BACKSTAGE at the Lobero Lobero Theatre Foundation

Artists and Fans Agree

by Cecilia Martini-Muth

September 11, 2015

The Highbrow Lowdown from Executive Director, David Asbell

I’m always happy to hear that artists love the Lobero as much as we do. It was very affirming to travel back through all the photos of Jazz artists over the last 15 years to see that many of them have terrific things to say about the Lobero Theatre. When I get to speak with these talented artists backstage about how much they’ve enjoyed their experience and how they’d love to return, it reminds me of all the reasons we’ve decided to dedicate ourselves to this theatre.

We at the Lobero Theatre work hard behind the scenes so that musicians, dancers, actors, technicians and promoters can put on the best shows they can. We try our best to deliver an experience for those who attend and those who perform.

We still need help from you–our patrons, supporters and friends–to guarantee we can keep up with our mission to preserve and maintain the Lobero Theatre and facilitate the finest in the performing arts. I can guarantee that there is a way to support the Lobero that will line up with something that you’re passionate about. If you have an ear or an interest in jazz, become a Brubeck Circle member. If you want to keep seeing kids get up onstage and realize their dreams, then you can support our vibrant youth programs. You can leave your mark by naming a seat in our auditorium, or leave a lasting impression by contributing to the Lobero’s Endowment fund. If you would rather roll up your sleeves and spend your time to support the theatre, then maybe you should consider volunteering as an usher, or becoming a Lobero Theatre Associate.

There are so many facets to this great organization, and BACKSTAGE works to spotlight them all in each issue. Start by perusing this years’ annual report, and then read on about all the people and programs that make the Lobero sing.

As we get ready to raise the curtain on another season, just look at all the amazing events coming up. We’re looking forward to the return of the LOL Comedy Festival, another insightful evening with Pico Iyer, a benefit event with Michael McDonald, and new and inspiring seasons from CAMA’s Masterseries and the Santa Barbara Chamber Orchestra. Plus, Lobero LIVE is thrilled to be presenting The Milk Carton Kids, Dorado Schmitt and Tierney Sutton – all return performances. In fact, many of the performers you’ll see this fall return again and again to this honored hall. (Just as we hope you will too.)

Don’t be a stranger,

David Asbell
Executive Director

BACKSTAGE at the Lobero Highbrow Lowdown Support the Lobero

Pedro De La Cruz: From Canvas to Community

By Anne Wilde on February 4, 2025

Meet Local Artist Matt Rodriguez

By Anne Wilde on January 30, 2024

Spotlight on Artist Brad Nack

By Anne Wilde on July 26, 2023

BACKSTAGE at the Lobero

by Cecilia Martini-Muth

September 9, 2015

Enjoy the newest edition of BACKSTAGE at the Lobero

Mark your calendar; here’s the list of upcoming events all season (p 32)
View the Lobero Theatre Foundation’s annual report (p 5)
Hear what’s coming up from the Santa Barbara Youth Symphony (p 41)
Chat with architect Jeff Shelton about his work on the Lobero’s courtyard tent (p 43)
Meet Lobero Associates’ president Janet McCann – see what she has planned this year (p 17)
Plus, more inside!

From all of us at the Lobero Theatre Foundation, we hope you enjoy the newest installment of BACKSTAGE at the Lobero.

We hope to see you at the theatre soon.

Pedro De La Cruz: From Canvas to Community

By Anne Wilde on February 4, 2025

Meet Local Artist Matt Rodriguez

By Anne Wilde on January 30, 2024

Spotlight on Artist Brad Nack

By Anne Wilde on July 26, 2023

Intermission Lobero Theatre Foundation

The Lobero Theatre: A Historical Shelter & Architectural Inspiration

by Cecilia Martini-Muth

July 13, 2015

In 1925, Santa Barbara experienced a devastating 6.3 magnitude earthquake that resulted in 13 casualties and eighty-five percent of the commercial buildings in Downtown Santa Barbara were destroyed or badly damaged. One of the only buildings left untouched was the Lobero Theatre.

