Staff picks

Not sure what show to see? Our team of experts has handpicked a dazzling collection of must-see events, ranging from over-the-top musicals and boundary-pushing dramas to spectacular concerts. Trust our theatre lovers and dive into this curated lineup.
Image for Dear San Francisco in San Francisco.

Dear San Francisco

Club Fugazi
from $45

Go on a high-flying journey through San Francisco and experience the city's vibrant history and iconic culture. This intimate circus experience blends world-class athleticism with original music and storytelling. Why we love it: It's a heart-pounding celebration of San Francisco's soul.

Poster of Paranormal Activity in San Francisco.

Paranormal Activity

The Toni Rembe Theater (formerly The Geary Theater)
from $35

Get up close and personal with the iconic film franchise (if you dare). In this terrifying new story, the protagonists learn the hard way that places aren't haunted, people are. Why we love it: With groundbreaking technology and illusions, you too will be questioning what's real and what's in your head.

Poster of All My Sons in Berkeley.

All My Sons

Roda Theatre at Berkeley Rep
from $71

Arthur Miller's classic proves the American Dream can crack under pressure, as the sudden reappearance of a presumed-dead son's fiancé forces the seemingly perfect patriarch to confront the horrifying truth about the deadly lie he built his fortune on. Why we love it: This play is packed with tension.

MJ The Musical

Orpheum Theatre

Get a backstage look at the making of the 1992 Dangerous World Tour. This electrifying jukebox musical uses Michael Jackson's legendary catalog to explore the creative genius and intense pressure that forged the King of Pop. Why we love it: It's full of Michael's best hits so you'll be fighting the urge to sing along.

Poster of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in Berkeley.

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater

Cal Performances' Zellerbach Hall
from $40

For over 65 years Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater has been dedicated to preserving the African American cultural experience. They continues to inspire global audiences through technical brilliance and soulful storytelling. Why we love it: You're guaranteed to experience world-class artistry.

Poster of Hamnet in San Francisco.

Hamnet

The Toni Rembe Theater (formerly The Geary Theater)
from $53

Take a fictional deep-dive into Elizabethan domestic life, where William Shakespeare's eccentric wife deals with his rising career and the tragic loss of their son. Why we love it: It vividly portrays how a private family tragedy was transformed into the greatest play in the English language.

Poster of Renée Fleming in Berkeley.

Renée Fleming

Cal Performances' Zellerbach Hall
from $92

Celebrated five-time Grammy winner Renée Fleming returns to the stage for a radiant recital of beloved songs and arias. Don't miss the chance to experience Fleming’s world-class artistry. Why we love it: The program includes classical masterpieces and piano showpieces.

Poster of Hairspray in San Francisco.

Hairspray

San Francisco Playhouse
from $42

Welcome to the 60s! This high-energy, infectious musical is the ultimate feel-good fight against prejudice, proving that if a girl with huge hair and huge talent can change a whole city, anything is possible. Why we love it: From the very first note, this musical delivers an instant rush of pure joy that never lets up.