About The UC Theatre Taube Family Music Hall
The UC Theatre Taube Family Music Hall is Berkeley’s renovated historic theater turned concert venue. It originally opened on June 30, 1917 as a first-run movie palace (www.theuctheatre.org ). After operating for decades (including a record 22-year run of The Rocky Horror Picture Show ), it closed in 2001 and sat empty for years. A nonprofit group (the Berkeley Music Group) raised funds and in 2016 completed a $5.5 million renovation. The restored theater now features a new marquee (in glossy black, blue and gold lettering (alumni.berkeley.edu )) and a multi-tiered interior while preserving its classic biennial style. It is a City of Berkeley landmark (designated in 2002) (www.theuctheatre.org ). Today it operates as a 1,400-capacity live music hall (theuctheatre.org ), making it one of the largest all-ages venues in the East Bay. The name “UC Theatre” is a legacy from its past and has no official connection to the University of California (www.theuctheatre.org ). Inside, the venue blends old-world charm with modern technology: velvet-covered walls and chandeliers coexist with a state-of-the-art Meyer Sound Leopard audio system (theuctheatre.org ) (www.berkeleyside.org ). According to the theater’s website, it also includes a full-service bar and kitchen under its balcony (theuctheatre.org ), enhancing its role as a premiere downtown nightlife spot.
Events and Programming
The UC Theatre presents a very diverse lineup of events year-round. Primarily it hosts live music of all genres – from indie/alternative rock, Latin, blues and jazz to hip-hop, R&B, EDM and world music (theuctheatre.org ) (alumni.berkeley.edu ). The venue is all-ages (so both youth and college crowds attend) (www.theuctheatre.org ). You might also find specialty shows like tribute bands, symphony and choral performances, comedy nights, film screenings (occasionally Rocky Horror ), or cultural festivals. Organizers have booked on the order of 75–100 shows per year (alumni.berkeley.edu ) (www.berkeleyside.org ), making it an active calendar. Typically there are events several times per week, with Fridays and Saturdays being the busiest nights. The mix features local Bay Area acts as support and touring national/international acts. Concertgoers have seen everything from small up-and-coming bands to big-name headliners that would normally play San Francisco’s Fillmore Auditorium, now booked in Berkeley’s large hall. For instance, recent lineups have included folk-rock, electronic DJs, and even worldbeat artists, reflecting its mission to cover “indie, alternative, jazz, R&B, hip-hop, EDM, world, pop, comedy and much more” (theuctheatre.org ). Ticket prices vary widely with the act: many shows are in the $25–$40 range, while marquee concerts can reach $60–$80 or more. (For example, earlier events on the official schedule show tickets around $35 for standard shows (www.theuctheatre.org ) and $82.50 for larger rock concerts (www.theuctheatre.org ); note these examples exclude fees.) Presales may be offered for certain acts, but most tickets go on sale to the public a few weeks before a show. Always check the venue’s announcements or trusted local outlets for sale dates. In general, concerts begin in the evening (doors often open about an hour before showtime, with music typically starting between 7–9pm), and occasional matinees run on weekends.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for UC Theatre events can be purchased online or in person at the box office. The box office is located at 2036 University Ave (the venue lobby) and is open Sundays from 10:00am–2:00pm (except major holidays) (www.theuctheatre.org ). On show nights the box office usually opens about one hour before doors (around 6–7pm on a typical 7pm show, for example) (www.theuctheatre.org ). Buying tickets in person at the box office avoids most service fees (there is a 3% credit-card processing fee but no extra charge beyond face value) (www.theuctheatre.org ). Online ticket sales are handled through major platforms (no sites or URLs endorsed here), which charge convenience fees of around 10%. For popular shows, it’s wise to buy early; tickets can sell out quickly. Sign up for the venue’s email list or follow local promoters to hear about advance presales. Some shows do offer day-of-show tickets at the door if not sold out. Important: all sales are final – there are no refunds or exchanges after purchase (theuctheatre.org ) (except if the event is canceled). If a show does get canceled, refunds are typically issued via the original purchase source. Always double-check your event date and time before buying.
