1. Little Boxes Theater

0

San Francisco, CA

Cancel

Open app

Search

Little Boxes Theater

4.7 (47 reviews)
Open • Open 24 hours

Services - Little Boxes Theater

Places and objects

Little Boxes Theater Photos

You might also consider

Recommended Reviews - Little Boxes Theater

Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
Yelp app icon
Browse more easily on the app
Review Feed Illustration

Reviews With Photos

Loved the aesthetic of the space
Tiffany H.

I cannot recommend Little Boxes Theater enough! I rented the space for a night to produce a proof of concept for an investor and I could not have found a better location or staff. Kitty and Aaron were so helpful, flexible with the unforseen changes we had to make to our original plan, and just generally fun people to work with. The space was perfect for our needs and I would love to do a full production there someday. I will definitely be back!

Shay T.

An incredible spot, really unique and different. We've seen several captivating, intimate circus shows here and have also participated in their art shoots, as well as hosting events over the years. Whether you're an aerial performer or an admirer of the performing arts, they cater to both performers and spectators with genuine warmth and inclusivity. A wonderful space filled with talent and camaraderie. Highly recommend!

Bianca C.

I've been to Little Boxes Theater a few times now and I've never been disappointed :). It's an awesome, unassuming venue that's perfect for shows, photoshoots, classes, etc. - basically anything creative! Some slight issues (but not really): - Once you arrive at the building, the theater can be a little tricky to find since signage is limited (I guess I should have read the website better lol), but it's basically upstairs (2nd floor) and to the right. - On a similar note (and in agreement with another review I read), it can be confusing for first-timers since even after you're inside the venue, it's not totally clear what areas are in and out of bounds. Besides that, I can't really think of anything else, so all good. I did my first photoshoot here and the photos turned out amazinggg. I would highly recommend it and I'm seriously considering doing another one soon.

Flash Dance!
James M.

As a photographer I have worked at Little Boxes Theater several times. This past weekend I booked a three hour block on time for their "Rain" setup and brought three models who were a little unsure of the whole concept, but wanted to do it. Kitty handled all of our pre-booking questions pleasantly and professionally. Aaron greeted us, and went over all of the safety precautions in place, water and electricity don't go well together! The three models took turns "in the rain" and Aaron was a huge help in offering posing ideas and even helped a couple of them pose on the Lyra hoop, again, with lots of safety talk. Everything about the experience was A+++, the models said this was the best thing they have done and are anxious to do it again in the future. Between the Rain and Powder shoots they put on, I will be a long time customer!

Ensemble Rehearsal for Verdi's Macbeth at Little Boxes Theater
Vismaya L.

3/31/2020 A review of sorts, to whoever might be interested in performance, creativity or live theatre.... Anyone who has searched for a performance space in San Francisco will tell you that it is a monumental endeavor not be take on by the faint of heart! Depending on your project, your artistic vision, your personal stamina and, not least, your budget, you will eventually come to the conclusion that, regardless of its reputation for open-mindedness and creativity, it is practically impossible to find a place in the windy city that is truly workable. I, though I am notably stubborn in certain regards, had, after searching for and visiting a multitude of possible locations for just about half a year, come to the conclusion that what I was looking for did not, in fact, exist. I had just one more theatre to look at before completely giving up....Thank goodness I had not, because the minute I stepped into Little Boxes Theatre, I knew I had finally arrived at the place I was looking for!!! There is an air about the place that is very hard to describe. Located in a warehouse near 3rd St., there is no exterior indication that would lead you to believe how warm, welcoming and compelling the place will feel once you get inside. High ceilings, tiered comfortable seating, a large open performance area, one senses an artistic openness, spatial malleability and a naturally inclusive intelligence to the space the minute you walk in the door. The same characteristics with which I would describe the folks who are the heart and soul of this theater - Aaron and Christina! Dancers, models, photographers, producers, entrepreneurs, set design/builders, directors, creative collaborators, Aaron and Kitty (Christina) can make almost anything happen in that space. And we did! Though an opera had never been produced at Little Boxes before our production, with the help of Aaron, Kitty and a host of others, we produced a chamber version of Verdi's Macbeth that was unlike any other! Though there were challenges, of course, the theater proved to be an amazing place to bring that provocative musical story to life. Little Boxes Theater is an extraordinary, completely unique place. Anything you can imagine can be created there. As long as Aaron and Kitty are there, Teatro Mistral will be located there too! Vismaya Lhi - Artistic Director Teatro Mistral

Ross T.

