Maine State Music Theatre | Brunswick ME

The Maine State Music Theatre (MSMT), located on the campus of Bowdoin College in Brunswick, Maine, is one of New England’s premier professional summer theaters, renowned for its high-caliber Broadway-style productions, dynamic performances, and deep community roots. Since its founding in 1959, MSMT has grown into a cornerstone of Maine’s cultural scene, drawing audiences from across the region and beyond.

History and Mission
Originally established as part of the Brunswick Summer Playhouse, the theatre evolved into a fully professional company dedicated to musical theatre excellence. Its mission has always been to bring the magic of Broadway to Maine while supporting emerging talent and fostering appreciation for the performing arts. Over the decades, MSMT has become a launching ground for many actors, directors, and designers who later built distinguished careers in national and international theatre.

Performances and Productions
Each summer season features four large-scale musicals, ranging from beloved classics to contemporary hits. Productions often include full orchestras, elaborate sets, and original choreography-remarkable achievements given the theatre’s seasonal nature. Past shows have included favorites like Les Misérables, The Sound of Music, Mamma Mia!, Chicago, and Newsies. The theatre’s combination of professional actors from New York and talented regional performers gives each performance both polish and authenticity.

Venue and Atmosphere
Performances are held in the Pickard Theater, an elegant 600-seat venue on the Bowdoin College campus. Its intimate size ensures excellent sightlines and acoustics, immersing audiences in the energy of live musical theatre. The experience feels grand yet personal, especially on summer evenings when the buzz of anticipation fills the historic hall.

Educational and Community Programs
MSMT extends its influence beyond the stage through educational outreach and community engagement. The theatre offers workshops, internships, and training programs for aspiring young performers and technicians. Its youth series introduces children to live theatre, helping nurture the next generation of artists and audiences.

Visitor Experience
Attending a performance at MSMT is both a cultural and social experience. Visitors often arrive early to stroll through the Bowdoin campus or dine in downtown Brunswick before the show. The theatre’s summer schedule makes it a highlight of the Maine coastal arts calendar, drawing a loyal following of locals, vacationers, and theatre enthusiasts who plan their trips around the season lineup.

Nearby Attractions
The theatre’s location near Bowdoin College Museum of Art, the Harriet Beecher Stowe House, and Brunswick’s historic downtown makes it easy to pair a show with an afternoon of sightseeing or dining.

The Maine State Music Theatre captures the vibrant spirit of live performance-combining the charm of a small-town venue with the quality of a Broadway stage-making it one of the most memorable cultural experiences in mid-coast Maine.