls at 2pm and 8pm. Check out Goldstar for a discount on tickets.

    View All 3 Questions

    Review Highlights - Carpenter Performing Arts Center

    We enjoyed watching the musical play White Christmas here at the Carpenter Center, our first time here.

    Mentioned in 13 reviews

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    Long Beach Playhouse: Mainstage & Studio Theatres - 04/2026 Harvey: Dr. Sanderson (left) & Nurse Kelly (right)

    Long Beach Playhouse: Mainstage & Studio Theatres

    4.3(121 reviews)
    1.3 mi

    I drive by this theater weekly and never realized it was there. Local theater is a unique…read moreexperience and it's intimate. Beyond grateful to be invited to a local production (yes, we paid for our tickets), as this was the first time experiencing theater in a setting like this. The actors are from our local and surrounding communities. Tickets are affordable and supporting local artists/talent is important. I appreciate a great night of entertainment!

    Congratulations! I found a theater that beat the Pantages in discomfort! I know its an old venue…read morebut these are the worst seats I have ever had the displeasure of sitting in for so long. By the end of show my behind hurt, my knees hurt. It was just awful. This is also the first time in my many years of show going I saw (and heard) people leaving during intermission due the discomfort of the seats. One lady even screamed in the narrow passage way to I assume the rest of her party (MY KNEES CANT TAKE ANYMORE). Her husband then said yeah Im running her home and ill be back. This was my first time going to this theater so my first impressions were good at first. Staff seemed personable. We went to see August Wilson's Gem of the Ocean. I have never been to a theater in a U shape before. I have decided I dont care for it. There were so many times where I didnt know what was going on because the actors back was to me. I dont know if there was a kiss, a nose snuggle, who knows. My partner also point out that in one scene on our side we saw that one actor was rubbing anothers foot. This was how the piece came back from the dark. He pointed out that the folks on the other side had zero clue because they just saw her back. He also pointed out how much wasnt really used and the set could have been "pushed back" for better viewing and I agree. I also found it distracting for me to see the audience across, folks were laughing and speaking in times that didnt call for it and for someone like me who is ever observant it was a distraction. Final complaint the smoke machine was too much for me. It literally made me start coughing. The people I was with also said it got to them in other ways. The sound was good, lighting good. If I am invited back to a performance at this place as I was this time, I would have to see the run time of the piece. This piece went on for almost 3 hours and oh how could I forget started close to 20 minutes late! Just not cool man. As a first time goer it made me wonder if this is the norm for this theater and would have to keep that in mind as well.

    Photos
    Long Beach Playhouse: Mainstage & Studio Theatres - Costumes Display

    Costumes Display

    Long Beach Playhouse: Mainstage & Studio Theatres - 04/2026 Harvey: Nurse Kelly

    04/2026 Harvey: Nurse Kelly

    Long Beach Playhouse: Mainstage & Studio Theatres - 04/2026 Harvey: The Dowd Family Mansion (top) & Chumley's Rest (bottom)

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    04/2026 Harvey: The Dowd Family Mansion (top) & Chumley's Rest (bottom)

    Golden West College Mainstage Theater

    Golden West College Mainstage Theater

    4.3(4 reviews)
    7.2 mi

    I went to the Golden West College Mainstage Theater to see an on-stage production of Herman…read moreMelville's classic American novel, "Moby Dick." It was great!: http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/golden-west-college-mainstage-theater-huntington-beach?select=T8CKz6UQoLckecoKqeincg#T8CKz6UQoLckecoKqeincg So as not to ruin or spoil the play's narration or momentum, I won't, however, spend much time reviewing the show. If you've yet to experience the book, you'll be enlightened: http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/golden-west-college-mainstage-theater-huntington-beach?select=T8CKz6UQoLckecoKqeincg#xcpkDky8g78aToWGiJ7upQ . But if you have read "Moby Dick," don't let that stop you from attending. While the enigmatic, white whale certainly occupies space in this imaginative adaptation, the spotlight is instead directed upon the depths of character development and the relationships among the Pequod's crew. Awesome performance notes and applause go to the intriguing Elijah and Father Mapple. As a venue for experiencing community theater, I whole-heartedly recommend GWC's Mainstage. The seating is intimate and comfortable, the ushers are helpful and all smiles, and the direction of the theater is completely supportive of its cast. In fact, the programs themselves open the college's doors for available enrollment, course offerings, and audition information. Makes you wonder... Have you yet had your 15 minutes? For a listing of upcoming events and shows, visit their website: www.gwctheater.com . ***Tips*** * The address listed is the main address for the college. The theater is not facing Goldenwest St. It actually faces Gothard St., which parallels Goldenwest. Parking is also located off Gothard.

