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Huntington Theatre Company
Category: Arts & Entertainment Performing Arts Performing Arts [Edit]
264 Huntington Ave(between Massachusetts Ave & Gainsborough St)
Boston, MA 02115
(617) 266-0800
- Nearest Transit:
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Huntington Ave @ Gainsborough St (192, 39, 9, 9701, 9702, 9703)
Huntington Ave @ Gainsborough St (192, 39)
Huntington Ave @ Mass Ave (192)
- Hours:
Tue-Thu 12 pm - 7:30 pm
Fri-Sat 12 pm - 8 pm
Sun 12 pm - 4 pm
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
Janis B. said: "Marcio and Saori are the hottest couple to hit the Boston dance scene. Whether you are nine or ninety or any age in between, their studio, DANE, is the place to go for ballroom dance. You can throw away your running shoes, forget to…" read more »
32 reviews for Huntington Theatre Company
32 reviews in English
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Review from connie l.
Boston, MA
2/9/2012
I love this theater and the shows I've seen here!
It's not a large theater, which means it's intimate, and every seat I've sat in, whether middle, off to the side, or in the last row, has been great. I've been lucky enough to have come here for the past few years to see shows, such as God of Carnage (most recently), Becky Shaw, Prelude to a Kiss, The Twelfth Night, Ruined, etc. I'm always impressed with the small casts, usually 3-5 actors/actresses. Sometimes, I wonder how 4 people can keep me entertained with their story for 2 hours, but never have I been bored.
Also, for those younger people like me who don't have Ben Franklins lying around, tickets are affordable! If you are 35 or younger, you can purchase $25 tickets to just about any show! They also have student tickets for $15 (I wish I had done my research in college). It's great that they are encouraging and making it possible for us younger ones to enjoy the theater and arts.
On top of that, the other great thing about the Huntington is that they partner with other schools and communities in order to give high school kids exposure to theater, presentation and performance experiences, and inspire creativity. I know this firsthand because they partner with my boyfriend's high school! His kids have used their facilities and given performances at both the BU Theater and Calderwood.
Just awesome and so cool that they are able to provide the public with great shows and give back to the community! -
Review from Lu B.
3/14/2012
I'm much more of a live music person than a live theater person. I enjoy theater, I always have the best intentions to go more, but somehow it always falls to the bottom of my social calendar.
Yet, the Huntington Theater Company has managed to reel me in to two very different productions in as many months. Here's how:
Their "35 Below" program. If you are 35 or younger, you can buy tickets to any show for $25. The most recent show I attended I bought tickets in the orchestra section, normally $60. Cool right? But, wait, it gets better. If you sign up for their 35 Below newsletter, or like them on Facebook, they will notify you of which evenings of which productions are also hosting 35 Below parties. On these special nights buying a ticket not only gets you a discount to the show, but also access to an after party with live bands, free beer & wine (two drink tickets are included), snacks and mingling with the cast. The after party is in a funky space directly adjacent to the theater stacked with kitschy lounge furniture, a few tables and room to dance should the band so move you. Not being a theater person, I find the mix of people at these parties to be fascinating, and I always end up in the strangest conversations. In a very good way.
The theater itself is extremely intimate. The crowd is diverse. The concessions are plentiful, and allowed into the theater. You may be approached after the show and asked to give feedback on camera, for which, I discovered you will be rewarded with a coupon for free concession on your next visit. Which for me, will be shortly - without a doubt. -
Review from Ian Y.
10/8/2011
This fairly intimate theater is just small enough that even if you sit in the "nosebleed section", you'll still get a decent view of the production.
I recently saw "Candide" at the Huntington (great show, by the way!), and I bought my ticket early enough such that I could secure a seat in the first row of the mezzanine. Even though the first row of the mezzanine technically overhangs Row H of the Orchestra section, after peeking over the edge, I could have sworn I was right above Row A or B because you can see the orchestra pit right below you. I say this in case you are debating between similarly-priced mezzanine and rear orchestra tickets. :-)
One thing I really liked about this theater was that it has two separate entrances -- one for people who already have their tickets on-hand and another for people who don't have tickets (e.g. will call). This definitely helps to avoid what plagues other theaters: Mobs of people clogging the single entrance into the theater right before the show is about the start. This is especially helpful given the small size of the Huntington lobby.