Inspired by the 90^th anniversary of the Santa Barbara earthquake, and the wonderful exhibit now on display at the The Santa Barbara Historical Museum, Emily Solomon takes us on a trip back in time…

Residents of Santa Barbara flocked to the Lobero for shelter and safety during this time. After the earthquake, there was lots of rebuilding that had to take place. One of the most influential architects on the project was George Washington Smith, who at the time was noted one of the most popular architects in the United States. During a California trip during WWI, Smith was visiting friends in Montecito. He enjoyed Santa Barbara so much that he ended up buying property to build himself a home and studio. His architectural style for the home was inspired by farmhouses he saw on a trip to Spain in 1914.

The Spanish Colonial Revival architectural style carried into his rebuilding efforts in Downtown Santa Barbara. Before the earthquake, the city’s buildings were mainly designed in the Moorish Revival style. In the end, Santa Barbara got a complete facelift and if the earthquake didn’t happen, we wouldn’t have the beautiful Spanish style homes and businesses that line our streets today.

The Lobero Theatre’s Mediterranean look also was a major factor during the rebuilding project. Smith and the other architects wanted the buildings to have uniformity, and the fact that the Lobero already had that Spanish look, made their decision to rebuild in that specific style even easier.

It is a remarkable history, and oh what stories this stage could tell! Santa Barbara has changed dramatically in 142 years, and the Lobero has always been at the heart of it all.

June 29 marked the 90^th anniversary of the Santa Barbara earthquake. The Santa Barbara Historical Museum currently has a spectacular exhibit, showcasing still photographs and videos of footage of the earthquake. To take a sneak peak before visiting the exhibit, click here.

Whenever you step into the Lobero Theatre, you feel like you’re in a space that has seen so much history and musical talent over the past 142 years. The Lobero shed a light on this, “History of a Community Stage” in the recent BACKSTAGE at the Lobero, which you can read here. This is just one more piece of history to recognize its historical importance, not just as a haven for great music fanatics, musicians, dancers and theatre enthusiasts, but also as a landmark of architectural brilliance and change.

Author Bio: Emily Solomon is no stranger to the Lobero Theatre. She recalls dancing in the theater during her early teenage years. While she spends most of her time writing content for local Santa Barbara businesses and for online publications, she always manages to escape to her favorite music venue to hear her favorite tunes and discover new artists to love. Emily is a graduate of Emerson College with a degree in Writing and Publishing. She currently runs an online content business called, Go-Content. Contact her at emilyfaye@go-content.com

construction Historic Theatre Historic Theatre District history Lobero Theatre Lobero theatre foundation Preservation renovation

Lobero Named One Of The Most Beautiful Theaters In The World

By Anne Wilde on July 21, 2023

Announcing New Board President

By Anne Wilde on June 2, 2023

Covid Policies for Patrons

By Cecilia Martini-Muth on May 26, 2022

Lobero Partners

Catching up on the Summer Festival

by Cecilia Martini-Muth

June 26, 2015

What you should know About the Music Academy of the West

We showcased the Music Academy of the West in our last issue of BACKSTAGE at the Lobero, and now that the Music Academy’s Summer Festival is underway (with many shows at the Lobero Theatre), we thought we’s revisit highlights from our conversation with Communications Manager Tim Dougherty.

Herewith: a few words about this venerable institution of classical music.

Tell us a little bit about the Music Academy of the West.

The Music Academy was founded in 1947 by a group of Southern California arts patrons and musicians, including the legendary soprano Lotte Lehmann and the famed conductor Otto Klemperer. After initially setting up shop at Cate School in Carpinteria, the Music Academy relocated to its current home, the former estate of John Percival Jefferson, in 1951. Our principal programmatic offering is an eight-week Summer Festival, during which the Music Academy presents some 200 public events including orchestra concerts, chamber recitals, and a fully staged opera. This year’s festival dates are June 15 to August 8. The Music Academy also presents Metropolitan Opera simulcasts in Hahn Hall throughout the year. Our year-round staff currently numbers 22, though we add a considerable number of seasonal staff each summer.

What does an organization like the Music Academy look for when choosing a space to perform?

We generally look for venues that promise an optimal experience for patrons and performers alike. We want to provide our patrons with comfortable seating and generous sightlines, and we want to provide our performers with first-rate facilities. Of course, sound quality is a top concern for all involved. The Lobero delivers on all counts.

How long has the Music Academy been performing at the Lobero Theatre?

