When asking yourself about something to do near me in Los Angeles with a group of friends or family, consider
24th Street Theatre
Why 24th Street Theatre is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The 24th Street Theatre, nestled in the historic University Park area of Los Angeles, is a vibrant and intimate performance venue that offers a unique setting ideal for meeting up with friends and enjoying world-class theatre. Established in 1929 by renowned architects Dean & Dean, this fully equipped theatre accommodates 296 guests, blending the charm of its historic architecture with modern theatrical lighting, sound systems, and dressing rooms. Its location at the corner of S. Hoover St. and 24th Street places it conveniently near the University of Southern California and accessible via public transportation, with ample parking options across the street. The venue’s offerings extend beyond professional performances to include lectures, film screenings, and community events, making it a versatile gathering place for various cultural experiences. What truly distinguishes the 24th Street Theatre is its dedicated mission of engaging and educating young people through excellent theatre and arts education, fostering a profound sense of community and connectedness among patrons. Whether enjoying innovative productions that use creative multimedia or participating in after-school arts programming, visitors find the theatre to be a welcoming, thought-provoking space that brings families and friends together in celebration of creativity and social awareness.
Here's what people think of 24th Street Theatre
As of recent, 24th Street Theatre holds a 4.7-star rating based on 175 reviews.
Reviews of the 24th Street Theatre consistently highlight its intimate atmosphere, passionate performances, and strong community focus. Many attendees appreciate the theatre’s cozy size, which allows for a close connection between audience and performers, creating a deeply engaging experience. Positive reviews frequently mention the professionalism and talent of actors, the innovative use of lighting and sound design, and the theatre's commitment to presenting meaningful, often socially conscious productions. Patrons also value the theater's affordability and friendly staff, with some noting the availability of snacks and beverages at modest prices, enhancing the overall experience. On the other hand, some critiques point to potential challenges with parking availability on nearby 24th Street during busy showtimes, though alternate parking options are available on side streets and a nearby lot. A small number of visitors have mentioned the limited seating capacity may occasionally lead to sold-out performances, but the theatre’s welcoming waitlist system helps accommodate additional guests when possible. Overall, the reviews paint a picture of 24th Street Theatre as a beloved cultural gem, praised for its artistic excellence and community engagement while maintaining the charm and intimacy of a smaller venue.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Valeria Valadez
Came on a field trip with my daughters school and this was such a great time! They gave a lot of theater history mixed with fun and silly interactive scenes. The entire cast was amazing and kept the kids very engaged and excited to see what was next in the show. The adults were offered coffee upon arrival and swag bags on the way out, both were an awesome surprise. I would totally recommend coming here for a great theater history lesson and a great time. Thank you, Nathan, Nick, Ariana, Brad and Christina for a great show!!! Hope to come back soon! 💜👏
Samuel Fierro Echeverria
The most moving play I have seen in years. So relevant to the times we are living, where believing on the well being of the other seems to be insane and the world seems like a prison!!! Recommended 200%... tomorrow's show is open in exchange for voluntary contributions and several LA artists will be there... Don't miss this outstanding show, and support a local theatre committed to community Education!!! 7 stars 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 🤩
Damon Lewis
This is undoubtedly one of the greatest experiences a child could ever have. The plots, acting tips and fun abounded! This is a specially selected group of gifted actors and technicians interpreting their directors’ intent, to create an excellent show and cherished memories for all that attend. This is the second year that my school saw the show and I brought the 24th Street Theater crew some expensive treats because this magical venue deserves them. Kudos and bravo to this very special place.
Architectural Sketches
Very cute venue we love attending the play the actors were amazing
Yuuko Ichihara
Day of dead this year was even bigger than last year! So many cool booths and food, make sure you bring plenty of cash or you're stuck just browsing. The art and jewelry and clothes were beautiful and unique. Have fun!
How to reach 24th Street Theatre
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Website: None
Why 24th Street Theatre may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at this place with your friends?
