Shakespeare in San Diego

There are so many ways to spend a beautiful San Diego evening, one of which is to spend an evening out at an amazing restaurant and then at one of the greatest theaters in the county. Built in 1935 (after the Globe Theatre in London, where Shakespeare himself saw many of his plays performed), The Old Globe Theatre is a San Diego staple.  Also called the Simon Edison Centre of the Performing Arts, the beautiful tudor replica is made up of three stages, and is located in the heart of Balboa Park.  The Globe always has spectacular productions, and the next two months’ productions are going to add to its stellar reputation. 

This week, until July 26th, is the Shakespearean comedy Twelfth Night a classic tale of mixed identity, romance with a proper dose of hilarity.  This play is light-hearted fun and truly showcases ‘The Bard’s’ talent for elaborate word play.  Famed stage director Rebecca Taichman has created imaginative, modern sets that are visually stunning and will transept you to a magical world full of merry and wit. 

Starting on July 1st to August 2nd is the entertaining and uproarious Cole Porter musical, Kiss Me Kate, a modern take on Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew.  Filled with toe-tapping tunes, clever dialogue and lively dance numbers, this production has been newly staged by Tony award-winning director, Darko Tresnjak.  This is one of the greatest musical comedies ever staged and you won’t want to miss your chance to enjoy it.  

But, before you catch a show, you’ll want a delicious pre-theater meal and The Prado, located a short walk from the Globe, is the perfect choice.  Dine on creative small bites like the Seared American Kobe Beef Sushi Roll and entrees like the Pan Roasted Sea Bass while gazing at the Japanese Gardens.  They are known for having the prettiest outdoor dining space in San Diego. 

After the show, you might be craving something sweet, and Extraordinary Desserts (also close to the Globe) is the place to go.  Choose one of their decadent desserts like the Blueberry Cheesecake Coffee Cake, the  Salted Caramel Chocolate Tarts or the Creme Brûlée Aux Fruits Rogues — tart shells painted with white chocolate then filled with vanilla creme brûlée and topped with a fresh berry (yum!).  If you’re craving something savory, try the sea salt kettle chips or the avocado bruschetta.  They absolutely live up to their name, and they’re open until midnight on Friday and Saturday. 

If you want to grab a cocktail after the show and like to keep things very casual, then visit Nunu's, a local dive bar that’s been around for over 50 years.  This watering-hole is near the theater, always has great tunes playing, and sometimes you can catch cast members hanging out after a performance at The Old Globe.  Nunu’s is known for its cozy booths, friendly staff, and hearty bar (fried) food.  This joint isn’t fancy, but it is fun.

We can’t think of a better way to spend a night in San Diego than eating dinner al fresco, catching a play at our favorite theater, and ending the night with either dessert or hanging out with locals at an old-fashioned dive bar.  At Mission Bay Vacation Rentals we love any excuse to hop over to Balboa Park, which is just a few minutes away.  And if Shakespeare could see this Globe Theatre, we're sure he would have packed his bags and moved in a heartbeat.