Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply for a Free Student Matinee at The Old Globe?

• Applications are available through our website around July. The deadline for submission is generally by October 1^st of each year. You can also email freestudentmatinees@theoldglobe.org for information.

Where should I tell the bus to drop us off?

• If your bus driver has not been to Balboa Park lately, you’ll need to let her/him know that the drop-off place has changed.  Please note the attached map (look for the X near #21 on the map).  You can drop off the students at the area near the International Cottages (across from the Organ Pavilion Parking lot) and then follow the sidewalk to the wooden footbridge, through the Alcazar Parking lot and Garden and across the street to the Globe.

What time should we arrive?

• Please plan to have your students on the plaza outside the theatre by 10:00 a.m. on the day of the show. Shows begins at 10:30am.

Can we bring student lunches and backpacks?

• Some schools bring lunches with them.  If you plan to do that, please put them all in one or two large boxes or coolers labeled with the school name.  Some folks bring their lunches in wagons, and that seems to be the easiest way to transport them through the park. We will store all lunches in one of the other theatre lobbies during the show.
• If possible, please discourage your students from bringing backpacks and large purses, as these will also need to be stored away with the lunches.
• Of course, anyone needing medical supplies or food for medical reasons can keep a bag with them at all times.

If students drop out, what can we do with our extra tickets?

• If students cannot come, please call us right away to return the extra tickets to the theatre.  We have many people on our waiting list and the sooner we know that there are more seats available the sooner we can offer the seats to others. Unfortunately, you may not use extra seats for parents, friends, etc.

Do we need to provide photo releases for our students?

• Yes. We need photo releases signed by a parent or guardian. Please bring the photo releases with you the morning of the show. We have stickers for students to wear who should not be photographed – please make sure you get them if you need them. (Photo Release - Spanish)

Does The Old Globe offer any reimbursements for buses?

• Yes. After your visit, please complete our reimbursement form and return it along with a copy of your invoice. A reimbursement will be issued directly from our Finance office to your school.

Grinch Matinees 

The Old Globe is delighted to provide student matinee performances of Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas!, called Seussabrations. Free tickets are provided to children enrolled in Title One schools in San Diego County. Our goal is to make these tickets available to children who might not otherwise be able to attend.

The Old Globe provides preparation activities for all schools attending our free student matinees. Teachers attending Grinch performances with their classes participate in a unique professional development workshop at The Old Globe.  A study guide with lesson ideas tied to state curriculum standards is provided on this website. In addition, the Book Buddies program encourages children to pledge to read six books before seeing their performance of The Grinch as a way to cultivate a love of reading in students.

• Free Tickets for Title One Schools 
  For any additional questions, please email FreeStudentMatinees@TheOldGlobe.org.
  
  
• Subsidized Tickets for Grinch Matinees for Schools
  Title One schools can also purchase tickets at a discounted rate for select weekday morning Grinch matinees. For information, please contact Group Sales Manager.