San Diego’s Balboa Theatre is a decadent slice from a golden age, ready for its modern revival. I think the history is fascinating and personally am glad the theatre was saved after so many trials and tribulations.
For a brief moment, the Balboa’s future looked uncertain. But now, ahead of its centennial, its doors are open and it’s cementing itself once again as a premier performing arts venue in San Diego!
Balboa Theatre a Register Historic Place
The Balboa Theatre at 100
The date was in March 1924.
The busy opening night featured the 1924 film Lilies of the Field and vaudeville acts by Fanchon & Marco. Plus a 30 minute concert by the Balboa Concert Orchestra.
The exterior Moorish and Spanish Revival aesthetic, the tiled dome, the ornate plasterwork, and the 426 pipe Robert Morton organ certainly helped the Balboa cultivate a reputation of pure elegance.
The 1930s & El Teatro Balboa
In 1934, the theater was remodeled to make room for sound pictures.
Renamed El Teatro Balboa, it featured Spanish-language films that introduced international stars to San Diego’s growing population.
The War & Post-War Years
The Balboa Theatre became a temporary haven for sailors as they waited to ship out of the Port of San Diego.
However, after the war, the theater could not recoup its former glory. The Russo family purchased it in 1959 in order to save it from demolition.
A Historic Site Designation & The End of an Era
1972, the Balboa’s earned its designation as a San Diego historic site due to its distinct architecture.
Despite the honor, a 1973 development plan by Horton Plaza to restore the theater fell through and the City of San Diego condemned the building, intending instead to turn it into commercial space.
A Hard Won Success & Restoration
In 1984, the Save Our Balboa Organization began the long journey to save the theater and created the Balboa Theatre Foundation to lobby for restoration.
They were successful, and in 1996 the theater was included on the National Register of Historic Places.
In 2002, the City’s Redevelopment Agency agreed to keep the theater as a community investment and a complete renovation began in 2005.
The Grand Re-Opening
January 2008 - The Balboa Theatre opened its doors once again!
2024 & Beyond
Currently, the historic Balboa Theatre, and her sister, The Civic Theatre, are run by the non-profit San Diego Theatres.
Today, patrons can enjoy a little slice of New York through the touring Broadway shows live on stage and live music at this historic performing arts venue.
Broadway Shows & Humor
Looking for a laugh? Catch the hottest comedians on the scene. Also, don't miss the opportunity of enjoying a little slice of New York through the touring Broadway live shows and music at this historic performing arts venue.