The Music Academy’s association with the Lobero Theatre extends back to the year of our founding, 1947. In fact, I believe the first event the Academy presented at The Lobero was a recital featuring none other than Lotte Lehmann in July of that year.

How was your experience last summer during your festival, and what do you think of the newly renovated Lobero?

We enjoyed an immensely successful 2014 season, and are very pleased with the new and improved Lobero. Our patrons especially like the roomier seats.

What’s coming up from the Music Academy this season?

The Music Academy will present a new production of Gioachino Rossini’s wonderful comic opera Cinderella at the Granada Theatre on July 30 and August 1. David Paul, who helmed the last three Academy opera productions, will again serve as stage director. The coming season’s guest conductors will include the effervescent Nicholas McGegan, who will perform at The Lobero.

See all the upcoming Music Academy Events at the Lobero Theatre, here.

Read the full story as it appeared in BACKSTAGE, here.

Joshua James – Multidisciplinary Artist

By Anne Wilde on January 31, 2025

BOXTALES Theatre Company Celebrates 30th Anniversary

By Anne Wilde on March 8, 2024

The Choral Society Celebrates 75th Anniversary

By Anne Wilde on November 22, 2022

Articles

King Sunny Ade Cancelled

by Cecilia Martini-Muth

June 22, 2015

KING SUNNY ADE & HIS AFRICAN BEATS ON JULY 17 HAS BEEN CANCELLED DUE TO VISA ISSUES.

Earlier today, the Lobero received word from King Sunny Ade’s management regarding this development:

Today we deeply regret to report that King Sunny Ade & his African Beats concert planned for July 17 has been cancelled. Due to a worldwide computer system breakdown within The Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs, US Consulates have been unable to issue visas. The State Department has provided no specific timeline as to when this problem will be corrected. Once it is fixed, priority will be given to medical and humanitarian cases only. Performers and artists will not be given priority. This is a worldwide problem, not specific to only a few consulates, and affecting both immigrant and non-immigrant processing.

Due to the uncertainty surrounding this unfortunate situation, we are forced to announce the cancellation of King Sunny Ade’s remaining tour dates in both the US and Canada.

The State Department has posted this recent update here.

We apologize for any inconvenience surrounding this issue.

Refunds will be issued automatically for any credit card sales.

Please contact the Lobero box office at 805.963.0761 if payment was made in cash, or if you have any questions regarding your purchase.

Joshua James – Multidisciplinary Artist

By Anne Wilde on January 31, 2025

Casting Call

By Cecilia Martini-Muth on October 2, 2015

Ask Me Another

By Cecilia Martini-Muth on May 14, 2015

Lobero Theatre Foundation

#Culture101

by Cecilia Martini-Muth

May 29, 2015

Santa Barbara: California’s most cultured coast.

Isn’t that a great way to sum it up? (Of course, we’re biased.)

The Lobero is proud to be part of such a fabulous and diverse group of arts organizations — performing arts, visual arts and otherwise, and we had a blast learning more about the social media efforts to promote our cultural wares taking place over at Visit Santa Barbara.

culture-in-santa-barbara-part-ii-7-400x600

culture-in-santa-barbara-part-ii-6-400x600

Back in April, a few fun and influential social media pros came to town to see what Santa Barbara had to offer their followers. The Lobero was chosen as one of the stops along the way for Jessica Doll, aka TeamWiking.com / @teamwiking came by the theatre for a behind-the-scenes tour of the auditorium, and got to see the stage and ghostlight in a quiet moment. (That’s a portion of one of her gorgeous photos at the top of this post.)

Afterward, we got to enjoy a tour and wine-tasting in the Presidio Neighborhood–of which, the Lobero is a member–with some of the other visiting social media pros. Wayne and Pat Dunlap have traveled extensively and run a hugely popular travel blog. (here’s their Santa Barbara post) They would make for amazing dinner guests, and their travel knowledge has been well documented. Meeting Ted Nguyen was also a treat, as this guy really knows what he’s talking about when it comes to social media, and was a lot of fun to spend an afternoon with as we sipped wine and chatted about travel and social media.

Check out the posts generated from this busy afternoon:

and even better, follow the #Culture101 hashtag on twitter; the hits keep on coming in.

