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Kirk Douglas Theatre
9820 Washington Blvd, Culver City, CA 90232, United States
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H
Review №1

A historical theater. It is always so nice to go into Culver City and see some of the history of old Hollywood glamor that has been lost around LA with so many buildings. The parking around the theater isnt the easiest. The Culver City lots are a walk. There is metered street parking. A lot of new restaurants creeping up daily it seems.

Ru
Review №2

Very clean inside and out. Staff is friendly and helpful. Comfortable seats. Parking is a bit of a hassle but there are places within walking distance,theatre only validates if you park at the Culver city hall structure,just a FYI, i found out the hard way.

Su
Review №3

Small theater, no bad seats. Beautiful lobby, excellent bartenders, friendly ushers. Productions never ceases to entertain, inform, and inspire. Pleasant neighborhood with lots of pre and post theater dining opportunities. And...free parking!

Da
Review №4

One of the finest theaters in Los Angeles. Intimate and top quality productions. Bill IrwinsOn Beckett was astonishing. Easy parking at the Civic center parking lot and many fine restaurants within walking distance. Make a night of it!

TR
Review №5

The most important thing to know and appreciate about the Kirk Douglas is that it is a major theater presenting major works but that it is the only theater of that caliber in the Los Angeles area that affords the intimate contact between performer and audience that makes for those profound moments of connection that can change ones perception. There are many small, intimate theaters scattered throughout Los Angeles, but they are usually venues for local talent or places to present new works by hopeful playwrights and performers. The Douglas draws on internationally renown performers often performing more intimate works. The late, great British actor John Hurt performed Becketts Krapps Last Tape there in 2012. Recently, the wonderful Bill Irwin presented his actors workshop On Beckett at the Douglas. It is not a theater in the Grand sense; rather it is an unpretentious, simple theater where the grandness takes place on the stage when the performer and audience are in close enough proximity that they experience a collective intimate connection.

Ma
Review №6

Saw On Beckett performed by Bill Irwin. He is a magnificent actor. Such fun to watch. Uses his nifty in amazing way. The play was a bit boring, though. The sections where he did Becketts language were weird, I guess Im not a Beckett fan... too obtuse in language and hard to understand. But Irwin is a consummate actor, a great clown and amazing to watch. Just didnt love the material per se.

Er
Review №7

Nice theater, seats were comfortable and not too small. Parking at city hall was easy, fast, and free.

St
Review №8

One of my favorite theatres in L.A. Unpretentious, art for arts sake all the way, fully and competently staffed, impeccably managed, sensitively programmed. I have never had a bad experience here. And one has all of Culver City at ones disposal before and or after the show!

Ma
Review №9

Quality professional work. Parking at City Hall across the street is most convenient, with validation at the theater.

Cr
Review №10

The Culver Theater, which opened in 1947, was one of two movie theaters in Culver City operating in the second half of the 20th century. As an example of the Skouras style, it was noted for its sweeping scrollwork and a juke box like ticket kiosk.The Skouras style was created by Charles Skouras, the head of Fox Theatres.The 1,000-seat Culver Theatre became a 300-seat playhouse in 2004, with a substantial donation from actor Kirk Douglas.

Ma
Review №11

Went to see Dixies Tupperware Party. The venue was really nice clean and intimate.Lots of great places to eat within walking distance even a Starbucks.The employees were kind and knowledgeable. I unfortunately had been dealing with an awful cough that was not getting better when the show started. So I stepped out into the lobby and the show was on a big screen and the employees even turned up the sound for me. They even offered me cough drops. Cant wait to visit this venue again.

De
Review №12

Great small house theatre. All of the seats are good and comfortable. It is part of the Center Theater Group which means that the pick of shows will be a cut above what most stages this size will be able to produce. Plenty of good restaurants nearby and free or discounted parking across the street at City Hall (keep your parking ticket with you to get the required validation in the lobby). Enjoy!

T
Review №13

This small space theater stages first rate shows in an intimate setting. The Center Theater Group productions are well done and generally thought provoking.