If you're a student, invest in the student prices (or if you're under 30, buy tickets via the 35 Below price)! My ticket (+ taxes and fees) cost less than $20. The person sitting to the left of me paid about $100 for his ticket. -
Review from Jolene S.
Updated - 2/3/2012
Happy to report that the set design is still phenomenal here...in 2012. "God of Carnage " was funny and I think the Huntington Theater promotional/marketing team deserves a pat on the back. Great job, guys!
Listed in: Culture Vultures...Events I…
2 Previous Reviews: Show all »
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11/13/2010
I've been to two shows this season--Vengeance is the Lord's, which just opened and is superb, and… Read more »
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Review from Dorothy W.
Cambridge, MA
10/23/2010
The Huntington Theatre Company is a top notch organization. It's located just a short block away from the Symphony T Stop so no need for a useless city car. The staff are always polite and well organized; our tickets are always waiting for us at the "Will Call" booth, with three people there to assist us behind those little glass windows in the lobby.
There's also a savvy scanning system for the tickets that gets you right into the theatre once the doors open. No more ripping those babies in half. Now you have the whole ticket for your scrap book. The lobby is a little small but no complaints from me. And yes, the loo is downstairs but it's clean and comfortable, if a bit old fashioned.
I will not review the amazing productions we have seen here, which blew us away with their professionalism. By the time you read this, some other play will be there.
My biggest compliment goes to the leg room - I did not feel my knees complaining once during the entire two and a half hours, which can not be said for other theatre experiences. Some folks talk about "elbow room" while I talk about "knee room." I like it here. And my knees do, too.
Love the sets, the cast and the shows, and can not wait to go back. If this theatre was situated in New York the tickets would be two or three times the price. This is a great deal for Boston theatre lovers. -
Review from Vivian C.
9/29/2010 1 photo
I enjoyed my first experience here in this gorgeous little (more intimate as compared to the Boston Opera House) theatre located a short walk from the Symphony T stop at the Mass Ave - Huntington Street intersection.
Just a few facts - doors don't open until a half an hour before show time. Bathrooms are located down in the basement as well as on the 2nd floor (or so I was told). Coat check ($1 charge per item) is located in the basement beside the counter where you can buy a drink or a snack (they have cookies!). Refreshments are welcome inside the actual theatre.
The set was really cool and realisitc. The acting was great. The foyer rather tight and small, but you're here for the show in the theater, not to hang out in the foyer.
*** 5/2011 ***
They have audio devices and large print programs available, and certain performances are ASL-interpreted. -
Review from Jessica H.
Hyde Park, MA
1/29/2010
I just went to this theatre for the first time the other day. A friend got us tickets to see "All My Sons" on Wednesday night. Wow it was fantastic. The acting was incredible, the stage was right on - even the sound and lighting were great. Will Lyman (aka the narrative voice for Nova, Frontline, Mystic River, and Iron Man) was amazing. I would love to learn tips from this guy about voice overs. His acting was so good it made the other actors seem less experience (even though they actually were all great, it's just that he was so incredible). Whereas they sound like stage actors - projecting their voice very loud, he is able to speak loud but not do the stage projection we are all so used to. So it sounds so much more realistic.
The theatre was super cute - I loved seeing all the old pictures from the 80s and such of past plays, many with famous actors in hilarious costumes. Everything was very pleasant - their snack selection was good and very vegan friendly (Swedish fish, granola bars, and other junk food) and I am glad they have wine! However I didn't have any because I wanted to remember this play, not be buzzed!
The only thing I would say is that if you are on a far right or left seat in the audience you could miss out on some of the action. Some of the scenes take place on the far sides of the stage. Since the theatre is designed to fit as many people in the audience, I would recommend telling the stage directors to not have actions so far to the edge of the stage. I missed out on some of the scenes because we had seats far to the right.
