Community theater performances in Santa Cruz, California

Santa Cruz Actors' Theatre, located at 1001 Center Street in Santa Cruz, California, has been serving the Santa Cruz County community since 1985. This institution supports, champions, and provides a platform for the performing arts. In an exciting collaboration with Soaring Dragon Endeavors, the theatre will be showcasing Steve "Spike" Wong's original play in April, featuring the original cast. The play, inspired by Spike's father, Captain Ernest Wong, USAAF, follows the story of a young Chinese-American man returning to Watsonville, California in 1944 after serving as a bombardier in WWII. Touching on themes of Chinese-American culture, immigration, and military service during wartime, the play offers a unique blend of drama and comedy, serving as a moving tribute to the complexities of coming home.

Located at 501 Upper Park Road in Santa Cruz, California, the Audrey Stanley Grove in DeLaveaga Park is a vibrant institution that continues a 40-year tradition of staging bold productions of Shakespeare and other great playwrights. This summer, they are offering a new week-long training program for high school students called the High School Shakespeare Intensive. This program includes workshops, rehearsals, and culminates in a performance on the Grove mainstage. Only open to 16 students, this unique opportunity is not to be missed! Santa Cruz Shakespeare, founded in 2014 as an independent theatre company, is dedicated to creating and strengthening community through storytelling. They bring audiences and theatre artists together to celebrate our collective humanity. The institution prides itself on its inclusive and inquisitive approach to theatre that engages with the contemporary moment.

Nutcracker Santa Cruz is a ballet institution located at 320 Encinal Street in Santa Cruz, California. We recreate the timeless classic ballet "The Nutcracker" every year, originally composed by Pyotr Tchaikovsky in 1892. The story is based on the E.T.A. Hoffmann fantasy tale about a girl who befriends a nutcracker that comes to life on Christmas Eve and battles the evil Mouse King. Our production has been a tradition in Santa Cruz since 1988, with dedicated directors and talented dancers from the community and beyond. Our production continues to grow with new ideas, choreography, costumes, and scenery each year. Dancers from the Santa Cruz City Ballet and the International Academy of Dance bring their own sparkle to the stage. We also support local businesses, artists, and choreographers in the community. Your donation helps us bring this magical performance to life and supports young dancers through scholarships and training opportunities.

The Civic Auditorium in Santa Cruz, California is a historic venue located at 307 Church Street. This iconic institution has been hosting a variety of events, including concerts, plays, dance performances, and conferences, since its opening in 1940. With a seating capacity of over 2,000, the Civic Auditorium is a popular choice for both local and touring artists. The venue is known for its excellent acoustics and spacious stage, making it a favorite among performers and audiences alike. Whether you're looking for a night of entertainment or a place to host your next event, the Civic Auditorium is the perfect choice in Santa Cruz.

Jewel Theatre Co is a professional theatre company located at 1010 River Street in Santa Cruz, California. Known for their high-quality productions and talented performers, Jewel Theatre Co offers a diverse range of plays and musicals that entertain and inspire audiences of all ages. With a dedicated team of artists and a commitment to excellence, Jewel Theatre Co is a beloved institution in the Santa Cruz community. Join us for a night of unforgettable theatre at Jewel Theatre Co.

NextStage Productions is a creative arts institution located at 826 Bay Avenue, Capitola, California, United States. Our mission is to engage, educate, and enrich the lives of active adults 50 and their communities through creative arts experiences. We believe in the transformative power of creative expression for self-discovery, connection, and empowerment. Our programs range from empowering students through storytelling to helping seniors reclaim their dignity through creative expression. We also offer health and wellness programs, including classes for people living with Parkinson's disease. Join us for our upcoming benefit for Veteran's Village on May 11 at St. Andrew Church Patio in Aptos. All are welcome to attend. For more information, please call 408-357-0640 or email [email protected]. We also have upcoming events at Capitola Library, Mid-County Senior Center, and Downtown Santa Cruz Public Library. Our Taiko Drumming class is free for students and care providers, funded by NextStage Productions and donations.

The Watsonville Center for the Arts is a vibrant hub of artistic and cultural activity located at 375 Main Street in Watsonville, California. As a collective of artistic and cultural groups, we offer a variety of classes and workshops to the Watsonville community. Our center is a project of the Arts Council Santa Cruz County, dedicated to providing a space for creativity and learning. Join us for a range of arts and cultural events in Watsonville, including art exhibitions, festivals, and performances that showcase the talent of our local artists. By attending these events, you can help support our community of creatives and contribute to the thriving arts scene in Watsonville.

Tannery World Dance & Cultural Center is a vibrant hub for dance and cultural arts located at 1060 River Street in Santa Cruz, California. This institution is dedicated to promoting diversity and celebrating various cultural traditions through dance performances, workshops, and community events. With a mission to inspire creativity and connection, Tannery World Dance & Cultural Center offers a wide range of programs for all ages and skill levels. Come experience the rich tapestry of world dance and culture at this dynamic center in the heart of Santa Cruz.

Located at 1005 Balboa Avenue in Capitola, California, the Handyman Co-Op is a woman-owned general contractor institution that has been serving the community since 1982. This referral agency consists of a small group of highly skilled, independent contractors specializing in home repair. With affordable prices and versatile tradespeople, the Handyman Co-op offers services in painting, electrical work, minor plumbing, carpentry, and furniture assembly. No job is too small for these experienced handymen and handywomen, who take pride in providing personalized and friendly attention to clients. Owner Jane Story, a former musical theater performer, ensures that the Handyman Co-op upholds a reputation of integrity and reliability. Serving all of Santa Cruz County, including Santa Cruz, Soquel, Aptos, and Watsonville, the Handyman Co-op is the go-to choice for all your home repair needs.

Welcome to Boardwalk Stage, your premier destination for entertainment and live performances in the heart of Santa Cruz, California! Located at the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, our venue offers a vibrant atmosphere where music, culture, and community come together. Whether you're a local or a visitor, Boardwalk Stage is the perfect place to enjoy a diverse lineup of events, from live concerts and theatrical performances to cultural festivals and local talent showcases. Our state-of-the-art stage and sound system provide an unparalleled experience for both performers and audiences alike. With a stunning backdrop of the Pacific Ocean, there's no better place to soak up the lively spirit of Santa Cruz while enjoying world-class entertainment.