Okay you all if you are doing an event no matter what it is (dance show, circus, theatre, photo shoot, bdsm party, pony show, reptile convention, etc) this is the place you want to go. Aaron and Christina (Kitty) are like an old school comedy team kind of like if Lucille Ball and Desi Arnez got gene spliced with Archie and Edith Bunker then injected with modern day California woke-ness. They make your event shine and sparkle, or in my case they helped transform their entire venue into a side show in a detritus filled dump. Their space has literally any possibility. A long black box theater with capability to move the lights and seating around. Kitty will welcome you in and might crack some jokes about death which will make Aaron (who is basically the accomplished ballet dancer love child of Popeye and Marlon Brando) to get a little nervous. Then they will both help you achieve your vision. The atmosphere of this venue is hip! There's sexy photos all over the walls from very artsy photo shoots that have been done at the venue. and water tanks and contraptions (many from the old Kink studios at the Armory that are art pieces in of themselves). Great atmosphere. Sexy hosts. There's also a bar here and Kitty does a great job making drinks that fit the theme of your occasion. In our case the drinks were "Melting Iceberg" and "Nuclear Mud." And contrary to the titles they were delicious! THIS PLACE IS A SAN FRANCISCO GEM! Seriously not many places left like this in SF for events. They were so accommodating and the work we developed there (which currently is nominated for SIX Theatre Bay Area Awards) could not have reached the place it did without their help and investment. GO THERE AND BOOK YOUR EVENT! You won't regret it. It is an authentic SF experience to work with these dedicated art curators.

Powder photoshoot at Little Boxes - November 2018
Michelle O.

Awesome creative space for local (and not-local) artists! I've done two shoots at Little Boxes this year, and both times everyone was so gracious and helpful! I very recently signed up to do one of their powder photoshoots and had so much fun! Even after an entire day of shooting, everyone at the theater was still so enthusiastic and wonderful to work with. For the powder photoshoot, they provided photographers, guidance, and help with throwing flour in order to get the best shots. I brought a memory card and was immediately able to bring all of the RAW images home with me. I highly recommend checking out their lovely space and participating in one of their shoots! I will most certainly return for more future projects. Thank you guys!

'Wants' a avant-garde performance by Cellista and Ransom Dance

See all

4 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

4 years ago

Helpful 5
Thanks 0
Love this 5
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of Shay T.
33
24
21

3 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 1
Love this 0
Oh no 0

8 years ago

Helpful 2
Thanks 1
Love this 1
Oh no 0

3 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

7 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 1
Love this 1
Oh no 0

3 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 1
Love this 2
Oh no 0

7 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 1
Love this 1
Oh no 0

4 years ago

Helpful 3
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of Jessica Y.
841
28
26

6 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 1
Love this 1
Oh no 0
Photo of Ross T.
10
7
11

7 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 1
Love this 1
Oh no 0
Photo of Kim C.
123
34
1

8 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 1
Love this 1
Oh no 0

8 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 1
Love this 1
Oh no 0

10 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

6 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 1
Love this 1
Oh no 0

7 years ago

Business owner information

Photo of Christina L.

Christina L.

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 2
Oh no 0

7 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 1
Love this 1
Oh no 0
Photo of J C.
151
80
1

7 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 1
Love this 1
Oh no 0
Photo of Edna M.
581
14
3

11 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 1
Love this 1
Oh no 0
Photo of Kao S.
20
13
12

7 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 1
Love this 1
Oh no 0

7 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 1
Love this 1
Oh no 0

8 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

10 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 1
Love this 1
Oh no 0

11 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 1
Love this 1
Oh no 0
Photo of Jolie O.
179
19
0

8 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 1
Love this 1
Oh no 0

8 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 1
Love this 1
Oh no 0

8 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 1
Love this 1
Oh no 0

9 years ago

Helpful 2
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

10 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 1
Love this 1
Oh no 0

9 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 1
Love this 1
Oh no 0

12 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0
Photo of Stephen C.
124
61
59

12 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 1
Love this 1
Oh no 0

10 years ago

Helpful 2
Thanks 1
Love this 1
Oh no 0

11 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 1
Love this 2
Oh no 0

10 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 1
Love this 1
Oh no 0

10 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 1
Love this 1
Oh no 0

8 years ago

This is a great rehearsal space and the folks who run it are extremely helpful.

