1815 4th Street
Berkeley, CA 94720
(510) 548-3010
calperformances.org
Description
Pardon us while we “Greek out.” We can’t think of many better places to see a show than the William Randolph Hearst Greek Theatre. Perched on a hill on the UC Berkeley Campus, the Greek (as it is affectionately known) is named for its benefactor of newspaper—and spectacular mansion— fame. Its nickname comes for the Grecian architectural style that lends also supplies its incredible acoustics.
The Greek was built on the site of a late-19th-century makeshift amphitheater, and since it opened in 1903 it has hosted theatrical performances, rallies, and, of course major music names from the Grateful Dead to Florence and the Machine. For the audience, a show here is an unbeatable experience. The Greek has a capacity of 8,500 and three seating options: a standing pit, concrete benches (bring some cushions!) and a lawn (bring a blanket!). And on top of stellar sound, there are the views.
Cozy on a blanket, listening to music, watching the sun dip below the Bay and the lights blink on? Sign us up. The season runs around April through October. Tip: It can get chilly after the sun sets, so bring a blanket and a jacket.
Read about the other great places to see a show and great views in the Bay Area.
Directions
Take BART (Richmond line) to the Downtown Berkeley stop and make your way through the campus. (You can also catch bus 52 at University and Shattuck and take it to Gayley Road.) The theater is just off Gayley Road.