It was great getting to know the folks-in-the-know when it comes to travel and social media. Thanks to Visit Santa Barbara for coordinating and for including us.

Also, if you’re not already following us in our social efforts, what are you waiting for? We’re busy posting almost every day.

behind the scenes Lobero Theatre Presidio Neighborhood Santa Barbara Travel

Lobero Named One Of The Most Beautiful Theaters In The World

By Anne Wilde on July 21, 2023

Announcing New Board President

By Anne Wilde on June 2, 2023

Covid Policies for Patrons

By Cecilia Martini-Muth on May 26, 2022

Articles Lobero Partners

Ask Me Another

by Cecilia Martini-Muth

May 14, 2015

Just before his hit AMC show “Mad Men” comes to a close, show creator Mathew Weiner sits in the hot seat as VIP (Very Important Puzzler) for this week’s episode of “Ask Me Another” – presented by KCLU & recorded at the Lobero Theatre.

In addition to the VIP segment, KCLU listeners and contestants were challenged with run rounds of trivia, word games and puzzles. This note from the program sums it up: Warning: Impersonations, puns, math, cover songs, singing and dancing are all involved in this process! Be sure to listen carefully for some celebrity voices straight from the show in this segment.

Mad Men has earned Mr. Weiner seven Emmy Awards, three Golden Globes, a Peabody and more. Listen to the story here, or below, as you prepare yourself for the series finale on Sunday.

Catch the full episode recorded at the Lobero Theatre when it airs on Sunday, May 17 & Monday, May 18 on KCLU, 102.3 FM & 1340 AM

PS, we love this photo of Matthew Weiner and Ophira Eisenberg taken in the Lobero’s Greenroom.

*Image and story originally posted here: http://www.npr.org/2015/05/14/406467009/matthew-weiner-no-longer-lindas-loser-husband

Live Tapings NPR Radio Television

Joshua James – Multidisciplinary Artist

By Anne Wilde on January 31, 2025

BOXTALES Theatre Company Celebrates 30th Anniversary

By Anne Wilde on March 8, 2024

The Choral Society Celebrates 75th Anniversary

By Anne Wilde on November 22, 2022

Jazz at the Lobero

Charles Lloyd, Jazz Master

by Cecilia Martini-Muth

April 24, 2015

This week’s Independent cover story highlights Charles Lloyd, a giant of jazz, and one of the Lobero’s most celebrated alum.

Charles Lloyd has recently been honored by as an NEA Jazz Master–the “highest honor that our nation bestows on jazz artists.” Recently celebrating his 75^th birthday, Charles Lloyd is more vital than ever—regularly playing in different ensembles made up of some of the most innovative players in jazz. Lloyd’s supreme improvisational talents and passion for cross-pollinating jazz with rock as well as non-Western styles of music during the ‘60s and ‘70s established him as one of the key figures in the development of fusion and world music.

After a stint curating a few nights at SFJAZZ, Charles returns to the Lobero with longtime friends and collaborators on April 28 for a very special performance with guitarists Bill Frisell and Greg Leisz, Eric Harland on drums and Reuben Rogers on bass. There are still a few seats remaining for this can’t-miss concert.

“I like playing here at home,” said Lloyd of his upcoming show. “The people who are inviting us — they care. It’s like that.”

Head on over to Independent.com and read the full story for a thoughtful and intimate look at one of the most prolific musicians around today.

Charles Lloyd Jazz at the Lobero

Good vibes and great tunes

By Cecilia Martini-Muth on May 28, 2018

Ghostlight Society welcomes Charles Lloyd

By Cecilia Martini-Muth on January 5, 2016

The Brubeck Circle

By Cecilia Martini-Muth on September 22, 2014

Lobero Theatre Foundation

Remembering Al Pizano

by Cecilia Martini-Muth

March 25, 2015

Alberto Paul Pizano
January 8, 1931 – March 19, 2015

Dedicated Community Advocate and Volunteer

Santa Barbara lost a tireless advocate for education and the cultural arts in the passing of Alberto Pizano. Born and raised in East Los Angeles, Pizano’s vast contributions to the communities where he lived can be seen through the many leadership positions he held in local and regional organizations over the course of his lifetime.