Otherwise it was great. Support this local theatre, have some sugary snacks, and go see this play! But bring a tissue because "All My Sons" is really sad!
Also it's very T accessible - the green and orange lines (Mass Ave.) are very close and the 39 bus comes by. -
Review from Deanna D.
9/1/2009
I've been to the Huntington Theatre twice (one play: Two Men of Florence, one musical: The Pirates of Penzance) and had a wonderful experience each time. Great location, easy T access, friendly staff and variety of shows make this a wonderful local theatre that has something for everyone.
The theatre itself is not to big and has a lot of character. Its classic yet elegant decor creates a warm inviting atmosphere to enjoy a great production. Yes there is only 1 small restroom area with a few working stalls so come prepared--now you know. That was not a big deal to me.
The best part had to be the price: $25 for the 35 & below crowd--that is an amazing deal! We loved both performances and couldn't believe the amazing seats for only $25!! I swear there must not be a bad seat in the house. A great value for the price and the performances were highly entertaining and enjoyable.
We will definitely be back for many more shows! -
Review from Kristin N.
Boston, MA
5/27/2010
I saw an excellent EXCELLENT show here a year or so ago (Hitchcock's the 39 Steps) and had a great time. The theater is designed so that no matter where you sit, you have a great seat and a great view. We sat in the mezzanine/balcony...highly recommend it. I only wish that they'd liven up their selection of performances. I swear every production has been a sad, moody, melodramatic choice for the past few seasons.
Also...if you can, avoid getting on their calling list. I love the Theater and will go back, but their phone reps call at dinner time every month looking for donations, even when I've nicely asked to be taken off the list. -
Review from Fer M.
New York, NY
11/12/2006
I adore the Huntington!
The shows they bring here are always high quality, the stage is lovely. I can always count on a great time!
the people that work here are helpfull. They explain whatever you would like to know about the theatre.
Student rush tkts are available and I was always able to get them. -
Review from Rachel U.
4/2/2008
I really enjoy seeing plays here. It's a really cozy venue, but not in the "good lord it's a closet" kind of cozy. The interior is beautifully restored, the seats are a little tight, but you get a nice view of the stage from any of them. They have some really interesting projects come through, so if you're curious about what new is being done in theatre, this could be a good place to start. My favorites have been "Present Laughter" with Victor Garber (and ran into him walking around Beacon Hill earlier that week; sadly he didn't recognize me later in the audience =P), and "39 Steps" which was amazingly fun and had such a creative use of minimal props and space.
I more often get Bostix advance tickets for shows here, and have had equally good seats in the orchestra and the balcony.Listed in: Viva La Bostix!
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Review from Lalin A.
Durham, NC
1/30/2007
Conveniently located at the corner of Mass and Huntington Ave's, and a minute walkaway from the Symphony T station, this theatre is worth checking out for the supposedly good plays.
I saw one last night and was very disappointed with the "Cherry Orchard" play where Kate Burton (from Grey's Anatomy) starred. Because of the donations and the possibility of buying tickets for 4, 5, 6 or 7 plays, the average age was 65-70. The crowd actually showed their disapproval of the whole performance, so a big plus there!
The theatre itself is beautiful, with blue ceilings decorated with golden. The front of the orchestra section (coded as AA) and the mezzanine (coded as AA) are the best seats, going around $70. They mention the second balcony, which is actually the back of the mezzanine section, so not so bad.
I loved the "to hold as 'twere the mirror up to nature" quote written on the top of the stage, referring to Hamlet's famous line!
Follow the season: there are actually some decent plays! -
Review from Patrick B.
Somerville, MA
5/21/2007
Theatre makes me nervous. I'm always afraid an actor's going to totally mess up which would embarrass the hell out of me. Fortunately, if someone's bombing on stage, the Huntington is so attractive, you can gaze at the golden Jesus fish shapes along the walls. People really seem to get off on all this gold trim. I saw a couple ascend to a place so they could finger the walls and they stood there for a while, fingering!
