Bijou Theatre

Bijou Theatre was a second-floor venue at 545 Washington Street that featured both live stage productions and motion picture screenings for its audiences. The space accommodated various entertainment formats under one roof during its years of operation.

Opening on December 11, 1882, the venue premiered with Gilbert and Sullivan's Iolanthe and remained active through the early decades of the 20th century. Operations ceased in 1943, and the structure was demolished in 1951 following stricter fire safety codes.

The venue served as a gathering place where Bostonians experienced both theatrical performances and cinema during the early 1900s. This blend of entertainment forms reflected how public tastes were shifting as new technologies changed how people spent their leisure time.

The venue no longer exists, having been demolished in 1951, so only historical records document what it once offered to audiences. Those interested in theater history can explore the Washington Street location where it stood and learn about early Boston entertainment venues.

Thomas Edison himself oversaw the installation of the electrical lighting systems, making it the first theater in the United States to use electric illumination. This technical achievement in the 1880s was groundbreaking and drew visitors eager to experience the innovation.

Location: Boston

Inception: 1882

Architects: Bradlee, Winslow & Wetherell

Address: 545 Washington Street, Boston, MA 02111

GPS coordinates: 42.35430,-71.06230

Latest update: December 12, 2025 12:00