Although I didn't end up attending the planned show, I wanted to leave a review to recognize the wonderful customer service I received from the Lobero Theatre box office! Due to an unexpected change in programming (Lucy Darling), I reached out to inquire about a possible refund. The team was incredibly responsive, courteous, and helpful. They promptly contacted the promoter on my behalf and had my refund approved and processed without any hassle. I really appreciate how smoothly everything was handled, and I look forward to attending an event here in the future. Thank you again! read more

The Lobero Theatre is a charming historic gem. We had a wonderful experience at the Lobero Theatre when we went to see Lucy Darling. It's an intimate venue where every seat feels close to the stage with great views of the performance. The classic red velvet seats give it a charming old-school theater ambiance, but unlike many historic venues, the legroom was surprisingly decent and you don't feel packed in with your neighbors. The staff and ushers were welcoming and helpful from the moment we walked in. Parking was also a breeze as there is a lot right nearby that was paid, but very reasonably priced. Highly recommend! read more

Lobero Theatre - Lucy Darling - Performing Arts Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

See all

Great Venue nice people Great place for Comedy or Music ..always a good time 700 seat theater always Fun

Didn't even get to see the show, but the customer service was enough to never want to return. Show started at 8, we got there at 8:32 and were yelled at at the doors by one of the employees. Totally fine if we were too late to the show (a cover band, mind you) but to be spoken to in such a condescending way by that employee was beyond rude. We had a group of 7 that were ready to buy tickets, drinks, food, etc ... just to never want to return again. read more

An excellent experience with member of the rock' n roll hall of fame. Only drawback was the restroom was on a different floor. Beer and cider were served on the outside steps. Go to a concert here and relive musical history. read more

My husband and I saw a concert here and loved it! The venue was beautiful and the staff were so helpful in finding our seats. We loved the smallness of the theater and the seats were very comfortable. Overall a great experience! We were not, however, allowed to take videos or pictures during the performance. I understand not wanting the distraction of cameras, but do wish I could have gotten more footage of the artist I love. read more

Lobero Theatre - My husband & I - Performing Arts Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

What an amazing and intimate venue with staff and volunteers that are so helpful and friendly. I have been fortunate enough to attend quite a number of events here over the years from film to live music. Every performance is made that much better by the beautiful surroundings and architecture and rich acoustics. I look forward to my next visit. read more

There isn't a bad seat in the house. We are lucky enough to hear a guitar concert and the acoustics were wonderful. If you ever get a chance to go to the theater I would highly recommend it read more

Great concert venue. Beautiful architecture. Convenient metered parking nearby. Good seating lighting and ambiance. Staff is friendly and helpful. Restrooms are clean and plenty large for the venue. read more

Lobero Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

See all

Yesterday was my second time at The Vic to see a play. My friend and I saw Sleuth last year and the final show of Seared, both were absolutely fantastic. They make it easy to pick up will call tickets which is nice. Despite it being a smaller theater, it still has a big feel and the seats seem to be good from any spot in the house. It is easy to get in and out; the ushers are nice and the events have been well-organized. The stage designs have been pretty detailed/well thought out and the lighting and sound are spot on. As an added perk, my friend and I went to Bouchon for his birthday dinner to pay homage to the culinary theme of Seared. While there, the actors were walking by post-show and the lead stopped to talk to us and take a picture! Very cool indeed! Support local theater and arts! Definitely come check out Lobero Theater for a production! Side note: if you're going to see a show, put your phone on silent. Despite the theater making several announcements about this, we could hear cell phones going off throughout (no fault of the theater, of course). It's disrespectful and so distracting for the actors. It's 2023! Come on, now! read more

Lobero Theatre - Seared was soooo great! - Performing Arts Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

See all

This is an intimate theater. There's not a bad seat. I've enjoyed many shows here. It's in a great area as well. read more

See all

We went to the Lobero last night to see Electic Elton John. It was an amazing production. Sean Trombley and entourage were stunning. Everyone on stage made this such an enjoyable experience. I would highly recommend this to others who are fortunate enough to see this show in the future. I hope that they come back to the Lobero so we can go again. read more

Classy and classic music venue. I always expect a great show here. Consistent high quality performances are the norm.

