Wyatt Pavilion

This rustic theater used to be a barn!
Nestled in the woodsy UC Davis campus, the grand trees surrounding the Wyatt Pavilion really make it picturesque. (
) Parking is aplenty in the two lots just off Old Davis Drive.
Inside, the theater grants a unique experience. The seats surround the stage on 3 sides, granting the audience a deeper perspective. This view seems to encourage the actors to take their performances to the next level, as they have to be conscious of their expressions and actions from all angles. (
) This past weekend I had the pleasure of watching my good friend in the title role of Richard III, which was a product of the UC Davis Theatre Department’s «Shakespeare on a Shoestring» project. The final battle scene is viewable from all seats in the audience. This photo captures the intensity of the play, which incorporated modern ‘urban’ costume elements and lots of rhythm. (
)
I have seen several productions done here by both the student-​directed group 301 Productions and the UC Davis Theatre Department, and have been impressed by the choices the directors have made using the stage. They creatively utilized all spaces, including a raised platform about 10 feet high at the back of the stage and staircases that lead up to this platform and offstage.
The only downsides:
1. The pillars of death, should you be so unlucky to sit behind them. (
)
2. The horrible back-​beating seats. The cushion doesn’t quite reach the back of the chair, so you either have to slouch down so your butt lines up with the cushion, –OR– force your butt into the crack at the back of the cushion. Which would you prefer?
3. There is no food within quick walking distance. If you’re making a 2 — 2.5 hour commitment to watch a show, definitely bring some food! During intermission I inhaled a bag of chips like a voracious raccoon.
Despite these setbacks, the shows have been incredible. Overall, Wyatt Pavilion creates an intimate theater experience that can’t be missed!