Stockton, California may be best known for its deep agricultural roots and growing sports scene, but it’s also a hidden gem when it comes to live entertainment. For fans of Stockton Cargo SC, the city’s blossoming women’s soccer team, there’s no shortage of cultural flair off the field either. Whether you’re looking for a powerful Broadway musical or a night of side-splitting comedy, Stockton and its surrounding region deliver with charm, history, and world-class talent. Here’s your unique entertainment guide for theatre and comedy experiences tailored for every Cargo fan.
Historic Theatres Near Stockton
Bob Hope Theatre
Built: 1930
Capacity: Approx. 2,042 seats
Located in downtown Stockton, the Bob Hope Theatre was originally opened as the Fox California Theatre and is a treasured architectural marvel. With its restored 1920s interior and state-of-the-art sound system, it regularly hosts concerts, comedians, and Broadway-style productions.
Hutchins Street Square Performing Arts Theater (Lodi)
Built: Completed in the 1990s as part of a redevelopment of Lodi Union High School
Capacity: Approx. 784 seats
Just a short drive from Stockton, this venue offers an intimate theatre experience and features musical tours, dance companies, and community events throughout the year.
Gallo Center for the Arts (Modesto)
Built: 2007
Capacity: Mary Stuart Rogers Theater (1,248 seats), Foster Family Theater (444 seats)
One of the newer and most acclaimed venues in the Central Valley, the Gallo Center in nearby Modesto brings in major touring Broadway productions and headline comedians, all housed in a sleek and acoustically excellent space.
Broadway-Quality Musicals Touring California
Wicked Tickets
Premiering on Broadway in 2003, Wicked reimagines the world of Oz through the eyes of Elphaba and Glinda. With a score by Stephen Schwartz, it includes iconic songs like “Defying Gravity” and “Popular.” The show won three Tony Awards and a Grammy, and it continues to enchant audiences across the country.
Chicago – The Musical Tickets
This jazz-age murder mystery first debuted in 1975 and found renewed success with its 1996 Broadway revival. Featuring songs like “All That Jazz” and “Razzle Dazzle,” Chicago won six Tony Awards and remains Broadway’s longest-running American musical. Its blend of satire, glamour, and intrigue makes it a timeless classic.
Beetlejuice – The Musical Tickets
Based on the cult 1988 Tim Burton film, Beetlejuice hit Broadway in 2019. Known for its wild set designs and sardonic humor, it features memorable numbers like “Dead Mom” and “Say My Name.” The show earned eight Tony nominations and has become a fan favorite for its bold irreverence and heart.
Dear Evan Hansen Tickets
Opening on Broadway in 2016, Dear Evan Hansen explores teen anxiety, social media, and grief. The show features a heartfelt score by Pasek and Paul, including “Waving Through a Window” and “You Will Be Found.” It won six Tony Awards, including Best Musical and Best Score, and continues to resonate with younger audiences.
Hairspray Tickets
Adapted from John Waters’ 1988 film, Hairspray launched on Broadway in 2002. Set in 1960s Baltimore, it features spirited songs like “You Can’t Stop the Beat” and “Good Morning Baltimore.” The musical won eight Tony Awards and remains a joyous celebration of acceptance and dance.
MJ – The Musical Tickets
MJ – The Musical premiered on Broadway in 2022 and explores the making of Michael Jackson’s 1992 Dangerous World Tour. Featuring over 25 of his greatest hits including “Thriller” and “Man in the Mirror,” the musical won four Tony Awards, including Best Actor in a Musical. It’s both a tribute and a deep dive into Jackson’s artistry.
Hamilton Tickets
Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Hamilton took Broadway by storm in 2015, blending hip-hop, jazz, and history to tell the story of founding father Alexander Hamilton. With songs like “My Shot” and “The Room Where It Happens,” it won 11 Tony Awards and the Pulitzer Prize for Drama. It redefined what musical theatre could be for a new generation.
Les Misérables Tickets
Debuting on Broadway in 1987, Les Misérables is one of the most enduring and beloved musicals. Adapted from Victor Hugo’s novel, it features stirring numbers like “I Dreamed a Dream” and “One Day More.” It won eight Tony Awards and has been performed in 42 countries.
Six The Musical Tickets
Six recasts the six wives of Henry VIII as pop icons in a concert-style show that fuses history and sass. Debuting at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in 2017 and reaching Broadway in 2020, it includes songs like “Ex-Wives” and “Don’t Lose Ur Head.” The musical won two Tony Awards and has built a global fanbase.
Back to the Future – The Musical Tickets
This stage adaptation of the 1985 film launched in the UK in 2021 and landed on Broadway in 2023. With a score by Alan Silvestri and Glen Ballard, Back to the Future retains beloved hits like “The Power of Love” and adds new original music. It won the Olivier Award for Best New Musical and impresses with its technical wizardry.
Shucked Tickets
Shucked debuted on Broadway in 2023 and offers a hilarious twist on small-town Americana. Written by Robert Horn with music by country songwriters Brandy Clark and Shane McAnally, it includes the breakout anthem “Independently Owned.” It won a Tony for Best Featured Actor (Alex Newell) and has been praised for its heartfelt humor.
Top-Tier Comedians Hitting the California Circuit
Jerry Seinfeld Tickets
One of the most iconic names in stand-up, Jerry Seinfeld built his career on observational humor and co-created the legendary sitcom Seinfeld. Known for clean, insightful takes on everyday life, Seinfeld has performed at Carnegie Hall and continues to sell out national tours. He remains a benchmark in comedy for his consistency and timeless style.
Leanne Morgan Tickets
Leanne Morgan gained popularity later in life with her honest, hilarious takes on motherhood, marriage, and middle age. Her Netflix special I’m Every Woman introduced her to a wider audience, and she now tours nationally. Her Southern charm and storytelling make her a unique voice in modern comedy.
Nate Bargatze Tickets
Nicknamed “The Tennessee Kid,” Nate Bargatze is known for his slow-burn, clean comedy rooted in everyday absurdities. With Netflix specials and appearances on late-night TV, he’s quietly become one of the most respected comics working today. His relatable material makes him a favorite across generations.
Matt Rife Tickets
Matt Rife exploded on the comedy scene through social media and TikTok, becoming known for his quick-witted crowd work and commentary on dating and relationships. A former cast member of Wild ‘N Out, he now headlines sold-out shows across the U.S. His charisma and real-time engagement with audiences have earned him a devoted following.
TicketSmarter Exclusive Offer for Stockton Cargo SC Fans
As a special treat for Stockton Cargo SC fans, TicketSmarter is offering an exclusive 5% discount on all musical and comedy tickets listed in this guide. Just enter promo code CARGOSC5 at checkout to score the best seats for less. Whether you’re cheering on the team or belting “Defying Gravity” from your seat, the spotlight is always yours.
Stockton’s entertainment scene proves that you don’t need to travel to Broadway or Hollywood to experience top-tier performances. Whether it’s the magical sets of Wicked, the cultural shakeup of Hamilton, or Jerry Seinfeld’s razor-sharp wit, Cargo fans are surrounded by unforgettable moments—both on the field and under the lights. Make the most of your downtime with this curated blend of theatre and laughter in the Central Valley.
