The Old Globe is a renowned professional theatre company located in San Diego's Balboa Park. Founded in 1935, it is one of the oldest and most respected theatre institutions in the United States.
The Old Globe is known for its high-quality productions, which have included world premieres, classics, and musicals. The company has also been instrumental in the development of new plays and playwrights, and has a long history of supporting arts education and outreach programs.
The Old Globe's three stages host a variety of productions throughout the year, including Shakespeare's plays, contemporary dramas, and musicals. The company also offers a variety of educational programs, including workshops, classes, and lectures.
The Old Globe
The Old Globe is a renowned professional theatre company that has been a cornerstone of San Diego's cultural landscape for nearly a century. Known for its high-quality productions, commitment to new play development, and extensive education programs, the Old Globe has played a vital role in shaping the city's arts scene.
- History: Founded in 1935, the Old Globe is one of the oldest and most respected theatre companies in the United States.
- Location: Nestled in the heart of Balboa Park, the Old Globe's three stages host a variety of productions throughout the year.
- Variety: The Old Globe's repertoire includes Shakespeare's plays, contemporary dramas, and musicals, ensuring something for everyone.
- Quality: The Old Globe's productions are known for their high artistic standards, featuring talented actors, directors, and designers.
- Innovation: The Old Globe is a leader in new play development, supporting emerging playwrights and bringing new voices to the stage.
- Education: The Old Globe offers a wide range of educational programs, including workshops, classes, and lectures, to foster a love of theatre in all ages.
- Community: The Old Globe is deeply engaged with the San Diego community, providing outreach programs and partnering with local organizations.
These key aspects combine to make the Old Globe a cultural gem of San Diego. Through its commitment to artistic excellence, innovation, and community involvement, the Old Globe has enriched the lives of countless individuals and helped to make San Diego a vibrant and thriving arts destination.
1. History
The Old Globe's long and distinguished history is an integral part of its identity and success. As one of the oldest theatre companies in the United States, the Old Globe has had the time and experience to develop a reputation for artistic excellence and innovation.
The company's founders, a group of local citizens, were inspired by the success of the Shakespeare Festival in Ashland, Oregon. They believed that San Diego deserved a similar cultural institution, and they set out to create a theatre company that would produce high-quality productions of Shakespeare's plays and other classics.
The Old Globe's early years were marked by financial struggles and challenges, but the company persevered, thanks to the dedication of its founders and supporters. In the 1960s, the Old Globe began to receive national recognition for its productions, and it has continued to grow and prosper in the decades since.
Today, the Old Globe is one of the most respected theatre companies in the United States. Its productions are known for their high artistic standards, and the company has a long history of supporting new play development and arts education.
2. Location
The Old Globe's location in Balboa Park is a key factor in its success. Balboa Park is a beautiful and historic park that is home to a variety of cultural institutions, including museums, gardens, and theaters. The Old Globe's location in the park gives it a unique and charming setting that is perfect for a night of theater.
In addition to its beautiful setting, Balboa Park also provides the Old Globe with a large and diverse audience. The park attracts millions of visitors each year, many of whom are tourists who are looking for cultural experiences. This large and diverse audience gives the Old Globe the opportunity to reach a wide range of people with its productions.
The Old Globe's location in Balboa Park also has a practical significance. The park is centrally located and easily accessible by public transportation. This makes it easy for people from all over San Diego to attend the Old Globe's productions.
Overall, the Old Globe's location in Balboa Park is a key factor in its success. The park provides the Old Globe with a beautiful and historic setting, a large and diverse audience, and easy accessibility. These factors combine to make the Old Globe one of the most popular and successful theater companies in the United States.
3. Variety
The Old Globe's commitment to variety is a key factor in its success. By offering a wide range of productions, the Old Globe is able to appeal to a diverse audience and ensure that there is something for everyone.
- Shakespeare's plays
Shakespeare's plays are a cornerstone of the Old Globe's repertoire. The company produces several Shakespeare plays each season, ranging from comedies to tragedies to histories. The Old Globe's productions of Shakespeare's plays are known for their high artistic standards and their commitment to authenticity.
