San Diego Civic Theatre Prepares for Its Diamond Anniversary With $7.5M in Upgrades

Big things are happening behind the curtain at the San Diego Civic Theatre. In celebration of its upcoming 60th anniversary, the beloved downtown venue is getting a major glow-up—including $7.5 million in thoughtful upgrades designed to elevate the entire guest experience.

From now through mid-September, the Civic Theatre is undergoing phased renovations—timed carefully between shows—so that the fall anniversary season arrives with a fresh new look.

Think custom-designed carpeting inspired by San Diego’s coastal colors, terrazzo flooring that mimics sea-meets-sand vibes, and upgraded restrooms with sleek, European-style privacy stalls.

The San Diego Civic Theatre's 60th anniversary

A Cultural Icon, Reimagined

San Diego Theatres, the nonprofit that manages both the Civic and Balboa Theatres, has tapped local firms Tucker Sadler Architects and IGroup Design to reimagine the theatre’s front-of-house spaces. The project also includes behind-the-scenes upgrades like refreshed dressing rooms to better support touring artists and performers.

Outside, Civic Plaza is getting its own share of love—landscaping improvements and an open-air concession area are already creating a more inviting pre-show gathering space, with more enhancements on the way.

See you there!

To celebrate six decades of Civic Theatre magic, San Diego Theatres will host a free Open House this September, complete with live performances, family-friendly activities, and behind-the-scenes tours. A special ticketed event will also be announced soon.

New look, same magic. The San Diego Civic Theatre’s 60th anniversary celebrates the venue’s past and sets the stage for its future—with more beauty, comfort, and community than ever before.

ℹ️ More info here

See you there, San Diego!

Share This Post
The Latest
The Craving 3
The Craving is all about helping you satisfy your craving for the best from San Diego’s local food scene. Come back every week for the...
Shop The B.L.A.C SD
Shop The B.L.A.C SD is back, bringing together makers, artists, and community for a day of connection in San Diego’s vibrant Black Arts & Culture...
San Diego Ballet
Get ready to be swept away by one of the most powerful love stories of all time, reimagined through movement, music, and soul-stirring emotion. San...
Ocean Beach Kite Festival
Get ready for a sky full of color, creativity, and community joy—because the 78th Annual Ocean Beach Kite Festival is taking flight once again! Hosted...
fit athletic Free yoga class
Another incredible treat for our San Diego yoga community has arrived! Fit Athletic Yoga is bringing their signature Bootcamp Yoga to The Rady Shell at...
The Salon of Art Gallery
La Jolla’s art scene is about to get a whole lot more vivid. World-renowned tetrachromatic artist Concetta Antico is unveiling her newest exhibition, A Modern...
Recently Featured Restaurants
A new fire has lit up Little Italy—Piedra Santa, an Argentinian-inspired steakhouse, is now open and bringing the bold, smoky tradition of open-flame grilling to...
Dora, a vibrant new Southern Italian restaurant from the husband-and-wife team behind Cori Trattoria, is set to open in La Jolla’s Theater District this fall—and...
There’s a breezy new addition to Little Italy’s dining scene! Brisa, an island vibes and Latin-Japanese fusion restaurant, is now open at the corner of...
Downtown La Mesa has a delicious new addition—Tour de Tapas, a restaurant offering Euro small plates and sips inspired by the culinary traditions of Spain,...
Tajima Crown Point is the latest addition to San Diego’s beloved ramen scene, officially opened on December 14 at 3782 Ingraham Street. Known for its...
Wildland in Carlsbad Village is officially opening its doors, bringing rustic cuisine and coastal-inspired dining to North County. This all-day restaurant, bar, and bakery from...