Boston Playwrights' Theatre

Boston Playwrights’ Theatre: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Boston Playwrights’ Theatre (BPT) is a cornerstone of Boston’s vibrant performing arts scene, renowned for its dedication to developing new American plays and nurturing emerging playwrights. Founded in 1981 by Nobel Laureate Derek Walcott, BPT is located at 949 Commonwealth Avenue on the Boston University campus. This intimate black box venue fosters close connections between artists and audiences, offering a unique, immersive experience in contemporary theater (Boston Playwrights’ Theatre).

Whether you’re a local theater enthusiast or visiting Boston for its cultural attractions, this guide provides comprehensive information on BPT’s visiting hours, ticketing, programming, accessibility, and historical significance to help you plan a memorable visit.

History and Mission

Founding Vision

Derek Walcott, a celebrated poet and playwright, established BPT to create a laboratory for new works and a launchpad for emerging voices, particularly those enrolled in Boston University’s MFA Playwriting program. Since its inception, BPT has fostered collaboration among students, faculty, and professional theater artists, ensuring a steady flow of innovative, socially relevant productions (Boston Playwrights’ Theatre).

Growth and Impact

Over the decades, BPT has evolved from a university-affiliated initiative into a vital hub for Boston’s theater community. Its annual programming, including new play festivals, the Boston Theater Marathon, and partnerships with local theater companies, has cemented its reputation as a space for artistic risk-taking and dialogue (Dramatists Guild; BroadwayWorld).

Programming Highlights

Mainstage and Festivals

Each season, BPT presents a dynamic repertoire of full-length plays, staged readings, and workshops, often developed by MFA students and local playwrights. The 2024–2025 season features:

Spring Rep Festival: Including The Fig Tree, and The Phoenix, and The Desire to be Reborn by Isabelle Fereshteh Sanatdar Stevens and The Recursion of a Moth by Brandon Zang.
Fall Rep Festival: Presenting How to -Not- Save the World with Mr. Bezos by Maggie Kearnan and Soft Star by Tina Esper.
Jack Welch Developmental Residency: Showcasing Trust by Ginger Lazarus.

BPT’s annual Boston Theater Marathon is a hallmark event that brings together 50 playwrights, directors, and theater companies for a single day of ten-minute plays, supporting the Theatre Community Benevolent Fund (Boston Irish).

New Play Development

BPT invests in new play development through workshops, readings, and collaborative festivals. Programs like BPT Talks About Design and the Jack Welch Residency offer the public insight into the creative process and provide playwrights with valuable feedback (Boston Playwrights’ Theatre).

Community and Education

In partnership with Boston University’s College of Fine Arts, BPT integrates educational opportunities for students and the public, including talkbacks, masterclasses, and lectures. These initiatives foster inclusivity and expand the theater’s reach within Boston’s cultural landscape.

Visitor Information

Location and Venue

Address: 949 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, MA 02215
Venue: Two black box stages—the Odyssey and the Walcott Theatre—each seating 90–100 guests for immersive performances (Theatre in Boston).

Visiting Hours and Box Office

Box Office Hours: Monday–Friday, 12:00 PM–6:00 PM; two hours before showtime on performance days.
Performance Times: Evenings at 7:30 PM (weekdays), weekend matinees at 2:00 PM. Check the official BPT schedule for details.

Ticketing

Prices: Generally $15–$40, with discounts for students, seniors, and BU affiliates.
Purchasing: Buy online via the BPT website, by phone, or at the box office.
Accessibility: Many readings and workshops are pay-what-you-can or free, encouraging broad community participation.

Getting There

Public Transportation: MBTA Green Line B branch, Pleasant Street or Boston University West stops, both within a short walk.
Parking: Limited street and university lot parking; public transport is recommended. Nearby paid garages are available—check BPT’s parking info for latest updates.

Accessibility

Wheelchair Access: Fully accessible entrances and seating; assistive listening devices available upon request. Contact the box office for accommodations (Boston Playwrights’ Theatre).

Visitor Tips

Arrive Early: Doors open 30 minutes before showtime; seating is general admission.
Engage: Participate in post-show discussions and community events to connect with artists and fellow theatergoers.
Explore: Take advantage of nearby attractions such as Fenway Park, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Charles River Esplanade (Nomadic Matt).
Dress Comfortably: Casual or smart-casual attire is appropriate.
Refreshments: No concessions in the theater; plenty of dining options nearby.

Nearby Attractions

Agganis Arena: Sports and entertainment venue across the street.
Boston University Campus: Historic architecture and green spaces.
Kenmore Square, Fenway Park, Charles River Esplanade: All within walking distance.
Museums: Museum of Fine Arts, Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum (Boston Historical Sites).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are BPT’s visiting hours?
A: Box office is open weekdays 12–6 PM and two hours before performances. Showtimes vary—check the online schedule.

Q: How do I buy tickets?
A: Purchase online, by phone, or at the box office. Advance reservations are recommended.

Q: Is BPT wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes; contact the box office for specific needs.

Q: Are there student or senior discounts?
A: Yes—see website for current offers.

Q: Is parking available?
A: Limited; public transit is recommended.

Q: Can I attend workshops and readings?
A: Many are open to the public and free or pay-what-you-can.

Visuals and Online Resources

Summary and Visitor Recommendations

Boston Playwrights’ Theatre stands as a beacon for new American drama, seamlessly blending academic rigor with professional artistry. Its programming, from mainstage productions to the Boston Theater Marathon, offers accessible, affordable, and enriching experiences for all. Located in the heart of Boston’s cultural and historical landscape, BPT is a must-visit for anyone interested in the performing arts.