Everybody knows Mount Baker Theatre is our crown jewel downtown — hosting touring Broadway shows, concerts, and major productions. But if you live in Bellingham (or you’re planning a visit), you know our theater scene goes far beyond one marquee.
From intimate black box performances to improv comedy and youth musicals, Bellingham’s performing arts community is creative, welcoming, and very much alive. Here’s where to experience theater in Bellingham beyond Mount Baker Theatre.
Bellingham Theatre Guild
One of the longest-running community theaters in town, Bellingham Theatre Guild produces a mix of classic plays, comedies, and contemporary works featuring talented local actors. Their performances feel intimate and community-driven — the kind of place where you’ll likely recognize someone on stage.
Location: 1600 H St, Bellingham, WA 98225
Hours: Performance times vary by production (evenings & select matinees)
Website: http://www.bellinghamtheatreguild.com/
The Upfront Theatre
If you’re looking for laughs, this is your spot. The Upfront Theatre is Bellingham’s improv hub, offering high-energy comedy shows, improv jams, and special themed performances. No two nights are ever the same, and audience participation is often part of the fun.
Location: 203 Prospect St, Bellingham, WA 98225
Hours: Evening shows (schedule varies by week)
Website: http://www.theupfront.com/
New Prospect Theatre
Located right downtown, New Prospect Theatre is a flexible performance space showcasing local theater, music, and creative arts programming. It’s an intimate venue that brings audiences close to the action.
Location: 207 Prospect St #100, Bellingham, WA 98225
Hours: Event-based schedule (typically evenings)
Website: https://newprospecttheatre.org/
BAAY Theatre (Bellingham Arts Academy for Youth)
BAAY Theatre highlights youth performers in full-scale musicals, plays, and original productions. Even if you don’t have kids in the program, the performances are impressive and full of heart. It’s one of the most inspiring stages in town.
Location: 1059 N State St, Bellingham, WA 98225
Hours: Showtimes vary (typically evenings and weekend matinees)
Website: http://baay.org/
Western Washington University Performing Arts Center
Western Washington University’s Performing Arts Center hosts student productions, faculty performances, and guest artists throughout the academic year. Expect thoughtfully staged plays, musicals, and experimental works from emerging talent.
Location: 516 High St, Bellingham, WA 98225
Hours: Performance schedule varies by season (evenings and weekends)
Website: https://cfpa.wwu.edu/
Firehouse Arts & Events Center
Located in historic Fairhaven, the Firehouse Arts & Events Center is a creative gathering space that hosts theater performances, music, workshops, and community arts events. It’s a cozy venue that blends history with creativity.
Location: 1314 Harris Ave, Bellingham, WA 98225
Hours: 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM (event times vary)
Website: https://firehouse-aec.com/
iDiOM Theater
If you enjoy experimental, quirky, and locally written productions, iDiOM Theater is a must. Known for original works and rarely seen plays, this independent theater consistently delivers bold and creative performances.
Location: 1417 Cornwall Ave, Bellingham, WA 98225
Hours: Shows typically Thursday–Saturday evenings (varies by production)
Website: https://www.idiomtheater.org/
Bonus: Film & Performance Venues
While not traditional stage theaters, these venues are essential to Bellingham’s broader performing arts culture.
Pickford Film Center
An independent cinema downtown featuring documentaries, foreign films, special screenings, and performing arts broadcasts.
Location: 1318 Bay St, Bellingham, WA 98225
Hours: Showtimes vary daily
Website: http://www.pickfordfilmcenter.org
Regal Barkley Village
Mainstream movie theater with IMAX and RPX screens — perfect for pairing dinner and a show.
Location: 3005 Cinema Pl, Bellingham, WA 98226
Hours: 11:00 AM – 11:30 PM daily
Website: https://www.regmovies.com/theatres/regal-barkley-village-1671
Why Bellingham’s Theater Scene Stands Out
What makes Bellingham’s performing arts scene special isn’t just the venues — it’s the community. You can catch improv one night, a youth musical the next, and a locally written experimental play the following weekend. Our stages are intimate, creative, and supported by people who genuinely care about the arts.
So yes, Mount Baker Theatre is iconic — but the real magic of Bellingham theater lives in these smaller stages, where creativity thrives and the spotlight shines on local talent.
