Your safety is our top priority, and we rely on your cooperation and sound judgment to ensure this level of safety. Our venues are protected by 24-hour video surveillance. Please review the following security details.

Security Screening

San Diego Theatres requires that ALL guests attending an event pass through a security screening performed by trained security personnel. This will include, but is not limited to:

  • Walk-through or wand metal detection inspection
  • Bag checks
  • Visual inspection
  • Other screening deemed necessary by security staff

We encourage guests to leave non-essential items, including oversized purses and bags, at home or to secure them safely in their vehicle. Any item larger than a small clutch or wallet may be subject to a security inspection.

Please refer to our list of prohibited items below. We kindly request that you leave these items in your vehicle or at home. San Diego Theatres will not take possession or be responsible for any items removed as a result of the security screening process. Any guest who declines to be screened may be denied entry to San Diego Theatre’s events.

Please plan to arrive at the venue early to allow sufficient time for the security screening process. Please plan on arriving at least one hour before the scheduled start time of the event.

Prohibited Items

The following items are not allowed inside the theatre (Note: prohibited items may change without notice at the direction of San Diego Theatres Security):

  • Bags should not exceed 12" x 6" x 12." San Diego Theatres does not provide a service to check bags, coats, or any other personal belongings.
  • Oversized bags (i.e., backpacks, suitcases, beach bags, laptop bags, etc.) are prohibited.
  • Weapons (or any item with the potential to be harmful to others), firearms, pepper spray/mace, flares, or fireworks.
  • No outside food, beverages, liquid containers, alcohol, cans, bottles, flasks, coolers, or water bottles.
  • Workman's tools, pocket knives, or any other tools.
  • Laser pens/pointers, flashlights, and glow sticks or other products that glow.
  • Laptop/tablet computers.
  • Signs, Flags, Banners, or Posters, unless otherwise notified by the venue.
  • Skateboards, rollerblades, bicycles, helmets, or chairs
  • Balloons, confetti, or glitter.
  • Illegal drugs or substances.
  • Video or audio recording devices of any kind, including GoPro cameras.
  • Solicitation in the venue is not allowed.

Allowed Items

  • Prescription medicine
  • One sealed bottle of water (up to 16 ounces)

Lost and Found

If you lost (or found) something at the theatre, please email us at lostandfound@sandiegotheatres.org or call 619-615-4006. Include as many details as you can, including the event you attended, the date you lost your item, details about the item lost, and where you think you lost it. If you found an item, please describe the item, where it was found, and provide any information that might help identify the owner. Please remember to include a contact phone number in your email.

Guest Code of Conduct

To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all, guests attending events at the Civic Theatre and Balboa Theatre are expected to adhere to the following rules. Non-compliance may result in removal without refund.

  • Treat fellow guests and staff with respect at all times.
  • Follow all posted instructions and directions from venue personnel.
  • All guests are subject to security screening upon entry.
  • Outside food and beverages are not permitted.
  • Weapons, fireworks, and oversized bags of any kind are prohibited.
  • Silence or turn off all electronic devices during the performance.
  • Sit in your assigned seat and present your ticket upon request.
  • Accessible seating is reserved for guests with disabilities.
  • Loud talking, heckling, and singing during performances are not permitted.
  • Avoid behaviors that disrupt others’ enjoyment or interfere with the performance.
  • Standing in aisles, dancing on chairs, or blocking walkways is not allowed.
  • Harassment, discrimination, threats, or offensive behavior will not be tolerated.
  • Abusive behavior, fighting, or entering restricted areas will result in immediate removal.
  • Offensive language or clothing is prohibited.
  • No physical contact with guests or staff is permitted.
  • Children must be supervised; disruptive behavior must be addressed promptly.
  • Intoxicated or underage guests will not be served alcohol.
  • Smoking and vaping are strictly prohibited inside the venue.
  • Photography or video recording is prohibited unless approved by staff.
  • Treat the venue and its fixtures with care. Vandalism or theft may lead to prosecution.
  • Comply with all health and safety regulations.
  • Be aware of emergency exits and the procedures for using them.
  • No re-entry is allowed after exiting the theatre.
  • Report inappropriate behavior or safety concerns to staff.

Theatre Etiquette Considerations

To ensure a memorable night out for you and all other guests:

If You Are Late, You May Need to Wait

For some events, late arrivals may be asked to wait for a break in the show before being allowed to take their seat. This minimizes production and audience interruptions during the beginning of the show. Guests who are waiting to take their seats can watch our lobby monitors to see and hear what's happening onstage.

Remember To Silence Your Devices

Silence or turn off your device before the curtain rises. That suspenseful scene should never have to compete with a ringtone.

Look & Listen Now, Converse Later

Talking during the show can be distracting for those nearby and cause you to miss important show details. Please wait until intermission or conclusion.

Make Memories, Through Your Own Eyes

Unless otherwise stated at the venue, please no photography and/or video. Be in the moment.

Sip Smartly

Practice moderation when enjoying alcoholic beverages.

Tiny Humans, Big Responsibility

If your little one gets antsy or vocal, a quick lobby break is the kindest move for everyone, including the artists.

Luxurious Comfort Starts with a Tidy Theatre

Please dispose of trash in appropriate receptacles and avoid spills, slips and general untidiness, ensuring you and all guests experience the show in the utmost comfort and luxury. Please inform a staff member if you see or cause a spill (we won't judge!).

Fragrances in Shared Space

Please be sensitive about the shared space of the theatre and let the show be the only thing that overwhelms your senses, and the senses of those around you. 

Double Check Your Seat Location

Please ensure you are in the right seat, to avoid the interruption and inconvenience of re-locating during the show. Our ushers are always happy to help you find your seat.

Applaud and Cheer When It Matters Most

Artists and performers truly appreciate enthusiastic audience applauds and cheers and feed off the energy—but only when it’s well-timed to avoid distractions.