Shotgun Players is a great theater space in Berkeley. I saw a show here yesterday and was impressed by how intimate and inviting the venue feels. The theater is small enough that you feel close to the performance, but still has the production quality and atmosphere of a much larger space. The seating provides a strong view of the stage, the space has a lot of character, and the staff created a welcoming experience from the moment I arrived. I also appreciated how the design of the theater makes live performance feel immediate and engaging. A great local venue for anyone who enjoys live theater. I would absolutely return for another production. read more

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I came here with my friends to see Sunday in the Park with George. The production was very well done and our seats were only $8/each since the show was still in previews! Support local theater! I'd come again to check out other shows. read more

Shotgun Players - Poster - Performing Arts Near Me - Berkeley, California

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I write with an update about Shotgun Players. I do so because of the pandemic. That historic event divides experience, individual and collective. So much of the world did not make it through, even institutions. I'm glad this theatre is still around. It is as good as before. Shotgun Players actually is better. During the pandemic, they renovated. I thought that from looking around, and I googled for news articles to confirm. I also learned they are considered, with Berkeley Rep and Aurora, one of the Big Three in town. We subscribed again. I want to support local live theatre. I don't even reside in the Bay Area anymore. But my wife does. We're in the area enough weekends to want to catch more than one show. We go with another couple. The matinees are a favorite. We received free soft drinks as regulars, and a chocolate. The poster art, with murals to match on the side of the building, are by R. Black. They also have a set of tarot cards. I was not able to find too much more about the person. I am glad Shotgun Players has such a consistent look and feel. A note about the seating. I mentioned earlier my favorite, row L, which consists of bar stools for a high top table. They won't be for everyone. Your feet will be dangling. All of the other rows are benches with long cushions underneath and individual pillow cushions behind. The legroom is great. You are not cramped as at most venues. The truth is following the lockdown, we are not out as much for cultural events. But I am always interested in what Shotgun Players is doing. If you have the least interest in seeing performers on stage, I recommend them with enthusiasm. read more

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First time at this venue. I had to see the Yellow Face performance. Parking was plentiful on a mid week evening. People supporting the theatre were friendly. The theatre was cozy and intimate. I had a third row center seat, perfect view of the performance. The performers were wonderful. Since it was a small cast, many actors played multiple roles. It was a nice performance on a nice venue. It definitely provided an alternative theatre to better known ones. I will definitely consider future performances here. read more

Shocked to see there aren't more recent reviews of this place. I know this is a late review, but I watched Hedwig and the Angry Inch in their final days of performances, and omg I loved it! I never seen the play before and only read a quick synopsis of it online before going in. The soundtrack for this play was awesome, the band was amazing and vocals were beautiful. Pangaea and Elizabeth are so talented. Again I've never seen this show and didn't know what to expect, but I have to say that Elizabeth's voice was so surprisingly angelic and pure. If I'm correct, I think I read that it was her first time performing at Shotgun? I hope everyone who performed sees this and knows they killed it! Shotgun as a venue provided such an intimate setting, and I loved being so up close to the action (and emotion!). I don't think there is a single bad seat in this theater. As a petite girlie I am so thankful that the seats are staggered upwards toward the back. My favorite type of seating. At bigger venues, where ticket prices are much higher, I need a booster seat (no joke) and sometimes think to myself if you're so far away that you might as well wait to watch it at home...But not here, you experience what makes live theater great! I also greatly appreciate that they had their own concession menu that isn't overpriced, along with a fun cocktail menu tailored to the show! Every time they show a new play they paint over the front of the building to display the play currently taking place, which I thought was cool. If you're passing by this area it's always nice to see what sort of new art pops up for the next play. I can't think of a single bad thing to say. Bravo to this local live theater! read more

Shotgun Players - Specialty cocktails during Hedwig run (great show btw) - Performing Arts Near Me - Berkeley, California

Amazing performance by the team!! It was outstanding We enjoyed the performance thoroughly and will continue to attend the events at this venue. read more

