Irvine Barclay Theatre Operating Co

Irvine Barclay Theatre is a leading presenter of performances by diverse and exceptional artists, providing a state-of-the-art venue for community cultural organizations and university programs, and broadening the scope, availability and appreciation of performing arts in Orange County.

Since its opening, Irvine Barclay Theatre has earned a reputation as a leading presenter of diverse and high-quality performing arts in Orange County. Over the past 35 years, the theatre has hosted more than 7,000 events with over 3 million attendees, including dance, music, theater, and spoken-word performances that are unparalleled in scope and artistic excellence in the region.
IBT has remained committed to its threefold mission:

1. Support the production, marketing, and sales needs of community cultural organizations.
2. Assist the University of California, Irvine in achieving its educational mission.
3. Present unique artistic and socially significant experiences for Orange County audiences.

Beyond its performances, the theater is an important educational and community resource, partnering with local arts organizations, university programs, and civic initiatives. Its annual programming includes as many as 250 public events, complemented by educational workshops, master classes, and community engagement opportunities that deepen the impact of the arts across the region.

Irvine Barclay Theatre has been a cornerstone of Orange County’s cultural life for over 35 years, presenting world-class performances that inspire, entertain, and connect audiences. From internationally acclaimed musicians and Broadway stars to jazz, dance, and spoken-word artists—including Pat Metheny, Pink Martini, Sutton Foster, Colin Mochri, Wynton Marsalis, Ballet Jazz Montreal, Amy Tan, and Alan Cumming—the theatre offers diverse experiences that engage a wide range of interests.

In addition to performances, IBT extends its impact through educational and community initiatives, master classes, school partnerships, talkbacks, and artist workshops. These programs engage students, university audiences, and community members, fostering creativity, learning, and meaningful connections to the performing arts. Over its history, the theatre has hosted more than 7,000 events, attracting over 3 million attendees, and serving as a vital platform for both emerging and established artists across disciplines.

Orange County is home to a growing and culturally diverse population with varied interests in the performing arts, yet opportunities to experience world-class performances in an intimate, community-centered venue remain limited. Irvine Barclay Theatre uniquely combines high-caliber artistry with accessibility, bringing internationally renowned musicians, Broadway stars, jazz ensembles, dance companies, and spoken-word performers directly to the community.

There is a continued need to provide programs that engage audiences of all ages and backgrounds, from first-time patrons to long-time performing arts enthusiasts. Supporting access to performances, educational initiatives, and engagement activities for students, seniors, veterans, and people with disabilities ensures the theater continues to enrich lives, foster learning, and cultivate lasting connections to the performing arts.

Irvine Barclay Theatre primarily serves audiences in Orange County, while also attracting attendees from Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego counties, and beyond.