new england's live music guide
GARDINER
JOHNSON HALL
ABOUT
Johnson Hall Opera House is a nonprofit performing arts center at 280 Water Street in Gardiner, Maine. The facility includes a 400-seat theater on the third floor with state-of-the-art sound, lighting, and acoustic treatments, and an accessible 117-seat performance space (the Reehl Stage) on the first floor. It is the oldest opera house in the state of Maine.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Programming includes concerts spanning rock, folk, jazz, and tribute acts, as well as theater, comedy, movies, and community events. The venue also hosts the local Homegrown concert series featuring area musicians. National touring acts appear alongside regional and local performers.
HISTORY
The building began as a livery stable in 1864, with a two-story addition built atop it that included a dining room, billiard room, and large hall. The grand opening event on the third floor drew 500 people. Johnson Hall has provided entertainment for over 150 years. From 2022 to 2024, all three floors were completely rebuilt with a rehabilitated first-floor theater, box office, lobby, restrooms, and green room. Past and upcoming performers include Soul Asylum, The Second City, and Pink Floyd tributes.
UPCOMING SHOWS
No shows listed.
Thursday - 5/21
- 6:00pm — Johnson Hall Open Mic Night sing along
Friday - 5/22
- 7:30pm — The Fogcutters get loud
Saturday - 5/23
- 7:30pm — The 2026 Give Your Voice All-Star Concert all stars
Sunday - 5/31
- 7:30pm — Livingston Taylor folk legend