What a treat for my first foray back into live theater in 2021! As you approach the Ashby Stage, the striking artwork for their current production, The Claim has been painted onto the face of the building - a rather iconic depiction of a man in silhouette trying to navigate a labyrinth. Definitely an eye-catching touch and I'm kicking myself in retrospect for failing to snap a picture. (I'll also admit curiosity about the design. Especially in retrospect, it does an excellent job of communicating the character of the show with one image.) We were greeted on the steps by a staff member who diligently checked both our vaccination cards and ID's before we stepped inside and were pointed to a QR code to access the program online. (My second regret of the evening that I didn't snag one of the paper programs from the stack. I've since taken the time to read through the virtual version, but it's admittedly not the same and I'm enough of a collector that I wish this program could sit beside the others in the bottom drawer of my filing cabinet.) The raked seating offers everyone a fairly good view of the stage and the pew seats were comfortable. Most in attendance seemed conscientious about keeping their masks on. But, enough overture... how was the production itself? Sharp, intelligent, pointed. The timing felt flawless and natural with lines of dialogue spilling over others in a way that is rarely executed so well on stage and which emphasizes the communication challenges the play seeks (and succeeds) in highlighting. It's a rare work which aims to educate us and make a political point, but which manages both without feeling preachy. At no point does the script accomplish its aims by taking down to the audience or oversimplifying the characters. To the contrary, it brings a lens to idioms and behaviors so familiar that I'm surely not alone in having lost track of their confusing implications. It layers these confusions on top of the human tendency toward assumption and preoccupation. Altogether, worthy of all the praise seen in the reviews. Bravo to the cast and crew. So glad to see the run has been extended. read more

Affordable community theater at its best. This intimate venue is a great place to see new plays that are fresh and original. We saw Art tonight and laughed until we cried. Live theater is enlivening. read more

We saw "Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812" one night here and it absolutely blew me away. Amazing acting and singing inside an intimidate (but not stuffy) theater. You really become engrossed in the entertainment and I was delighted to find such a nice hidden gem in Berkeley. Would definitely come back again. One small remark is that it was slightly drafty, so bring some layers in case in you get cold easy! read more

Beardo! He's a hairy visionary. That's what's playing right now. That's what I did last night. I could not let 24 hours pass without sharing. It was that much fun. Shotgun Players perform in a small space, capacity maybe 150 ish. Small, cozy, intimate - all these apply. Not a bad sightline in the house and some of the best acoustics I've sampled in a theater space. The chorus last night was so robust it sent little shivers up my spine. Seating is on chairs or benches (ask for the pillow) or plush stools with backs in the back row (where I sat last night and where I'll always try to sit from here on out). A beautiful and charming wine/beer/cookies or pie attendant will take a modest sum then invite you to bring your libation to your seat for the sipping. Price of admission is insanely reasonable. City folk, the stage is right across the street from the Ashby Bart. The food choices in the neighborhood are a little limited, so mabes you'll want to dine in town before heading over. There ye be. Another fine night of thoughtful, mirthful entertainment, right here in our backyards. Stick with me, lovey, and you'll never be bored. read more

Shotgun Players - There's a difference between dirt and earth ... - Performing Arts Near Me - Berkeley, California

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Had one of the most horrible theater experiences ever and I'm not sure if anyone else share this same experience with this company: I've been going to plays for a few years now just to get a taste of the live theater experience. I saw an ad online for a play I believe it was Passing Strange and wanted to give it a shot. I order my tix online paid $40 for it and even selected my seat. I get there and apparently there was an issue. When I tried to get my tix to enter the person at the front told me my seat was taken which made no fuckin sense cause I selected my seat and paid for it. They forced me to get another seat and I was fuckin furious cause if I paid for something I should be able to get it right? Nah hell no. I go to the movies very often and buy my tixs online and select my seat. When u purchase a tix it has YOUR seat number NOBODY ELSES. The fuvkin company wouldn't even refund me my money like how? Where the fuck they do dat at? I can't my money back nor the fuckin seat I paid for and they looked at me like I was fuckin crazy. Boy I tell u that was my last fuvkin time with this company. It's beyond greed like if u really wanted the money that's all yal had to say. If you wanted bodies in the seat then that's all you had to say but forcing me using me taking from me nah bruh I don't rock like that. And to make matters worse they didn't even apologize for the shit. Dam this shit only happens cause I'm black cause there is NO other explanation. I can't make this shit up read more