- Contemporary dramas
The Old Globe also produces a variety of contemporary dramas. These plays explore a wide range of topics and themes, from social issues to personal relationships. The Old Globe's productions of contemporary dramas are often thought-provoking and challenging, and they offer audiences a chance to engage with important issues in a meaningful way.
- Musicals
Musicals are a popular part of the Old Globe's repertoire. The company produces several musicals each season, ranging from classic musicals to new works. The Old Globe's musicals are known for their high production values and their talented casts. The musicals offered by the Old Globe provide audiences with a chance to experience the joy and magic of live musical theater.
The Old Globe's commitment to variety ensures that there is something for everyone. Whether you are a fan of Shakespeare, contemporary drama, or musicals, you are sure to find something to enjoy at the Old Globe.
4. Quality
The high artistic standards of the Old Globe's productions are a major factor in its success and reputation. The company's commitment to quality is evident in all aspects of its productions, from the selection of plays to the casting of actors to the design of sets and costumes.
The Old Globe's productions are known for their attention to detail and their commitment to authenticity. The company's artistic team works closely with scholars and historians to ensure that every production is accurate and historically informed. The Old Globe's productions also feature talented actors who bring a depth and richness to their roles. The company's casting process is rigorous, and only the most talented actors are chosen to perform on the Old Globe's stages.
The high artistic standards of the Old Globe's productions have earned the company a reputation for excellence. The company's productions have received numerous awards, including Tony Awards and Olivier Awards. The Old Globe is also a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Its productions regularly sell out, and the company has a loyal following of patrons who appreciate its commitment to quality.
5. Innovation
Innovation is a cornerstone of the Old Globe's mission. The company is committed to supporting emerging playwrights and bringing new voices to the stage. This commitment is evident in the Old Globe's new play development programs, which provide playwrights with the resources and support they need to develop their work.
- The Old Globe's New Play Development Program
The Old Globe's New Play Development Program is a year-round program that provides playwrights with dramaturgical support, workshops, and readings. The program culminates in a public reading of each playwright's work. The New Play Development Program has helped to launch the careers of many successful playwrights, including Lynn Nottage, David Lindsay-Abaire, and Sarah Ruhl.
- The Old Globe's Powers New Voices Program
The Old Globe's Powers New Voices Program is a two-year program that provides emerging playwrights of color with mentorship, workshops, and productions. The program is designed to help playwrights develop their craft and to increase the representation of diverse voices on the American stage.
The Old Globe's commitment to innovation and new play development is essential to its mission of bringing great theater to San Diego. By supporting emerging playwrights and bringing new voices to the stage, the Old Globe is ensuring that the future of theater is bright.
6. Education
The Old Globe's commitment to education is a key part of its mission to bring great theater to San Diego. The company's educational programs are designed to foster a love of theater in all ages, from young children to senior citizens. The Old Globe's educational programs are also designed to increase access to the arts for underserved communities.
The Old Globe's educational programs are led by a team of experienced teaching artists. These artists are passionate about theater and about sharing their love of theater with others. The Old Globe's educational programs are offered in a variety of formats, including workshops, classes, and lectures. The programs are offered at the Old Globe's theaters in Balboa Park, as well as at schools and community centers throughout San Diego County.
The Old Globe's educational programs have a real impact on the community. The programs help to develop young people's creativity, critical thinking skills, and communication skills. The programs also help to build community and bring people together. The Old Globe's educational programs are an essential part of the company's mission to bring great theater to San Diego.
7. Community
The Old Globe's commitment to community engagement is a key part of its mission to bring great theater to San Diego. The company's outreach programs are designed to make theater accessible to all San Diegans, regardless of their background or financial circumstances. The Old Globe also partners with local organizations to provide theater-based educational programs and workshops.
The Old Globe's outreach programs include:
- Free and low-cost tickets for students, seniors, and military families.
- School matinees that provide students with the opportunity to see live theater.
- Community partnerships that bring theater to underserved communities.
