The Wilbur Theatre, Music and nightlife, Boston
Photograph: Jessica Howe | The Wilbur Theatre

The Wilbur Theatre

  • Music | Music venues
  • Theater District
  • price 2 of 4
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Time Out says

The Wilbur was built in 1914 in a Federal Revival style. It might seem plain compared to its more fantastically conceived Theatre District neighbors, but rather than a faux European showcase, its architecture replicates a Beacon Hill mansion, honoring Boston’s own significance as an artistic center. Though the Wilbur mostly showcases national comedy and popular music acts these days, and no longer counts as numero uno for splashy theatrical productions, it is a major, much cherished entertainment venue for the city.

Details

Address
246 Tremont St
Boston
02116
Cross street:
Stuart St
Transport:
Orange line to Chinatown

What’s on

Jim Henson's Labyrinth in Concert

Labyrinth turns 40 this year, and if you’ve ever wanted to see Bowie’s Goblin King on the big screen with a live orchestra, this is your chance. The film’s blend of practical effects, surreal set pieces and that unmistakable Henson weirdness still feels fresh, especially when you’re surrounded by fellow fans who know every line. The live score isn’t just a novelty—it’s a reminder of how much the music shapes the film’s off-kilter mood, from the synth-heavy ballads to the playful, puppet-driven numbers. This isn’t a nostalgia trip for its own sake; it’s a rare opportunity to experience a cult favorite in a way that actually adds something new. If you’ve only watched Labyrinth at home, you’ll be surprised by how much more immersive and strange it feels with a full orchestra in the room.

UB40

UB40’s Relentless tour lands at just the right moment for anyone who’s ever found themselves humming “Red Red Wine” on a late-night walk home. The band’s 45th anniversary is more than a nostalgia trip—UB40 has always been about reinvention, and their new material sits comfortably alongside the classics. The setlist is a reminder of how reggae-pop can still surprise you, even after four decades. There’s a looseness to their live shows these days, a sense that the band is playing for themselves as much as for the crowd. That’s a good thing. The newer members bring a spark that keeps the old favorites from feeling like museum pieces. If you haven’t seen UB40 in years, this is the tour that makes it worth checking in again. It’s a rare chance to hear the familiar and the unexpected in the same night.

Peaches

Sofar Sounds is popping up on the Urban Park roof garden, and if you’ve never caught one of these secret gigs, this is the one to try. The lineup is a mystery until showtime, but that’s half the appeal—Boston’s music scene is full of surprises, and Sofar has a knack for booking acts you’ll want to brag about seeing before anyone else. The setting is a real bonus: a leafy rooftop in Kendall, with city views and just enough distance from the usual bar circuit. No tickets, no RSVP, just show up and see what unfolds. It’s a rare chance to hear local musicians in a setting that feels both spontaneous and intentional, with a crowd that’s actually there to listen. If you’re tired of the same old venues, this is a genuinely fresh way to spend a summer evening.
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