Pizano made a name for himself by co-founding and/or leading a plethora of community organizations in Santa Barbara, including the Flamenco Arts Festival, Mariachi Festival, Public Education Foundation, United Boys & Girls Clubs of Santa Barbara County, Santa Barbara Business Council, Santa Barbara Latinos for Better Government, and Old Spanish Days Fiesta, for which he served as El Presidente in 1987. We invite you to read the full Memoriam to learn more about all of Al’s many accomplishments.

Pizano was also a Lobero Theatre Foundation Board member, and a valued member of our Lobero Family.

Pizano is survived by his wife Lillian of 65 years; his daughters Vibiana Pizano Smith and Sonia Pizano- Bellotti; grandchildren Pablo Pizano Smith and Jaclyn Pizano Smith; and sons-in-law Brian Smith and Philip Bellotti. He is predeceased by his two sons, Paul Pizano and Michael Pizano.

A funeral mass will be held at Old Mission Santa Barbara, 2201 Laguna Street, on Friday, March 27 at 11:00 a.m. Internment at Santa Barbara Cemetery, 901 Channel drive. A reception will take place at the Montecito Country Club.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be sent to Visiting Nurse and Hospice Care at 509 East Montecito Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101 or www.vnhcsb.org/donate.

Lobero Named One Of The Most Beautiful Theaters In The World

By Anne Wilde on July 21, 2023

Announcing New Board President

By Anne Wilde on June 2, 2023

Covid Policies for Patrons

By Cecilia Martini-Muth on May 26, 2022

BACKSTAGE at the Lobero

BACKSTAGE Spring 2015

by Cecilia Martini-Muth

March 1, 2015

BACKSTAGE AT THE LOBERO is the Lobero Theatre’s bi-annual magazine detailing all the action taking place behind-the-scenes of this historic hall.

Learn more about what’s happening in the Historic Theatre District (pg 19)
See what the Lobero Theatre Associates have in store for their “Affair to Remember” Gala. (pg 13)
Check out the Lobero’s current calendar — take a look and reserve your seats today. (pgs 32-37)
Get your company involved with one of Santa Barbara’s crown jewels. (pg 17)
Do you like the cover painting by Chris Potter as much as we do? You can buy it and support the Lobero! (pg 6)

From all of us at the Lobero Theatre Foundation, we hope you enjoy the newest installment of BACKSTAGE at the Lobero, and we hope to see you at the theatre soon.

Help us save trees by choosing a digital subscription.

Click here and let us know you’d like to go paperless.

Associates backstage BACKSTAGE at the Lobero behind the scenes Corporate Sponsorship Events Fundraising Gala Historic Theatre District Lobero theatre foundation Support the Lobero

Pedro De La Cruz: From Canvas to Community

By Anne Wilde on February 4, 2025

Meet Local Artist Matt Rodriguez

By Anne Wilde on January 30, 2024

Spotlight on Artist Brad Nack

By Anne Wilde on July 26, 2023

Encore: Lobero

What People are Saying: Encore: Lobero Preservation work, one year later

by Cecilia Martini-Muth

February 27, 2015

The Lobero Theatre: Newly Refurbished, bolder sound and history in between

Guest post by Emily Solomon

Whether you’re a native Santa Barbarian or you haven’t been in this beautiful paradise for very long, it’s likely you have seen at least one show at the Lobero Theatre. It’s hard not to get addicted to the intimate atmosphere the theater provides, bringing anyone who crosses its path that much closer to the magic of live entertainment. After 140 years of award-winning performances, the recent “Encore: Lobero” preservation work of the Lobero Theatre has proved that the music truly still lives on in this historic landmark.

“Fantastic restoration of the theater. Thanks so much for preserving history for all to enjoy.”

In 2013, with the compassion and desire of board members and generous contributions from the Santa Barbara community, the renewal of the Lobero Theatre was ready to begin. This construction project was no small task. Because the theater has been around since 1873, it’s a historical landmark. The Foundation design team worked diligently with the Historic Landmarks Commission, historians and archivists to ensure that the changes to the Lobero Theatre would keep with the architectural integrity of the original theater. The Lobero Theatre was going to get a much-needed facelift with the following end goals: new seats, ceiling preservation work, interior painting, improved air flow, expanded restrooms and ADA compliance upgrades throughout.