    Easy parking and a nice size theater. Every seat is a good one. I saw Evita here and while I…read moredidn't enjoy the musical I was comfortable. The sounds was a bit off so it was hard to hear the cast; the mic kept going in and out on some folks. There were refreshments (cheesecake and coffee) for purchase in the lobby during intermission. Restrooms are outside, but clean. If there was something here that I really wanted to see, I'd return.

    Photos
    Golden West College Mainstage Theater - Moby Dick, himself.

    Moby Dick, himself.

    Golden West College Mainstage Theater
    Golden West College Mainstage Theater - "Moby Dick" presented on the Mainstage

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    "Moby Dick" presented on the Mainstage

    Orange County Childrens Theatre - Babette, The Mirror, and the Carpet in Beauty and the Beast (2022)

    Orange County Childrens Theatre

    4.0(4 reviews)
    3.2 mi

    As a musical theatre vocal and acing coach here in Belmont Shore, I can say that OCCT is one of the…read morefinest community theatre groups in the area and an amazing opportunity for my students and young artists in the community to get experience in musical theatre and expanding their repertoire. I have seen many of my students perform leads here and the varied repertoire is exciting. From seeing my student Lindsay Denbo in The Wizard of Oz to, seeing my alumni student Jayson Ziegenhagen as the Beast in Beauty and the Beast. OCCT never disappoints. Always great theatre, and priced cost effective for families. I give my highest rating to OCCT as they truly care about the arts and nurture our young talent with love, excellence and varied repertoire. Thanks OCCT James Spencer: Musical Theatre Vocal/Acting Coach JAMESRSPENCER.COM

    Do not go with this company. They are liars and thrives and completely lack communication skills…read more I understand everyone suffered during the shut down but I expected better from them. First they kept saying the show will go on and not to worry, complete lie. The show is not going on. They kept saying emails will be sent out early August. Here we are mid August with no contact. Several emails was sent to them to find out what going on with no response. I ask for a refund earlier in the year and they said they would like me to consider giving the money as donations. I said no and that I prefer a refund. Their response was I'm sorry we're not providing refunds. If they understand what the term donations means, it means it's something voluntary not forced. On top of that I bought 10 tickets to the show because we had to otherwise they charge a hefty amount and a penalty. Also no refund is given. I ask if the tickets will still be used for the show. They said no! You'll have to buy more tickets. Like stealing $500+ wasn't enough for them. Then to find out there's no show and they have a new show going on with a new cast. Don't waste your time or money because if another shut down occurs, you'll never see your money again. They are horrible people and thrives. Will never recommend them to anyone!

    Photos
    Orange County Childrens Theatre
    Orange County Childrens Theatre - Be Our Guest from Beauty and the Beast (2022)

    Be Our Guest from Beauty and the Beast (2022)

    Orange County Childrens Theatre

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    Musical Theater West - Musical Theatre West productions are staged at The Carpenter Performing Arts Center on the Campus of Cal State Long Beach

    Musical Theater West

    4.1(22 reviews)
    1.9 mi

    Broadway Talent right here that's for sure! We make the long drive every time Musical Theatre West…read moreputs on a new show and once again, it was absolutely worth it. The Buddy Holly Story is a spectacular tribute to one of Rock N Rolls most legendary pioneers, and this production was nothing short of electric and astounding From the moment the lights dimmed, we were completely transported into Buddy's world. The actor playing Buddy could be his twin!!! The musical tells the inspiring and bittersweet story of Buddy Holly's meteoric rise from a young, rebellious Texan to a trailblazing star who changed music forever. What makes this show so special is not just the energy of the iconic hits "Everyday", "Peggy Sue", "Oh Boy" - but the heart behind it all. It's a powerful reminder of how much he accomplished in such a short life. The cast was phenomenal - truly Broadway caliber. The actor portraying Buddy was a revelation: pitch-perfect vocals, magnetic stage presence, and musicianship that gave me goosebumps. Every member of the ensemble brought the era to life with authenticity and spirit. And the final concert scene? The entire audience was on their feet, clapping and dancing - no exaggeration. EVERYONE! Musical Theatre West never disappoints, but this one was especially unforgettable. We're devoted fans, and even though we live far away, we wouldn't miss a single show. The quality, heart, and talent in every production keep us coming back again and again. Once we discovered Musical Theater West 2 years ago we make sure to never miss the production - Sounds of Music, 42nd Street, Million Dollar Quartet, Into The Woods, you name it! Thank you so much If you're on the fence - go see it. It's not just a musical, it's a celebration of life, music, and the kind of timeless spirit that lives on through Buddy Holly's legacy. MTW has done something truly special here! Looking forward to see Book of Mormon and Chicago or Great Gatsby perhaps? Thank you so so much for your talent, dedication and work from all of us!

