About The SunnySide Theatre
The SunnySide Theatre (recently reopened as the Rosebud Theatre) is a small, historic live music venue in downtown Roseburg. Housed in a brick building at 663 SE Jackson Street that dates to 1909 (www.therosebudtheatre.com ) (oregonnews.uoregon.edu ), the space originally started as Chapman's Pharmacy (oregonnews.uoregon.edu ) and later became the Sunnyside Theatre. After closing in 2023, new owners revived it as a vibrant community music hall in late 2024. The venue holds roughly 100 people (helm.news ), creating an intimate atmosphere. Its interior blends vintage charm (hand-carved wood railings, an upstairs balcony with view of the stage (www.therosebudtheatre.com )) with whimsical touches (old pianos built into the bar with motion-activated LED lights (www.therosebudtheatre.com )). Built by local artists and neighbors as a nonprofit community venue (www.eventsfy.com ), it has become a beloved spot for live music, theater and cultural events in Roseburg.
Events and Programming
The venue hosts a wide variety of events: live concerts (folk, indie rock, blues, funk, jazz, Americana, etc.), comedy nights, DJ dance parties and weekly community performances. Local and regional bands often play here, alongside touring acts. For example, Seattle-based funk/jazz outfit The Polyrhythmics headlined the grand reopening in Dec 2024 (www.therosebudtheatre.com ), and veteran local band “That Other Band” also played the opening weekend (oregonnews.uoregon.edu ). Regular programming includes weekly open-mic nights (for singer-songwriters, poets, comedians and dancers) with a relaxed all-ages vibe (kqua.org ). Each week’s lineup can be quite eclectic – past schedules featured everything from blues jams to a Halloween disco party with DJs and stand-up comedy (www.therosebudtheatre.com ). Shows run frequently (sometimes multiple nights a week). Typical cover charges are modest (often $5–$20): for instance, open-mic nights were $5 for adults ($2 for youth) (kqua.org ), and a summer 2023 acoustic concert suggested a $10 donation (www.ticketfairy.com ). Many events are all-ages (as noted on the venue’s press releases and event pages), while some late-night or 21+ concerts may be restricted by age. Tickets or cover charges are generally affordable, reflecting the venue’s community focus.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for headline concerts (and cover-charge events) are usually announced in advance on the theater’s official channels, and can often be bought online or reserved by phone. Smaller shows and open-mic nights generally allow pay-at-the-door entry if capacity remains. Popular events may sell out (the grand opening weekend was sold out), so it’s wise to follow the venue’s social media or join any mailing list for early notice. For walk-up tickets, the box office typically opens about an hour before showtime. Pricing tiers vary by event: for example, in 2023 an acoustic performance had a suggested $10 donation (www.ticketfairy.com ), while other concerts have had flat entry fees ($10–$15, or $20 for bigger acts). Keep some cash on hand (many events take cash cover or donations at the door) as well as a card, since some nights sell tickets online in advance. In short, plan ahead for major acts, but casual drop-ins are often possible on less busy nights.
Seating and Layout
The SunnySide is a small two-level venue with a main floor and a mezzanine balcony (www.therosebudtheatre.com ). The stage is at one end of the rectangular room. On the main floor, most space is general admission standing-room (often with a few scattered chairs or tables along the walls). A few rows of seating line the upstairs balcony, which overlooks the stage and has ornate carved wooden railings (www.therosebudtheatre.com ). Standing at floor level offers an up-close, energetic experience (but can mean standing for the set), while the upstairs benches provide a full view of the show. Because the capacity is only around 100 (helm.news ), even the “best seats” are relatively close to the performers. Sound and sightlines are generally good throughout; many regulars recommend the balcony edge for an unobstructed view, or the front row if you want to feel part of the show. Avoid standing directly behind large speakers. There are no obstructed-view areas – it’s intimate enough that nearly every spot sees the stage well. (There is no reserved VIP section; all areas are first-come, first-served by ticket category.)