My friends and I managed to snag advance tickets on line for the 2nd night of a new show for only $16. Sure, by the time you get through all the service charges and everything it's more like $22, but the point is, the $16 seats are the very last row of the balcony and they're right behind the $30 seats. So you're basically getting the same view for less. Plus, at that height, you get a really good look at the set, and you're far enough away that no one notices you're sleeping. -
Review from Allison T.
Allston, MA
2/25/2008
I'd rate this a 3.5 but can't properly call it a 4. The space at the Huntington is really beautiful and easily T accessible; however the miniscule lobby and the off arrangement of the wheelchair ramp can make for some pandemonium before and following shows. Also, the women's bathroom situation is out of control - only three, poorly functioning stalls, to service an entire theatre.
And don't get me started on the ventilation system - I sat through four hours of opera this past weekend in an oppressively stuffy atmosphere permeated by the body odor of my fellow audience members.
Other than these smallish gripes the space is nicely laid out - the tiering ensures that there's not a bad view in the house - and the decor is really beautiful in a classic way.
I will say though that some of the student volunteers need to calm themselves down - not sure if it's like this at every performance, but seriously kids, it's alright -you'll survive if you don't touch or "direct" every person who walks through the door - including cast members - I'm pretty sure they know where the hell they're going - after all, they're in the show. Just an FYI for future dates. -
Review from Sally B.
6/11/2010
Theater lovers MUST see "Prelude to a Kiss" before it closes on Sunday (6/13).
I've been to this theater a handful of times over the last year and I've enjoyed every show, but last night's performance of "Prelude to a Kiss" blew me out of the water. It made me laugh, it made me gasp, it made me stay up late thinking about the meaning of life.
Go see this show immediately if you love theater, if you love romantic comedies, if you need a little kick to remind you why life is good.
The theater itself is also great. (Full disclosure: my bff/roommate is one of their box office managers.) It has that old theater charm, with a Shakespearean quote above the stage and a house full of great seats. It's comfortable and small enough that you feel like you're right there, but not so small that the stage seems cramped.
I really enjoy how I can go between levels at intermission. At some theaters (ahem, the Colonial) I feel like I'm a second class citizen for buying a balcony seat. Here, you can roam freely to the snack bar or see the set up close between acts.
Bonus entertainment: spot the celebs in the photos from past shows. Wilson (from House) acted here not that long ago, and other celebs have been known to star in and attend shows - last night, Jonathan Groff from Glee and Spring Awakening was in the audience! -
Review from Laura R.
Newton, MA
8/22/2006
I love this little theater!
The shows are diverse and for the most part well done, and the location is very accessable. If you are interested in ushuring, give the box office a call and you will get free seats in exchange for your help! It's true, the crowd is not terribly diverse and tends to be older, but for theater lovers, its worth the trip. -
Review from Trish F.
Boston, MA
11/19/2008
My friend and I went to see Carrie Fisher's one woman show 'Wishful Drinking' at the Huntington. I guess it was a one woman show.. because it wasn't quite stand up and it wasn't quite theater. Anyway..
The Huntington was not having a good weekend which was worsened by the fact that it was the show's closing weekend. They had to completely cancel a show because of the sound system the day before and so my show was pretty packed. They were still having issues with the sound at my performance and after a couple minutes of hearing a master mix of "W.. Www.. Wwwelcome to the HuntHuntHuntington Theatre".. it took them over a half hour to get the show started. During intermission, my friend said they were giving out one free item to each patron, but there was no sign and they were not telling people outright. She just went up and asked for a soda and they said it was free of charge.
On the plus side, when the show did start, the sound was relatively good. It seems as though any seat in the orchestra would have a good view of the stage. The theatre is pretty small, so I'm thinking most of the seats in the balcony probably feel the same way. And the space itself is quite lovely.
The bathroom only has 3 stalls which is somewhat annoying 5 minutes before curtain time.. but hopefully you'll be in a good line of women that have a sense of urgency and the line will move quickly.
