Local guide · Wilmington
Thalian Hall
Thalian Hall opened in 1858, and its gilded horseshoe balconies have hosted Oscar Wilde, Buffalo Bill Cody and John Philip Sousa. Actor Tyrone Power called it one of the three great theaters of the world. It still shares its building with Wilmington’s City Hall.
Why families go
First-time visitors are surprised by how beautiful it is inside. Its stages host affordable local and touring productions, many of them family friendly, plus a film series. If there’s no show you want, the guided history and haunted tours are a great way to see the hall.
Don’t miss
- A show on the Main StageThe ornate 1858 auditorium seats about 550.
- The History TourStories of Douglass, Wilde, Sousa and more, in 45 to 60 minutes.
- The Haunted TourThe hall’s ghost stories, recommended for ages 13 and up.
- Thalian Hall CinemaFirst-run, independent and family films.
Who’s played here
Over 165 years, its stage has seen:
- Oscar Wilde (1882 lecture)
- Buffalo Bill Cody
- John Philip Sousa
- Frederick Douglass
- Lillian Russell
- Maurice Barrymore
- Sir Harry Lauder
- Marian Anderson
- Natalie Maines
- The Drifters
Plays, concerts, films and tours run year-round. See the calendar.
Photo: Thalian Hall
Before you go
- Book tours about a week ahead.
- Buy tickets only through ThalianHall.org or the box office.
Plan your visit
- Where: 310 Chestnut St., Wilmington, NC 28401
- From Topsail: About 45–50 minutes from central Surf City.
- Hours: Box office Monday to Friday, noon to 5 p.m., and an hour before curtain.
- Admission: Ticketed shows, films and tours.
- Tickets: Calendar and tickets
- Official site: thalianhall.org
- More nearby: more family fun in Wilmington
A short drive from the island. Browse our Topsail Island vacation rentals, all cared for by our local team.
Based on the venue’s official information, its published event history and news coverage, and recurring themes in public reviews; checked October 2026. Lineups change constantly, so check the calendar for current shows.