4 Best Performing Arts in La Jolla, San Diego

Under the artistic direction of Christopher Ashley, the playhouse presents exciting and innovative plays and musicals on three stages. Many Broadway shows—among them Memphis, Come From Away, Tommy, and Jersey Boys—have previewed here before their East Coast premieres. Its Without Walls program also ensures that the productions aren't limited to the playhouse, having put on site-specific shows in places like outdoor art spaces, cars, and even the ocean.

The Athenaeum is a membership-supported, nonprofit library with an exceptional collection of books, periodicals, CDs, and other media related to arts and music. It also hosts classes, exhibits, lectures, and intimate jazz, chamber music, and the occasional folk concert throughout the year.

With roots in classical and chamber music, the permanent home of the La Jolla Music Society features a range of performances from piano and jazz, to mariachi, dance, and world music. The venue's four spaces host concerts, performances, educational programs, and SummerFest—a four-week music festival featuring more than 80 world-class artists and ensembles. For the season schedule, visit their website.

This quaint, comfortable performance space inside the Price Center on the University of California San Diego campus hosts intimate music concerts, spoken-word programs, film screenings, and culinary events.