10 Best Live Theater Venues in Massachusetts!
Supporting the arts in your community is vitally important, and what better way to do so than by attending a production at a local theater? From nationally-recognized performance arts centers, to theaters that have been around for decades, to immaculate opera houses, Massachusetts is home to some of the best in the country. If you’re looking to be blown away by a production, these 10 Massachusetts theaters are the best in the state!
Citizens Bank Opera House, Boston, MA
Considered tops in New England theaters, the Citizen Bank Opera House has been in business for more than 80 years. Check out their website to see their upcoming shows, including plays and musicals.
Boch Center, Boston, MA
Formerly called the Wang Theater, the Boch Center sets the stage for documentary plays, musicals, and a wide range of concerts. This stunning theater offers ticket holders a trip back in time to when attending the theater was a truly special event. The Boch Center also encompasses the nearby Charles and Shubert Theaters as well.
The Melody Tent, Hyannis, MA
In addition to their list of musical talent, the Melody Tent offers live theater during their summer productions. And the Melody Tent is just that, a tent. So to add to the experience of enjoying a performance, you’ll get to feel the warmth of a perfect summer night.
Barrington Stage Company, Pittsfield, MA
A nonprofit theater company, the Barrington Stage Company is housed in an old vaudeville theater in Pittsfield. Since the theater is small, check out the upcoming plays and musicals and reserve your tickets early.
The Norwood Theatre, Norwood, MA
Even though the majority of shows at the Norwood Theatre are concerts, they do musicals at least a couple of times a year. Their performances are generally met with exceptional reviews, with previous noteworthy productions like the “Nutcracker,” and “Hairspray.”
Hanover Theatre for the Performing Arts, Worcester, MA
Although their lineup includes concerts, ballet, and more, the Hanover Theatre for the Performing Arts also features live theater productions. In 2011, while under the previous name of Poli’s Palace Theater, the theatre was added to the National Register of Historic Places.
North Shore Music Theatre, Beverly, MA
This theatre has received national recognition. Some of the theatre’s biggest hits were the world-premiere of Tony Award-winning “Memphis,” in 2003, as well as productions such as “Hairspray,” and “Thoroughly Modern Millie.” They feature a collection of yearly children’s productions, too.
Merrimack Repertory Theatre, Lowell, MA
Professional actors fill the roles in Merrimack Repertory Theatre productions. Each season’s roster features contemporary plays. Notable productions include awarding winning musical memoir “The Lion,” as well as “A Christmas Carol.”
Regent Theatre, Arlington, MA
Although the Regent Theatre still shows films in its tiny setting, they feature live theater and musical performances, too. This theatre is “dedicated to bringing the highest quality events to the area,” according to its site. Check the website for all their upcoming performances, because tickets sell out fast!
Academy of Music Theatre, Northampton, MA
Housed in an historic venue, the Academy of Music Theatre has musicians on tap, in addition to their live theatre production. The theatre is small and sells out quickly, so grab your tickets as soon as they go on sale!