Helpful 0
Thanks 1
Love this 1
Oh no 0

11 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

Page 1 of 2

Ask the Community - Little Boxes Theater

Review Highlights - Little Boxes Theater

“I've done multiple photo shoots with Aaron and Kitty and have always had a positive, fun experience with them.”

Mentioned in 30 reviews

Read more highlights

You might also consider

Verify this business for free

People searched for Performing Arts 3,592 times last month within 15 miles of this business.

Verify this business

War Memorial Opera House - Snacks

War Memorial Opera House

(234 reviews)

Civic Center, Hayes Valley

I visited the Opera House to see Mary Queen of Scots and really enjoyed the venue. Both the…read moreexterior and interior is stunning with white columns outside and a plush, grand interior. I love that there's space for gallery exhibits and activations inside and compared to other performance houses I've been to, the Opera House feels a bit more spacious. The live orchestra combined with the performance, greeters, ushers and gift shop workers were all great and very helpful.

My husband and I attended The Nutcracker in December, and unfortunately the experience was so…read moreunpleasant that we have no interest in returning to the San Francisco Ballet. We were seated in the second row of the orchestra, directly behind a group in the first row who whispered, turned around, pointed, and moved almost constantly throughout the performance. Their level of fidgeting was honestly bizarre and impossible to ignore. They also had a very young child with them who repeatedly made noise and turned around during the show. It was so distracting that I barely remember the performance itself. What I remember is the group sitting in front of us. We wanted to say something during the show, but there was no usher visibly monitoring our section. We also did not feel comfortable confronting strangers directly in a dark theater and potentially escalating the situation. This is exactly why ushers should be present and attentive during a performance, rather than placing the burden on patrons to police one another. When we spoke with a manager afterward, we were told that we could have reported the issue during intermission and possibly been moved. That response was frustrating. By intermission, half the performance had already been ruined, and it did not seem fair that we would be the ones expected to leave the seats we selected and paid for while the disruptive patrons remained in place. We contacted the Ballet multiple times afterward. Initially, the response felt dismissive. We were then offered tickets for one specific date in February, which was not practical because we live in Santa Cruz and could not simply travel to San Francisco on a randomly selected day. Eventually, we were offered tickets to a spring program, but the most logical and appropriate resolution would have been replacement tickets for the following Nutcracker season, since that was the experience that had been ruined. What made this especially disappointing was not only the behavior of the patrons, but the way the Ballet handled the complaint afterward. A sincere apology and a straightforward effort to replace the experience would have gone a long way. Instead, the process felt unnecessarily difficult and left my husband unwilling to do business with the San Francisco Ballet again. For an organization charging premium prices for a formal live performance, I expected better audience monitoring and much better customer service.

San Francisco Ballet - Eugene Onegin

San Francisco Ballet

(318 reviews)

Hayes Valley

The San Francisco Nutcracker Ballet is a family holiday tradition…read more The beauty of this is over the years they have carefully crafted children's programs for the ballet itself with less solos so the fidgety ones can remain rapt at the toys, the rat king, and of course the nutcracker on stage. We've attended children's performances where there was a post-ballet party with refreshments and opportunity for the kids to be photographed with the characters from the ballet.. What makes this so special for me and my family is their introductionto the arts. As children my girls looked forward to dressing up to attend this every year. Now, as adults, we continue the family tradition of attending as a family including my daughters spouses. Someday I will go with my daughters when they take their children to the Nutcracket Ballet as I once took them when they were little. My family looks forward to this every year, and every year we are delighted! Thank you to everyone at the SF Ballet for making this a memorable, meaningful, really special family tradition. Fiver, perfection.

WOW! They really know what they're doing, and I guess my expectations wouldn't be anything less for…read moreone of the top 3 companies in the country. We saw The Nutcracker and it was absolutely stunning. From the costume details to the set details. It's all there, but then throw in the precision from the ballet dancers l, plus the love orchestra, and you won't be able to look away. Can't wait to see another show!

San Francisco Opera at the Ballpark - Live cast!