Getting There and Parking
SunnySide is located at 663 SE Jackson St in downtown Roseburg (www.therosebudtheatre.com ) (the corner of SE Cass and Jackson as noted on walking tours (voicemap.me )). It’s in the heart of downtown, a block off Main Street, so it’s easy to find. If driving, on-street parking is available on Jackson, Cass, and side streets around the venue (most downtown street parking is free or metered with cheap rates after business hours). The City of Roseburg also operates a public parking garage at 551 SE Rose St (Rose & Main) with roughly 180 spaces (en.parkopedia.com ). This garage offers free short-term parking for downtown visitors and very low monthly rates (about $13–$17) for regular commuters (en.parkopedia.com ). Rideshares and taxis can drop off right in front on SE Jackson. There is no dedicated parking lot for the theater itself, so allow a few extra minutes to walk from a nearby lot if needed.
Public transit is an option: Umpqua Transit buses run along downtown streets. The Greenline (southbound) and Redline (northbound) both hit stops near SE Jackson/Cass and SE Jackson/Jefferson, which is an easy walk (Greenline runs roughly hourly on weekdays, 6:35am–8:10pm, and Redline 6:15am–8:09pm) (uptd-amplify.specialdistrict.org ) (uptd-amplify.specialdistrict.org ). Saturday service is hourly from about 8:15am–6:30pm (uptd-amplify.specialdistrict.org ). (There is no Sunday bus.) If you take the bus or train into Roseburg, allow a short walk west across I-5. If driving or riding in, the closest freeway exit is Exit 123 (Garden Valley Blvd); after exiting, head east on Garden Valley Blvd or NE Diamond Lake Blvd to reach downtown. For rideshare, the drop-off/pick-up spot is on SE Jackson in front of the building. Downtown is very walkable, so if you stay at a nearby hotel you can likely stroll.
Inside the Venue
Expect a friendly, casual club atmosphere inside. The entrance leads into a small lobby/bar area, where tickets and drink orders are taken. The bar serves local craft beers, wine and basic mixed drinks, plus soft drinks. Unique décor elements give the space character: for example, old upright pianos are built directly into the bar and light up with motion-activated LEDs (www.therosebudtheatre.com ). The overall vibe is vintage-modern – Edison bulbs, brick walls, and the antique feel of the century-old building mix with colorful lighting for a warm, “house concert” ambiance. The theater has basic amenities: small restrooms (one set on ground level; check-inside signs guide you there) and a walk-up bar. There is no coat check; patrons usually hang outerwear on wall hooks or keep it at their feet. Staff members will do a quick hand-check/metal-detector screening at the door for large bags or prohibited items (common policy at live-music venues). Inside, you’ll find a simple sound booth near the back for engineers. Wi-Fi may or may not be available (no public Wi-Fi is advertised), so expect the show to be offline. Cell signal is generally fair inside. For families, note that open-mic nights are all-ages (kqua.org ), but double-check event age limits (some concerts are 18+ or 21+ when alcohol is served). Don’t expect fancy lounge areas – all seating is general admission. Expect a vibrant, communal atmosphere: often people chat quietly before the show, but during performances it turns into a dedicated listening space. It’s a neighborhood venue, so friendliness and safety are high – staff know the regulars by name.
Nearby Amenities
SunnySide’s downtown location means you’re surrounded by dining and lodging options. For pre-show dining, walk a block west to Jackson Street Café (at 640 SE Jackson) for burgers and classic American fare (www.mapquest.com ), or try Marino’s Pizza a few blocks south for casual Italian. A short stroll north takes you to the Dickey’s Barbecue Pit and other sandwich shops on Oak Street. Just one block away to the north is Pacific Adventure Co (outdoor gear and a café), and to the northeast you’ll find hop-heavy brews at McMenamins Roseburg Station Pub & Brewery (700 SE Sheridan) (www.mcmenamins.com ). Several bars are nearby; for example, turf up the corner to Jarheads (a veteran-owned bar) or catch a pint at Rivert Johanna (a homebrew shop with taproom). If you get hungry during the show, there’s often a food truck parked outside or snacks available at the bar (check the schedule for special event vendors).