I will NEVER see a concert at this venue again. We went to see a blues artist and they were phenomenal!! However, the venue is seated. If you stood to dance to the music, people would yell at you. I want to be able to enjoy the experience but it was incredibly uncomfortable. read more

What a perfect little cozy and historical theater. Every seat is great. Loved the experience... read more

Lobero Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

I went to see The Tributes To The Eagles on February 11 and paid over $80 for my ticket to sit in the front so I can enjoy the show. Unfortunately I had the worst experience where I had one of the worker her name is MARGO literally standing watching me every time i got my phone out to get a video which you are allowed and I wasn't bothering anyone since NO ONE WAS SITTING IN FRONT OF ME. She kept on coming asking me to behave and put my phone away. The band ask you to film and share on Instagram so her behavior was unbelievable. MARGO you are the most HORRIBLE DESPICABLE WOMAN I have ever met and I think the Lobero shouldn't have you as an employee. SO SHAME ON YOU MARGO. read more

The Lobero Theatre is California's oldest continuously operating theatre since being founded by José Lobero in 1873 as an opera house! It has all the things I look for in a theatre and it is no surprise that celebrities come from all over the world to partake in the Santa Barbara Film Festival! Offers fabulous shows, CHECK! Gorgeous design and history (look up inside), CHECK! Close to plenty of dining/drinking options, CHECK! Easy nearby parking, CHECK! Safety protocols for attendees, CHECK! I recently came to the Lobero Theatre to see one of my favorite comedian drag queens, Bianca Del Rio. The staff kept everyone safe by requiring proof of vaccination, had everyone converse with masks and social distancing on the foyer prior to the show, provided visible signs indoors announcing expectations, and had a bar outside! We had a wonderful time that evening. I would have no hesitation to return for one of their wide-variety of shows or performances. read more

A wonderful experience at a historical venue in Santa Barbara! The Dave Koz concert was absolutely outstanding. It will have a place in my heart forever! read more

Excellent ambience and the décor on the ceiling is crazy beautiful, The lonely boys rocked the house that night. read more

Lobero Theatre - Los Lonely boys Concert Night. - Performing Arts Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

Another great show at Lobero! They enforced covid protocols by checking vaccination cards and monitoring mask wearing, which I appreciated. Sound was great. I love seeing acoustic shows here and there's really not a bad seat in the house at this small venue. They also pour a good drink at a decent price during pre show and intermission. read more

Lobero Theatre - John Craigie - Performing Arts Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

Warning: Do not buy tickets directly from Lobero. I understand that it's normal for tickets to be non-refundable, but they make it impossible for you to resell the tickets. Oh and get this; they have the option to "donate" tickets. To whom exactly? After speaking with them, it was evident that they gave my tickets away to a coworker's friend. These were VIP tickets almost at $300. And this was an International music concert and singer artist, not a local theater play. I had called a week prior to try and get my tickets to resell them, but they were unable to send them in any capacity. All they could say is that they can change the name on will-call. StubHub rejected that because of scammer issues. When I called the day of for the concert, on my aunt's funeral, they didn't pick up so I left a voicemail. They did call me back, but I was occupied at the funeral. When I called back to speak with Cooper, he fumbled his words and said that his coworker gave my tickets away, he also insisted that he just started working there. When I asked to have a manager call me back--Josh--Josh said that Cooper had misinformed me and that my tickets were not given away. It sounded like he was doing damage control on behalf of Cooper being honest and that they were in fact given away. (Cooper was actually very sweet and tried his best to help, but Josh on the other hand, was not). Again, come up with a better system for customers to re-sell their tickets especially if you're unable to refund them, don't just offer a "donations" program--whatever that means. Things come up and people can't always make a show, so at least make it easier for customers to resell them. I've never had issues with any other venues about reselling tickets, which according to Josh, this issue happens there often. It's been frustrating to say the least, and after speaking with their manager who lacks in customer service skills--I will never buy tickets at the Lobero theater again and I suggest you do the same, especially if tickets are $$$. They will not refund you and you won't be able to resell them on any sites or apps. read more

Went to the Lobero last night, August 29th, to see Tab Benoit. First of all some band named G20 played. The music was so loud. Our group could not stand it. We asked if the soundboard guy could turn it down. Was told no, employees had asked and the soundboard guy said no, he wouldn't tone it down, even a bit. That went on for 40 minutes. I have never experienced a performance at this venue that was so ear shattering. Then after a 20 minute intermission Tab came on. Just as loud. Several people started walking out during his performance. Eventually my ears couldn't take it anymore, even with earplugs. Been going to the Lobero for many years. Probably been to 6 or 8 shows in the last year alone. Never had such a bad experience. We finally couldn't stand it and we walked out. With ears ringing. Employees told us we weren't the only ones who complained. And I can't believe they were powerless to get the volume turned down, even a little bit. read more