The Old Globe's commitment to community engagement has a real impact on the San Diego community. The company's outreach programs help to make theater accessible to all San Diegans, and its partnerships with local organizations help to build community and bring people together. The Old Globe's community engagement programs are an essential part of the company's mission to bring great theater to San Diego.
FAQs about the Old Globe
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Old Globe, a renowned theater company in San Diego, California.
Question 1: What types of productions does the Old Globe stage?
The Old Globe produces a wide variety of productions, including Shakespeare's plays, contemporary dramas, and musicals. The company is committed to presenting high-quality productions that appeal to a diverse audience.
Question 2: Where is the Old Globe located?
The Old Globe is located in the heart of Balboa Park in San Diego, California. The company's three stages are located in the Old Globe Theatre, the Sheryl and Harvey White Theatre, and the Conrad Prebys Theatre Center.
Question 3: How can I get tickets to Old Globe productions?
Tickets to Old Globe productions can be purchased online, by phone, or in person at the box office. The Old Globe offers a variety of ticket options, including discounts for students, seniors, and military members.
Question 4: Does the Old Globe offer any educational programs?
Yes, the Old Globe offers a variety of educational programs, including workshops, classes, and lectures. The company's education programs are designed to foster a love of theater in all ages and to increase access to the arts for underserved communities.
Question 5: Is the Old Globe wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the Old Globe is wheelchair accessible. The company's theaters are equipped with ramps and elevators, and there are wheelchair-accessible restrooms available.
Question 6: What are the Old Globe's COVID-19 safety protocols?
The Old Globe's COVID-19 safety protocols are in accordance with the latest guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The company requires all patrons to wear masks while indoors and to provide proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test.
We hope this information has been helpful. Please visit the Old Globe's website for more information.
Transition to the next article section: The Old Globe is a vibrant and essential part of the San Diego arts community. The company's commitment to quality, innovation, and community engagement make it a beloved destination for theater lovers of all ages.
Tips for Enjoying Your Visit to the Old Globe
The Old Globe is a world-renowned theater company located in the heart of Balboa Park in San Diego, California. The company produces a wide variety of productions, including Shakespeare's plays, contemporary dramas, and musicals. Here are five tips to help you enjoy your visit to the Old Globe:
Tip 1: Plan ahead.
Tickets to Old Globe productions often sell out, so it is important to plan ahead and purchase your tickets in advance. You can purchase tickets online, by phone, or in person at the box office.
Tip 2: Arrive early.
The Old Globe's theaters are large, and it can take some time to find your seats. It is a good idea to arrive at the theater early so that you have plenty of time to get settled in.
Tip 3: Dress comfortably.
You will be sitting in the theater for several hours, so it is important to dress comfortably. You may also want to bring a light sweater or jacket, as the theater can be chilly.
Tip 4: Turn off your cell phone.
Please turn off your cell phone before the performance begins. Cell phones can be disruptive to both the actors and the audience.
Tip 5: Enjoy the show!
The Old Globe's productions are known for their high quality and artistry. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the show!
Summary of key takeaways or benefits: By following these tips, you can help ensure that you have a enjoyable and memorable visit to the Old Globe.
Transition to the article's conclusion: The Old Globe is a great place to experience live theater. With its commitment to quality, innovation, and community engagement, the Old Globe is a beloved destination for theater lovers of all ages.
Conclusion
The Old Globe is a world-renowned theater company that has been a cornerstone of the San Diego arts community for nearly a century. The company's commitment to quality, innovation, and community engagement make it a beloved destination for theater lovers of all ages.
The Old Globe's productions are known for their high artistic standards, and the company has a long history of supporting new play development and arts education. The company's three stages host a variety of productions throughout the year, including Shakespeare's plays, contemporary dramas, and musicals. The Old Globe also offers a wide range of educational programs, including workshops, classes, and lectures. These programs are designed to foster a love of theater in all ages and to increase access to the arts for underserved communities.
The Old Globe is a vital part of the San Diego community. The company's productions bring joy and inspiration to thousands of people each year, and its educational programs help to develop the next generation of theater artists and audiences. The Old Globe is a treasure that San Diego is lucky to have.