San Francisco Opera at the Ballpark

(29 reviews)

South Beach

First time attending one of these free events! You gotta love San Francisco and the cultural…read morefreebies for all audiences! I could not believe my ears when a friend of mine mentioned Carmen the opera (I am usually asked if my name is Carmen like the opera and I have to answer that no, just like my mom) and the AT&T ballpark where until Saturday I only saw from outside. Kudos to the organization, to move around that many people without chaos is a skill, plus the sync with the SF Opera was perfect, even considering we were at a massive park and not in a more intimate covered setting. I went for the experience but I should have known better about the extremely cold SF summer nights. I was freezing with my mini dress. Gladly, my friend was carrying a blanket that we share and later served as coat. That was the worst part for me, including the long lines to the toilet. As per the performance, everybody did an awesome job, talented singers and performers...I just like my classic Spanish style Carmen and not this strange pastiche. I understand it is cool to deviate and modernize the script and the scenario, but calling the ladies 'bitches' in the subtitles was a little bit too much. Plus did not like the clothes, make up and the overall mise-en-scene. And, oh, so many kids in there too. For some girls in my group that were not familiar with the opera Carmen plot, I had to give a succinct explanation as they did not get the whole story.

I love Opera at the Ballpark! They did La Traviata this year and it was the opera that Richard…read moreGere took Julia Roberts to on a helicopter from NY to SF in Pretty Woman! Those parts in the movie rang familiar while watching the simulcast at the opera. Get there early with early admission at 6:30 p.m. (free online!). We brought tons of snacks and sealed drinks. Make sure you bring a winter jacket, gloves and scarf. And fleece blankets. It gets so cold. It starts at 8p and lasts until about 11p. To see the jumbotron, you can't really sit below the awning where it is warmer like you do at the Giants games. So you will be cold if you have a good seat. Lots of people left early since it was too cold. Bring all your snacks since all they sell is junk food. And bundle up! Get here early. There were over 26,000 people there last weekend.

San Francisco Lyric Opera - Tales of Hoffman (9/07), with M Bell (Crespel), R Byrne (Hoffman), & R Gomez (Dr. Miracle)

San Francisco Lyric Opera

(5 reviews)

Marina/Cow Hollow

We live in a city with TWO professional opera companies. TWO. Putting on great shows at price…read morepoints that let everyone enjoy reasonably good opera. For that we should all be proud. I'm proud of Lyric Opera as a presenter of accessible offerings of opera with some really good production designs, soloists, and overall casts. I've seen several very nice productions while the company was at the Legion of Honor, including a nice Lucia di Lammermoor and a good Tales of Hoffmann. Now that they've moved to Fort Mason, I'm looking forward to a slightly easier-to-get-to theater, and I certainly can't wait to see a certain member of the chorus in Rigoletto. I've had inside reports that the solists are excellent. No matter what show you catch, enjoy Lyric Opera for bringing big opera to small theatres at even smaller prices, with lots of local talent. Keeping opera alive and kicking in the 21st century is reason enough for 5 stars--the great entertainment to be had is pure gravy, to use a decidedly non-highbrow term.

Let's face it. I have champagne taste on a Pabst Blue Ribbon budget…read more I love opera but am never willing to pay the outrageous prices at the "big" opera house. Sure, I'll go if you're treating. And I will thoroughly frickin' enjoy it, so long as it isn't some new fangled, artsy production. But I'll still go, especially if you have box seats. That said, the free tickets are few and far between and I can't get student rush tickets anymore with my dusty college ID. The "little" opera or SF Lyric Opera has always been a bright spot in my dynamic City life. (Of course, so are the metallic guys, the panhandlers with creative signs, BART, and many other less romantic things.) But SF Lyric Opera really makes the arts accessible. The ticket prices and the venue are key. No, they don't have the world's most celebrated tenor or the international divas, but they do have amazingly talented opera singers that anyone can enjoy for less than the price of dinner and drinks at any trendy spot. I would have given them five stars if it weren't for their recent move from the lovely Gould theater at the Legion of Honor to the Cowell Theater at Fort Mason. I haven't actually been to a performance there, so I will amend my review as necessary once I do. But the Gould is the most delightful little venue. You might think that Marie Antoinette invited you to a command performance, and there isn't a bad seat in the house. Wherever they may go, though, I will follow. The company is wonderfully talented and even with the bigger venue, you will have an experience you couldn't get at the "big" opera. That is unless you don't mind dropping a couple Benjamins for a seat. And if that's you, you probably wouldn't mind if I tag along...

Little Boxes Theater - theater - Updated November 2026

Loading...
Loading...
Loading...