50-year-old California Shakespeare Theater in Orinda permanently closes due to financial difficulties.

California Shakespeare Theater (Cal Shakes) in Orinda, California, will permanently close after 50 years due to severe financial difficulties, including a decline in donor support and an aging subscriber base. Executive Director Clive Worsley announced the suspension of operations and impending layoffs. The theater, known for launching careers of actors like Zendaya and Mahershala Ali, adds to the growing list of theater closures in the Bay Area.