Business Details
Maine's Premier Performing Arts Center Since 1864
Johnson Hall Opera House has been a cornerstone of artistic excellence in Maine since 1864. Originally established as a livery stable by Benjamin Johnson, our venue evolved into a premier performing arts center dedicated to enriching the cultural landscape of the Kennebec River Valley. Following a $9 million renovation completed in March 2024, we now operate two state-of-the-art theaters: The Logan Stage on the first floor and The Reehl Stage on the third floor, both featuring accessible seating.Our mission focuses on presenting world-class entertainment, delivering professional performing arts education through programs like SPARK Theater Camp, and fostering economic growth through cultural initiatives. With a legacy spanning over 160 years, we continue to honor the vision of our founders while embracing modern innovations to serve contemporary audiences.
Services
Concerts
Theater Performances
Educational Programs
Venue Rentals
Comedy Shows
Highlights and features
- 160+ years of continuous operation as Maine's oldest performing arts venue
- Completed $9 million renovation creating two modern, accessible theaters
- Offers SPARK Theater Camp and Artists in the Schools educational programs
- Hosts diverse programming from concerts to comedy in historic surroundings
- Maintains strong community ties through local artist collaborations
Associations and certifications
- 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization
Services
Performing Arts Events
We present diverse live performances including concerts, theater productions, and comedy shows. Our two renovated theaters host national touring artists and local talent across multiple genres. The Logan Stage and Reehl Stage accommodate audiences of all sizes with modern amenities while preserving historic charm.
Educational Programs
Our SPARK Theater Camp and Artists in the Schools initiatives provide performing arts education for youth. Professional instructors deliver beginner to advanced classes in acting, music, and stage production. Programs emphasize accessibility with scholarship opportunities for qualified students.
Venue Rentals
We offer historic theater spaces for private events, conferences, and community gatherings. The 400-seat Reehl Stage and smaller Logan Stage feature modern technical capabilities while maintaining 19th-century architectural elements. Rental packages include technical support and event coordination.
Community Outreach
We drive cultural engagement through free public performances and artist residencies. Our initiatives connect local residents with professional artists through workshops, school programs, and collaborative productions that highlight regional talent and stories.
Historic Preservation
We maintain and restore Maine's oldest opera house while integrating modern accessibility features. Our 2024 renovation preserved original architectural elements while upgrading infrastructure to meet contemporary performance standards and ADA requirements.
People
Michael R. Miclon
Executive/Artistic Director
Michael leads artistic programming and operational strategy at Johnson Hall. With extensive experience in theater management, he oversees performance curation, venue operations, and community engagement initiatives that align with the organization's mission.
Maureen Reed
Development Director
Maureen manages fundraising and donor relations for Johnson Hall. She coordinates annual giving campaigns, endowment development, and corporate sponsorship programs that support the organization's educational and performance activities.
Katie Coan
SPARK Theater Camp Instructor
Katie directs youth theater education programs at Johnson Hall. A professional performer with experience at Disney World and regional theaters, she develops curriculum and instruction for SPARK Theater Camp's acting, music, and stage production classes.
Patrick Wright
Board President
Patrick leads the board of directors overseeing Johnson Hall's governance. He provides strategic direction for organizational growth while ensuring financial sustainability and community engagement through regular board meetings and policy development.
Jason Goucher
Rentals Coordinator
Jason manages venue rental operations and event logistics at Johnson Hall. He coordinates space availability, technical requirements, and client communications for private events, conferences, and community gatherings.
Questions
What types of performances does Johnson Hall host?
We present concerts, theater productions, comedy shows, and community events across multiple genres in our two renovated theaters.
Are educational programs available for children?
Yes, our SPARK Theater Camp offers acting, music, and stage production classes for youth with scholarship opportunities available.
Can I rent Johnson Hall for private events?
Yes, both our Logan Stage and Reehl Stage are available for weddings, conferences, and special events with technical support.
How is Johnson Hall funded?
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, we rely on ticket sales, donations, sponsorships, and grants to support our operations and programs.
Is Johnson Hall accessible for patrons with disabilities?
Yes, our 2024 renovation included full ADA compliance with accessible seating on both theater levels.
How can I support Johnson Hall's mission?
You can donate online, become a sponsor, or participate in our 'Take a Seat' campaign to name a theater seat.
Videos
Reviews (7)
Michael Cyr
Oct 02, 2020
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It's ok for a community hall but NOT given what the tickets for John Gorka cost. Gorka was great. The hall not so much. It stank. Seats were hard. Sound system had a buzz. Ventilation not great and only two single bathrooms. On the plus side the volunteer staff were very friendly.
Greggus Yahr
Aug 03, 2020
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A treat to attend. Intimate yet comfortable and surprisingly good acoustics; we will definitely visit this venue again.
Jason Tardy
Jan 08, 2020
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I LOVE THIS PLACE! Amazing variety arts, musicians, and comedy. If you are not seeing live theater at Johnson Hall, you are missing out!
Jeff Chetkauskas
Nov 06, 2019
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We were one of the lucky few who got tickets for an intimate gathering with Paula Cole. I would love to do it again sometime. I hope the renovations are coming along nicely for such a beautiful place.
Raegan LaRochelle
Aug 14, 2019
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Fantastic venue in the midst of a major capital campaign to restore the upper levels of the theater. Request a tour from Carrie - you'll be amazed!
Monica Theriault
Nov 03, 2018
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We are from Auburn, Maine and came up due to a Facebook post. We came for their tree festive. It was so magical and my kids loved it. We do wish we were closer so we could attend more activities. Great things happening here. Can't wait to come back for another fun activity.
Chris Douglas
Sep 18, 2017
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Nice authentic old place restored for multi-purpose use. Check out heir website for an event schedule. They draw a big variety of music and theater events. It's small and always enjoyable/