This is what live theatre should be! It is an interactive theatre and It was the most immersive experience I've seen to date -you just can't experience drama like this watching you tube or even attending an "ordinary" play. It's the best show in town. The theatre is small but the impact large. The cast was super in every way. The singing and movements were spectacular. I was not only impressed with the acting talent, but the imaginative choreography. The stage is unique, not very large, and has seating all the way around it. Thus the cast has to be mindful of this plus the piano pit right near the stage center. It was amazing and creative. The team is right next to the crowd and involves them in fun creative ways. The theatre has a warm feel, very cozy and friendly. Easy access to get refreshments. The director addressed the crowd and it often felt like everyone there were friends. I have never experienced such warmth and welcoming at a live event. But beyond all that I was further impressed with their efforts to keep prices low and offer opportunities for lower income people to enjoy theatre. They do ask for donations but I was more than happy to help support. I recently saw the play Natasha, Pierre and the Great Comet and I will definitely be back. They do about 5 shows per year and I'm hoping to catch them all. read more

So much fun! Fabulous experience every time. Hits the right note being a very welcoming community theater but still putting on world class performances. We saw "Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812" recently and it was fantastic. We also saw a great show where they partnered with music group Kitka to create something unique and fabulous. So happy to have this theater nearby. read more

I can't say enough good things about the Shotgun Players' latest production, Man of God. The acting is simply stupendous. The show is funny, insightful, challenging, and powerful. It's totally worth seeing. read more

Saw Hedwig and the Angry Inch here! It was PHENOMENAL! Great cast, we talked to everyone after the show and they were extraordinary people. Will be coming back! Amazing positive energy. Xoxo read more

Why they deserve 5 stars: An eclectic line up of plays a mix of classic and new plays. Some cutting productions; some work, some don't, but they are never boring. You can take the cookies and liquor or water you purchase from them to your seat Friendly staff Sliding rates for season tickets so that they are affordable. A free production in the park in the summer There is not bad seat in the house, uncomfortable yes, but a clear view from any of them The minus points There can be a long wait at the one women's bathroom Parking can be a problem read more

We love this little theater! Shotgun puts on a wide variety of productions (we loved the comedy trilogy "The Norman Conquests", the emotionally intense magical realism of "Care of Trees", and the modern adaptation of the drama "Phaedra"). The space is cozy and welcoming (there are no bad seats in the house), and there are tasty pastries (courtesy of Sweet Adeline's Bakery up the street) and drinks (tea, coffee, mixed alcoholic drinks) that you can bring in to nosh on during the show. A raffle (with prizes creatively themed to the play) punctuates the end of every intermission. This little neighborhood theater has the feel of a fun night in with friends, at the same time presenting fantastic and talent-heavy productions. First couple days of every show are "pay what you can" if you want a deal...or you can subscribe (there are discount subscriptions for the "young" [under 35y.o.] crowd). Definitely check it out! read more

We've seen some cuckoo shows here... or should I say "avant garde." tiny theater- not a bad seat in the house. tickets are reasonable priced. you can bring food & booze into the theater, which is nice :) SUPPORT LOCAL THEATER! read more

I unfortunately had a very a poor experience on the evening of 10/20. We couldn't enjoy the show because the theater was so incredibly cold and we were fully dressed. At intermission we inquired with Daniel about the heat and were dismissed with eye rolling. I'm sure we weren't the only ones to complain. We left at intermission because the cold was so distracting and we felt uncomfortable. For us this is disappointing on many levels. We enjoy the arts and supporting artistic ventures. We are also parents to young children and we get out alone every 8 weeks so we really look forward to these evenings. It goes without saying this experience was disappointing. read more

Their current play in John Hinkel Park, The Farm, is very fun and very sexy. Go see it!! Sat. Sun. 4 pm, beautiful park, outdoors. The Farm John Hinkel Park, Southampton Avenue, Berk; (510) 841-6500, www.shotgunplayers.org. $10. Sat-Sun, 4pm. Through Sept 13. Shotgun Players present a Cadence Play based on George Orwell's classic. read more

Shotgun Players - Brent Rose, as the narrator, the Raven Moses in The Farm at John Hinkle Park - Performing Arts Near Me - Berkeley, California

