by Kristen Nevarez Schweizer
November 30, 2023
My preschool-aged daughter has come to understand that her Mom “likes to watch stuff and then type on her computer” – which is a hilariously concise way of describing my work covering theater – so when she asked to attend a show with me because she wants to “wear lipstick and stay out late like Cinderella,” I was thrilled, but saved her first theatrical experience until now so it could be at a time and in a space that I hold sacred: an evening at The Old Globe.
This year marks the 26th annual performance of The Old Globe’s Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas!, the third year starring the magnificent Andrew Polec as the Grinch, and the first time my daughter has grabbed my hand as the curtain rose.
To describe it as a core motherhood memory is an understatement. To quote a three-year-old theater fan: “It was magic, but for real life.”
Here are my tips for any other parents planning to bring their kiddos to witness the wonder of The Old Globe’s Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas!
1. Parking is Plentiful (but far)
If your kids are out of car seats, taking a rideshare is a great idea, and a good drop-off/pick-up option is the central traffic circle by the Plaza de Panama fountain. If you are driving, there are 11 free (but busy) parking lots in Balboa Park and designated pick-up and drop-off spots for the park’s tram. For a close-ish free spot, I recommend the Organ Pavilion Lot.
All evening performance ticket holders can purchase valet parking in the San Diego Zoo’s parking structure on Old Globe Way. If you feel lucky, you may drive up and purchase directly from the valets on-site (subject to availability) for $21 on the night of your performance.
Valet parking spaces are limited and may be pre-purchased at a discounted rate of $17 by contacting the Ticket Services Department. For a popular show like Grinch, consider making your reservation as soon as possible.
The valet opens two hours before evening showtimes and closes 30 minutes after the evening’s final performance (or post-show forum) concludes.
2. Photograph with the Fir
The iconic Whoville Christmas tree, located in the Globe’s Copely plaza, is a seasonal San Diego icon that can be visited even if you do not attend the show.
It’s faster to get a shot at the backside of the tree, and if you angle your photo well, you can get a peek of the Grinch peeking out above the Helen Edison gift shop in your shot.
3. Sweet Sips
Lady Carolyn’s Pub – the Globe’s concessions stands – offers a large selection of meals, snacks, desserts, and beverages alongside a full bar. It opens 90 minutes before each performance, and there is plenty of seating to enjoy.
Seasonal adult selections include Santa-gria, Mistletoe Margaritas, and Snowy Schnapps. The kiddie drinks are especially fun, and the Grinchy Punch (complete with edible glitter) was a highlight for my kiddos.
Remember that food is never permitted in the theater, and Lady Carolyn’s stops serving 15 minutes before the show begins. Beverages with lids are allowed inside.
4. Beeline for the Bathroom
The performance is 85 minutes without intermission. The courtyard restrooms attached to the Lowell Davies Festival Stage (behind the Haddon Hall concessions area) are best to avoid lines in the Shiley Theater lobbies.
5. Seating Strategy
The show is intended for audiences ages three and up. Audience members under the age of two are invited to the 10:30 a.m. all-ages performance on weekends, where they can attend for free on the lap of their ticketed caregiver. Regardless of age, each audience member, including babes in arms, must have a ticket to be admitted into the theater. Free lap tickets must be obtained from the Ticket Office and are unavailable online.
Consider breaking up your party to give kids an optimal view from the front of the balcony or an aisle seat (which includes a wintry surprise!) Free booster seats are available upon request – just ask an usher.
There are sensory-friendly performances and parents can also call the ticket office to request more information about the needs-only quiet room.
This show is a hot ticket, so reserve your seats soon.
6. Prep Their Presumptions
This show is an updated take on Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas. The story is similar and quotes the book, but it is an original script, and narrated by “Old Max” (a grown-up version of the Grinch’s pup, played by local gem Steve Gunderson.)
Andrew Polec’s Grinch felt loud and menacing to my five-year-old son last year, but the third-time’s the charm and Polec has toned down the anger as he’s settled into the role. My brave three-year-old daughter found this Grinch to be a mischievous joy. His physical humor and comedic ad-libs will appeal to audiences of all ages.
7. Snag Souvenirs
The Helen Edison Gift Shop is full of whimsical trinkets to remember the trip by. Peruse their options – or consider coming already prepared with a memento to present your loved one!
8. Walk & Talk
On the walk back, ask your kids which characters were their favorites and what was different from the book or movie! My daughter said Iris Manter is an incredible Cindy-Lou Who and she noticed that “she had brown hair, like me!” My favorite was Berto Fernandez as a stand-out performer in the Grown-Up Who Ensemble.
Stay in the spirit on your drive home by playing Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch soundtrack or the original poem.
Enjoy the magic!
Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas! is a beloved tradition and a testament to The Old Globe’s impeccable reputation. My daughter might not remember the evening when she is grown, but I will never forget the night she gasped and first believed what I know to be true: theater is magic for real life.
