At 539 Washington Street in Downtown Boston, Citizens Opera House pairs live performances with an ornate 1920s interior. The venue is home to the Boston Ballet and also hosts touring Broadway musicals, concerts and other shows, so the programme changes throughout the year. Look up at the painted dome, crystal chandeliers and gilded details between acts. The theater is known for clear acoustics; if your seats are in the balcony, binoculars may help you see the stage more closely.
A theater built for vaudeville
The building opened in 1928 as the B.F. Keith Memorial Theatre, named for vaudeville impresario Benjamin Franklin Keith. Edward Franklin Albee, who oversaw its construction, intended the theater as a memorial to his late partner. Architect Thomas W. Lamb designed an elaborate performance hall drawing on French and Italian styles.
It began as a movie and live vaudeville theater, but from the following year it showed films only. For the next two decades, it was one of Boston’s most popular movie theaters. The venue’s role changed over time: it later housed opera, and today it hosts ballet, Broadway productions, concerts and other live events.
Restoration and ornate details
After years of decline, the theater underwent a major restoration and reopened in 2004. Its interior combines baroque ornament with details associated with French and Italian design. Look for the gilded moldings, crystal chandeliers and painted dome ceiling, as well as carved decoration and paintings. The lobby’s marble, silk and gold-leaf details are also part of the building’s character.
The restoration brought the historic room back into use as a performance venue. Modern theatrical, lighting, sound and safety systems support the productions on stage, while the restored decorative scheme keeps the original sense of ceremony in view.
What to see on stage
The Citizens Opera House is the Boston Ballet’s home venue, and its annual production of The Nutcracker is a recurring part of the program. The calendar also includes touring Broadway musicals, plays and concerts. Since the line-up rotates, check the current schedule before choosing a date.
The auditorium’s acoustics are a draw for performances, while the ornate room gives the evening a sense of occasion before the curtain rises. The theater has capacity for up to 2,700 people. Seat space can be tight in some areas, particularly between balcony seats, so binoculars can be useful if you are seated farther from the stage.
Planning your visit
The theater is at 539 Washington Street in Downtown Boston. Buying tickets online can help you avoid the longer security line at entry. Elevators are available, including one for wheelchair users.
Intermission is a busy time for the bathrooms, so leave enough time if you plan to use them between acts. If you want to appreciate the architecture, arrive with time to notice the painted ceiling and decorative details before the performance begins.
Häufige Fragen
What performances take place at Citizens Opera House?
The venue hosts Boston Ballet performances, touring Broadway musicals, plays, concerts and other live events. The schedule changes throughout the year.
Is Citizens Opera House the home of the Boston Ballet?
Yes. The theater is the Boston Ballet’s home venue, including for its annual production of The Nutcracker.
How many people can the theater hold?
The auditorium has capacity for up to 2,700 people.
Are elevators available at Citizens Opera House?
Yes. Elevators are available, including one for wheelchair users.
