Wilma Theater | Philadelphia

The Wilma Theater is a performing arts venue located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

It is a professional regional theater dedicated to producing a diverse range of theatrical works.

Visual Characteristics

The Wilma Theater is housed in a former movie palace. The exterior features a limestone facade. The interior auditorium is designed in a Beaux-Arts style, with ornate plasterwork, gilded detailing, and velvet seating. The stage is proscenium-style.

Location & Access Logistics

The Wilma Theater is situated at 265 South Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107. It is located in the Center City district, approximately 1 mile south of City Hall. Parking is available in several commercial garages within a 2-block radius, including the AutoPark at the Kimmel Center and the Bellevue Garage. The theater is accessible via SEPTA public transportation. The nearest Broad Street Line subway station is Walnut-Locust, located directly across the street. Multiple bus routes also serve the immediate vicinity, including routes 9, 12, 21, 27, and 42.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The building originally opened in 1926 as the Roosevelt Theater, a movie palace designed by architect Hoffman & Henon. It was later renovated and reopened as the Wilma Theater in 1980, under the artistic direction of J. Richard Dalesandro and the architectural guidance of Venturi, Rauch and Scott Brown, who focused on preserving and enhancing its historic features while adapting it for live theater.

Key Highlights & Activities

The primary activity at the Wilma Theater is attending live theatrical performances. The theater hosts a season of plays, musicals, and other dramatic productions. Patrons can purchase tickets for individual shows or season subscriptions. Educational programs and workshops are also offered.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available within the theater. Limited concessions are sold in the lobby. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available within the building. There are no food vendors directly on-site, but numerous restaurants are located within walking distance on Broad Street and surrounding blocks.

Best Time to Visit

Performance schedules vary by production. The best time to visit is during the theater's active season, typically from September through June. Evening performances usually begin between 7:00 PM and 8:00 PM. Matinee performances are often scheduled on weekend afternoons.

Facts & Legends

The Wilma Theater is known for its commitment to new and contemporary works, often commissioning or premiering plays by emerging playwrights. A notable architectural feature is the preservation of original decorative elements from its movie palace era, integrated into the modern theater design.

Nearby Landmarks

• Kimmel Cultural Campus (0.1km North)
• Merriam Theater (0.2km North)
• Academy of Music (0.3km North)
• Philadelphia Museum of Art (2.5km Northwest)
• Independence Hall (1.8km East)