Best Theaters Outside Boston

When it comes to catching a show in eastern Massachusetts, hitting one of Boston's many theaters is typically the first choice. However, the surrounding area has plenty of theaters, so viewers can avoid traffic and try something new. In fact, there are shows going on outside of the city that cannot be seen within its limits. Tickets are usually cheaper, and finding a place to eat after the show that's not swamped is a cinch. Check out the schedules for the best theaters outside of Boston to find a show happening soon.

North Shore Music Theatre
62 Dunham Road
Beverly, MA 01915
(978) 232-7200
www.nsmt.org

North Shore Music Theatre is an impressive venue with its own restaurant. When weather permits, there is even a garden bistro for outdoor dining. Concerts, dance shows and musicals are plentiful on this stage. It's even easy to find the biggest shows that are happening in Boston right in Beverly. Children also get a large offering from North Shore Music Theatre with shows like "Shrek: The Musical," "Curious George," "Snow White" and "Cinderella," to name a few. Just remember Backstage Bistro is not open for children's shows.

Related: Boston's Best Dinner Theater

Stoneham Theatre
395 Main St.
Stoneham, MA 02180
(781) 279-2200
www.stonehamtheatre.org

Stoneham Theatre is more than just a venue; it's an organization involved in offering lessons and hosting charity events. Recent shows include "Carrie: The Musical" and "Willy Wonka." Diverse offerings like that make it a popular theater north of Boston. Talent is welcome to audition or join in one of the many learning opportunities offered at Stoneham Theatre. This is part of what makes supporting this theater by catching a show so special.

Center for Arts in Natick
14 Summer St.
Natick, MA 01760
(508) 647-0097
www.natickarts.org

The Center for Arts in Natick is a community-driven venue that rose up out of a wish to preserve the local historic firehouse. Today, the firehouse plays host to artists, musicians, theater groups and anyone wishing to rent the venue. Local performers are encouraged by such events as open mic nights, which give everyone an opportunity to show their stuff. Catch any one of numerous shows put on every month, organize one, or just have an art party.

The Hanover Theatre for the Performing Arts
2 Southbridge St.
Worcester, MA 01608
(508) 577-7469
www.hanovertheatre.org

The Hanover Theatre for the Performing Arts in Worcester is both a popular musical stage and a supportive community establishment. Recent shows include "Flashdance: The Musical" and comedian Ron White's "Nutcracker" tour. There is also dancing, children's shows and reprises of old favorites like "I Love Lucy." Whether visitors are looking to see a concert or be swept up in a musical, the Hanover Theatre has something either playing or coming right up.

Related: Best Family Theater Around Boston

The Spire Center For Performing Arts
25 1/2 Court St.
Plymouth, MA 02360
(508) 746-4488
www.spirecenter.org

The Spire Center for Performing Arts is located in one of the quaintest areas on the South Shore. Plymouth's many restaurants and beautiful ocean views will round off any evening spent watching theater in town. The center plays host to musicians, the local theater company and mostly local talent. That is what makes it stand out from other venues. It manages to put on professional shows in a lovely venue without all the pomp of popular theater.