Gathering with friends or family at 24th Street Theatre offers an exceptional experience that goes far beyond the typical night out. This theatre, located in the historic University Park neighborhood of Los Angeles, is more than just a venue—it is a vibrant cultural hub and a community pillar with a rich history dating back to its founding in 1997. Having been established shortly after the LA Riots, it was envisioned as a space to uplift and empower a neighborhood challenged by social and economic obstacles. Meeting here means immersing yourself in a venue that is committed to engaging, educating, and provoking audiences through profound theatrical experiences and arts education programs. The theatre prides itself on producing high-quality performances in both English and Spanish, reflecting the diverse community it serves. For groups, this creates a meaningful shared experience that can spark conversation, deepen relationships, and offer memorable evenings filled with thought-provoking stories. With a strong rating of 4.7 from 175 reviews, it’s clear that 24th Street Theatre resonates widely with audiences, making it a trusted and beloved gathering spot.
What activities does 24th Street Theatre offer for groups and why is it perfect for a meetup?
24th Street Theatre provides a variety of engaging activities perfect for group outings that combine entertainment with cultural enrichment. Primarily, the theatre showcases professional stage productions that often tackle contemporary social themes relevant to its diverse audience, creating a strong emotional connection and fostering community dialogue. These performances are ideal for groups seeking an artistic experience that encourages reflection and lively post-show discussions. Beyond shows, the theatre offers weekly in-person classes for children in grades 2-8 under its "After ‘Cool" program, which uses theatre and storytelling to nurture creativity and communication skills—great for family meetups involving children. For teenagers, the “Teen Leadership Academy” is a scholarshipped enrichment program, making the theatre a nurturing environment for youth development that families and friends can support and celebrate together. The theatre also hosts educational field trips tailored for K-12 groups, emphasizing theatre’s power to inspire, which means groups can engage head-on with storytelling and performance arts. This blend of performances, education, and community involvement makes 24th Street Theatre a versatile venue where everyone in a group can find a meaningful connection.
Why is 24th Street Theatre’s location important for group visits?
The 24th Street Theatre is conveniently situated at 1117 West 24th Street, near the corner of S. Hoover Street and 24th Street in Los Angeles, just two blocks south of the Hoover Street exit off the I-10 Santa Monica Freeway. Its proximity to the University of Southern California (USC) and location within a historic and culturally rich neighborhood adds to the appeal, giving groups the opportunity to explore an area steeped in history and vibrant local culture before or after a show. Easy access is a major plus for organizing meetups, as there is paid parking available across the street and ample street parking nearby, which simplifies carpooling plans. For those using public transportation, the theatre is well-served by several bus lines and the Metro Rail, which operates late on weekends, making it accessible without the stress of driving or parking. This accessibility is crucial for groups, especially larger gatherings or families, ensuring that logistics do not complicate the outing. The theatre’s commitment to accessibility also includes accommodations for people with disabilities, underscoring its welcoming and inclusive atmosphere.
What makes 24th Street Theatre unique compared to other venues?
24th Street Theatre distinguishes itself by blending professional theatre with a strong community focus and educational mission. Founded as a response to social challenges post-1992 LA Riots, it remains deeply connected to its neighborhood, actively involving local voices and concerns through its programming. Unlike typical commercial venues, it prioritizes theatre that is socially conscious, bilingual, and aimed at sparking dialogue among English and Spanish-speaking audiences alike. This dual-language approach enriches the cultural tapestry of performances and allows for authentic representation of the community’s stories. The theatre’s education programs for young people—ranging from after-school classes for creative development to leadership training for teenagers—build long-lasting relationships between the arts and the community. This mission-driven approach means hosting an event here is not just about entertainment but about supporting a vital cultural institution dedicated to empowerment and education. For groups, it’s rewarding to be part of a space that is not only artistically excellent but socially meaningful and invested in shaping the next generation.
How can groups plan their visit to 24th Street Theatre effectively?