I've always heard good things about the Huntington but I need to base my review on this experience, so I say 3 stars for now. I'll most definitely be back for another show and I'll update. PS - Buy your tickets on http://Goldstar.com! Cheap cheaper! -
Review from Rozina K.
Boston, MA
10/16/2007
I just got a subscription to the Huntington from my bf for my birthday and went to my very first show last week. The theatre was beautiful and very intimate and Its conveniently located right by the Symphony T stop. I saw the 39 steps, which was brilliantly done and I'm looking forward to my next visit. I would agree with other reviewers that there were quite a number of older people there and they seemed to be a consistent fixture.
I should note that there aren't a lot of restaurants to eat at in the vicinity if you're looking to grab a bite. -
Review from Kendra S.
Chattanooga, TN
11/30/2008
My experience is that of a married old hag (but still U-35) stroller mom who happens to have a student ID because she's also a graduate student on a part-time basis. So if that perspective is one that will enlighten, read on...
It turns out that when you purchase tickets at a discount because you are under 35, you have to schlep over to the theatre and present your ID. Not your student ID but your driver's license. And if it's raining and you schlepped with your babe in stroller, be prepared to either phone the box office to come have backdoor charlie open the door by the handicapped ramp OR you're going to have to drag that babe in stroller bumpity bump bump up those steps in the rain in order to present your student ID. Might not be worth the extra scrilla you saved.
Theatre is magnificent, seats on far right and far left in front 10 or so rows might have limited viewing, though. Can't speak for anything but floor level. Company seems to do a great job of bringing in great mix of acts and performances are nothing short of superb.
I will return in the future. Not with my stroller. Not in the rain. -
Review from Ellen C.
12/8/2008
I had the pleasure last week of going to the Huntington Theatre to see Stoppard's Rock and Roll. It really was a great experience. I wasn't expecting to be overwhelmed after having seen it in New York recently, but I was very pleasantly surprised.
It's great for anyone under-35 with special deals on tickets! I wasn't asked to prove my age, but as a college student, I am pretty clearly under 35.
What really blew me away about the theatre was the staging. Everything was perfect and gorgeous. Some of the effects were absolutely breath-taking. I'd definitely go see another show here- preferably as soon as possible! -
Review from Courtney P.
Boston, MA
2/14/2010
I have been here a few times. Once to see "Present Laughter" which was probably one of the funniest plays I've ever seen, and then recently to see "All my Sons." I love this theater.
The only thing is that a lot of the regulars are quite old, which is fine with me except not that great when trying to leave. It just seems that I get stuck behind all the slow people and it takes 20 minutes to leave the theater! But the actual theater is beautiful and there isn't a bad seat in the house because the size is really good.
Definitely go if you can get a ticket! -
Review from Old Bear ..
Chestnut Hill, MA
1/25/2008
The Huntington Theatre is the premier equity rep theatre in Boston. Over the years , the Huntington has mounted some fantastic productions, including premiers several of the plays of the late August Wilson who wrote a a cycle of plays, each set in a different decade in the 20th century, covering 100 years of African-American history and attitudes.
Other Yelp reviews have noted that the Huntington audience appears to be an older crowd. That may be because many of the audience became subscribers 25 years ago (when they were younger) and have gone to virtually every play every season since because of the consistent quality of the productions.
Unfortunately, like all legitimate theater, tickets tend to be expensive. In an effort to develop younger audiences, the Huntington has several discounted ticket prices for younger theater-goers. ($15 student-rate tickets are available for specific performances. Call the box office for information.)
The Huntington is affiliated with Boston University and, like BU's WBUR radio station, is a true amenity to all of us living in the metro Boston area. The theatrer is located roughly across Huntington Avenue from Boston Symphony Hall, so it's easy to get to by T. (Northeastern University owns a nearby parking garage on Gainsborough Street which provides evening "event" rates -- only slightly less that the gross national product of some less developed countries.)
If you want to attend a Huntington performance, I recommend that you read the reviews in the local press online and select a play which interests you. In 2007, "The 39 Steps" was a remarkable comedy adaptation of the 1935 Hitchcock film thriller, moving at a break-neck pace and delighting the audience. -
Review from Charles M.
