Los Angeles

16 Best Plays in Los Angeles

Looking for the best plays to attend in Los Angeles? The city is teeming with an array of theatrical performances that cater to all tastes and preferences. Whether you're a fan of classic dramas, modern comedies, or avant-garde productions, there's something for everyone in the vibrant theater scene of Los Angeles.

From renowned theaters like the Mark Taper Forum and the Geffen Playhouse to smaller, independent venues scattered throughout the city, Los Angeles offers a diverse range of theatrical experiences for theater enthusiasts. Whether you're a local resident or just visiting, exploring the plays in Los Angeles can be an exciting and enriching experience.

Get ready to immerse yourself in the world of theater by checking out our list of the 16 Best Plays in Los Angeles below.

How this guide is ordered

Experience, customer ratings, clear contact details and distance shaped these Los Angeles picks for plays.

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Hollywood Pantages Theatre

Peacock Theater

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What stands out

This is an experience that everyone should partake in. The theater is rich with history, comfortable seating, and great sight lines to the stage.
The theater is beautiful inside with great art and architecture, providing a nostalgic experience with style and class.
Staff are helpful and knowledgeable, making the overall experience pleasant and enjoyable.
The theater is gorgeous and has a classic feel to it. The performances are top-notch, making it a must-visit spot for live Broadway entertainment.

Hollywood Pantages Theatre

4.87,042 reviews

6233 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028, United States

Hollywood Pantages Theatre is a renowned performing arts theater located in Hollywood. The theater offers live performances that transport the audience into a world of entertainment and culture. With a ranking of 4.8 stars, it is clear that customers have had exceptional experiences at this venue. Here are some key points from customer reviews:

These reviews highlight the exceptional quality of entertainment and service at Hollywood Pantages Theatre, making it a top destination for performing arts enthusiasts and theater lovers.

What stands out

Unique atmosphere and architecture with amazing shows.
Beautiful theater with fantastic audio quality and convenient location with nearby dining options.
Great selection of shows, comfortable seating, and friendly staff.
Extraordinary experience with exceptional performances and accommodations.

Ahmanson Theatre

4.82,874 reviews

135 N Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012, United States

Ahmanson Theatre is a prominent performing arts theater located in Los Angeles. Known for its live performances and family-friendly crowd, it offers a range of amenities including a restaurant, toilets, and valet parking. The venue is wheelchair-accessible with designated seating and facilities.

Customer reviews highlight the following key points:

What stands out

Top-notch performances that leave a lasting impact on the audience.
Spectacular set designs that add a mesmerizing visual element to the shows.
Exceptional sound system quality that elevates the overall experience.
Friendly and attentive staff who contribute to a seamless and enjoyable visit.

Peacock Theater

4.65,825 reviews

777 Chick Hearn Ct, Los Angeles, CA 90015, United States

Peacock Theater is a renowned performing arts theater in Los Angeles, offering a wide range of services and amenities to enhance the audience's experience. With over 5,825 reviews and a stellar 4.6-star rating, customers have praised the theater for various reasons:

Visitors have highlighted the theater as a must-visit destination for a magical night out, praising its commitment to delivering outstanding entertainment. Experience the enchantment of live performances at Peacock Theater today!

What stands out

Guests rave about the beautiful architecture and intimate atmosphere of the theater.
The sound system is top-notch, ensuring that every performance is a memorable experience.
Visitors also appreciate the convenient location and ample parking options available nearby.

The Orpheum Theatre

4.71,800 reviews

842 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90014, United States

The Orpheum Theatre is a renowned performing arts theater located in the heart of Los Angeles, CA. With a stellar ranking of 4.7 and 1800 reviews, it is clear that this venue is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Whether you're attending a live performance, conference, or concert, The Orpheum Theatre promises to deliver a truly unforgettable experience. Plan your visit today and immerse yourself in the rich history and glamor of this iconic venue.

