Pasadena Playhouse

The Pasadena Playhouse opened in 1917 and is the State Theatre of California. In recent years, the Playhouse has launched new works and landmark shows for the American Theatre. The Playhouse has displayed a commitment to diversity, which is reflected in shows featuring Tony and Pulitzer award-winning plays. Highlights since 2005 include the launch of the national tour of Purlie, Looped, starring Valerie Harper, which gained a 2010 Tony nomination; Sister Act, The Musical, which has been playing on the West End since June 2009 and will open on Broadway at the Broadway Theatre on April 20, 2011; the world premiere of Ray Charles Live!, and the world premiere of Baby It's You!, which is also slated for a Broadway review.

The artistic director of the Pasadena Playhouse is Sheldon Epps. Mr. Epps has held the position since 1997. Before his tenure as the artistic director, he served as artistic director of the Old Globe Theater in which he was the co-founder. Mr. Epps has experience in film and television and has directed shows including Frasier, Friends, and Everybody Loves Raymond.

Tours of the playhouse are available by calling the administrative offices. Tours give a behind the scenes look at what happens behind the curtains of the theater.