Ja
Review №14

Until the Flood was an amazing 1 woman production. Hope everyone took something away that can help someone else

Er
Review №15

Saw “For the Love of” or the Roller Derby play, had a great time. Love the intimate feeling of the theater and being able to preorder beer for intermission was a major win. Highly recommend seeing a play here, and if you have never have been to the theater before make this place your first !

de
Review №16

Its a Wonderful theater, good seating, flexible stage for many different kinds of Productions. Ive seen three different shows here and Ive Loved all of them. Dana H in particular was brilliant. Theres easy and free parking in the City Hall parking structure which is around the corner you enter on Duquesne Avenue.

Pa
Review №17

Outstanding performance. I give the theater and the play Rave Reviews!!!

Sa
Review №18

Love this small intimate theatre and simply li ed On Beckett saw this one twice!!

Li
Review №19

Just caught the best live show Dixies Tupperware Party ! I think that its running until the end of December. Its hilarious and entertaining from the minute she greets you into the theater! A great holiday treat and you can even buy Tupperware after the show!

Se
Review №20

What a lovely small theatre! I really enjoyed On Beckett.

Ja
Review №21

The smallest of the Center Theatre Group theaters (along with the DTLAs Music Centers Ahmanson Theatre and Mark Taper Forum) yet the perfect size to give full flight to more intimate or eclectic productions, many of which are world or west coast premieres. The Kirk Douglas Theatre in downtown Culver City shines bright both from its iconic illuminated vertical CULVER sign which can be seen from a mile away. Inside the theater is warm and inviting with a full bar. No seat is far from the stage. And since all of the productions are selected by the Center Theater Group you can be assured that the production will be of the highest quality.7

Ka
Review №22

A great small theatre with excellent food choices all around it!

Cl
Review №23

Every seat is a great seat! Small and intimate. Saw Spamilton and laughed out loud!

T
Review №24

Little black dress was hysterical. Went with my bff of 40 years

Ca
Review №25

Amazing to go there

Do
Review №26

Great place for supporting and nurturing talent, just as Kirk Douglas desired

Mi
Review №27

Great space! Excellent staff, always good shows. Easy parking across the street. Tons of pre and post show restaurants and bars in walking distance. Happening area!!

Do
Review №28

Saw Native Son play there. Very nice neighborhood theater. The staff is great!

Ph
Review №29

Another unusual play with an excellent actress. Dana H definitely worth seeing.

Vo
Review №30

Quaint venue perfect for live performances

Pa
Review №31

Great theater. Usually great material. Saw Native Son there. Just tired of bearing up under the injustice

In
Review №32

Loved it!!! We went to see Mutt House and the experience was amazing. Pointers for your visit: you can park at city hall and get the ticket validated for free parking. A lot of places offer a discount with the ticket stub.

Fr
Review №33

We love this theater. CTG did a great job physically in turning the original movie palace into a legitimate theater and the plays are always on the cutting edge. And the surrounding restaurants make for a great evening of food and entertainment.

ON
Review №34

Saw the one act performance of Until The Flood by Dael Orlandersmith 01-23-2020.

Ja
Review №35

We stopped by here at Kirk Douglas Theatrefor Third Wednesdays, Tropical Staycation event in Culver City.We stopped in for a bit to cast our ballots, the staff could have been friendlier but I think they were just over the night.When I came in there were other guests hanging out but at the booth it wasnt that crowded which, I mean, a lot of people were there that night getting a first impression of the business, the staff could have been a bit more welcoming and friendly.Back in the 90s as a high school student I came into this theatre when it was closed, run down, and dilapidated. It was an eire and ghostly place. I wrote a presentation up about how the theatre could be used and presented it at USC. It was a great project, we one some awards including a small scholarship to USC. I ended up joining the Marine Corps but its simply amazing to see what they have done to this theater, its beautiful.I havent had the chance to see a show yet so its definitely on my list.Thanks for hosting the event last night!

gh
Review №36

Good place to see a show. Only complaint is that you can here outside street noise.

Ma
Review №37

This is a great space that doesnt seem to be able to find its voice. It has integrated well with the community. There is not a bad seat in the house. The staff is super friendly and the concession prices are far less than at sister theaters downtown. I know it is the more experimental arm, but that doesnt mean it cant have its own personality. Amble parking. Great neighborhood.

Ju
Review №38

I loved the theater. Parking across the street and at city hall. The play was fantastic and the discussion session after was a great idea. Perfect

Ve
Review №39

Native Son was well told.I love the small theater atmosphere!