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I LOVE this theater! I had a season subscription four three years at the Berkeley Rep and didn't care for 2 out of 3 of their performances. I switched to the fabulous Shotgun (which happens to be in our neighborhood) and love 10 out of 10- even if some are a bit wacky or jarring, it is a less expensive experiment and I always leave impressed and stirred. I continue to marvel with the quality they turn out on such small budgets. I have to say too that my husband and I feel so VIP because of their amazing box office. We locked down dates and seats in advance of the season and they make it so easy to change dates as needed. Love this theater!! read more

I am so glad I bought season tickets this past year for Shotgun Players. We saw some great plays with outstanding acting, directing and staging. One of the highlights was Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf. New works were good too, although "Caught" was not a fave. Very much looking forward to Hamlet, which will be the last of the series. On top of the plays I want to say that the staff at Shotgun could write a book on customer service. They really pay attention to their subscribers (and I'm sure their other patrons too!) - if you need to switch a date, make sure your seating will be accessible for your 91 year old theater buddy, you name it - they're kind, they listen, and they're helpful. Another thing they do is foster a sense of community - you're invited to a holiday party, you're kept in the loop with developing creative endeavors, and genuinely asked for your opinion and participation. This is no stagnant theater company with outward facing content only. Bravo to Patrick Dooley and everyone else involved! read more

I'm always skeptical of contemporary Shakespeare but was delightfully surprised by the caliber of Shotgun Players' "Macbeth". (Like that pun? Heehee.) Yay for a version that didn't leave me banging my head against the wall. The actors were commendable, the sound was magnificent and interesting, stage was simple but practical, and the lighting was dramatic and effective. The playhouse was pretty awesome in itself; with 20 or so stadium rows of church pews it packs a decent audience of all sorts of folks that respect the show enough not to chatter throughout the entire performance. The acoustics aren't bad either. Best of all, its solar powered! I'm always a fan of a good concession stand, and this one didn't disappoint. Quality snackables and Bison beer for the win! They even had scotch to go along with the theme. I'll absolutely keep up-to-date on these guys' productions, particularly if they're at the Ashby Stage. read more

This is the second year that I've gone to SP's free show in Berkeley's John Hinkel Park, and the second year that I've had a really great theatre experience. Last year it was a fun and lively production of The Three Musketeers (I especially enjoyed the Ensemble, particularly the guy who was killed six times in six different ways as six different characters). This year's show is "Ubu for President," which was delightfully ridiculous and involved a great deal of audience participation. John Hinkel Park is a great venue, with terraced seating (it is wise to bring something to sit on, be it a blanket or a low-backed chair), and remarkably good acoustics. It also has lots of different stage entrances/exits, which allow the actors to mingle amongst the audience. I'm really looking forward to next year's free show and I might even shell out for one of their other season shows. read more

I love this tiny theater, located conveniently across the street from the Ashby Bart station. I've seen many plays here over the years & appreciate that it caters to students (and us broke peoples) with very affordable ticket prices. The Ashby Stage itself is quite small & minimalistic in design & there is a limited number of seats, giving the theater a mystique of exclusivity. Monday Night, my friends & I supported our friend as he performed his one man show called "Scarred for Life." David's performance was inspiring, moving & hilarious. It's part comedy, party tragedy. The staff is always extremely cheerful and the concession items are not over priced. P.S. you are able to bring your alcohol to your seat. read more

The Niceties: History, micro-aggression... get ready to get your ears on and your defenses down 'cause you will be moved to listen. Maybe act? The Niceties is a guide that I will refer to often. The Niceties read more

I respect Shotgun for a few reasons: 1) They have a solar-powered theater steps away from the Ashby BART! 2) Their productions please a diverse crowd, from theatre newbies to old hands. 3) They have pay-what-you-can nights for every show, as well as a totally free outdoor show every year. The cost of theatre should definitely not be prohibitive, and I like that Shotgun gets that. 4) And they just seem like very nice people. read more

