Ojai Playhouse
The Ojai Playhouse, located at 145 E. Ojai Ave., Ojai, CA 93023, is a historic theater that has been a cornerstone of the Ojai community since its opening in 1914. Originally established as a single-screen movie theater, it has undergone several transformations over the years, reflecting the evolving cultural landscape of the region.
Photo credit: Google Maps
Historical Overview
Throughout its history, the Ojai Playhouse has served as a central hub for entertainment in the Ojai Valley. In 1926, it was renamed the Ojai Theatre, and in 1966, it became the Glasgow Playhouse. The early 1980s saw another change when the Al-Awar family purchased the theater, renaming it the Ojai Playhouse. Unfortunately, in July 2014, a water main break caused significant damage to the building, leading to its closure. After a prolonged period of restoration and legal proceedings, the theater has been revitalized and reopened to the public.
Restoration Efforts
The restoration of the Playhouse has been a significant undertaking, aiming to preserve its historic charm while incorporating modern amenities. The theater now features state-of-the-art film and audio technology, a live performance stage, and enhanced audience facilities. These upgrades ensure that the Playhouse can offer a diverse range of programming, from first-run arthouse films to live music and comedy performances.
Current Ownership
As of 2025, the Playhouse is under the ownership of David Berger, who acquired the property in 2020. Under his stewardship, the theater has undergone extensive renovations, totaling over $10 million, to restore and enhance the venue. Berger's vision is to establish the Playhouse as a thriving community hub for film, arts, and cultural events.
Visiting the Ojai Playhouse
The Ojai Playhouse is conveniently situated in downtown Ojai, adjacent to Libbey Park at 145 E Ojai Ave, Ojai, CA 93023. For those traveling from Camarillo, CA, the theater is approximately a 40-minute drive north via US-101 N and CA-33 N. Parking is available on city streets surrounding the venue, with ADA parking spots located on E. Ojai Avenue and S. Signal Street.
Box Office and Tickets
The box office is located at 107 S. Signal Street, directly behind the theater and across from the Post Office and Libbey Park. It opens 60 minutes prior to showtimes, and all tickets are held at will call for pickup before entering the Playhouse. Tickets can be purchased online through the Ojai Playhouse website or in person at the box office. For detailed information on ticket prices and upcoming events, visitors are encouraged to check the theater's official website. The venue continues to be a vibrant cultural landmark, offering a rich blend of cinematic and live entertainment experiences to the community and visitors alike.
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