Brookline, MA
3/31/2011
All these rave reviews and only 4 stars?! This theater deserves 5 stars and ongoing kudos-- I've been a subscriber for three years, and I go with my two pre-adolescent daughters-- they love it (even the bawdy shows!) as do I. Of course, the shows are variable, some great, mostly all at least very good, and an occasional average show-- just like theater companies everywhere. But when the shows are great (as was, for example, Pirates (of Penzance) among others, one regrets at not having subscribed years before.
Subscribing gives you excellent seats (most of the seats are very good) at very good prices. And the staff is so nice. Even when at the last minute I could not attend a performance, I was able to trade them for another night, which is an unbelievably gracious attitude.
Support the theater arts of course, but do this for yourself and your family. Even if just one show a year were great, it would be a good deal; but the fact is that their batting average for excellent shows is way beyond anything Barry Bonds has accomplished (or Ystremski if you prefer local heros). -
Review from Sara H.
Manhattan, NY
9/22/2007
I work here, so I'm a little bit biased, but even if I didn't I promise I'd still frequent it. Anyone who enjoys the performing arts should try to see a show here, because they are consistently well received. The theatre itself is old and charming, quite nice to look at, and well maintained. There's a variety of shows every season, and students get discounts on tickets. Go see a show! Let me know how it turns out :)
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Review from Yi W.
Washington, DC
9/3/2010
I went there to view a play performed by Boston University College of Fine Arts students, and while the play itself was spectacularly carried out, the theater is a bit small, and the doorway can be somewhat intricate that I almost got lost and could not find the exit. These factors shouldn't prevent you from seeing the performance there, though
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Review from Susan J.
Boston, MA
6/29/2005
A beautiful theatre with a diverse range of productions, from comedies and dramas to musicals and experimental works. Tends to be an upscale, hoity-toity crowd, but they do offer student rush tickets if you're willing to wait until the last minute.
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Review from So S.
Boston, MA
7/2/2005
This theatre is great!! A lot of different productions. Beautiful small somwhat upscale theatre and great place to impress your date. Gets crowded fast so reserve tickets. http://www.huntingtont...
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Review from Brendan M.
New York, NY
2/3/2006
Nice small old-fashioned theatre. Try to get seats in the stalls or mezzanine if you can - the balcony is quite high up.
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Review from Ellie L.
New York, NY
7/30/2005
Support the Boston theater scene! There's more than just the traveling Broadway productions, and the Huntington is a great place to get your feet wet as an theater-goer. The Huntington's a gorgeous space with a ton of varied and interesting productions, and the cool area it's in makes it an ideal component of a nice night out with a friend or a date.
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Review from J ..
Weymouth, MA
7/6/2005
This is a theater with a lot of character, and some very good performances. How's this for character? The usher explained to us that the big bronze circular things on the floor of the theater used to be the old airconditioning system for the theater- there would be big blocks of ice in the basement under the theater, and the cold air would cool down the seating upstairs. With stories like that, you just have to try a show here. A little culture won't hurt you, I swear!
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Review from Todd W.
Boston, MA
10/23/2009
see the listing at HUNTINGTON THEATRE CO
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Review from Rosemary C.
Boston, MA
4/7/2010
I've been a subscriber since...well, I can't remember how many years (should I admit that?) I subscribe - even when it has to go on credit card,and I have to pass on something else, if truth be told - because I know this theatre is deeply dedicated to quality in every aspect of its being. Its artistic vision has been consistent throughout the 3 or 4 artistic directors who have held the helm during its lifetime. In other words, it's the sum of - yet far larger - than them. That is Michael Maso's legacy. HTC maintains strong ties to the local and national theatrical and educational communities, and has survived - even thrived - during times both good and nearly arts-hostile. This is a theatre with a mission. It has a solid home in Boston because of its integrity, and its willingness to serve all audiences who share the willingness to hear, learn, agree, disagree, laugh and otherwise appreciate the place of theatre in our - and its - thousands of years of recorded history.
