The Empty Space

The Empty Space has been part of the Bakersfield Theatre Scene since it opened its doors in 2003. Since then, it has established itself as an innovative artistic force in Bakersfield. The Space has a reputation as the "edgy" theater around town but this is not an entirely accurate depiction. In actuality, the Empty Space offers a wide variety of plays from Shakespeare and American classics such as Of Mice and Men to cutting edge contemporary plays such as The Vagina Monologues and The Altruists. Family friendly shows are also presented such as Our Town and Hurry Up Santa, as well as the occasional musical.

The Empty Space’s mission is to provide quality live theatre to the community of Bakersfield and to create an opportunity for local actors, directors and technicians to work in a creative environment that allows them to express themselves and their artistic ideas while encouraging them to continue to study and improve their craft. The Empty Space offers free theatre to the community of Bakersfield. Any member of the community who wants to experience live theatre, regardless of his or her financial situation, is able to do just that at The Empty Space. Every show produced by The Empty Space furthers that mission and purpose.

We are a donation-based organization and we work hard to help raise funds and awareness for local non-profit organizations. We have used our resources to raise money for such causes as The Alliance Against Family Violence, The Save-a-Teacher Campaign, The BC Jazz Ensemble, The Kern Lifeline Project, The Kaiser Permanente Latino Association and more. The Empty Space is dedicated to improving our community and individuals like yourself are helping us as we set theatre free!

Besides producing live plays and supporting other local charities, The Empty Space hopes to help rejuvenate all art forms in the community of Bakersfield. We have a fine art gallery that has a fresh exhibit each month usually with an artist reception featuring live music. We also offer a venue for other artists. We've had stand-up comedians, improvisational comedy groups, magicians, hypnotists, rock bands, jazz ensembles as well as high school theatre groups all perform at The Empty Space. Without the help of community members like yourself The Empty Space would have to close its doors.

Greater Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce Beautiful Bakersfield Award Nominee

Arts - Group
The Empty Space Theatre
2010, 2011