Theatre & Comedy Guide for the 68 Ventures Bowl in Mobile, Alabama

As fans flock to Mobile, Alabama for the thrilling college football spectacle of the 68 Ventures Bowl, the city offers even more than gridiron glory. Known for its deep Southern roots, Mardi Gras heritage, and coastal charm, Mobile also boasts a thriving arts and entertainment scene. Whether you’re winding down after the big game or looking for a night of laughter and musical enchantment, this guide to local venues, musicals, and comedy acts delivers a playbill of unforgettable experiences.

Mobile’s Historic Theatre Venues

Saenger Theatre

Built: 1927
Capacity: Approx. 1,921 seats
Nicknamed “The Jewel of Dauphin Street,” the Saenger Theatre opened in 1927 as a movie palace in the opulent architectural tradition of the Roaring Twenties. Today, it remains Mobile’s premier destination for touring Broadway shows, ballets, concerts, and comedy acts. Notable past performances include Les Misérables, Wicked, and headliners like Kevin Hart.

The Mobile Civic Center Theater

Built: 1964
Capacity: Approx. 1,938 seats
Part of the larger Mobile Civic Center complex, this theater has hosted everything from Broadway productions to symphony concerts and graduation ceremonies. While less ornate than the Saenger, it remains a functional venue for major touring acts thanks to its sizable capacity and acoustics.

Joe Jefferson Playhouse

Built: Established in 1947
Capacity: Approx. 250 seats
A cornerstone of Mobile’s community theatre scene, the Joe Jefferson Playhouse is named after the 19th-century actor famous for portraying Rip Van Winkle. It regularly stages local productions of beloved plays and musicals and is cherished for its intimate setting and commitment to the arts.

Broadway Sensations You Can Catch

Les Misérables Tickets

Victor Hugo’s timeless novel took on new life when Les Misérables debuted in Paris in 1980 and later stormed Broadway in 1987. With unforgettable numbers like “I Dreamed a Dream” and “One Day More,” the show captures themes of justice, redemption, and revolution. It won eight Tony Awards, including Best Musical, and has been seen by more than 70 million people worldwide.

Back to the Future – The Musical Tickets

Based on the classic 1985 film, this musical revved up West End audiences in 2021 before debuting on Broadway in 2023. With music by Alan Silvestri and Glen Ballard, the show features high-octane numbers like “It’s Only a Matter of Time” alongside the beloved “The Power of Love.” The musical won the Olivier Award for Best New Musical in 2022.

Wicked Tickets

Since its Broadway debut in 2003, Wicked has reimagined the world of Oz through the eyes of Elphaba and Glinda. With a score by Stephen Schwartz and iconic songs like “Defying Gravity” and “Popular,” the musical has won three Tony Awards and a Grammy. It is among the most successful Broadway shows in terms of revenue and global reach.

&Juliet Tickets

Premiering in London in 2019 and making its Broadway entrance in 2022, &Juliet flips Shakespeare on his head by imagining Juliet’s life after Romeo. Fueled by Max Martin’s pop hits like “Roar” and “Since U Been Gone,” this jukebox musical has gained acclaim for its modern take on love and empowerment. It earned nine Tony nominations and won for Best Costume Design.

Hadestown Tickets

Blending Greek mythology with New Orleans jazz and folk, Hadestown opened on Broadway in 2019. Written by Anaïs Mitchell, the musical tells the tragic love story of Orpheus and Eurydice with haunting songs like “Wait for Me” and “Why We Build the Wall.” It won eight Tony Awards, including Best Musical and Best Original Score.

The Book of Mormon Tickets

Created by Trey Parker, Matt Stone, and Robert Lopez, The Book of Mormon is a sharp and hilarious look at faith, missionary work, and cultural misunderstandings. Since its 2011 Broadway debut, it has raked in nine Tony Awards and set box office records with songs like “Hello” and “I Believe.” Despite its satire, it has been widely praised for its heart and humor.

