The Maine State Music Theatre is a beloved Pine Tree State institution popular with locals and tourists. It was founded by Vicki Crandall in 1959 in Pickard Theater, where the troupe still performs today. Originally a one-woman outfit, with Vicki coordinating everything, it has evolved into a mainstay of Maine’s theater scene. Today, the organization is a non-profit with an internship program training young actors and an award-winning troupe staffed by Broadway-caliber actors. Spend an evening with this community-minded organization and you will likely leave singing.
Set out on a warm summer night to Bowdoin College’s lovely campus and take a leisurely stroll through the gathering dusk to Pickard Theater. Join fellow musical theater lovers as they chat and walk up the stairs. Grab a snack from the charming gazebo and mingle a bit before heading into the theater. Relax in the comfortable seats and let the actors whisk you away.
Musicals that have been performed in the last few seasons range from classics, such as Fiddler on the Roof and Singin’ in the Rain, to newer musicals from Broadway and beyond. The theater also has a robust children and youth calendar, which caters to young people and with earlier start times. The company puts on four shows per season, so there will always be something to appeal to every theatergoer. After the show, take a leisurely stroll down to Brunswick’s historic district for an after-theater meal or drink.
The Maine State Music Theatre season runs in summer. Show times and prices vary based on the musical being performed. Purchase tickets online or in person. Tickets sell out quickly, so it is generally advisable to buy ahead. Pickard Theater is located at the entrance of the Bowdoin College campus, a 5-minute walk from Brunswick Station. Parking is available in the on-campus lots or along the street, but can fill up quickly during performances. Pickard Theater is not wheelchair accessible and has several staircases that must be climbed to access the theater itself.
