Murphy Theatre

The Murphy Theatre is a cinema and performance venue in Wilmington featuring a marble lobby with ornamental plaster details and seating for approximately 769 people. The space hosts live performances, concerts, and film screenings in its main auditorium.

The theater was financed by Chicago Cubs owner Charles Murphy in 1916 and opened in July 1918 with performances by actor Douglas Fairbanks. It became a significant entertainment destination in the region over the following decades.

The theater serves as a community arts venue where visitors gather for concerts, comedy performances, and dance shows throughout the year. It remains a place where local and visiting artists connect with audiences in a shared creative space.

The venue is located in downtown Wilmington and is accessible by foot from the surrounding area. Visitors should check ahead about current events and programs, as offerings vary depending on the season.

The building was equipped with fifteen miles of electrical wiring when it was constructed, an impressive technical feat for the time. The ventilation system operated automatically to maintain comfortable air quality throughout performances and screenings.

Location: Wilmington

Inception: July 24, 1918

Official opening: July 24, 1918

Capacity: 769

Address: 50 West Main Street, Wilmington, OH 45177

Website: http://themurphytheatre.org

GPS coordinates: 39.44510,-83.82941

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:07