Balboa Theatre History
The Balboa Theatre opened to great acclaim in March 1924. Designed by architect William Wheeler and constructed by the Wurster Construction Company for $800,000, it opened as a vaudeville and cinema theatre.
Renovated in 2008 after a 20-year closure, the $26.5 million restoration was funded by the City of San Diego's Redevelopment Agency. This historic landmark features a unique tiled dome and ornate plaster fretwork above the seating area. It serves as a community performing arts gem for the region.
Opening night performers included nationally recognized vaudeville acts Fanchon & Marco and the Sunkist Beauties. The film “Lilies of the Field” was screened and their stars Conway Tearle and Corinee Griffith also made a personal appearance. The 20 piece Balboa Concert Orchestra under the direction of Bob Gaderer provided a 30-minute concert.
It served as a site for live entertainment until it was remodeled and reopened in 1934 as "Teatro Balboa," featuring contemporary films from Mexico City and presenting Latin stars to San Diego’s increasingly diverse population.
During World War II, the Fourth Avenue office wing of the Balboa was utilized to house sailors prior to shipping out of San Diego.
In 1959, the Russo family acquired the historic building saving it from potential demolition and then operated it as an action movie house until 1985 when it was acquired and closed by the City’s Redevelopment Agency.
On August 4, 1972, the Balboa Theatre was listed on a City of San Diego Historic Site (#77 on the Registry).
In 1996, it was recognized on the National Register of Historic Places by the Department of the Interior.
The historic Balboa Theatre in San Diego is celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2024! For 100 years, Balboa Theatre has been an anchor for the arts, providing world-class performances and meaningful experiences.
From March 28-30, 2024, the San Diego community gathered to celebrate the monumental centennial anniversary of the Balboa Theatre in a vibrant multicultural celebration to honor a century of artistic excellence at the Balboa Theatre, recognizing its multifaceted contributions as an integral part of San Diego’s artistic community.
Proceeds from the gala and multi-day fundraiser were dedicated to the Balboa Theatre Grant Fund, supporting local nonprofit partners' access to the theatre's spaces and services, fostering the flourishing of theatre within our community.
EVENTS
ANNIVERSARY GALA: The festivities began with a glamorous red carpet gala, featuring a captivating performance by the esteemed pianist, performer and playwright, Hershey Felder.
CENTENNIAL SALUTE: A homage to the Balboa Theatre's silent film era origins and its historic role providing wartime lodging to local sailors during WWII. The screening of the silent film "The Flying Fleet" was accompanied by the melodic tones of the theatre’s antique Wonder Morton organ, skillfully played by the renowned organist, Ken Double.
TOONS & TUNES: F reveled in a screening of classic cartoons featuring beloved characters like Felix the Cat, Popeye and Mighty Mouse, accompanied by the whimsical sounds of the theatre's historic organ.
None of this would have been possible without the support and generosity of our donors whose contributions paved the way for an unforgettable celebration within these historic walls, while playing a pivotal role in ensuring the Balboa Theatre’s legacy endures for future generations. It is with their help and generosity that San Diego Theatres can preserve this important cultural epicenter where art can thrive, communities gather and new generations are inspired.
The historical photos are courtesy of the San Diego Historical Society. The Historic Balboa Theatre, along with San Diego Civic Theatre is managed by San Diego Theatres, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to enriching the region through exceptional performing arts and education experiences.