Seating and Layout
The UC Theatre has a flexible “cabaret-style” layout. Most shows are general admission (GA) standing-room on the main floor. The orchestra-level floor in front of the stage is an open, sloping area with a few low-profile seats (tables and chairs) around the edges. Typically there are no fixed seats on the main floor except a handful of chairs along the sides. In fact, reviewers note that “the large standing room only floor” offers “only a handful of places to sit” (www.tripadvisor.com ). If you prefer to sit, you should arrive early to snag one of those limited chairs at floor level. Above the main floor are two balcony levels. Each balcony has actual seating: cabaret tables and chairs on lower balcony and rows of fixed seats on the upper balcony when needed. The stage is wide and extends about 32 feet deep (www.berkeleyside.org ), and the angled configuration (three tiers: flat floor + two raised sections) provides good sight lines from nearly any vantage (www.berkeleyside.org ). In fact, audiences report “nice sight lines and great sound” throughout the venue (www.tripadvisor.com ). For accessible seating, there is a raised wheelchair viewing platform near the front of the lower balcony. Sound is remarkably even given the size; the house system (a Meyer Sound Leopard system) was designed to envelop the audience evenly (www.berkeleyside.org ). In short, if you want to be close to the performers, positioning yourself near the front of the GA floor is best (but get in line early). If you’d rather watch from a seat, the first balcony tables give a full view of the stage, and the second balcony offers a bird’s-eye perspective of the whole hall.
Getting There and Parking
The UC Theatre is located at 2036 University Avenue, Berkeley, CA 94704 (www.theuctheatre.org ). It sits on University Avenue between Shattuck Ave and Kittredge St in downtown Berkeley. For public transit, the Downtown Berkeley BART station is very close (two blocks north on Shattuck Ave). This BART station features a secure “Bikestation” with free bike parking for commuters (www.theuctheatre.org ). AC Transit buses also run through downtown; several bus lines stop along Shattuck and University near the theater (www.theuctheatre.org ). Additionally, the UC Berkeley Campus Shuttle (fare $0.50 or $1, open to the public) stops on related routes through downtown roughly every 12–30 minutes (www.theuctheatre.org ). If you drive, downtown Berkeley offers abundant parking, though it can fill up on event nights. In total there are over 2,500 parking spots on-street and in garages (www.theuctheatre.org ). The most convenient garage is the Center Street Garage (at Center St and Shattuck, a block east of the theater). This solar-powered garage has 720 spaces and stays open late (until 1:00am on weekends) (www.theuctheatre.org ). Meters on University Ave (and side streets) generally allow a couple of hours; be sure to read posted signs and set your parking app or meter. Another popular lot is the Golden Bear Parking Lot on University Ave (near Bonita/Adeline); it is open until about 1:00am (www.theuctheatre.org ). (Rates in these lots are typically on the order of several dollars per hour.) Rideshare drop-offs and pick-ups are easy on University Ave at Kittredge. In inclement weather, armed with umbrellas or rain jackets is wise, as the queue to enter can extend outdoors.
Inside the Venue
Entering The UC Theatre you’ll find a spacious lobby with merchandise tables, a coat check, and access to the main floor and balconies via stairs and an elevator. The venue has a full bar and concession counter downstairs (theuctheatre.org ): you can buy soft drinks, coffee, bottled water, beer, wine and cocktails, plus light snacks or wraps (menu varies by event). Note that outside food and drink (even water bottles) are not allowed through the doors (www.theuctheatre.org ). Valid ID is strictly required for alcohol (21+) (www.theuctheatre.org ). Staff will perform bag searches or pat-downs at entry for prohibited items (www.theuctheatre.org ); examples banned include weapons, large bags, laser pointers, spray cans, and recording devices. Small personal cameras are sometimes permitted, but power lenses, tripods, or video recording are never allowed without prior approval (www.theuctheatre.org ). Photography with flash is prohibited. The venue is non-smoking indoors (violators may be asked to leave); a designated outdoor smoking area is provided out back, and patrons may briefly exit there for smoking but must re-enter to their seats immediately, as there is no unlimited re-entry (www.theuctheatre.org ). Other amenities: there is no cash ATM on site (www.theuctheatre.org ), but credit/debit cards are accepted almost everywhere in the venue. (One note: the coat check only takes cash (www.theuctheatre.org ) in case you need to check a jacket or bag.) Restrooms are located on the main floor as well as up on the balcony level, with wheelchair-accessible restrooms available. Reviewers specifically mention that staff are friendly and the space is clean and well-operated (www.tripadvisor.com ). Finally, the house lights dim promptly at showtime and the sound level can be loud; children earning earplugs if sensitive is recommended (www.theuctheatre.org ).