If you need lodging close by, note that downtown Roseburg has a few motels and inns. The Rosebur Inn (off I-5 on Sabin St) and Travelers Inn are about a mile away. A highly rated nearby option is Rosewood Inn & Suites at 790 NW Garden Valley Blvd (rosewoodinnsuitesroseburg.com ) (about 1 mile northwest, offering free breakfast and parking). Larger chain hotels like Holiday Inn Express or Oxford Suites are a 2-mile drive north on I-5 (Exit 123). For convenience, arriving at least 30–45 minutes before showtime is wise – downtown parking and traffic can get tight if there’s a big concert or event. After a show, downtown Roseburg is generally safe at night, but late-night rideshares/taxis wait near SE Jackson if buses have stopped. In short, you’ll find plenty of restaurants, cafés and a brewpub within easy walking distance, and a selection of hotels within a mile or two if you prefer to stay close.
What Makes This Venue Special
The SunnySide’s charm lies in its history and community spirit. It’s one of Roseburg’s oldest downtown buildings (dating back to 1909 (oregonnews.uoregon.edu )) repurposed as a live music hub. Locals lost this gathering place in 2023, so its revival was widely celebrated (the new owners are Roseburg residents who loved local music (oregonnews.uoregon.edu )). The theater’s personality shines through its quirky décor (rose light-pianos, psychedelic wall mural upstairs (www.therosebudtheatre.com )) and cozy scale. Artists appreciate the attentive crowd and quality production – local singer Mick Beach praised the “good sound systems” and staff expertise at the reopening (oregonnews.uoregon.edu ). Because it’s so small, every show has an intimate “living room concert” feel that big halls can’t match. Culturally, SunnySide fills a vital niche: it’s now one of the only dedicated live-music clubs in rural Douglas County, bringing diverse acts (from jazz to punk to acoustic folk) right into downtown. Its events often feature Oregon-based performers and even regional touring acts, which is pretty rare for a town this size. Over the years it accumulated a loyal following; you’ll often meet first-timers right alongside fans who have been coming since the old Sunnyside days. In short, this venue is special because it stitches together Roseburg’s past and present – preserving historic architecture while continuously hosting new creative energy. Both performers and audiences love its warm, “built by the community” vibe (www.eventsfy.com ) and the sense of local pride it brings.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The main floor is generally wheelchair-accessible (flat entry, path to stage) but the upstairs balcony is only reached by stairs. If you need an accessible seating, staff can usually accommodate on the ground floor. The theater is dog-friendly for service animals only. There are accessible restrooms on the main level. Rolling in late is not a problem before the show (doorman will let you in quietly) but once a performance starts, late entry may be restricted.
Age restrictions: Most events allow all ages, but check the event listing. Open-mic nights and family-friendly shows are all-ages (kqua.org ). Some concerts are 18+ or 21+ if alcohol is served or the artist requests it. Always carry an ID if you plan to drink, since the bar checks IDs for those 21 and over.
What to bring: Small bags or purses are fine but large backpacks or professional camera equipment are not allowed. Photography with phones or personal cameras without flash is usually fine. Expect a casual dress code (jeans and t-shirts are common). It’s wise to bring a jacket or sweater, as performances can get warm but a bit cooler once opened doors shake. If you’re sensitive to noise, bring earplugs (the sound can be loud at concerts).
Do’s and Don’ts: Outside food and drink are prohibited, but you can bring a water bottle. The theater has a modest bar (beer, wine, soda). Smoking (including vaping) is not allowed anywhere inside. If you have tickets, hold onto them – some shows use them for entry. A coat check is not provided; small personal items can be stowed under your seat or at your feet.