The United Theater on Broadway, Los Angeles

What stands out

This was my first time at The United Theater on Broadway, but I've been to the Theater at the Ace Hotel once before. The ceiling and walls of the theater are gorgeously detailed, it has great seating, and a magnificent sound system. I would definitely come back for an event here. Parking was easy as well.
Step Back in Time at the United Artists Theater. The United Artists Theater on Broadway is a must-visit for history buffs and architecture lovers. This beautifully restored Spanish Gothic masterpiece from 1927 oozes old Hollywood glamour. The intricate details will leave you in awe – look out for ornate carvings, dazzling chandeliers, and a breathtaking ceiling.
Beautiful theatre with incredible carved stone and wood. The seats started off comfy but after 1.5 hours of sitting my tailbone hurt so much I could barely stand up.
Beautiful theater with a grand, three-story lobby full of intricate woodwork and art. They offer snacks and drinks at a reasonable price, and the seats were comfortable!

The United Theater on Broadway

4.71,559 reviews

929 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90015, United States

The United Theater on Broadway is a renowned performing arts theater located in Los Angeles, CA. This majestic theater offers a unique experience for attendees, with its beautiful Spanish Gothic architecture and intricate details that transport visitors to a bygone era. The theater boasts a 4.7-star ranking based on 1559 reviews, highlighting its exceptional quality and customer satisfaction.

Visitors praise the theater's grand three-story lobby, comfortable seating, and the overall historic feel of the venue. Additionally, the theater offers amenities such as live performances and assistive hearing loops to cater to a wide range of audience preferences. If you're looking to experience a show in an iconic DTLA landmark, The United Theater on Broadway is the place to be.

What stands out

Great view and comfortable seating in the balcony
Excellent sound quality
Beautiful venue with a unique vibe
Efficient entry process and friendly staff

The Fonda Theatre

4.62,131 reviews

6126 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028, United States

The Fonda Theatre is an iconic event venue located in Los Angeles. Known for its remarkable GA floor and GA balcony, this venue offers a unique experience for music lovers. The Jayne Bar upgrade provides a dedicated entrance, an old-school bar with a Shakespeare quote neon light, and comfortable seating with a perfect view from the balcony. The sound quality is exceptional, ensuring an unforgettable concert experience.

Customer reviews highlight the following key points:

What stands out

This is one of the best venues in Los Angeles for performing art performances. The intimate setting offers some of the best seating.
Great intimate theater with not a bad seat in the house.
Saw a play here, felt COVID safe, everyone was very friendly, parking was easy and only $5.
Not a bad seat, always a great show.

Mark Taper Forum

4.8600 reviews

135 N Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012, United States

The Mark Taper Forum is a renowned performing arts theater located in the heart of Los Angeles. The venue offers a variety of live performances in an intimate setting that provides excellent views from nearly 80% of its seating. Customers have praised the theater for its great performances and comfortable seating, making it a favorite among theater enthusiasts.

Here are some key points from customer reviews:

Visitors have also highlighted the attentive staff, variety of food and drink options, and overall cleanliness of the theater. The Mark Taper Forum is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience top-notch performances in a welcoming and family-friendly environment.

What stands out

The establishment is purely beautiful and transports visitors to a dream-like atmosphere.
Programming of theater events is exciting, featuring well-written, well-directed plays that make a positive impact.
Beautiful theater with a nice outdoor patio, ideal for early arrival and exploration.
Every play exceeds expectations, with every seat being a good one.

Geffen Playhouse

4.7719 reviews

10886 Le Conte Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90024, United States

Geffen Playhouse is a renowned performing arts theater located in Los Angeles. With a ranking of 4.7, it is evident that customers have had exceptional experiences at this venue. Some key points highlighted in customer reviews include:

The theater offers live performances and provides accessibility features like a wheelchair-accessible car park and entrance. Amenities such as toilets are available, and the venue accepts credit cards and NFC mobile payments. Stop by Geffen Playhouse for an unforgettable theatrical experience!