Nearby Amenities
Because it’s in downtown Berkeley, the theater is surrounded by many restaurants, bars and hotels. On University Ave nearby you’ll find a range of dining options: for example, Jayakarta (Indonesian cuisine at 2026 University Ave) (sf.eater.com ) and Platano (Salvadoran pupusas at 2042 University Ave) (sf.eater.com ) are within a block. A bit farther east on Shattuck Ave are places like Comal (Oaxacan/Mexican, 2020 Shattuck Ave) (sf.eater.com ) and Lucia’s (New York–style pizza and more at 2016 Shattuck Ave) (sf.eater.com ). For quick bites or drinks: Asha Tea House (bubble tea and snacks) is right down the street at 2086 University Ave (sf.eater.com ). Bars and pubs abound as well — along Fourth Street a few blocks south are cooler spots like The Bear’s Lair and the shops of Cornerstone Berkeley, plus coffee shops (Caffe Mediterraneum, Peet’s) for a pre-show beverage. If you’re visiting from out of town, nearby hotels include the Graduate Berkeley and Hotel Shattuck Plaza (both a short ride away) and a Super-8 motel on MLK Jr Way; these are all within a mile. Plan to arrive a bit early if you want dinner before a show, as crowds gather downtown on weekend nights. When it’s late, the restaurant/brewery and Student-run shuttle back to campus or shared rides are good options.
What Makes This Venue Special
The UC Theatre Taube Family Music Hall is special for combining historic tradition with a modern live-music experience. As a restored 1917 movie palace, it boasts a rich back-story: it was once Berkeley’s grand movie house, famous for unique events (for example, film legend Werner Herzog famously “ate his shoe” here onstage, and the theater ran Rocky Horror midnight shows for 22 straight years) (alumni.berkeley.edu ). No other East Bay venue its size has such pedigree. Its recent rebirth was part of a deliberate effort to revitalize downtown Berkeley for young people — municipal estimates projected as many as 120,000 visitors in the first year, and hundreds of local jobs were either created or supported (alumni.berkeley.edu ). Organizers envisioned a Fillmore-level concert hall finally in Berkeley, and they delivered: it is a full-service music hall (with restaurant and bar), and one of the very few all-ages venues around. Another point of pride is its nonprofit, educational mission. Like Freight & Salvage, the UC Theatre is run by a nonprofit group, which pledges to use part of the theatre’s proceeds to train teens and young adults in the music industry (stagecraft, sound engineering, promotion and so on) (alumni.berkeley.edu ). This community focus and youth-promoting philosophy help it stand out. For music fans, the technical aspects are noteworthy too: auditory “sweet spot” effects have even been compared to being inside a “Meyer Sound womb” (alumni.berkeley.edu ). Overall, audiences and artists alike love The UC Theatre for its intimate, tiered setting (you feel close to the stage), its high-quality audio and acoustics, and the vibrance it has brought back to Berkeley’s cultural life.
Visitor Tips and Information
Bring ID and cash for priority service. Every patron needs a ticket and valid photo ID for entry (especially 21+ for drinks) (www.theuctheatre.org ). If you plan to check a jacket or bag at coat check, bring a few dollars cash (coat check is cash-only) (www.theuctheatre.org ). There is no on-site ATM, so plan ahead. Arrive early. Doors usually open around 6–7pm (one hour before showtime). Long lines (especially for popular shows) can form outside, so arriving 30–45 minutes before doors is common. Early arrival also helps you grab a good spot for GA or secure one of the few seats. Dress comfortably. Many shows are standing-room, so wear comfortable shoes. Layers are wise as the space can get warm when full. Earplugs are available at some shows, but bringing your own (for kids especially) is smart because the sound can be loud (www.theuctheatre.org ). Follow venue policies. All-ages are welcome except infants – no babies in arms (www.theuctheatre.org ). Outside food/drink, weapons, bulky bags, selfie-sticks, lasers and anything deemed a nuisance won’t be allowed through security (www.theuctheatre.org ). Smoking is only permitted outside in the dedicated patio area (where you may exit momentarily and allow re-entry) (www.theuctheatre.org ). Photography with flash and videorecording are never allowed (fine to take a casual low-res phone photo, but no concert filming). Check the weather. Waiting in line on University Ave may expose you to rain (Berkeley drizzle or fog can appear late), so have an umbrella or rain jacket if forecast. No re-entry. Once you enter the hall, you generally cannot leave and come back in, so use the restroom and buy concessions beforehand. And remember: tickets are final sale (theuctheatre.org ), so make sure of your date. Following these tips will help ensure a smooth, fun concert experience at the UC Theatre.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do tickets cost for shows at The UC Theatre?