Planning a group visit to 24th Street Theatre is made straightforward with several options that enhance the experience. Tickets are strongly recommended to be reserved ahead through the theatre’s box office or their website, especially given the popularity and limited seating typical of intimate theatre venues. If tickets are sold out, there is a waitlist system available where groups can arrive an hour before the performance to potentially secure seats, which offers flexibility but also encourages early arrival. Communicating directly with the theatre at their phone number or email can help accommodate any special needs or group requests, including accessibility considerations. The theatre’s customer service is responsive and welcomes inquiries, ensuring groups feel supported from planning to attendance. Moreover, knowing the location’s parking and transit details ahead of time helps avoid last-minute hassle, with clear directions and information about metro routes and nearby parking provided by the theatre. For educational or large community groups, contacting the theatre about special programs like field trips or workshops can schedule tailored visits that deepen engagement through interactive elements.
What kind of community impact does 24th Street Theatre have?
24th Street Theatre has a significant positive impact on its community, especially in its low-income urban neighborhood. Since opening, the theatre has been a beacon of cultural revitalization and social cohesion. Its programs address tough local issues, healing wounds from past civil unrest through art that reflects real-life stories, challenges, and triumphs of the community it serves. Offering bilingual performances and arts education makes theatre accessible to a wider audience, enhancing cultural understanding and pride. Through partnerships with schools and local organizations, it provides creative outlets for youth who might otherwise have limited opportunities for personal and artistic growth. This role has made 24th Street Theatre a respected institution trusted to foster education, dialogue, and social change, turning theatre into a force for community empowerment. Hosting a meetup here supports these endeavors, allowing friends and families to enjoy quality art that contributes to a broader mission of inclusivity, education, and neighborhood upliftment.
Why is 24th Street Theatre rated highly by visitors?
The theatre earns its excellent 4.7-star rating from 175 reviews by consistently delivering quality productions and an enriching environment. Visitors frequently praise the intimate atmosphere that allows audiences to feel connected to the performers and the powerful stories being told. Many highlight the professionalism of the staff and actors, as well as the diversity and relevance of the shows, which include themes and narratives that resonate deeply on social and cultural levels. Attendees also appreciate the bilingual nature of the performances, reflecting the community’s language and culture, which adds authenticity often missing in mainstream theatres. The venue’s accessibility, welcoming staff, and commitment to community engagement further contribute to the positive experience. For groups, these factors ensure everyone will enjoy a memorable night full of meaningful entertainment, making 24th Street Theatre a highly recommended destination for those seeking more than just a night out.
What makes 24th Street Theatre a family-friendly destination?
24th Street Theatre’s commitment to youth education and family engagement makes it an ideal spot for meetups with children and multigenerational groups. Its specialized programs for young audiences encourage creativity through storytelling and theatre arts, fostering imagination and confidence in kids and teens alike. The theatre’s productions often include themes accessible and relevant to younger viewers without compromising sophistication and depth appreciated by adults, making it enjoyable for the whole family. Its educational outreach strengthens family bonds by creating shared cultural experiences, and the theatre’s safe, inclusive environment ensures comfort for attendees of all ages. With regular scholarship-supported classes and after-school initiatives, families who visit can also learn more about ongoing opportunities for their children to participate and grow artistically. These qualities make 24th Street Theatre a welcoming cultural space where families can gather to experience the transformative power of live performance together.
How can attending 24th Street Theatre make your meetup more memorable?
Choosing 24th Street Theatre for your next friend or family gathering ensures a unique and memorable experience by combining the excitement of live performance with meaningful community connection. The theatre’s intimate setting brings your group closer to the action and sparks stimulating conversation afterwards, enriching your social time. The works presented often challenge perspectives and invite empathy, giving attendees more than just entertainment—they leave with thoughts to share and bonds strengthened by shared insight. Its bilingual offerings make it possible for diverse groups to fully enjoy the experience together. Furthermore, supporting a theatre dedicated to social impact adds a deeper sense of purpose to your outing. The accessible location, attentive service, and variety of programs ensure your group’s needs are met seamlessly, allowing you to focus on enjoying one another’s company surrounded by inspiring artistry.
In sum, 24th Street Theatre stands out as an outstanding venue to host meetups with friends or family due to its community roots, diverse programming, accessibility, and dedication to socially relevant theatre and education. Whether seeking a night of compelling performance, family-friendly activities, or cultural enrichment, groups will find this theatre a welcoming and inspiring destination.