Center Theatre Group

4.8161 reviews

601 W Temple St, Los Angeles, CA 90012, United States

Center Theatre Group · Performing arts theater · 601 W Temple St, Los Angeles, CA 90012, United States

#10

What stands out

Beautiful lobby with a stunning stain glass ceiling
Helpful and kind staff who go above and beyond
Intimate space perfect for performances
Great venue for hosting events

The Los Angeles Theatre Center

4.7272 reviews

514 S Spring St, Los Angeles, CA 90013, United States

The Los Angeles Theatre Center is a renowned performing arts theater located in the heart of Los Angeles. The theater offers a wide range of services and features, including active military discounts and a variety of live performances that cater to diverse audiences.

Customer reviews highlight the following key points:

With a ranking of 4.7 based on 272 reviews, The Los Angeles Theatre Center continues to impress and delight audiences with its exceptional service and top-notch performances. Experience the magic of live theater at this incredible venue!

Nate Holden Performing Arts Center, Los Angeles

#11

What stands out

No bad seats! Attendees laughed and cried throughout the play "Stew," showcasing the high quality of performances.
The theater offers vibrant cultural experiences with excellent views to the stage and comfortable seating.
The staff is attentive, helpful, and puts on phenomenal shows with engaging talk sessions with actors afterward, making each visit truly special.
Attendees praise the venue for its intimate seating, great views of the stage, and exceptional live theater experiences, highlighting it as a must-visit destination.

Nate Holden Performing Arts Center

4.7254 reviews

4718 W Washington Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90016, United States

The Nate Holden Performing Arts Center located in Los Angeles is a vibrant hub for live performances and cultural experiences. The theater offers a comfortable space with excellent views of the stage from every seat, ensuring a memorable experience for all attendees. Key highlights of the center include live performances, wheelchair-accessible facilities, and a family-friendly environment, making it an ideal destination for all ages.

Customer reviews rave about the center's top-notch productions and friendly staff. Here are some summarized key points from recent visitors:

#12

Los Angeles Theatre

4.6424 reviews

615 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90014, United States

Los Angeles Theatre · Performing arts theater · 615 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90014, United States

#13

What stands out

The current show "Freight" is fantastic.
Wonderful small theater showcasing a diversity of artists.
Live theater is back with warm, helpful staff and a cute Cafe upstairs.

Fountain Theatre

4.7162 reviews

5060 Fountain Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90029, United States

Fountain Theatre is a renowned Performing arts theater located in Los Angeles. This theater offers a variety of live performances that never fail to captivate the audience. The amenities include a restaurant and comfortable seating, ensuring a pleasant experience for all visitors.

Customer reviews rave about the quality of the shows and the intimate atmosphere of the theater. Some key points from the reviews are:

These glowing reviews highlight the Fountain Theatre as a must-visit destination for live performances in Los Angeles.

#14

What stands out

Small intimate independent theater vibe.
Interactive seating conducive to shared experiences.
Experienced and friendly staff creating a wonderful atmosphere.
Great entertainment and welcoming environment.

Zephyr Theatre

4.883 reviews

7456 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046, United States

Zephyr Theatre is a performing arts theater located in the heart of Los Angeles, CA. This intimate venue offers a unique experience for theater enthusiasts, with a seating capacity of around 70 seats.

Customers have raved about their experiences at Zephyr Theatre, highlighting the following key points:

With a rating of 4.8 stars and numerous positive reviews, it's clear that Zephyr Theatre is a top choice for those looking to enjoy plays, both classical and avant-garde. Be sure to check out their website for upcoming shows and secure your tickets for an unforgettable night of theater.

#15

What stands out

Small, intimate venue with comfortable seating and great views of the stage.
Reasonable prices at the coffee shop and cozy atmosphere.
Great acting and well-written performances that leave a lasting impression.

The Hudson Theatres

4.6225 reviews

6539 Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90038, United States

The Hudson Theatres is a premier performing arts theater located in Los Angeles, CA. They offer a variety of live performances that captivate audiences from all walks of life. The theater is wheelchair-accessible and features a restaurant on-site for patrons to enjoy before or after the show.

