The theater scene is a lively one in Boston and there are plenty of options when guests to the city want to take in a show. Whether they be looking for comedy, drama, mystery, or music, opera, or any other kind of theater entertainment, there is bound to be a theater open somewhere in Boston that will fill their appetite for a show.



One of the most unique aspects of Boston theater is that it is one of the last cities to host Pre-Broadway tryouts and Post-Broadway shows. This means that theaters all around the city are home to shows that are either heading to or coming off Broadway. For shows heading to Broadway, it is an excellent opportunity for Boston visitors to see a classic Broadway show before anyone else. Or, they may be able to see a Broadway flop and warn fellow theater-goers! For shows coming off Broadway, it is a chance for the visitor to see a show they may not have made it to, or didn't want to spend the money on when it was on Broadway. Either way, the Pre-Broadway and post-Broadway theater scene is a great opportunity to see quality shows.

The Charles Playhouse is an old yet respected theater house in Boston. Today, it offers two shows that are extremely entertaining, even entertaining enough to keep kids thoroughly excited to go to the theater. First, The Blue Man Group calls this playhouse home. Since 1995, their show has been playing to huge crowds here in Boston. The three brightly blue painted men, along with a rock band, uses music percussion, food, and even uses audience members for its performance. The whole package, with the lights and sounds. However, this can become intense and may become even scary for very small children, but, the Blue Man Group is a special favorite for older kids, teenagers, and adults.

Also at the Charles Playhouse is the extremely long-running show called Shear Madness. This production, which is the longest running non-musical performance in all of theater history, has been creating shows since January of 1980. The premise for the show is that the characters, who are set in a hair salon, are now involved in a murder. It's up to the audience members to gather clues, question suspects, and ultimately pick out the criminal. The show, however, is far from scary or intense as everything is meant to be comical, and just a little wacky. The large amount of audience participation guarantees no two shows are the same, and this can mean repeated visits without ever getting bored.

Puppet Showplace Theater rounds out the theater agenda. The stages at Puppet Showplace feature favorite fables, legends, fairy tales, and folk tales from around the world. Professional puppeteers create engaging shows for kids and special events take place year round. The theater also offers a display on historic puppets, puppet posters, puppet making workshops, and sells toy puppets.

Located at the Cabot Street Cinema Theater, and also at the Larcom Theater, Le Grand David and His Own Spectacular Magic Company is a nationally acclaimed show that has delighted families since 1977. The troupe is made of three generations of magicians, and a company of illusionists. Le Grand David has received special attention for his slight of hand and the show has even performed at the White House. The two hour show will fly by and it is enjoyable for the whole family.

Boston is home to many, many theaters and just a few have been highlighted here. All in all, the city has an excellent theater scene that can be enjoyed by all ages.