“The Lobero is one of Santa Barbara’s crown jewels! I wanted to cry when I first saw what you have done for this beloved venue! Excellent work you guys!”

Today, every patron that walks through the beautiful Lobero Theatre is able to enjoy new, comfortable seats, a heating and air conditioning system that have improved airflow within the theater immensely. Restrooms have also been enlarged to meet today’s accessibility requirements. The theater is now equipped with eight wheelchair spaces and areas for companion seating. For hearing impaired patrons, the auditorium is now wired with Hearing Loop technology, allowing patrons wearing hearing aids to adjust their devices to amplify the sound to their comfort.

“Your new seats are sooo comfy!”

This is truly what makes supporters of the Lobero so special. No matter what walk of life you are, we all have the right to hear and appreciate the art of live performance. The Santa Barbara community understands that through and through.

The outside of the building has also undergone necessary changes too. The walkway to the main entry is now equipped with a compliant ramp and level landings at the top and bottom. The area where many people enjoy mingling on before and after shows, was redone to create a level area for patrons to gather safely. The Paseo at the side of the theater was re-paved with brick and a new ramp leading to the Green Room stairs,a nd side steps have been put in place to meet code.

“Beautiful historic feel, love the attention to detail.”

If you haven’t gotten the chance to experience the new and improved theater, there are some huge acts to check out. See for yourself why the Lobero Theatre is where the fantasy world of music lovers comes to life.

Awards and Rewards

By Cecilia Martini-Muth on September 26, 2014

Hearing Loop available at the Lobero

By Cecilia Martini-Muth on May 6, 2014

Holiday Wishes

By Cecilia Martini-Muth on December 16, 2013

Lobero LIVE

Big Tricks. Small Room.

by Cecilia Martini-Muth

January 22, 2015

Come one, come all to It’s Magic!
Santa Barbara’s Favorite Annual Magic show.

Feast your eyes on the quick slide-of-hand or sit on the edge of your seat as you watch samurai swords being juggled two or even three at a time. You won’t be able to take your gaze off the stage, trying to figure out the illusionist’s next move, while wondering how humanly possible the stunts are that continue to roll out throughout the show. This family show has something for everyone from dancing, big illusions, acrobatics, comedy, fire tricks and more.

It’s Magic! is America’s longest-running magic revue with 50 years of jaw-dropping entertainment under its belt. It once again graces the Lobero stage for TWO performances on Sunday, February 15. The show features a new line-up every year of world-renowned magicians including two-time “Stage Magician of the Year,” Danny Cole, “Best female Magician,” Mystina, star of the FOX show The Great Magic of Las Vegas, Tom Ogden, national and international “Master of Illusions,” Garry Carson and “juggling genius,” Dan Raspyni. Many of these stars have been in their own Vegas variety shows or featured on The Tonight Show, NBC and FOX.

The tale of It’s Magic! begins with two young entrepreneurs, Milt Larsen and Oliver Berliner, in 1956. The first showing was at the Wilshire Ebell Theater in Los Angeles, a 1300 seat venue. The show continued to grow, proving that Magic was indeed still alive and well in America. Eventually, Larsen had the idea to form a full-time private club for magicians and magic enthusiasts that would later be called the Magic Castle. Today, his creation of the Magic Castle has housed top performers including Lance Burton, Harry Anderson and Jeff McBride to name a few.

After 30 years of successful show runs, Larsen thought it was time to hang up the ol’ It’s Magic! top hat. It wasn’t until 1994 when Terry Hill, longtime member of the Magic Castle, suggested to Larsen that they reopen It’s Magic! to venues for all-ages so that anyone and everyone could experience a full evening of family fun. The show opened up again to rave reviews at the newly restored Alex Theater in Glendale, California, and expanded the show into other theaters around the country. Each year, a new show destination is added, allowing the art of magic to live on and thrive.

It’s Magic! appears at the Lobero Theatre on February 15 for two performances. Get your tickets by clicking here, or by calling the box office at 805.963.0761.

