Where classic style truly meets modern comfort.
The Calvin Simmons Theatre (The Calvin) emerged in the performance arts and events world in 1915 when it opened as part of the larger Oakland Auditorium.
Throughout its 90 years of operation, The Calvin hosted many performing arts organizations that reflected the cultural richness of Oakland and history of America: Chinese opera, jazz, gospel, classical, African music and dance, as well as graduations, recitals, comedy shows, and school dance performances.
The rehabilitation and reopening of The Calvin Simmons Theatre ushers in the renewal of a much-needed home for arts and culture in Oakland and the Bay Area. The restored theatre space will provide a medium-sized, state-of-the-art performance venue for local and touring artists.
The Calvin Simmons Theatre features:
- A 1,500 seat proscenium theatre space with brand new seats
- ADA-compliant stage & seating options
- 3 loge boxes
- Access to loading dock
- 3 Green rooms backstage
- Multiple dressing rooms
- Modern theatrical lighting
- State-of-the-art MEYER sound system
- Digital projection capabilities
Behind the name
This theatre space was named after Calvin Simmons, the first African-American conductor of a major orchestra. Calvin was a San Francisco native and the musical director of the Oakland Symphony from 1978 until his tragic passing in 1982 – at only 32 years of age. In his short career, Simmons worked for the San Francisco Opera, the Los Angeles Philharmonic, the Philadelphia Orchestra, Ojai Music Festival, the Metropolitan Opera, and Glyndebourne Touring Opera, among others.