MJ – The Musical Tickets

Opening in 2022, MJ – The Musical dives into the life of Michael Jackson, focusing on his 1992 Dangerous World Tour. With hit songs like “Billie Jean” and “Smooth Criminal,” the show is a dazzling tribute to the King of Pop. It won four Tony Awards, including Best Actor in a Musical for Myles Frost.

Chicago – The Musical Tickets

Revived in 1996, Chicago remains Broadway’s longest-running American musical. Originally premiered in 1975 with a score by John Kander and lyrics by Fred Ebb, it tells a darkly comic tale of fame and justice. Hits like “Razzle Dazzle” and “All That Jazz” still thrill audiences, earning the revival six Tony Awards.

Dear Evan Hansen Tickets

This emotional rollercoaster opened in 2016 and quickly became a Broadway sensation. With a score by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, and a book by Steven Levenson, Dear Evan Hansen explores teenage isolation and the need to belong. The musical earned six Tony Awards, including Best Musical and Best Actor for Ben Platt.

Blue Man Group Tickets

Though not a traditional musical, Blue Man Group blends music, technology, and comedy in an immersive theatrical experience. Originating in 1991, the show has had long-running productions in New York, Las Vegas, and internationally. It’s a feast for the senses with drumming, paint-splattered percussion, and audience interaction.

Mamma Mia Tickets

Featuring the hits of ABBA, Mamma Mia opened on Broadway in 2001 and became a global phenomenon. Set on a Greek island, it tells a heartwarming and humorous story of family and identity through songs like “Dancing Queen” and “Take a Chance on Me.” Though it never won a Tony, it remains a fan favorite, grossing over $600 million globally.

Comedy Icons on Tour

Taylor Tomlinson Tickets

Taylor Tomlinson’s rise in comedy has been meteoric, thanks to her introspective yet hilarious takes on dating, anxiety, and young adulthood. Her Netflix specials Quarter-Life Crisis and Look at You have cemented her as one of comedy’s sharpest new voices. She’s sold out theaters nationwide and was recently named the host of CBS’ After Midnight reboot.

Gabriel Iglesias Tickets

Known as “Fluffy,” Gabriel Iglesias combines storytelling, sound effects, and impressions to reflect on everything from family to food. Starting his stand-up journey in the late 1990s, he’s become a household name through specials like I’m Not Fat… I’m Fluffy and One Show Fits All. He made history by selling out Dodger Stadium in 2022.

Theo Von Tickets

With his Louisiana drawl and off-the-wall anecdotes, Theo Von has a style all his own. Starting out on MTV’s Road Rules, he evolved into a stand-up comic with a cult following, boosted by his podcast This Past Weekend. His shows blend personal vulnerability with surreal observations.

Jeff Dunham Tickets

A master ventriloquist, Jeff Dunham has crafted an empire with his unforgettable characters like Walter, Peanut, and Achmed the Dead Terrorist. Beginning in the 1980s, Dunham became one of the top-grossing stand-up acts worldwide, with specials that frequently break cable viewership records. He’s performed in arenas across the globe and remains a staple of mainstream comedy.

TicketSmarter Promo for 68 Ventures Bowl Fans

For fans and visitors attending the 68 Ventures Bowl in Mobile, TicketSmarter is offering an exclusive discount to help you enjoy more of the city’s entertainment. Use promo code 68VENTURESBOWL5 at checkout to get 5% off tickets for any of the musicals or comedians listed in this guide. Whether you’re grooving to MJ – The Musical or belly-laughing with Gabriel Iglesias, we’ve got your ticket to the show.

Conclusion

The 68 Ventures Bowl is just the beginning of what Mobile has to offer. With its historic theatres, riveting Broadway hits, and top-tier comedians lighting up the stage, the city invites fans to go beyond football and experience unforgettable cultural moments. From the grandeur of the Saenger Theatre to the charm of Joe Jefferson Playhouse, the stage is always set for a night to remember.