Every county has its own community of dancers, actors and drama enthusiasts, but it’s no secret that Marin has some of the best thespians around. From classic musicals, to rib-cracking comedies, to innovative adaptations of familiar favorites, there’s something for all tastes. Whether you’re looking for a night out with friends or a fun show to take the kids to, there’s always a good performance waiting right around the corner. The 2024 readers’ choice Best of the County winner is Mountain Play (pictured above). For the rest of the Marin Magazine‘s Best of Marin County Community Theater picks see below.
Our 2024 Arts & Entertainment category sponsor is Gene Hiller. View the rest of the Arts & Entertainment category here.
We’ve broken it down by region: Southern and Central Marin.
Southern | Central
Southern Marin
142 Throckmorton
Mill Valley
Art and community are at the heart of everything the Throckmorton Theatre does. Take in the historical atmosphere and the gorgeous wall-to-ceiling murals as you find your seat in what they proudly call “a people’s theatre.” On any given day, you might find yourself enjoying a comedy, a classic musical or a festival. They offer more than just shows, however, also hosting workshops, dance classes, chorus and more, including after-school programs. Check the website for show details. Tickets are available online, or on a first-come, first-serve basis one hour before the show.
142 Throckmorton Ave., Mill Valley, 415.383.9600
Marin Theatre Company
Mill Valley
With a history dating back to 1966, the Marin Theatre Company has grown into an award-winning titan of the Bay Area. They’ve done everything from beloved variants of Pride and Prejudice to dark and satirical commentaries on current events. You might find a story written by one of the company’s own national playwrights or a performance put on in collaboration with the local high school, showcasing just how deeply the group invests in the Marin community. For theatrically inclined youth, the company also offers summer camps for second through 12th graders. Until further notice, the physical box office is operating remotely (with no in-person sales) from 12 p.m. – 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday.; and from 12 p.m. — intermission on performance days (actual hours may vary).
397 Miller Ave., Mill Valley, 415.388.5208
Mountain Play
Mill Valley
The Mountain Play isn’t just a show — it’s an experience. Nowhere else makes a performance more immersive than here, where audiences can sit on steps of carven stone or enjoy private dining in the intimacy of a shaded grove. This outdoor theater is perfect for bringing a picnic or grabbing a refreshing snow cone from the cafe, allowing you to enjoy your food at the same time as you take in the gorgeous views and the pre-show entertainment. The Mountain Play also has accommodations for those with disabilities. Check the website for show details.
Cushing Memorial Amphitheatre, Mill Valley, 415.383.1100
Central Marin
Ross Valley Players
Ross
There’s no theater more welcoming of newcomers than Ross Valley Players. Evocative and transformative, there’s always something fresh on the stage. The company’s Alternative Works productions are focused on elevating local creatives who otherwise might have flown under the radar, bringing in new actors and writers with every season (auditions are always open). An evening of Ross’ Alternative Works is bound to offer high quality, never-before-seen material performed by some of the most passionate and talented thespians in the county. Showtimes are at 7:30 p.m. on Thursdays, 8 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, and 2 p.m. on Sundays.
30 Sir Francis Drake Blvd., Ross, 415.456.9555
The Playhouse in San Anselmo
San Anselmo
A staple of the San Anselmo community, the Playhouse in San Anselmo is a 221-seat auditorium that puts on a variety of shows, including local amateur shows, traveling company shows and children’s shows. The old building began as a gymnasium for the nearby seminary but has been transformed into a quaint playhouse that serves the town.
27 Kensington Rd, San Anselmo, 415.456.8555
Best of the County Arts & Entertainment Sponsor
Gene Hiller
Gene Hiller Menswear has been providing American gentlemen with the very best clothing from brands like Canali and Brioni since 1953. Gene Hiller is also its own menswear brand designed in house and manufactured in Montreal, Italy and Spain. Owners Tom Gangitano and Wayne Kaleck share more about their storied business.
What’s unique about your business?
Our business is a community business that extends all around the world. We are not only fashion consultants for our clients, but also their personal concierge service. From securing private drivers for airport transfers, booking hotel stays, making reservations — we do it all.
Another element of our success is the longevity of our knowledgeable sales staff, which includes our world renowned tailor shop with Maestro Franco Aulicino.
What you love about living in Marin?
Marin is a very beautiful place — its temperate climate, amazing views and diverse communities — it’s no wonder we all love to live and work here.
Gene Hiller | Sausalito, CA | 415.332.3636 | genehiller.com