Ticket prices at The UC Theatre vary by event and artist. Smaller local or indie concerts often have tickets in the $25–$40 range. Larger headliner acts or special events can range $60–$80 (plus fees). For instance, recent listings show some shows at $35 and others at about $82 (www.theuctheatre.org ) (www.theuctheatre.org ). Always check the specific event for its exact pricing.
Where can I buy tickets, and is there a box office fee?
You can purchase tickets online (through publicly available outlets) or in person at The UC Theatre’s box office. The box office is located at 2036 University Ave and is open Sundays 10:00am–2:00pm and one hour before showtime on event days (www.theuctheatre.org ). Buying at the box office avoids online fees: in-person sales have no added ticket fee (only a 3% credit card fee) (www.theuctheatre.org ). For hot shows, tickets may sell out, so it’s wise to buy early or watch for presale announcements.
What is the exact location of The UC Theatre and how do I get there by public transit?
The UC Theatre is at 2036 University Avenue, Berkeley (at Kittredge St) (www.theuctheatre.org ). It’s in downtown Berkeley. The Downtown Berkeley BART station (at Shattuck & Center St) is only a few blocks away (www.theuctheatre.org ). From there it’s a 5-minute walk or a brief bus ride. AC Transit buses also run along Shattuck and University Streets (many lines serve downtown) (www.theuctheatre.org ). Berkeley’s campus shuttles (50¢–$1 fare) stop in the area as well. Once you arrive downtown, just walk or take a short rideshare to University & Kittredge for the closest drop-off point.
Is parking available near The UC Theatre?
Yes. Downtown Berkeley offers hundreds of parking options. A convenient choice is the Center Street Garage (at Center & Shattuck, one block east of the theater). It has 720 spaces and is open until 1:00am on weekends (www.theuctheatre.org ). There are also metered street spots around University Ave (typically 2-hour limits in the evening) and surface lots like the Golden Bear Lot (University at Bonita), open until about 1:00am (www.theuctheatre.org ). Overall downtown has ~2,500 combined parking spots (www.theuctheatre.org ). Expect to pay a few dollars per hour. If using rideshare, the drop-off point on University Ave at Kittredge is right in front of the venue entrance.
Is seating reserved or general admission? Where can I stand or sit?
Most events are general admission (GA) on the main floor, meaning standing-room only in front of the stage. There are a few chairs and tables along the sides and back, but these fill quickly. If you need a seat, arrive early to claim one of the limited chairs. The venue also has two balcony levels: the first balcony has cabaret-style seating (tables and chairs), and the upper balcony has fixed seats. Many patrons stand on the main floor; reviewers note that “only a handful of places to sit” are available on the floor (www.tripadvisor.com ). For a good view, front-facing spots on the GA floor are ideal, or any balcony seat/table on ticketed shows. The sound system and tiered layout ensure good sight-lines from most areas (www.berkeleyside.org ) (www.tripadvisor.com ).
What items are prohibited or restricted at the venue?
For safety and comfort, many items are banned. The venue conducts bag searches and metal checks at entry (www.theuctheatre.org ). Disallowed items include weapons, large containers or bottles, outside food/beverages, laser pointers, spray paint, wrist chains, video recorders, detachable cameras, and similar. (In plain terms: no outside alcohol or food, and no professional cameras or video equipment without permission.) Lasers or loud air horns are also outlawed. Readers and blunt objects are not permitted. Essentially only personal small items (phone, keys, small purse) are allowed. Violating these rules will result in the items being confiscated. Remember, even reusable water bottles are not allowed (so drink up before entering) (www.theuctheatre.org ). Always check the updated list on the venue’s site or event announcement, as rules can vary by performer.
