Wang Theatre
Opened in 1925 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Wang Theatre began as a movie palace and later became a home for mid-century vaudeville, musicals, big bands, Broadway, and major touring acts. Today, it remains one of the city’s most recognizable performance spaces, with programming that spans all sorts of genres while preserving the vintage vibes from entertainment’s Golden Era.
Photo courtesy of Boch Center Wang Theatre
Citizens Opera House
Originally opened in 1928 as the B.F. Keith Memorial Theatre, the Citizens Opera House boasts the ornate style of early showtime grandeur, including Baroque ornamentation, marble and gold accents, and an iconic Beaux-Arts aesthetic. Today, the space is associated with Broadway in Boston shows, touring musicals, dance troupes, and large-scale productions, making it a perfect stop for visitors looking for a classic theatre night.
Photo courtesy of Citizens Opera House
Symphony Hall
Symphony Hall is one of Boston’s defining cultural spaces, known as much for its exceptional sound as for its long history. Opened in 1900 and designed by McKim, Mead & White (with guidance from Harvard physicist Wallace Clement Sabine), the hall became an early landmark in scientifically engineered concert hall design. These days, it remains home to the Boston Symphony Orchestra and Boston Pops, with a packed calendar that includes classical music, holiday performances, guest artists, and kid-friendly programming throughout the year.
Photo courtesy of Boston Symphony Orchestra
More Historic Stages to Explore
Boston’s theatre district has several smaller historic venues worth checking once you’ve looked at the city’s biggest stages.
Emerson Cutler Majestic Theatre: Built in 1903 along Boston’s Piano Row, the Cutler Majestic focuses on contemporary and international showcases, with film screenings, talks, and other unique performances. They’re also home to groups like the Boston Lyric Opera and regularly host performances from the New England Conservatory.
Emerson Colonial Theatre: Built in 1900 on Boylston Street in Boston Common, the Colonial is a great place to catch Broadway tours and pre-Broadway runs, especially productions trying out new work before hitting New York. Plus, it’s the city’s oldest continuously operated theatre!
Shubert Theatre: Founded in 1910, the Shubert is one of Boston’s more intimate historic venues, ideal for visitors who want classic character with a smaller audience. In keeping with Boston’s theatre traditions, its calendar includes plays, musicals, stand-up comedy, rock concerts, and other live performances throughout the year.
Plan a Performing Arts Night
Boston’s historic venues and theaters are clustered near restaurants, hotels, public transportation, and downtown attractions, making it easy to build an evening around a show. Be sure to check our official events calendar before your visit, as programming changes often throughout the year!
And if you’re interested in learning more about Boston’s other venues, cultural happenings, concerts, and live experiences, check out our Performing Arts page for in-depth information. A little planning goes a long way; start mapping out your visit early to catch the shows that interest you most.