Shotgun is on the way to becoming the first solar powered theatre in the country. Even in Berkeley that's a pretty radical step. The building is a converted church and the audience sits on pews - raised stadium style like a new movie theatre. Don't worry, they have cushions - but pick up a lower back pillow on the way in - it helps. They serve beer, wine, and great chocolate chip cookies. And best of all, you can take your concessions into the theatre - another great thing about this company. Tickets are cheap but the first week of the run is "pay what you can." Just go, see a show and give them an extra buck or two for the solar campaign. They do good work and they're socially conscious, with alcohol and cookies to boot! read more

Starting to think there is nothing these folks can't do. Saw Faust, got hooked, and now in second year of subscribing. The space is intimate and really feels homey after a few visits. Jonathan Kreuz does an outstanding job at box office and audience liaison. They work all the social media efficiently and well, creating a real intimacy with their patrons. The web site is efficient and clean. The concessions staff is always friendly and fun. And what about the art? We have never seen a bad show here. Sure, there were some we liked more than others, but generally our opinions have been ranging from "really really well done" (Norman Conquests, Beardo) to "Holy Mother of God That Experience Has Changed My Life Forever." (Salt Plays, God's Ear, Faust). I've never seen a weak performance, and the direction, sets, music, light and sound are always top notch. But the big thing about this company is that they use their incredible competency and connections to take real risks. Plus they do an amazing job of curating the theatrical landscape and bringing exciting and important work to their audience. This is vital and alive stuff and makes most other theater seem kind of staid and dull. Artaud would be pleased. I hope they can keep it going, cause right now it is hit after hit, dynamic, vital, not too big, not too small. Keep firing on all cylinders folks, you're amazing. read more

I remember seeing the Shotgun Players do an amazing version of "Medea" inside an out of use movie theater, probably 5 or 6 years ago. I loved it, but for some no good reason I never made it back to see another Shotgun show. The recent production "The Forest War", written and directed by Mark Jackson, makes me feel like a damned fool for not seeing more Shotgun productions. It would be really hard to do this play justice in words alone, but I'll try anyway, because it really was one of the best productions I've seen in the Bay Area, and that's no hyperbole. It is a classical tragedy, incredibly stylized with kabuki and anime influences. The performance is accompanied by two percussionists who must be seen to be believed. It's about doomed love, war, peace, & politics and the cast is airtight. And it says a lot that with a running time of two hours and forty minutes, this show does not drag whatsoever. I was fully engaged and into it, and utterly moved by this show. See it before it closes. That's the best favor you can do for yourself. BREAK IT DOWN! read more

I won't review the plays here (which, based on my experience, would still be 5 stars - one piece in particular last season just blew my mind) but the theater itself. It is amazing. 'Nuff said. Seriously, why are there not more young folks sitting next to me? Because it's thea-tah? Because it's Berkeley? Last time I went the aged gentleman next to me -- in the FRONT row (I am so sorry, actors) -- fell asleep and started snoring 3 minutes into the play. This venue chooses edgy, awesome plays (picture Tom Waits, cloned babies, and carnivals -- not in the same play, but that'd be incredible), serves tasty cheap cocktails, and has great deals. And it is right by BART. Just try it. C'mon. read more

I have been a fan of Shotgun Players for over 10 years. Several of those years I've held a season ticket (and have asked for one this year for my birthday). This troupe has grown up from being a grass-roots sprig of a troupe to now having a stage of their own. They did it with guts and glory and I'm proud to be able to say "I knew them when." I remember a fabulous performance of Richard III which they called Shakespeare In The Parking Lot, where they used costuming that was collected from the audience right before the performance and a stripped-down (no pun intended) cast of very few players. Comparing that to last season's amazing Macbeth and wow, this group really has trajectory. You can count on Shotgun to continue exploring and experimenting. My only complaint over the years is that in every season there's usually just one play I don't want to see, maybe because it's too intense/harsh or the subject matter doesn't interest me. But that's a testament to Shotgun's breadth and a confession of my lack of it. Kudos, Shotgun! May you reign forever! read more