Is The UC Theatre accessible for wheelchair users or patrons with disabilities?
Yes, The UC Theatre is fully ADA-accessible (www.theuctheatre.org ). There is an elevator to reach the balcony levels, and a designated wheelchair-accessible viewing platform (with companion seating) on the first balcony. (www.tripadvisor.com ). Restrooms and entryways are also handicap-accessible. If you need any specific accommodations (e.g. sign language interpretation or mobility assistance), contact the box office or event staff in advance. Wheelchair spaces can be requested along with your tickets. All other seating (main floor and upper balconies) is reachable by stairs for those who can use them.
Can I bring a baby or child into The UC Theatre?
Yes, the venue is all-ages, meaning children of any age may attend if accompanied by an adult (www.theuctheatre.org ). The only exception is “no babies in arms”: infants must have their own ticket if attending, and strollers are discouraged due to space. If you bring a child, be aware that concerts can be very loud – staff recommend ear protection for children at louder events (www.theuctheatre.org ). Also plan to arrive early for seating if needed, as the crowding can be overwhelming for young kids. Some family-friendly shows may be announced from time to time.
Are cameras or recording devices allowed inside?
As a general rule, professional cameras and any video recording devices are not permitted unless the artist specifically allows them. Flash photography is always prohibited. Small personal cameras or phones are usually allowed for personal photos only (no flash or extended video), but you should assume the venue will ban any equipment that could disrupt others (www.theuctheatre.org ). Always follow the instructions of the house staff on this. If photography is allowed, it will typically be announced by the performer or management. Remember – video recording is never allowed and will get you ejected.
What is the smoking policy at The UC Theatre?
Smoking is not permitted inside the building. The UC Theatre has a designated outdoor smoking area (a small courtyard or patio behind the venue). If you need to smoke, you can exit to that area; security staff will record that you left, and you may re-enter promptly after (only via the smoking area door). There is no other way to re-enter once inside, so use the restroom before entering and queue up for a smoke break if needed earlier. E-cigarettes or vape pens are treated the same as smoking (only outdoors).
Is there an on-site ATM or credit card machine?
No, The UC Theatre does not have an ATM available (www.theuctheatre.org ). It does, however, accept all major credit and debit cards for ticETS, bar purchases and concessions (except at coat check). Keep in mind that coat check is a cash-only operation (www.theuctheatre.org ). If you anticipate needing cash (for coat check, parking meters, or other incidentals), withdraw it before arriving. Otherwise, cards work for most on-site transactions.
Does The UC Theatre serve food or only drinks at the bar?
The UC Theatre features a full-service bar and kitchen (theuctheatre.org ). You can purchase a variety of beverages (beer, wine, cocktails, non-alcoholic drinks) as well as food items. The menu often includes light fare like sandwiches, pizza by the slice, snacks or appetizers. Food service typically begins before the show and may continue during the early part of the event. Note that outside food or drinks are not allowed, so this is the only place to buy refreshments during a concert.
Can I leave and re-enter the venue during a show?
Generally, no. Once you enter and your ticket is scanned, you cannot freely leave and come back in, as there is no re-entry allowed from the street. The only exception is if you step outside to the venue’s designated outdoor smoking area – security will note your exit and you are permitted to re-enter immediately from that same point (www.theuctheatre.org ). Otherwise, plan to stay inside until intermission or the show ends.
Is The UC Theatre affiliated with UC Berkeley?
No – despite its name, The UC Theatre has never been affiliated with the University of California Berkeley (www.theuctheatre.org ). The “UC” stands for its historical name (United Artists/United California), not the campus. It is independently owned and operated by a nonprofit organization.
What was The UC Theatre originally known for?
Originally a movie theater opened in 1917, the UC Theatre was famous over the years for quirky events. Most notably, it hosted the longest-running midnight showings of The Rocky Horror Picture Show in the world, for over 22 years (www.theuctheatre.org ). It was also the site of a humorous stunt where filmmaker Werner Herzog ate his shoe on stage during a film premiere (www.theuctheatre.org ). These legendary moments are part of what makes locals fond of this historic venue.
