Rio is a great place to see a show in Santa Cruz. And they get some great names of performers I…read morereally want to see. Plus, I love a seated show (versus standing for three hours). But, beware the bait and switch. You pay a premium for shows here and they'll switch the venue to something less inviting (and standing room only) without giving you the option for a refund. Don't worry... if you have a coveted (even more expense) Gold Circle ticket at Rio- they'll throw in a free poster at the new venue. Tsk. Tsk.

You're going here because the concerts are amazing. They're great musicians that you can see right…read moreup close that atmosphere is a really quaint there's not a lot of people. It's always a good time. I love the ambience too.

We saw The Hunchback of Notre Dame at the Sunday matinee. The staging was incredible and the…read moreperformances were good. With the exception of Quasimodo (sp?), I did not think that the voices of the leads were as strong as I have seen at other performances. The story as presented was dark and I did not think suitable for grade school children. This was deceiving as it had been advertised highlighting the Disney association. I will, however, to continue to support this wonderful organization

Small theatre , we have seen several musicals here and thoroughly enjoyed them…read more Comfortable seating.

So much fun for the family. Classic early 1900th century vaudeville type of show with modern items…read morethrown in. Lots of fun!

I had a friend post on instagram about this circus, never had heard of it before as I live on the…read moreother side of the hill. I bought tickets, a table actually. It comes with 4 chairs and the option to add two more and the ability to order concessions prior to the show that get delivered to your table. As we showed up, big parking lot as it's located in the mall lot. Nicely done- 5 portapottys inside the tent, little concessions stand and souvenir section. The inside is small, but the seating gives you and your guest plenty of space between you and others. The show is mythical, more of fairies, Pegasus, snow daughters and such, but is an amazing experience for the whole family. Lots of acrobatics, cute little costumes and lots of laughs- especially the Pegasus! The staff is friendly, and it's just an amazing experience. My girls 3&5 said it was their favorite circus yet! The snowball fight was their favorite part of the show, and the trampoline act. We can't wait to come back next year! Definitely worth the drive, and a bargain for the show!

West Theater has been a life changer for my teenager. He has attended Harry Potter camps on up to…read moreimprov groups. They are kind and talented instructors and the curriculum is stellar. This program has given my son a sense of confidence and that is a gift that will last a lifetime.

This little gem of a studio offers classes for all ages and performances year round. I love the…read moreofferings, like improv and playlabs..I need a boot to the behind to motivate myself to attend but once there it's pretty magical. Attentive to details, the staff seems to have as much fun as the students. Makes me miss the SF art scene less and less. SC has the bright shiny shiny right here in my backyard..Lucky us.

At the Colligan Theater to see the play, Sylvia a modern…read moreromance comedy about marriage and their dog.

This is a great company! You really don't have to leave Santa Cruz to experience excellent theater…read more The choices of plays are varied and imaginative-from comedy to serious dramatic, historic, obscure stories. Lovely staff- incredibly helpful-clearly devoted to bringing their passion to Santa Cruz. Beautiful theater space, snack bar. Just a wonderful way to spend an evening or afternoon.

One of the classic theaters still remaining in Santa Cruz and is a wonderful treat to witness a…read moreshow or performance if you have the choice. I've seen a few movies here and each time have had a good viewing experience. They usually offer both popular hits as well as Indie films that may just be starting to gain some traction. Widescreen theater with ample, comfortable seating and pretty good sound system. The interior of the theater is beautiful and really takes you away from the outside world for just a bit. Staff here were friendly and the restrooms are clean. Can't really ask for more! Tip: You likely don't need to pre-order tickets especially if you're not watching during premier week.

They do NOT heat this theater! Just tried to watch the Spingstein movie. I left after a half…read morehour. Colder inside than outside. If you go, where heavy winter clothing. I'd like to support this theater, and I know it's struggling, but comon.

A nice family-friendly festival offering face painting and a skateboard contest for kids, art and…read moremerchandise for sale (one of the more popular being Jimbo Phillips graphics and designs, plus some others you would only find in Santa Cruz), and several food and drink vendors on site though a few were in the beer garden which I didn't enter cuz there was a line and it was super jampacked in there! But I did snack on some delicious and unique peanut butter and chocolate chip cookies from Savannah's Home Bakery tent (both the cookies and service were sweet, this business based in Capitola). Several bands performing live music (reggae, blues, and more) throughout the day, on two stages. The Mermen entertained a lively afternoon crowd, playing some awesome rock tunes and bringing plenty of energy. Since it took place in the street, there was no grass or seating anywhere nearby and hardly any shade around, but it worked out with a bit of fog providing comfort from the summer heat this past Saturday. Also, found street parking a block away in the neighborhood. Not bad for a laid back annual event free of cost.

We decided that we wanted to watch a new movie (scream) and we saw that this theater was still…read moreopen. When we walked into the theater it seemed nice at first impression, but soon after we walked into our theater room it was a gross mess, popcorn, trash, and old alcoholic beverage containers left out still from the last movie showing before ours showed. The service was not very good and everyone that works here should under-go customer service training again because it was not satisfying at all. As well as learning how to clean properly this whole theater was a mess after paying close attention. This place has some serious problems, TAKE YOUR MONEY SOMEWHERE ELSE.

The choice movie theater of Capitola. There is nothing like a matinee, or nice movie night. Always…read moreshowing the newest releases and doing so in a way that makes it possible for people with a busy schedule to fit one in. during the day for an escape into a film. Multiple viewing times provided for the newest releases and a great selection available for viewing. Comfortable movie-watching experience with nice, clean seats , and a great display, and sound to match. I highly reccomend as a private get away into an engrossing action flick, or I've recently seen that they serve alcoholic drinks now if you were thinking about attending with a group on a weekend night. Whatever your movie watching preference there is a spot here for you to enjoy the best movie watching experience. I've been going here for 20 years, and all I've seen it do is improve as a location.

This is such a special and intimate venue for live music and jazz. I love how the space allows you…read moreto really connect with the performers. It's amazing to be so close to the musicians and experience the music up close. It's an incredible spot that brings in so many talented artists. If you're into jazz, you're in for a treat. They also sell food and drinks that you can enjoy right at your seat.

Went to see an all-female mariachi band last Friday. We also purchased the dinner option. The food…read morewas so-so (black cod and shrimp in a coconut curry with a very small salad and not such good bread). But the venue is incredible. We had such a good time. And the drink prices are reasonable (beer and wine only)

What a special place in Santa Cruz for live music. We caught the group Sambada and had a blast! If…read moreyou are visiting check out their schedule of live music. The vibe is awesome.

I went for Halloween and it was so much fun!! People's disco is where it's at. Unfortunately a lot…read moreof people didn't get in, so you have to show up a little before 8 if you want to go. I loved that there's an outside and inside area, it's super fun in both areas. The drinks were a little expensive, but strong. I can't wait till next month!!