Bottom Line: This is a great theater Lets see here..... great sound, great lighting, comfortable theater, it doesnt really seem like there are any bad seats either.... I havent been here for a few years and was very impressed with how much I liked seeing Tre Burt and Watchhouse. Unfortunately I'm an audio engineer so typically I'm prepared to disagree with whatever "sound person" is working but not this time. The sound was fantastic - clear, not too loud, zero feedback the lights were awesome, the acoustics are good..... theres literally nothing I can fault anyone for here we had a great time and cant wait to go back for another show! read more

There is not a bad seat in this theater for viewing. Great old historic (1873)refurbished beautiful theater in downtown Santa Barbara. Originally built as an Opera house. Seats are not super comfortable but music is good. Recommend a visit. read more

This place is amazing to see music. Such sweet acoustics and sound. Saw the band "Future Islands" here read more

Lobero Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Santa Barbara, California

Smaller but stately theater. I've had the opportunity to come to The Lobero several times over the years for various plays and symphonies. It's at the base of Santa Barbara's theater district and is probably among the oldest. I believe that this particular theater had survived the 1925 earthquake. It still stands tall to this day. While there is no upper mezzanine area, The Lobero does feature a large amount of seats. The lobby and theater are adorned with ornate wall and ceiling decor. It's as if you've stepped back in time 100 years. The venue is well-preserved and shows like a real gem to this day. Overall, a great theater with some awesome headliners. I look forward to coming back soon. read more

Gorgeous theater, they really don't make them like this anymore. It's like you're in a movie, classic touches everywhere. Velvet curtains, plaster moldings, iron light fixtures, artisan glass... every single element is hand made to perfection. Came here for Santa Barbara's Film Festival and had such a good time. Tips: parking is everywhere. If you're attending a show be sure to check out the clock tower at the Court House for a scenic view, it's a few blocks up and closes at 4:45pm. read more

Always a great experience. We are very lucky to have a place like this in Santa Barbara. P.S. We should all support the Lobero read more

Just learned my event was canceled due to COVID - 19. Understandable. They were kind enough to call me to confirm my refund, but what was surprising is that they don't refund their "website" or "convenience" fees. Huh? read more

Wonderful Theatre. Nice size, excellent sound, been there a dozen times over the years, my favorite theatre in Santa Barbara. Who ever books the Lobero does a good job, Excellent Smithers. Make sure you visit La Super-Rica just down the road from the theatre for some amazing mexican food. read more

I am updating this review since I now have received a response from Lobero Theater regarding my experience here in the early part of the month. I am very glad that they did, in fact, respond to me. My friend has yet to receive a response after writing them directly. Two points brought up by Angie Bertucci, Marketing, were that 1. I did not see a production at Lobero but rather an off-site venue. This is true. It was stated that Lobero sometimes does handle the ticket sales for other venues. That having been said, my recommendation to others would be, again, to ask a lot of questions regarding the event prior to purchasing a ticket and ask for a referral number if those questions cannot be answered by Lobero staff. 2. Outside promoters are responsible for their own advertising. This is understandable. Perhaps there could be a phone number for whomever is responsible for the event so that further information can be obtained? This would alleviate the kind of disappointment that we felt. Neither one of us could find anything of value on the internet regarding this event to be able to make an informed choice. What's odd now is that I just googled "Hula Anyone" in Santa Barbara and clearly see that it is a school. This did not come up in my google searches prior to the event. Very odd. Angie forwarded my complaint to the "Hula Anyone" promoters to avoid future issues. Thanks, Angie! She also said that the Lobero theater has recently been renovated with new seats and updated restrooms. My friend has been to several productions there in the past and has always been very happy with the venue and the productions. I will be giving them another chance as they did, in fact, respond to me regarding my experience and will update my review when I see a show at the venue. From what I hear, I should be very pleased. Thanks again for getting back to me! I do appreciate the response! read more

I will give the Lobero 5 stars for a having a great benefit concert for the Santa Barbara Birth Center and for having the likes of Jeff Bridges, Crosby Loggins and Toad the Wet Sprocket play. It was a great size and even in the last row, I felt like we were close. The sound was perfect and not too loud and it has a great look (Spanish inspired exterior) and feel to it. I have developed a near obsession with TTWS over the last 2 months and to get a chance to hear them play was fantastic. They sounded great together and the Lobero made it all the better! read more

