If you’re in MetroWest, you’re surrounded by an abundance of performing and visual arts at any given time. There are vibrant, historic theaters with performers to fill them. There are community centers founded on creating shared experiences. And many pubs and restaurants frequently book like music to serenade diners or simply delight fans. 

 

From those theaters, Shakespeare’s words often ring. Other times, though, experimental or avant-garde stories grace stages in Framingham or Natick. It’s all small, cheap, and accessible. 

 

None of these spots offer the stadium shows or thundering operas of the cities. Instead, they bring art up close and personal. See what we’re talking about...

 

 

 

14 Summer St., Natick

508-647-0097

A sprawling arts operation hosting performances in a historic firehouse recently transformed into a theater space. The TCAN runs programming year-round, ranging from comedy, to theater, to live music. 

 

Vokes Players 

97 State Rd., Wayland

508-358-4034

A regionally renowned community theater troupe performing in the more than 100-year-old, 100-seat Vokes Theater. 

 

98 Hayden Rowe St., Hopkinton 

508-435-9222

A regional theater hosting theater, music and dance productions throughout the year including a summer jazz series and a visual art exhibitions all year. 

57 Andrew Ave., Wayland

774-421-9211

An arts co-op billing itself as a cafe-style co-working space for artists and people who appreciate art. The spot also hosts low-cost music performances, open-mic nights, classes and galleries.

160 Hollis St., Framingham

508-405-2787

A nonprofit arts center hosting three different visual arts galleries packed with the work of local artists. ATAC also hosts wildly popular performances of everything from comedy to music.

 

 

319 Speen St., Natick

508-903-1595

A high-energy sports bar and grill with frequent live rock shows. Visit their site for show dates, as they change frequently!

 

23 Pond St., Ashland

508-861-7780

A family-oriented pub with live music on Friday nights. Band focuses range from the acoustic genre to rock. 

 

85 East Central St., Ashland

508-665-7878

A bar dropped in downtown Natick with regularly scheduled live music. Owners recently renovated the Tavern.

181 Concord St., Framingham

857- 250-2381

Open Mic Night will be presented on the last Friday of each month from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm. All musicians and budding musicians are welcome to participate in this event. Open Mic Night welcomes participants and audience of all ages. 

81 Morton St., Framingham
exhibit-a-brewery.com
508-202-9297

Join for a fun night of stand-up comedy inside this brewery! Monthly shows features the best local comedy talent from New England along with amazing beer. They also offer live music nights!

29 Hudson Rd., Sudbury

978-443-1400

Fugitive Comedy Night offered each month. Oftentimes sold out, so make sure you reserve your seats early.