I have lived very near this venue since it was a church, I have seen it evolve into the adorable little theater it is today. South Berkeley needs this fabulous venue. I finally went to my first show there, Seagull in the Hamptons. I went because the SF Chronicle gave it a good review, and I have always trusted the little guy in the chair (20+ years I have been relying on him). I was good to trust him yet again. The play was very good, the actors top notch. Very professional performance from the actors to the lighting and sound. Those working the door and concession stand are extremly friendly and helpful. The venue is intimate, you can bring food/drinks you buy from the concession stand into the theater with you to enjoy while watching the play and there is not a bad seat in the house. It was a pleasure, and I would give it 5 stars, but I had trouble reaching the box office for questions... and I never received a call back after leaving 5 messages in two days. I will be signing up as a Subscriber, so I can take advantage of all the shows! And I live closer than most people park to go there... how lucky am I? What a gem to have in my neighborhood! I would consider seeing a show at the Ashby Stage before going to the movie theater any day of the week. read more

I saw H8 Letter to Gr8 American Theatre this weekend and loved the reading and loved the space. Intimate black box with great acoustics. Friendly welcoming staff. Incredible and brave performers. Affordable tickets in the heart of gentrification. What else can I say? 10/10 would come back again and again. read more

Half-price tickets on Goldstar Events induced the wife and me to make the trek over and around the hills to Berkeley. A very nice intimate theater with good seating, a good production, and good snacks. Plenty of street parking, as opposed to the craziness down by the Berkeley Rep. (My apologies to the first two 5-star reviews, but the place wasn't "GREAT". But it is a theater that I'll enjoy coming to again.) read more

"This story is mine!" Not a full day has past, and the songs are still ringing merrily in my eardrums. I'm not usually the type for plays and musicals, but yesterday I was driven by the simple fact that one of the co-writers and the composer for the musical "The Fourth Messenger" was Vienna Teng, a Bay Area native. I had the privilege to see her perform at Yoshi's a few years ago, and instantly fell in love with her work. Look her up on iTunes or the web; you'll love her music too. Whence chance came that I could see her again, I commandeered The Commodore and swept him out to sea at the Shotgun Players. My gods, was this musical amazing! And we were lucky enough to squeeze in on the last day of production (so sorry for those who won't get to see them perform). The acting, the singing, the story, the accompaniment... All 5 stars! The theatre itself was cozy and warm, the perfect backdrop for this wonderful musical feast; not too large and not too small. Their goldfish and sparkling water saved my life. Even though the musical is no longer playing, I would still encourage you to check out the theatre for any of their shows. It's a true gem in the neighbourhood. I may even be enticed to go back for another play one day. read more

As an actress who performs in the Bay Area, and who has never performed here....I would be honored to be on this stage. It's beautiful, clean, great acoustics, awesome seating at an intimate 100 seats, stadium view --so there are NO bad seats all facing a proscenium stage. Overall, a very professional showing of Mina Morita's "The Great Divide". I want to be a part of next season to focus myself in on a company that knows exactly how to deliver. They focus on new works and have pay what you can preview performances usually for the first two weeks of each show. How glorious is that for a starving artist? And it's right by Ashby BART station. Hello fabulous! Check out a show sometime, because you might just be checking me out on stage next!!! read more

When my sister went to UCB, I would occasionally drive down to Berkeley to visit her. On my way there, I would always pass by Shotgun players. It never occurred to me to go to one of the performances even though I always looked at the outside to see what was playing. However, I finally got a chance to go to one of the performances when I heard about Skylight, a play by David Hare who was nominated for an oscar for The Reader. The play sounded interesting enough, so I got tickets and went with my sister and her boyfriend. They have a concessions stand where you can purchase food and bring it into the theater. The theater has a high ceiling and pew seats because it use to be a former church. Now, if you want to get really comfortable in these wooden pew seats, bring a cushion or just take your jacket and put it behind you. The theater is wide so I don't believe there were any obstructed views. read more

Just saw Josh Kornbluth's Sea of Reeds. Amazing show, well written and it has quite an impact on me. The theater is wonderful. Answered the phone right away to make reservations. Patiently explained the seating available. The theater is small enough that all seats are good. They let you bring drinks into the theater and they have cups with water pitchers for our convenience. Look forward to more shows here. read more

Our neighborhood theater fills me with so much love. I've never seen a bad production here (although I've seen a couple of plays I just didn't like). Tickets are incredibly affordable (especially for students) and there's not a bad seat in the house. read more