Customer reviews rave about their experiences at The Hudson Theatres. Some key points from the reviews include:

Experience the magic of live theater at The Hudson Theatres and create unforgettable memories with your loved ones.

#16

What stands out

Customers appreciate the excellent performances and innovative staging by this theater company.
The theater itself is praised for its nice ambiance and comfortable seating.
Visitors also value the convenience of nearby parking options and the availability of restaurants in the area for a complete night out experience.

Skylight Theatre Company

4.754 reviews

1816 1/2 N Vermont Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027, United States

Skylight Theatre Company is a renowned performing arts theater located in Los Angeles. With a ranking of 4.7, this theater offers a range of services and features that make it a top choice for theater enthusiasts.

Take it from customers who have had the pleasure of attending shows at Skylight Theatre Company:

- "Small intimate and unique theatre. Looking forward to more outstanding performances at this venue." - "Cutting edge, alternate lifestyle, theater company in Silverlake with trendy new shows often by local up-and-coming writers and talent." - "Theatre is intimate and you feel like you are part of the show. We had a blast... the show was hilarious. Super fun time!"

Experience the magic of live performances at Skylight Theatre Company today!

Summary

The comparison at a glance

#	Business	Rating	Reviews
#1	Hollywood Pantages Theatre	4.8	7,042
#2	Ahmanson Theatre	4.8	2,874
#3	Peacock Theater	4.6	5,825
#4	The Orpheum Theatre	4.7	1,800
#5	The United Theater on Broadway	4.7	1,559
#6	The Fonda Theatre	4.6	2,131
#7	Mark Taper Forum	4.8	600
#8	Geffen Playhouse	4.7	719
#9	Center Theatre Group	4.8	161
#10	The Los Angeles Theatre Center	4.7	272
#11	Nate Holden Performing Arts Center	4.7	254
#12	Los Angeles Theatre	4.6	424
#13	Fountain Theatre	4.7	162
#14	Zephyr Theatre	4.8	83
#15	The Hudson Theatres	4.6	225
#16	Skylight Theatre Company	4.7	54

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Map of Plays in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a vibrant city filled with a rich cultural scene, including a plethora of theater productions. From Broadway shows to intimate indie performances, there is something for every type of theater enthusiast in LA. This map highlights all the plays happening across the city, making it easy for you to find and enjoy the next show.

How to choose plays in Los Angeles

Variety of genres and themes.
Talented actors and directors.
Convenient locations and showtimes.
Reviews and recommendations from other theatergoers.
Ticket prices and availability.

Frequently asked questions

What are some popular theater venues in Los Angeles?

Some popular theater venues in Los Angeles include the Mark Taper Forum, Ahmanson Theatre, Geffen Playhouse, and Hollywood Pantages Theatre. These venues host a wide range of plays, from Broadway shows to experimental theater productions. Each venue offers a unique atmosphere and experience for theater enthusiasts in Los Angeles.

How can I get tickets to see a play in Los Angeles?

You can purchase tickets to see a play in Los Angeles through the venues' official websites, ticketing platforms like StubHub or SeatGeek, or at the box office. It's recommended to buy your tickets in advance, especially for popular shows or limited-run productions. Keep an eye out for discounts, promotions, and rush ticket deals to save money on your theater-going experience.

What types of plays are typically performed in Los Angeles?

Los Angeles offers a diverse range of plays, from classic Shakespearean works to contemporary dramas and comedies. You can also find musicals, experimental theater, immersive experiences, and original works by local playwrights. Many theater companies in Los Angeles prioritize diversity and inclusion, showcasing stories from different cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives.

Are there any famous actors or celebrities who have performed in plays in Los Angeles?

Yes, many famous actors and celebrities have graced the stages of Los Angeles theaters, including Viola Davis, Tom Hanks, Meryl Streep, and Al Pacino. Some actors have even started their careers in Los Angeles theater before transitioning to film and television. Attending a play in Los Angeles could give you the opportunity to see your favorite actor up close and personal in an intimate theater setting.

16 Best Plays in Los Angeles

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How to choose plays in Los Angeles

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