Timing: Doors usually open about 30–60 minutes before a show. It’s smart to arrive early for popular acts to get a good spot. If arriving much after showtime, call ahead; some events allow late seating at designated breaks. Plan your ride home: weekday buses end around 8pm (uptd-amplify.specialdistrict.org ), so for late shows you’ll likely need a taxi or rideshare after that. Crime is very low downtown, but always keep an eye on your belongings.
Insider Insights: Locals report there’s no Wi-Fi, so go offline and enjoy live music. Expect friendly staff – they’ve been known to chat with attendees or even invite repeat performers back on stage. The upstairs balcony is said to have good acoustics and a great view, so consider it your “stage box seats.” If a show has a suggested donation or cover, tipping bartenders at the modest bar is appreciated. Check the venue’s social postings too – special theme nights and local art shows pop up frequently. Finally, remember this is a homegrown scene: clapping and participation are encouraged, and many folks end up dancing or chatting with the musicians. So relax, be present, and soak up the communal “magic” that the founders spoke of (www.eventsfy.com ).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capacity of The SunnySide Theatre (Rosebud)?
The venue is quite small, holding roughly 100 people (helm.news ). This means shows sell out quickly, so it is very intimate compared to larger halls.
How much do tickets usually cost?
Covers are typically modest. For example, open-mic nights are about $5 (with reduced rates for teens) (kqua.org ). Many concerts range $10–$20. One benefit concert in 2023 suggested a $10 donation (www.ticketfairy.com ). Always check the specific event listing for exact pricing.
Where and how do I buy tickets?
Tickets for scheduled concerts (especially headliners) can be ordered online or by phone in advance. Smaller shows and open-mic nights usually let you pay at the door. The box office typically opens an hour before showtime for door sales. The venue sometimes offers presales via email announcements or local adverts, so following their official pages is recommended. Major shows often still have day-of tickets if not sold out.
Is there on-site parking for the venue?
There is no private lot attached to the theater. However, downtown Roseburg has street parking (metered or free depending on the area/time). The closest large parking is a city garage at 551 SE Rose St (about a block away) with ~180 spaces (en.parkopedia.com ). Many patrons also park on SE Jackson/Cass or use short-term lots. Always allow time to find a nearby space on busy nights.
Can I reach the theater by public transit?
Yes. Umpqua Transit’s downtown bus lines stop within one block of the venue. The Greenline (southbound) and Redline (northbound) run several stops along SE Jackson and Main Street hourly on weekdays (uptd-amplify.specialdistrict.org ) (uptd-amplify.specialdistrict.org ). (On Saturdays there’s service roughly 8:15am–6:30pm (uptd-amplify.specialdistrict.org ).) Check the current bus schedule for exact routes. The stop at SE Jackson & Cass or nearby SE Rose & Main will put you very close.
What is the seating arrangement – is it reserved or general admission?
All seating is general admission. The main floor is mostly standing-room (with few chairs), and the balcony has a handful of bench seats overlooking the stage. There are no assigned seats or VIP boxes. It’s first-come-first-served in both areas, so arriving early is wise if you want a prime spot. The upstairs seating (with carved wooden railings) offers great sight lines (www.therosebudtheatre.com ).
Are children and families allowed at the theater?
Many events are all-ages, and children are welcome to attend them. For instance, the popular weekly open mic nights are explicitly all-ages (kqua.org ). However, some concerts (especially late shows or those with alcohol) may be restricted to 18+ or 21+. Always check the event details: if it says "All Ages," minors can attend; otherwise review any age requirements or call the box office.
Can I bring a bag or camera?
Small purses and camera phones are allowed. Large backpacks or professional camera/video equipment are not permitted (and are usually checked at the door). Basic point-and-shoot or phone photos without flash are generally fine for personal use. Security might ask to inspect bags. No outside food or glass drinks are allowed, though empty water bottles can be refilled at the bar.