Ke
Review №40

I dont get there often because I live pretty far away, but they have excellent productions, validated parking, and great restaurants nearby.

Mi
Review №41

Nice, intimate theater. Quite interesting how after each show the audience is encouraged to stay and discuss the play you just saw, with the help of a moderator. Similar to a book club discussion.

To
Review №42

The Kirk Douglas Theater is part of the Center Group as is the Mark Taper Forum. If you like to see new plays, often debut performances, these theaters will interest you.The plays are often on current and historic social issues like questions of race, sexual orientation or politics but sometimes they are exploring the playwrights personal experiences and usually leave you with more questions than answers.Usually there is a short discussion in the lobby after the performance at the Kirk Douglas. Sometimes the author, director, or cast members will be there to ask and answer questions.There is free parking available and many restaurants just around the corner.

To
Review №43

Great little theater. Good seats on all levels.

ca
Review №44

Cozy Good service nice crowd enjoyed being there enjoyed the play like the location

Ch
Review №45

The Kirk Douglas Theatre is the third theater to join the Center Theatre Group. The other two theaters are the Mark Taper and the Ahmanson in downtown LA. The Kirk Douglas is in Culver City.The Kirk Douglas is small and has stadium seating which guarantees that everyone will have a good seat. They also have free parking at Culver City City Hall across the street.The quality of the shows depends upon management which needs to find shows to fill all three theaters. The Kirk Douglas seems to come last in allocation of the best productions. Over the years we have seen some excellent productions and many mediocre ones.

Ju
Review №46

I love this place if I miss a play I just go right up the street Kirk Douglas theater its awesome !!

Ad
Review №47

Youll love this landmark , named after Kirk Douglas, father of Michael Douglas, both great actors in the movie industry.

Ka
Review №48

Parking is a hassle, but the theater is good. Production values are high and good seats. Has a bar.

Ho
Review №49

A very intimate theatre and there is not a bad seat in the house! Capacity about 400! Very friendly staff and the drinks and the snacks are reasonably priced! That was my 2nd time there and it wont be my last visit!

Ja
Review №50

Small, intimate theater that hosts wonderful productions. Come early since the lobby offers numerous pre-show diversions, ranging from usher guided QnAs, photo booths, and sometimes even a wheel of fortune! I also have to mention how they have a small bar onsite that offers well drinks, some themed cocktails, and even cookies (you can take your drinks into the theater!). Great for couples!

Da
Review №51

We bought season passes. Four shows. Amazing actors. Great experience each time.

Da
Review №52

Great theater, wonderful show. Theater is easy to get to, close by parking at city hall, and lots of shops and restaurants nearby

A
Review №53

Saw Spamilton here and it was hilarious. The cast is so talented!!. There are no bad seats in this theater and I somehow managed to snag two 30.00 seats only two rows away from the stage!! They have strong drinks and the staff is friendly and helpful if you have questions! Highly recommend seeing a show here.

Jo
Review №54

What a great theatre!

Co
Review №55

Creative and inspiring experience - the actors and staff are consistently pros!

Ch
Review №56

Ive had the opportunity to attend several plays at the Kirk Douglas Theatre.The theater is located in the heart of Downtown Culver City next to a good number of restaurants and a block away from the Culver City Hall.Kirk Douglas is a smaller theater but holds about 250 people. Theres one concession area that offers snacks and adult beverages.The theater is well kept and really clean.Parking: Street parking OR can park at the City Hall parking structure. Its free after 6PM.

Ja
Review №57

Great place

Sh
Review №58

Came to see School Girls, an excellent play. The staff at the theater were very friendly and extremely helpful .

Cy
Review №59

Very convenient neighborhood theater. Great sight lines, good performances usually, well maintained.

Le
Review №60

It was AMAZING. School Girls was the best play I have ever seen.

Ka
Review №61

Wonderful intimate venue. Not a bad seat in the house. After this first time attendance, we plan on going back as often as possible.

Gi
Review №62

Lovely. Elegant. Perfect location for meeting friends to enjoy a show.

Br
Review №63

A beautiful theater with no bad seats.