    I just saw Man of the Mancha last night at the Carpenter Center. If the show is OK, I did not…read moreunderstand the following points: 1- On the booklet which was provided, there is not one word on the story (which is not simply Don Quixote). Why didyou not include anything? 2- There is no screen with Closed Captions which could help to understand the plot. 3- On the other hand, there were three signs language users, on a corner of the stage. Are there so many deaf people going to a Broadway show? I will not go anymore to a show organized by Musical West and will not recommend it.

    Photos
    Musical Theater West
    Musical Theater West
    Musical Theater West - CATS stage. It's a little zoomed in, but taken from my seat.

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    CATS stage. It's a little zoomed in, but taken from my seat.

    Long Beach Performing Arts Center - No pix or recording.

    Long Beach Performing Arts Center

    3.1(15 reviews)
    4.4 mi

    Many, many months ago (pre-Covid) I went to Mayor Garcia's "state of the city" address. Such a…read moregreat venue and really professionally organized! Before the speech, there were free hot dogs and drinks in the courtyard. Dozens of Long Beach businesses and organizations were tabling and passing out free tchotchkes and brochures. Then everyone was directed inside to hear the Mayor speak. Mayor Garcia is an inspirational speaker and his presentation was well prepared and interesting. He definitely grabbed everyone's attention and took us on a great ride. He is very charismatic and smart. These last 6+ months of Covid, I continue to be impressed by his leadership and communication. I feel lucky that we've had Mayor Garcia in charge and feel hopeful that he'll take us thru to the other side.

    Terrace Theater in Long Beach has great views from all seats. We were very disappointed in the…read morerestrooms. They didn't build enough restrooms for the capacity of this theater. The lines were extremely long and each restroom had only 3 stalls! The show started after intermission, and there were still 15 people in the restroom line!! The parking is ok, but the attendants didn't know where handicapped parking was located. They directed us into the wrong level and my crippled Mom had to walk long distances, up and down elevators and escalators on a walker to get to the entrance. Logistically, this place is a frustrating mess for handicapped people!

    Photos
    Long Beach Performing Arts Center - Finish your nosh outside and quiet your devices.

    Finish your nosh outside and quiet your devices.

    Long Beach Performing Arts Center - Founders

    Founders

    Long Beach Performing Arts Center - Cumfy seating while we wait. Very civilized.

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    Cumfy seating while we wait. Very civilized.

    Naples Fine Art Center

    Naples Fine Art Center

    5.0(1 review)
    2.2 mi
    $

    I recently moved in across the street from Naples Fine Art Center and was instantly drawn to its…read morebanner that advertised "Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead," a play by Tom Stoppard. (I read it in high school and knew I had to attend.) Sweet, I thought, a theatre venue I can walk to that hosts absurdist, surrealist existentialist plays. Right up my alley! Literally! I soon found out they just opened, and the building doubles as a small art gallery and intimate theater. I went to see the play twice. It was that good. (And because my partner wanted me to take him since we have a strong foundation of absurdist melodrama in our interactions ourselves. I think he enjoyed it almost more than I did.) Everyone I met there, including the director of the gallery, the director of the theatre troupe (Alive Theatre) and the actor who played Rosencrantz were all friendly and great. The entire cast was good, but "Rosencrantz" stole the show and had me in stitches. Couldn't have been more perfect for that part. The theater seats 45, which means be ready to be up close and personal with the players, and get your tickets early! Some of the art pieces in the gallery are beautiful and haunting, and there is quite an array for such a small space. Drinks, alcoholic and non-alcoholic, are sold in the gallery for a tasty price, and the first time I came, whatever orange punch they had made me very happy. Two for $5, great to share. In general, I'm so stoked to have this place across the street and I look forward to the next line up.

    Carpenter Performing Arts Center - theater - Updated May 2026

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