The Shubert Theatre History

The performing arts have enjoyed a rich and distinguished history in Boston, reaching back nearly 200 years. Since 1794 when Charles Bulfinch designed Boston's first playhouse, many theaters, concert halls and movie palaces have been built to entertain Boston's large and appreciative audiences. Although many of these structures no longer exist, The Metropolitan Theatre, renamed The Wang Theatre in 1983, remains a prominent landmark.

On October 10, 1996, The Center announced its plan to operate and manage the newly renovated Shubert Theatre as the home of many local not-for-profit performing arts organizations. The first national tour of RENT premiered at The Shubert and generated sold-out crowds and nightly ovations. Since then, The Shubert Theatre has evolved into a home for Boston arts organizations such as Boston Lyric Opera as well as a venue for touring companies whose productions are more suited to the smaller scale of the theatre.

With two of Boston's finest Theatres under its umbrella, The Center continues to offer audiences from Greater Boston and beyond the best of both worlds, including Broadway-style touring companies and smaller-scale productions from Boston's finest not-for-profit arts organizations.