The Wilbur Theatre opened its doors in 1914, designed by noted Boston architect Clarence H. Blackall in the American Colonial style. Rather than imitating the ornate European opera houses popular at the time, Blackall gave The Wilbur a uniquely Boston character—its stately portico was salvaged from an 1830s Beacon Hill townhouse and incorporated into the façade on Tremont Street. The theatre’s design is remarkably intimate; even the furthest seat from the stage is likely closer than most you’ve sat in elsewhere. The reason is simple—when the theatre was constructed, sound amplification technology didn’t exist in 1914.
Named for theatrical producer A.L. Wilbur, the venue quickly became a stage for both local and national talent. In its early decades, it was a proving ground for productions bound for Broadway, and it welcomed performances by some of the most renowned actors of the 20th century—including a young Marlon Brando.
The Wilbur earned a spot on the National Register of Historic Places in 1980 and was designated a Boston Landmark in 1987. In the 1990s and early 2000s, the theatre changed hands and underwent modern updates, while maintaining its historic charm.
In 2008, former owner of the Comedy Connection, Bill Blumenreich, took the reins, revitalizing the space and reintroducing it as one of the city’s premier venues for stand-up comedy, live music, and special events. Today, The Wilbur remains intimate yet versatile, and its stage has hosted everyone from legendary musicians to top comedians. The Wilbur consistently ranks among the Top 5 Worldwide Selling Clubs each year, as reported by Pollstar Magazine.
Explore the pivotal moments that have shaped The Wilbur Theatre’s storied history.
The Wilbur Theatre opens its doors, offering a new cultural venue for Boston’s thriving arts scene.
The theatre becomes a launching pad for productions destined for Broadway, attracting national attention.
Renowned actors, including a young Marlon Brando, grace the stage, cementing The Wilbur’s reputation.
The Wilbur is added to the National Register of Historic Places, acknowledging its cultural significance.
The theatre is officially designated as a Boston Landmark, preserving its legacy for future generations.
Undergoing updates, The Wilbur blends modern amenities with its historic charm, continuing to delight audiences.
The Wilbur Theatre’s seating design ensures that every guest feels close to the action, with no seat far from the stage.
Our stately portico, salvaged from a 19th-century Beacon Hill townhouse, adds a touch of historic elegance to the façade.
Designed by Clarence H. Blackall, the theatre showcases a unique Boston character with its American Colonial architecture.
Built before sound amplification, the theatre’s acoustics are naturally optimized for an immersive auditory experience.
Given the uniqueness of The Wilbur, the theatre has become the go-to setting for comedians to film their specials. With over 35 tapings to date—and many more to come—this remains a world record, and the lead continues to grow. You can view the full list of specials filmed at The Wilbur below.
Craig Ferguson – “A Wee Bit o’ Revolution”
Stella – “Stella: Live in Boston”
David Cross – “Bigger and Blackerer”
Charlie Murphy – “I Will Not Apologise”
Aaron Karo – “The Rest Is History”
Nick DiPaolo – “Another Senseless Killing”
Bruce Bruce – “Losin’ It”
Kathy Griffin – “Gurrl Down”
Sully Erna – “Avalon Live”
Tom Green – “Tom Green: Live”
Arnez J – “Racially Motivated”
Tammy Pescatelli – “Finding the Funny”
Christian Finnegan – “The Fun Part”
Corey Holcomb – “Book of Coreythians”
Gary Gulman – “In This Economy”
Myq Kaplan – “Small, Dork and Handsome”
Shane Mauss – “Mating Season”
Jim Gaffigan – “Obsessed”
Jim Jefferies – “BARE”
Fifth Harmony – “3/24/15 Yahoo Live Stream”
Tig Notaro – “Boyish Girl Interrupted”
Steve Rannazzisi – “Breaking Dad”
Girls Night In – Live
Dana Carvey – “Straight White Male, 60”
Norm Macdonald – “Hitler’s Dog, Gossip & Trickery”
Jim Gaffigan – “Noble Ape”
Katya – “Help Me I’m Dying”
Joe Rogan – “Strange Times”
Jim Jefferies – “Intollerant”
Taylor Tomlinson – “Look at You”
Tom Papa – “What A Day”
Nigel Ng – “The Haiyaa Special”
Sarah Silverman – “Someone You Love”
Becky Robinson – “Members Only”
Sam Morril – “You’ve Changed”
