Shows in Los Angeles, California

It might be more famous for Hollywood and the movie industry, but live entertainment also thrives out in Los Angeles. 1100+ theatrical productions play in the city each year, including many touring shows from Broadway.

The Pantages Theatre is the site for many visiting Broadway shows. The theater, located at the intersection of Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street, opened in 1930 as a venue for both first-run movies and vaudeville theater. The Academy Awards were held in the Pantages Theatre between 1950 and 1959. The art-deco style theater was renovated at the turn of the century and reopened at the end of 2000. 

About a mile down Hollywood Boulevard from the Pantages Theatre is another of Los Angeles’s great venues: the Dolby Theatre. If you were an American Idol fan back in the series’ heyday, you might remember the venue better as the Kodak Theatre. The theater, which has also hosted the Academy Awards since it opened in 2001, uses cutting-edge technology which the venue says “delivers the most natural, life-like sensory experience”. Dolby Theatre’s seating capacity is 3332, and its stage is one of the largest in the world. Much of the theater hosted at the Dolby is family-friendly, including Paw Patrol Live, Shopkins Live, and So You Think You Can Dance. On the flip side, the venue has previously hosted comedians like Ricky Gervais, Chris Rock and Trevor Noah.

What’s the best place to catch a show in Los Angeles?

If you’re a movie fan (or if you miss American Idol), the Dolby Theatre has a unique place in the Hollywood landscape. It’s hosted every Academy Awards show this century, so you know that someone famous probably sat in your seat. If you’re into vintage Hollywood, the Pantages hosted all of the Awards shows in the fifties, and it’s your best bet if you want to see a Broadway show.

What shows are happening in Los Angeles this weekend?

Scroll up to the “All Shows in Los Angeles” section to see available tickets for LA’s theater options this weekend.

Tips for attending shows in Los Angeles

If you’re driving down to the theaters on Hollywood Boulevard, make sure you give yourself plenty of time. Try to be at least a half hour early, and plan on sitting in some traffic on your way to the venue.

How much will I pay to see a show in Los Angeles?

Los Angeles is one of the top theater destinations in the country, with a wide variety of venues and performances. Fans of all types are able to find a price point they’re comfortable with. For a look at ticket prices for upcoming theater, scroll to the top of the page and see events today, this weekend, and this week.

What show should I see while I’m in LA?

You’ve got options. Explore the listings above to see what theater is happening in Los Angeles tonight, this weekend, and further in the future. You can also visit our Theater Page for all available shows.