Historic Mahaiwe Theater, located in Great Barrington, MA, is one of the country’s oldest, continuously presenting films and live acts for over 115 years. The combination of restored, classic architecture and high caliber performances make this classic theater one of the area’s most popular.
The Berkshires have a strong connection to the arts and an outstanding collection of world-class performance venues. People travel from all over to attend performances at iconic venues like Jacob’s Pillow, Tanglewood, Shakespeare & Company, The Colonial Theatre, and so many others.
Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center definitely belongs on this list.
A Historic Berkshires Performance Arts Venue
“Mahaiwe” (Muh-HAY-Wee) is a Mahican word meaning “the place downstream” from the Housatonic River. The three story, brick and marble, 1905 French Renaissance Revival style building was designed by architect Joseph McArthur Vance. It originally sat up to 1,000 people for vaudeville and other live performances.
Silent films soon joined the roster of live acts, followed by talkies. The popularity of this new medium saw the decline of vaudeville and, in 1930, the Mahaiwe became primarily a film theater. In the late 1980’s, they almost tore down the theater to make way for a more modern venue. Luckily cooler heads prevailed and the theater was given a much needed makeover, instead.
Today, the Mahaiwe boasts both restored historic detail and modern sound and projection technology. The auditorium seats just under 700, with improved accessibility, comfortable seats, and excellent acoustics. The iconic, original 1930s marquee still hangs over the front entryway, beckoning theater goers from afar.
The theater presents weekly classic films as well as a variety of live performances throughout the year. Music, theater, comedy, dance, symposiums, and more. Best of all, it is just 20 minutes drive from the door of our Berkshires bed and breakfast, The Inn at Stockbridge!
Be sure to check their schedule when you’re planning your Berkshires getaway. You never know what will be on their stage or screen and you wouldn’t want to miss the show of a lifetime!
Mahaiwe Theater and Performing Arts Center
The Mahaiwe Theater is located at 14 Castle Street, Great Barrington, MA.
Mahaiwe Events for December 2021
MET “Live in HD” ~ Eurydice – Saturday, December 4, 1pm
Jane Lynch & Kate Flannery – Friday, December 10, 8pm
CEWM ~ Berlin, Paris, New York – Sunday, December 12, 4pm
It’s A Wonderful Life (1946) – Friday, December 17, 7pm
John Pizzarelli – The New Standards – Saturday, December 18, 8pm
Bolshoi Ballet “In HD” ~ The Nutcracker – Sunday, December 19, 1pm
Bach at New Year’s Live! – Friday, December 31, 6pm
Visit the theater website for the current schedule, tickets, and more information. You can also find the theater on Facebook.