The Music Hall opened its doors in 1878, and, by the turn of the century, had become an integral part of the Portsmouth community. In 1926 it closed its doors, re-opening in 1945 as The Civic Theatre, and staying open for more than 25 years. In 1971 it was purchased by E.M. Lowe and closed down so as not to be in competition with The Colonial Theatre.

A 1985 attempt by the Portsmouth Civic Opera Company to revive it as a performance venue was valiant but unsuccessful. But a final attempt in 1987 by The Friends of The Music Hall was successful and led The Music Hall to its current run of 13 consecutive years as Portsmouth's premiere spot for live entertainment and film.

When The Music Hall isn't presenting world class live performances, they're presenting world class cinema. On most days that they don't have a live show, they raise the curtain on the best in rare, independent, and international films, and project them on the biggest screen north of Boston - in full Dolby® Digital Surround Sound.

Capacity: 900

Upcoming events: