San Francisco's Orpheum Theatre is a lavish Spanish Baroque Revival movie palace on Market Street that has served as the city's premier home for touring Broadway productions since its conversion to a live performance venue. The ornately decorated auditorium, with its soaring ceiling and gilded plasterwork, evokes the golden age of theatrical spectacle. As part of the BroadwaySF family of theatres, the Orpheum regularly hosts the West Coast premieres and extended runs of major Broadway musicals, bringing the full scale of New York theatrical production to the Bay Area.
Acoustics, seating, and what to expect
The theatre is noted for excellent acoustics and an immersive viewing experience, enhanced by its ornate design. A $20 million renovation in 1998 included acoustic improvements suitable for Broadway productions.
Center orchestra and front mezzanine sections typically offer the best views and sound balance. Avoid extreme side seats in the orchestra and very back rows of the balcony, which may have obstructed views or suboptimal acoustics.
No Dress Code
Tickets, pricing, and getting there
BART: Civic Center/UN Plaza station (Market Hyde staircase exit); Muni: Multiple bus and streetcar lines serve Market Street and 8th Street area near the Civic Center transit hub
No on-site parking. Nearby paid garages include Hotel Whitcomb Garage (valet, ~$27 for 2 hours), 38 8th St. Lot (valet, ~$33 for 2 hours), and Trinity Place Garage (underground, ~$32 for 2 hours). Limited metered street parking available.
Plan your visit — dining, transit, and performer resources nearby
Plan Your Visit
2 dining
Arrive before 5 PM to minimize the wait (which can reach 90 minutes on weekends). The hot lobster roll (drawn butter, toasted roll — NOT cold with mayo) is the New England version and is the right choice. The raw bar menu is seasonal and serious.
No cover — ever. The music starts around 9 PM and runs until close. Berklee students, NEC jazz faculty, and working professionals share the same small stage. Arrive early for a seat.
Green Room — Boston
Housing, coaches, practice spaces, and wellness resources for working performers.
Organization
BroadwaySF
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BART: Civic Center/UN Plaza station (Market Hyde staircase exit); Muni: Multiple bus and streetcar lines serve Market Street and 8th Street area near the Civic Center transit hub