Family Fun It's Magic Tradition

Live from the Lobero Theatre

By Cecilia Martini-Muth on June 20, 2020

Friends and Immediate Family

By Cecilia Martini-Muth on May 17, 2019

If All the Sky Were Paper

By Cecilia Martini-Muth on October 30, 2015

Lobero Theatre Foundation

Joy

by Cecilia Martini-Muth

December 23, 2014

It was a night that would have touched your heart, another great evening of memories for Santa Barbara families.

Because of your support, hundreds of young artists experience the joy of performing on the Lobero stage.

During this season of sharing, we want to say thank you, thank you, thank you!

Happy Holidays from the Board and Staff of the Lobero Theatre Foundation

Share the Joy, make a gift.

Holiday Wishes

Lobero Named One Of The Most Beautiful Theaters In The World

By Anne Wilde on July 21, 2023

Announcing New Board President

By Anne Wilde on June 2, 2023

Covid Policies for Patrons

By Cecilia Martini-Muth on May 26, 2022

Lobero Theatre Foundation

Raising Funds and Spirits

by Cecilia Martini-Muth

December 22, 2014

Jim Dougherty honored as Fundraiser of the Year for Santa Barbara and Ventura Counties

Jim is the Lobero’s affable Director of Development, and in November was honored as Santa Barbara County’s Fundraiser of the Year by the Association of Fundraising Professionals. He was in good company with local volunteer and philanthropy honorees Janet Garufis, Michael Towbes and Montecito Bank & Trust. It was an honor well-deserved and a long time coming.

Since his very first days at the Lobero, Jim has been a mentor to all the staff. He entirely changed the way we fundraise, with a strong emphasis on developing personal relationships and ongoing cultivation. In the first three years, our average donation size more than doubled. His Influence has changed the way we do business and the way we think about Development work.

The Board and staff of the Lobero Theatre Foundation could not be more pleased or proud of Jim, his many accomplishments, and the devotion he has shown for this theatre.

backstage

Lobero Named One Of The Most Beautiful Theaters In The World

By Anne Wilde on July 21, 2023

Announcing New Board President

By Anne Wilde on June 2, 2023

Covid Policies for Patrons

By Cecilia Martini-Muth on May 26, 2022

Lobero Theatre Foundation

If Ears Could Smile

by Cecilia Martini-Muth

December 17, 2014

The December edition of Inside Santa Barbara explores Hearing Loop Technology, with the Lobero Theatre at the center of the story.

Approximately 20% of American adults (that’s 48 million!) have some form of hearing loss in at least one ear, making it the most prevalent form of disability in the United States. Despite legislation and available technology to provide access, many individuals find their communication needs to be misunderstood and unaddressed. Consequently, they seriously cut back on attendance, reducing audience size at performances, events, meetings and religious services throughout our community.

Hearing Loops are the only assistive listening system to send clear, pure sound directly to hearing aids and are considered the international standard for universal hearing access. As a part of the Encore: Lobero preservation work completed in 2013, the Lobero Theatre was wired with loops, bringing clear sound back for many patrons to experience via their own hearing aids. Blog readers may remember learning about these in this previous post, or by visiting loopsantabarbara.org.

Learn more from the Lobero’s House Manager Daniel Ramirez in this video.

Inside Santa Barbara airs on the following days and times on City TV Channel 18: Mondays at 8 p.m.; Tuesdays at 5 p.m.; Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m.; Saturday at 9 p.m.; and Sundays at 10 p.m. Viewers can also watch Inside Santa Barbara online at www.santabarbaraca.gov/citytv. For more information on Inside Santa Barbara, call CityTV at 564-5311.

accessibility

Artists and Fans Agree

The Highbrow Lowdown from Executive Director, David Asbell

Related Posts

BACKSTAGE at the Lobero

Enjoy the newest edition of BACKSTAGE at the Lobero

From all of us at the Lobero Theatre Foundation, we hope you enjoy the newest installment of BACKSTAGE at the Lobero.

We hope to see you at the theatre soon.

Related Posts

The Lobero Theatre: A Historical Shelter & Architectural Inspiration

In 1925, Santa Barbara experienced a devastating 6.3 magnitude earthquake that resulted in 13 casualties and eighty-five percent of the commercial buildings in Downtown Santa Barbara were destroyed or badly damaged. One of the only buildings left untouched was the Lobero Theatre.