Is smoking or vaping permitted inside?
No. The theater is 100% non-smoking. This includes vaping/e-cigarettes. Smoking is only permitted outside the building, typically several feet from the entrance. (Many patrons gather on the sidewalk during intermissions.)
What time do the doors open before a show?
Doors usually open about 30–60 minutes before the advertised showtime. This gives time for ticketing, bag checks, and to grab a drink at the bar. If it’s a popular concert, arriving early (sometimes even one hour before) is recommended to secure a good spot near the stage. Check the event listing or press announcement for “doors” time, which is often posted alongside the show info.
What kind of drinks are served inside?
The theater has a full bar. You can buy beer (often local craft or well-known favorites), wine, and standard mixed drinks. Non-alcoholic sodas and water are also available. There is no kitchen, but sometimes snacks or popcorn might be offered. Outside food and drink is not allowed. Bar prices are reasonable for a live venue, and bartenders take both cash and card.
Is there coat check or luggage storage?
No formal coat check is provided. Most people keep coats or bags under their seats or along the walls. If you have a small jacket or bag, it’s fine to carry it with you. For larger coats, it’s best to come slightly earlier to find space on a chair or at your feet. During warmer months, many patrons don’t need heavy jackets anyway.
Is The SunnySide Theatre wheelchair accessible?
The main performance area is on ground level with street access, so most of the venue is wheelchair accessible. The balcony upstairs requires stairs, so those seats are not accessible. If you need an accessible seat, the staff can usually accommodate you on the main floor. The restrooms are on the main level. It’s always best to call ahead if you have specific accessibility needs.
What if I need to leave during a show?
Re-entry policies can vary by event. For most shows, brief leave-and-return during a performance is allowed (ask staff if you’re not sure, especially for late arrivals). If you step outside, don’t lose your ticket stub, as you might need it to re-enter. After a show has started, doors may be locked and reopened only during breaks. Plan your bathroom or drink breaks during set changes to minimize disturbance. Overnight guests often wait until intermission or after the show to step out.
What are the rules regarding outside food and drinks?
Outside food is not permitted. You may bring a closed water bottle, but the venue prefers people purchase drinks inside. Glass containers (like bottles or cans you bring in) are not allowed. All snack and refreshment needs should be met at the snack bar or through vendors present at the event.
Are there any dress codes or attire rules?
The dress code is casual. You will see jeans, T-shirts, hoodies, etc. Some people dress up a bit more for special shows or themed nights, but there are never strict attire rules. Be comfortable and safe – for example, closed-toe shoes if you’ll be standing crowd-surfing at a rock show. During winter, bring layers as it can get chilly before the show starts.
Is the Sunnyside Theatre the same as the Rosebud Theatre?
Yes. The historic Sunnyside Theatre (with address 663 SE Jackson) was renovated and reopened under the new name "Rosebud Theatre" in late 2024 (oregonnews.uoregon.edu ). All references to SunnySide generally mean the same building; it’s simply currently branded as Rosebud. The address and ownership changed, but the venue’s roots and location remain the same.
Who owns or operates this venue?
The theater is now co-owned by local music community members (names often appear in news coverage like Kristi Rifenbark and partners). It’s run as an independent live-music venue (not a chain). The ownership group leased the space in 2024 to relaunch it for performances (oregonnews.uoregon.edu ). Essentially, it is a community-driven enterprise of local music and arts supporters.
What is the nearest hotel or lodging to stay at?
A convenient nearby hotel is Rosewood Inn & Suites (790 NW Garden Valley Blvd) (rosewoodinnsuitesroseburg.com ) – it’s about a 1-mile walk to the theater and offers free breakfast. Other options include the small Roseburg Inn motel downtown, or larger chains (Holiday Inn Express, Oxford Suites) about 2 miles north on I-5. Downtown Roseburg has limited lodging, so advance booking is wise if plan to attend shows.