No
Review №64

Great theatre, amazing history at this place

De
Review №65

Great theater, interesting productions, easy parking, good nearby restaurants, and not a bad seat in the house. Well be back

Br
Review №66

Played on stage here, and loved the hall! Its small enough to get that intimate feeling, but large enough to invite everyone!!!

Je
Review №67

Been coming to this playhouse for years, rarely have I seen something that isnt done well. Peoples tastes may vary, but this house (part of the Center Theatre Group) certainly knows how to put on a quality production.

de
Review №68

Great venue I think every seat should be good. Free parking within a block and friendly employees. Spamilton was a riot. Look forward to trying more shows.

Li
Review №69

I love this place! There really are no bad seats.

St
Review №70

Beautiful theater in Culver City. Easy parking, close dining choices.

Je
Review №71

Lovely theater with wonderful employees.

Am
Review №72

Great venue, every seat in the house is a good one

Er
Review №73

Not a bad seat in the house! Plus staff is thoughtful and helpful. Great experience.

No
Review №74

Love Love Love this theater - unfortunately the last thing I saw there (Big Night) made me so angry I thought I would spontaneously combust and since there wasnt an intermission, I was trapped. But I wouldnt want them to change the seating and put in escape paths just on my account. Its charming exactly as it is - and surrounded by a made for the movies City Hall and a myriad of excellent restaurants. The nearby Culver City Hotel and its attendant lore shouldnt be missed if you catch a show here. In the restaurant, the hotel has Glinda the Good Witch on the ladies room and The Lollipop Guild on the mens room. Love it.

Ma
Review №75

Cute little theater! Very clean and kept well.

Ba
Review №76

This might be my favorite theater in the LA area. Its small and cozy. I dont have trouble hearing the shows here as I do at some of the other theaters in LA.

Cl
Review №77

Parking at City hall is so convenient and validated. The great location souranded by great restaurants.

Mi
Review №78

State of the art theater for live performance. Front of house staff is wonderfully kind and makes you feel very welcome.

Te
Review №79

Great, helpful staff. 300+ seat theater space. Wonderful place to watch live theater.

Jo
Review №80

Great Roller derby show..

Sh
Review №81

Great location, offers thoughtful and provoking work from rising artists as well as veterans in the field.

Di
Review №82

Small intimate theater. No bad seat

He
Review №83

Although this theater is old every seat is comfortable with better viewing than any modern theater I have been in. The positioning of the seats is perfect.

Ji
Review №84

Kirk Douglas Theatre puts on a mixture of new plays as well as established plays.Plays have been developed that have gone on to must larger and prestigious Theatres.Very difficult to get a bad seat.

Li
Review №85

Very quaint Theatre. Close to many restaurants.

Yo
Review №86

No such thing as a bad seat.

Li
Review №87

Love the performances in this intimate theatre. . . Not a bad seat in the house.

Ma
Review №88

Great space to see theater!

Ma
Review №89

Love to see theater here!

Ch
Review №90

Every seat has a great view of the stage. Spamilton was hilarious, genius and karaoke afterwards was great.

AJ
Review №91

Classy, cozy and intimate theater. Its what every respectable theater should strive to be. There isnt a bad seat in the house.

Da
Review №92

Good variety of shows! Good staff & very nice theater

Ro
Review №93

Great theater.

Sa
Review №94

Nice and cozy venue. Went to see Spamilton there and was impressed.

Jo
Review №95

Great venue with many Culver City attractions for pre and post theater performances and discussions.

Ju
Review №96

Whats difficult to see everybody because some of the featured people were not visible to those of us way high up in the balcony.

Em
Review №97

A great, small theater. We park at City Hall. They have some eclectic and new productions.

Sh
Review №98

Cool old theatre palace converted into a stage. There are not any bad seats.

Me
Review №99

Great place to see a show. Small venue and nice and intimate.

Ke
Review №100

Deceivingly intimate theater with a cozy lobby and free parking at the courthouse

Information
100 Photos
100 Comments
4.7 Rating
  • Address:9820 Washington Blvd, Culver City, CA 90232, United States
  • Site:http://centertheatregroup.org/
  • Phone:+1 213-628-2772
Categories
  • Performing arts theater
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair-accessible entrance:Yes
  • Wheelchair-accessible lift:Yes
Amenities
  • Good for kids:Yes
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