Inspired by the 90th anniversary of the Santa Barbara earthquake, and the wonderful exhibit now on display at the The Santa Barbara Historical Museum, Emily Solomon takes us on a trip back in time…

Related Posts

Catching up on the Summer Festival

What you should know About the Music Academy of the West

We showcased the Music Academy of the West in our last issue of BACKSTAGE at the Lobero, and now that the Music Academy’s Summer Festival is underway (with many shows at the Lobero Theatre), we thought we’s revisit highlights from our conversation with Communications Manager Tim Dougherty.

Herewith: a few words about this venerable institution of classical music.

See all the upcoming Music Academy Events at the Lobero Theatre, here.

Read the full story as it appeared in BACKSTAGE, here.

Related Posts

King Sunny Ade Cancelled

KING SUNNY ADE & HIS AFRICAN BEATS ON JULY 17 HAS BEEN CANCELLED DUE TO VISA ISSUES.

Earlier today, the Lobero received word from King Sunny Ade’s management regarding this development:

Refunds will be issued automatically for any credit card sales.

Please contact the Lobero box office at 805.963.0761 if payment was made in cash, or if you have any questions regarding your purchase.

Related Posts

#Culture101

Santa Barbara: California’s most cultured coast.

Related Posts

Ask Me Another

Just before his hit AMC show “Mad Men” comes to a close, show creator Mathew Weiner sits in the hot seat as VIP (Very Important Puzzler) for this week’s episode of “Ask Me Another” – presented by KCLU & recorded at the Lobero Theatre.

Catch the full episode recorded at the Lobero Theatre when it airs on Sunday, May 17 & Monday, May 18 on KCLU, 102.3 FM & 1340 AM

Related Posts

Charles Lloyd, Jazz Master

This week’s Independent cover story highlights Charles Lloyd, a giant of jazz, and one of the Lobero’s most celebrated alum.

Head on over to Independent.com and read the full story for a thoughtful and intimate look at one of the most prolific musicians around today.

Related Posts

Remembering Al Pizano

Alberto Paul PizanoJanuary 8, 1931 – March 19, 2015

Dedicated Community Advocate and Volunteer

A funeral mass will be held at Old Mission Santa Barbara, 2201 Laguna Street, on Friday, March 27 at 11:00 a.m. Internment at Santa Barbara Cemetery, 901 Channel drive. A reception will take place at the Montecito Country Club.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be sent to Visiting Nurse and Hospice Care at 509 East Montecito Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101 or www.vnhcsb.org/donate.

Related Posts

BACKSTAGE Spring 2015

BACKSTAGE AT THE LOBERO is the Lobero Theatre’s bi-annual magazine detailing all the action taking place behind-the-scenes of this historic hall.

Related Posts

What People are Saying: Encore: Lobero Preservation work, one year later

The Lobero Theatre: Newly Refurbished, bolder sound and history in between

Read more audience comments:

Related Posts

Big Tricks. Small Room.

Come one, come all to It’s Magic!Santa Barbara’s Favorite Annual Magic show.

It’s Magic! appears at the Lobero Theatre on February 15 for two performances. Get your tickets by clicking here, or by calling the box office at 805.963.0761.

Related Posts

Joy

During this season of sharing, we want to say thank you, thank you, thank you!

Happy Holidays from the Board and Staff of the Lobero Theatre Foundation

Related Posts

Raising Funds and Spirits

Jim Dougherty honored as Fundraiser of the Year for Santa Barbara and Ventura Counties

The Board and staff of the Lobero Theatre Foundation could not be more pleased or proud of Jim, his many accomplishments, and the devotion he has shown for this theatre.

Related Posts

If Ears Could Smile

The December edition of Inside Santa Barbara explores Hearing Loop Technology, with the Lobero Theatre at the center of the story.

Learn more from the Lobero’s House Manager Daniel Ramirez in this video.

Related Posts

Inspired by the 90^th anniversary of the Santa Barbara earthquake, and the wonderful exhibit now on display at the The Santa Barbara Historical Museum, Emily Solomon takes us on a trip back in time…

Alberto Paul Pizano
January 8, 1931 – March 19, 2015

Come one, come all to It’s Magic!
Santa Barbara’s Favorite Annual Magic show.