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 2026 readers’ choice Best of the County winner is Marin Theatre (pictured above). For the rest of the Marin Magazine‘s Best of Marin County Community Theater picks see below.
Our 2026 Arts & Entertainment category sponsor is MarinArts. View the rest of the Arts & Entertainment category here.
Southern
Mill Valley – Sausalito – Tiburon
Central
Corte Madera – Fairfax – Greenbrae – Kentfield – Larkspur – Ross – San Anselmo – San Rafael
Northern
Novato
West
Bolinas – Forest Knolls – Inverness – Lagunitas – Marshall – Nicasio – Point Reyes – Stinson Beach – Tamales – Woodacre
Southern Marin
142 Throckmorton Theatre
Mill Valley
As a prized member of the community and a previous Readers’ Choice awardee, 142 Throckmorton Theatre hosts a variety of workshops, dance classes and after-school programs in addition to the famous Tuesday night comedy, which has famously featured the greats including Robin Williams.
142 Throckmorton Ave, Mill Valley, 415.383.9600
Marin Theatre
Mill Valley
With a history dating back to 1966, the Marin Theatre Company has grown into an award-winning titan of the Bay Area. It’s 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.
397 Miller Ave, Mill Valley, 415.388.5208
Mountain Play
Mill Valley
Rooted in the community since 1913, Mount Tam’s beloved Mountain Play delivers an unforgettable live theater experience beneath the redwoods. A longtime Readers’ Choice favorite, the cherished outdoor production continues to captivate audiences with large-scale performances.
Cushing Memorial Amphitheatre, Mill Valley, 415.383.1100
Tam Valley Players
Mill Valley
A volunteer theater troupe delighting Tam Valley audiences for over 15 years, Tam Valley Players stages original murder mysteries and the long-running Rhubarb Revue comedy show. Their interactive performances, like 2026’s Murder in the Manor, blend humor, intrigue and community spirit in a lively dinner-theater setting.
305 Bell Lane Mill Valley, 415.388.6393
Central Marin
Marin Shakespeare Company
San Rafael
While many theaters might present performances of Shakespeare at some point, this nonprofit theater exclusively highlights his work and entertains up to 10,000 theatergoers each summer. Plus, Marin Shakespeare Company hosts various programs, classes and training for those looking to take their passion a step farther.
The Playhouse in San Anselmo
San Anselmo
Now under management by the University of Redlands San Anselmo location, The Playhouse in San Anselmo is a 221-seat auditorium that puts on a variety of shows, including theatrical performances, concerts, cultural events and more.
27 Kensington Rd, San Anselmo, 415.456.8555
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 New 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 New Works at Ross Valley Players is bound to offer high quality, never-before-seen material performed by some of the most passionate and talented thespians in the county.
30 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, Ross, 415.456.9555
Discover the best of Marin’s vibrant creative scene through Marin Magazine’s Best of the County. This annual, reader-driven guide highlights standout venues, performers, and cultural experiences that make Marin County a hub for arts and entertainment.
From live music and theater to galleries and comedy venues, each listing reflects the voices of local readers who vote for their favorites each year. Businesses that receive at least ten votes are considered, with top vote-getters earning the coveted Readers’ Choice designation.
Explore more across all categories in our full Best of the County guide, featuring top businesses across dining, wellness, services, shopping, and more, and discover why Marin continues to be one of the most culturally rich communities in Northern California.
Know a business that should be included? Submit a suggestion to our editorial team and look out for nominations in early 2027.
Are you a BOC business but want to change your photo, or did we miss including it? Submit your new photo here.
Arts & Entertainment Sponsor
MarinArts
MarinArts is a nonprofit organization that has been proudly promoting the arts and cultural events in Marin County for over ten years. They provide a FREE platform for arts organizations, artists, and venues to share their events through our online calendar.
Fun Fact: Their website is accessible in 11 languages—including Spanish, French, and Vietnamese — helping you connect with a wide and diverse audience.
Pictured above: Susan Searway-Fertig, Sandra Grimshaw, Mary O’Mara
MarinArts | San Rafael, CA | 415.578.3856 | marinarts.org
