johnson hall

"Community Theater" really doesn't do this small-town venue justice. While there is nothing extravagant or fanncy about the facility, the variety and level of talent appearing here is impressive. Johnson Hall dates back to the 1800's as a performance center, with what was once a majestic 400-seat theater. But it fell into disrepair and, while efforts to resurect the main theater continue, today's performances are staged in a smaller 100-seat venue that once was a rehearsal facility. With the emphasis on raising funds for the renovation, the current venue is basic but comfortable. A very small lobby houses a ticket window and entry hallway; and the theater offers flat-floor seating (with a very small elevated-seating area on one side). But the acoustics are fine and there truly is not a bad seat anywhere in this cozy setting. Staffed almost exclusively by volunteers, the atmosphere is "informal" at best. Basic refreshments are sold from a folding table at the back of the seating area (or in the lobby if the "house" is large).But the true 'shining light" of this great little theater is the variety and professionalism of the talent that's booked to play there. Recent offerings have ranged from: an evening of laughter with a local improv group; to international singers; to a techno-music-juggling-contortion-humor team with Disney Cruise Lines, the Tonight Show and the White House in their resume; to a parody of the Tonight Show called The Early Evening Show with comedy, music and who-knows-what with network televison creds; to a program of multiple short community-theater-group presentations offered in a single-performance package. A full season's offerings can be summarized as "eclectic", but is in keeping with Johnson Hall's goals of giving everyone an "excuse" to come out and support their local theater. Prices vary from artist to artist, but are generally in the "very affordable to affordable" range; including a recent initiative to reduce the costs of children's tickets to make Johnson Hall a family-night-out destination. Upcoming offerings are listed on their website and tickets can be reserved in advance (although performances are generally "open" rather than "reserved" seating).We generally attend several performances a year and have yet to be disappointed.

If you are traveling through Maine, be sure to check out the events at Johnson Hall. This historic building is experiencing a renaissance and is under new energy. Come help the effort and support the programing to complete renovations of the old theater on the second floor.

Lots of laughter and fun and good food too! Dickie Hyperhiney's Rockin' New Year's Eve...what a blast!! I don't believe there would be any show at this venue that wouldn't be great. They are doing "The Early Evening Show" soon. I can't wait!! (Food was special for New Year's - they generally have beverages for purchase at regular events)

A small, intimate theater striving for excellence. We truly enjoyed an evening with Castlebay, a duo performing Celtic music and stories. The harp was hand made. Amazing blending of harp and guitar. Will return for another show!

The folks at Johnson Hall have been working for years to renovate the larger theater, but it is a huge task. In the meantime they produce wonderful local and national shows. www.http://johnsonhall.org/