When asking yourself about something to do near me in Miami Beach with a group of friends or family, consider
Colony Theatre
Why Colony Theatre is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Colony Theatre in Burbank, California, stands out as a premier destination for theatre enthusiasts looking to enjoy top-quality live performances in an intimate yet sophisticated setting. Founded in 1975 by a group of young Los Angeles television actors eager to reconnect with their theatre roots, it has grown from a small ensemble into a nationally recognized, award-winning company. Since moving into its state-of-the-art home at the Burbank Center Stage in 2000, the venue has offered patrons a unique theatrical experience with a thrust stage design that brings the audience close to the action. The theatre’s seating is stadium style, ensuring clear views from every angle, complemented by an elegant, comfortable lobby that invites guests to mingle before and after shows. Located in downtown Burbank, visitors enjoy easy access to numerous nearby restaurants and safe, free parking, making it an ideal spot for a night out with friends or family. The Colony Theatre company is dedicated to fostering collaboration and creativity, producing innovative plays that are both engaging and accessible, and serving as a launchpad for new talent in the broader Los Angeles and Broadway communities. Whether you’re seeking thought-provoking dramas or entertaining new works, The Colony Theatre offers a welcoming atmosphere and consistently high production quality that make it a standout cultural hub
Here's what people think of Colony Theatre
As of recent, Colony Theatre holds a 4.7-star rating based on 582 reviews.
Audience reviews of The Colony Theatre highlight its reputation as one of Burbank’s finest theatrical venues, consistently praised for the quality of its productions and the intimate connection it creates between performers and attendees. Positive reviews emphasize the comfort and design of the theatre, notably its excellent sightlines due to the thrust stage and stadium seating, fostering an immersive experience. Many visitors appreciate the elegant but relaxed ambiance of the lobby and the convenience of free parking and nearby dining options, which enhance the evening’s enjoyment beyond just the performance. The professional caliber of the shows, along with the theatre’s role in nurturing emerging artists and hosting notable Broadway talents, also receive frequent commendation. On the other hand, some critiques touch on occasional issues such as limited show variety or ticket availability during popular performances. A few patrons mention that the smaller size of the theatre, while generally a strength, can occasionally limit seat options during sold-out runs. Overall, The Colony Theatre maintains an outstanding reputation, balancing a cozy, friendly environment with the high artistic standards that make it a treasured cultural institution in Burbank and Southern California’s theatre scene.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Alejandro Ramirez
It was pretty good performance! Very sensible and truly historic. That’s the reality of any country in Latin America, in this particular one in Venezuela!! ❤️
Michelle Stubbs
The interactive theatre production was incredibly entertaining and funny, with each set thoughtfully crafted and the actors delivering top-tier performances. The attention to detail and creativity throughout made it a truly immersive experience. It’s the perfect way to spend a fun night with friends—I highly recommend it if you’re looking for something unique and memorable!
Sam Arittan
Retro, 1935 Art Deco beautifully preserved theater showing multi-discipline, multi-cultural shows. Home of the talented MIND theater company (Miami New Drama). I saw "Juneteenth" which was a series of short films followed by live music, spoken word, dancing, and singing in honor of freedom. The performance was of Broadway show caliber but the set and costumes were marginal. Will definitely be back for more shows.
Juliette Chevalier
Such a fun play! In the middle of Lincoln Road, the passerbys, stores, and streets are a part of every scene. It’s beautifully done, well organized, very local, creative, interesting, and funny. Highly recommended for a date night, a night with friends, or even a family with older kids.
Miami Pellet Institute
We went to this place to see the spectacular show of “ En la vida Hay Amores “ between Boleros and the company of good singers we passed the best night ever. We should have more places like this one. ☝️
How to reach Colony Theatre
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Why Colony Theatre may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Colony Theatre with your friends? Because it offers an exceptional blend of culture, entertainment, and a warm atmosphere that makes any group outing truly memorable. With a stellar rating of 4.7 based on over 580 reviews, the Colony Theatre has earned a reputation as a top-tier destination for those seeking quality theatrical experiences. Whether you and your friends are theater aficionados, casual entertainment seekers, or simply looking for a cultural escape, this venue elevates any meetup into an occasion. The theater’s location on Lincoln Road in Miami Beach and its counterpart in Burbank perfectly situate it in vibrant neighborhoods full of restaurants, cafes, and nightlife, so your gathering can extend beyond just the show itself. Comfortable seating and friendly staff ensure your group feels welcomed and relaxed. The productions are world-class, featuring engaging contemporary stories, exceptional acting, and varied programs that keep every visit fresh and exciting. This combination of top-level performances, great location, and inviting ambiance makes the Colony Theatre an ideal place for friends and family to connect over shared experiences in art and entertainment.
What kinds of activities are available at Colony Theatre for groups? The primary attraction is, of course, its outstanding live theatrical performances. The Colony Theatre presents a broad season of plays and musicals that cover a wide range of styles—from compelling contemporary dramas to delightful, escapist comedies that appeal to diverse tastes. Productions often include noteworthy musicals such as “The Wedding Singer,” which is celebrated for its energy, retro charm, and fun choreography. Shows feature talented casts with strong voices and engaging acting, ensuring an immersive experience. Beyond just watching a play, the theatre often hosts special events, talkbacks, and themed nights that invite audience interaction. For Spanish speakers or those interested in diverse cultures, the summer offerings include high-quality productions in Spanish, broadening the cultural appeal. Before or after a show, groups can enjoy dining together at nearby restaurants, including Italian cafes with art deco fountains and other charming spots. The theater’s setting encourages socializing and shared cultural experiences, enhancing group dynamic and enjoyment.
Why is Colony Theatre perfect for a group meetup? Several factors combine to create a welcoming and practical environment for gatherings of friends or family. First, the comfortable seating and excellent sightlines mean no one in your group misses critical action—everyone experiences the production fully. The staff are known to be friendly and accommodating, which helps groups feel at ease whether coming for a casual night out or a special occasion. The venue itself has a modern, elegant design with a thrust stage that creates an intimate atmosphere, drawing the audience closer to the performance. Accessibility to restaurants and cafes nearby allows groups to plan a full evening out, combining theater, meals, and socializing without logistical hassles. Moreover, the theater’s consistent high-quality productions and great reputation reduce uncertainty about the quality of experience, making it easier for a group organizer to propose the Colony as the meetup spot. Whether it’s a celebration, a casual catch-up, or a cultural outing, the theater environment fosters connection through shared enjoyment of art.
How does the Colony Theatre enhance cultural engagement for groups? The venue is deeply committed to presenting thoughtfully curated seasons that reflect contemporary social themes and diverse stories. This programming strategy invites conversations that can extend beyond the theater, giving groups a meaningful shared experience. The presence of both English and Spanish language productions exemplifies the theater’s embrace of cultural diversity, making it a welcoming space for a broad demographic. For groups passionate about arts and culture, attending shows here becomes more than entertainment—it’s an opportunity to engage intellectually and emotionally with powerful narratives. The theater also situates itself in vibrant arts districts, allowing visitors to explore surrounding galleries, museums, and cultural landmarks before or after performances. This cultural immersion creates a full experience that strengthens bonds between group members through shared discoveries and appreciation of creativity.
What can groups expect in terms of logistics and comfort at the Colony Theatre? The theater prides itself on a superior guest experience, starting with well-maintained facilities and comfortable seating arrangements that leave no bad seats in the house. For groups, this means everyone can comfortably enjoy the show without strain or obstruction. The staff’s reputation for friendliness and helpfulness further smooths the process, from ticketing to seating to post-show inquiries. Free or safe parking options nearby add to the convenience, reducing concerns about arrival and departure logistics. The theater’s design includes modern audio-visual equipment that ensures clear sound and excellent visibility of the stage, immersing audiences fully in performances. Because it’s a mid-size venue, the space balances intimacy with sufficient seating capacity, making it manageable for small or larger groups to enjoy the experience together. All these factors contribute to stress-free planning and an enjoyable outing that’s conducive to socializing and relaxation.
How can dining and socializing complement the theater experience at Colony Theatre? One of the highlights of rallying your group at the Colony Theatre is the vibrant dining scene that surrounds it. Especially the Miami Beach location on Lincoln Road is bordered by cafes and restaurants right near the theater entrance. For example, an Italian café with an art deco fountain nearby provides an atmospheric spot to gather before or after watching a show. These spots offer menus suited for groups, featuring shareable plates and diverse options to accommodate different dietary preferences. The theater’s central location means you can easily wander between dining, drinks, and entertainment zones, keeping the meetup dynamic and festive. Socializing over food and drinks complements the shared theatrical experience perfectly, enabling lively discussions about the show’s themes, favorite scenes, or standout performances. This blend of culture and conviviality makes an outing to Colony Theatre feel like a well-rounded event that satiates both mind and palate.
What unique features distinguish the Colony Theatre from other local venues? Founded in 1975 and having evolved into a nationally recognized award-winning company, the Colony Theatre distinguishes itself through the quality and innovation of its productions. The Burbank location features the Burbank Center Stage, a modern facility with a thrust stage that literally brings the audience close to the actors, enhancing immersion and intimacy in storytelling. Productions here also embrace a wide variety of genres and tones, from funny and lighthearted to deeply emotional and thought-provoking, ensuring there’s always something special for every group’s mood. The theater’s programming is well-curated to maintain a high artistic standard while also daring to explore bold contemporary issues, keeping audiences intellectually engaged. The venues’ integration into culturally rich neighborhoods further amplifies their appeal, making them not just places to watch a show, but cultural hubs where communities come together. This reputation and environment make the Colony Theatre a compelling choice for groups seeking more than just an evening out, but a unique cultural experience.
Can the Colony Theatre accommodate special group arrangements or celebrations? Yes, the Colony Theatre is an excellent venue to host special occasions, including birthdays, anniversaries, or even informal corporate gatherings. Its comfortable environment, professional staff, and quality technical setup make it easy to organize group tickets and ensure smooth seating arrangements. The theater’s elegant yet relaxed atmosphere creates a setting that’s both festive and sophisticated, ideal for groups wanting a meaningful celebration combined with top-tier entertainment. Often, groups can coordinate with the theater in advance to tailor their experience, whether by arranging special receptions or securing blocks of seats together. Being located near restaurants and vibrant social scenes means the entire event can seamlessly incorporate theater, dining, and after-party plans. Choosing the Colony Theatre for your group event means you gain not only a memorable show but also an adaptable space that can elevate any meetup to a highlight of your social calendar.