I have been to the Lobero theatre a few times. Last night, we went and listened to Gloria Allred and Hannah Beth Jackson. WOW! What a great event. Gloria Allred was so inspiring as was Ms Jackson. I am definitely ready for the Women's March on Saturday. My first experience at the Lobero was Graham Nash, who was fantastic. It was so wonderful to see him in this small venue and to be able to sit throughout his performance. The Lobero is a classy venue that is very well run. I would highly recommend it. read more

What a charming little gem of a find! This past Christmas I gave the wifey tickets to see Loreena McKennitt here for this past March 15th...any anyone who knows us..*knows* how Santa Barbara is our fave-rave getaway spot! A stunningly talented songtress...in our favorite town...at a historic theatre...what could be better?! Pretty much nothing at all. This lovely little spot is maybe a mere 50 yards away from State Street on Canon Perdido. In fact, it was far closer to downtown than we thought. We overshot it while parking ans walked by it once thinking it was in the other direction! Either way, its certainly not a place to be missed. Its roomy but intimate, if that makes sense; with seating for little more than 400 people - pretty much every seat in the house is a good one. The architecture takes you back to the turn of the (last) century. Whoever it was who said the sound wasn't very good here didn't know what they were talking about. Everything sounded great! The staff was very pleasant, accommodating and helpful, too. I really can't wait to attend another event here - no matter what it is. If you get the chance - do attend an event and pay a visit to this delightful spot of culture! read more

My sibling said the lumineers played here, I am sad I missed that. Onto what we caught here last weekend, no it was not some kind of germ. We were lucky enough to see a local performing arts school production of the musical 'Legally Blonde.' As a sometime blonde, I am completely obsessed with the film, or at least it is a favorite. The musical had it's moments. I'd say, go for broadway or off-broadway. The children/teen production was a tad expensive, but it was probably due to the venue. The costumes and sets were well done. The three leads, elle, emmet, and paulette did a great job - with the singing and the acting. I'd say the rest were average to okay, kids don't give up. Just explore all of your talents, okay. Our favorite scenes were the one with step dancing (seriously), and I liked the greek chorus. Good humor, and upbeat tone overall, with a helpful message. The last time I attended the Lobero it was in high school for a shakespeare production, there were no sets and five actors played/read all the characters and just changed props. It was different. The seats were okay. I liked that the seating was all on one level, though I love balconies too. Leg room was sparse, but the seats were comfortable enough for me. For the best view, near the back and in the center, at least that was our experience. read more

Great acoustics, really pretty, no broken seats... I was way in the back...row P (as the usher said "P" to the left)...but really no bad seats. Saw David Crosby in the audience for David Lindley, liked to have talked to him but am sure he gets bugged by alot of people...day light again. read more

Beware, what they promote is not always what appears. Drove up from LA in November to listen to Crosby, Stills and Nash cover band. They did 20 minutes of CS&N, then 1 1/2 hrs of hard rock. While we were there we saw promotional banners for Johnny Cash tribute band. Purchased tickets in advance and when we arrived found that we had to sit through 40 minutes of a poor Elvis impersonator, then finally the Johnny Cash tribute band who were fantastic. It pays to double check their web-site before purchasing tickets as things change!! read more

My favorite venue for the arts in SB. All the seating is good, even standing room. The Lobero is the real star of the SBIFF. Be advised though, the parking scene is tough. Get there as early as possible, esp for popular shows and don't depend on the adjacent city lot not to fill up, often an hour before the doors open. read more

What a beautiful facility and what a central location. The history of the theater goes back to the Late 1800's I am speaking to the theatre itself. The performers and performances speak for themselves, as the quality is top notch. The Theatre hs been updated and rebuilt to its current pinnacle. The parts of the theatre designed by the famous architect Luta are still present in the current incarnation. The Theatre is registered California Historical Landmark No. 361 first built in 1873 and rebuilt in 1924 read more

I want to give the Lobero a good review, I really do, but I just can't. The shows that I have seen at the Lobero have been great, and it's a very cool building, but on the business and customer service side, things are horrible. When buying a ticket online, I was subjected to a $3 "facility fee" and a $5 "web order" fee. The ticket that I wanted to buy, which was advertised as $15 turned out to be $23 by the time all was said and done. That is false advertising pure and simple. I feel taken advantage of. Furthermore when I actually tried to pay the $23 I was told that I must create an account. I was then required to give them my address and phone number as well as create a ridiculously complex password. On top of all this, I then repeatedly received an error and was ultimately unable to create an account, and therefore unable to purchase a ticket. As much as I want to see this show, I'm starting to feel conflicted because I don't want the Lobero to receive any of my money after this horrendous experience. read more