
F. M. Kirby Center Wilkes-Barre
Historic 1938 Art Deco theater hosting films, concerts, and kids' shows with stunning architecture and great acoustics.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Experience the magic of live performance

F. M. Kirby Center Wilkes-Barre
Best Time
Experience the magic of live performance

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic 1938 Art Deco theater hosting films, concerts, and kids' shows with stunning architecture and great acoustics.
"Beautiful restoration of an Art Deco building. Every member of the staff...are very helpful and friendly."

🎯 Book Ahead for Popular Shows
Shows like tribute bands sell out fast! Check the schedule and grab tickets early.
📏 Check Seating Comfort
Seats can be tight. Consider balcony for more space if needed.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Art Deco Architecture
Entire Venue
Step back in time in this beautifully restored 1938 theater, a stunning example of Art Deco design.

Intimate Concert Experience
Main Auditorium
Enjoy live music in a venue known for its excellent acoustics and close-up views of the stage.

Diverse Performances
Main Auditorium
From rock tributes to family shows, the Kirby Center hosts a wide array of entertainment for all ages.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Consider Seat Comfort
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Ahead for Popular Shows
Shows like tribute bands sell out fast! Check the schedule and grab tickets early.
📏 Check Seating Comfort
Seats can be tight. Consider balcony for more space if needed.
🎶 Enjoy the Acoustics
The venue is praised for its great sound quality for concerts.
✨ Admire Art Deco Design
The historic theater is a visual treat inside and out.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Ahead for Popular Shows
Shows like tribute bands sell out fast! Check the schedule and grab tickets early.
📏 Check Seating Comfort
Seats can be tight. Consider balcony for more space if needed.
🎶 Enjoy the Acoustics
The venue is praised for its great sound quality for concerts.
✨ Admire Art Deco Design
The historic theater is a visual treat inside and out.
💰 Concessions are Pricey
Be prepared for higher prices on drinks and snacks.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the F.M. Kirby Center for its stunning Art Deco architecture and excellent acoustics, offering an intimate and memorable live performance experience. While the venue is beautiful and the sound quality is top-notch, some find the seating to be quite tight.
"Small venue offers fantastic views of the stage. Good accoustics. Security is efficient but not stupid (no requirement for clear bags, for example). Seats are comfortable and spaced well. Concessions are pricey, but c'est la vie."
Susan Oliver
"Good venue to see a show. Very tight seating. If you are a tall or large boned person you will be uncomfortable in the seats."
Dennis McNaughton
"I saw Steve Winwood last night Great sound, comfy seats. Reasonable tickets.(130.00) reserved seats,(lower price for balcony) several bars and restrooms. Not a bad seat in the house..!"
Dale Anthony
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The F.M. Kirby Center is located in downtown Wilkes-Barre, PA. It's accessible by car, with nearby parking garages and street parking available. Public transportation options may also serve the downtown area.
Yes, there are several parking options near the F.M. Kirby Center, including garages and street parking. It's advisable to check for event-specific parking information or arrive early to secure a spot.
Major highways like I-81 provide access to Wilkes-Barre. From there, follow local signage to the downtown area and the F.M. Kirby Center for the Performing Arts.
Information on public transport routes serving downtown Wilkes-Barre can be found on local transit authority websites. Check their schedules for services that stop near the F.M. Kirby Center.
The F.M. Kirby Center is generally accessible. It's recommended to contact the venue directly to discuss specific accessibility needs or to arrange for assistance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets can be purchased online through the official F.M. Kirby Center website, at the box office, or through authorized third-party ticket vendors. Booking in advance is recommended for popular shows.
The F.M. Kirby Center box office hours vary, and it's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information. Performance times are listed on individual event pages.
Yes, the F.M. Kirby Center typically provides a seating chart on its website to help you choose your seats. This is especially useful for understanding sightlines and seat locations.
Unlike some venues, the F.M. Kirby Center does not require clear bags, offering a more relaxed security experience. However, it's always wise to check their specific policies before your visit.
Refund and exchange policies are typically set by the F.M. Kirby Center and depend on the specific event. It's best to review the terms and conditions at the time of purchase or contact the box office.
🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience
The F.M. Kirby Center offers comfortable seats with good spacing, providing excellent views of the stage. However, some patrons find the seating to be quite tight, especially for taller individuals.
The F.M. Kirby Center is renowned for its excellent acoustics, making it a fantastic venue for concerts and live music performances.
The F.M. Kirby Center hosts a diverse range of events, including concerts, films, children's shows, simulcasts, and performances by tribute bands.
Yes, the F.M. Kirby Center is equipped with multiple bars and restrooms to serve attendees, ensuring convenience during your visit.
The atmosphere is often described as intimate and historic, thanks to the beautifully restored Art Deco architecture and the venue's size, which allows for a close connection with performers.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the F.M. Kirby Center offers concessions, including drinks and snacks. However, be aware that prices can be on the higher side.
Generally, outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the F.M. Kirby Center. It's best to consume any items before entering the venue.
Downtown Wilkes-Barre has various restaurants and eateries offering diverse cuisines. You can find options ranging from casual dining to more formal establishments within walking distance.
Yes, the F.M. Kirby Center has several bars available for patrons to purchase beverages before the show or during intermissions.
Concession menus can vary. It's advisable to check with the venue directly or look for common snack options that might cater to dietary preferences.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography and videography policies can vary by event. Generally, personal cameras and recording devices may be restricted during performances. Check the specific event's guidelines.
Professional cameras with detachable lenses are typically not allowed for audience members to prevent disruption and protect performers' rights.
The Art Deco architecture itself is a major photo opportunity. The lobby and auditorium offer stunning backdrops, especially before the show begins.
Selfies with phones are usually permitted, as long as they don't disrupt other patrons or the performance. Be mindful of flash photography.
While phone photos might be allowed, using flash or recording video is often prohibited to avoid distracting performers and other audience members.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the venue itself is a visual treat, it's worth noting that some seats can be tight. For families with very young children or those who might need a bit more space, exploring the seating chart beforehand or considering balcony seating could be a good strategy. The intimate atmosphere ensures that even younger audience members can feel connected to the performance.
🎶 Music Enthusiasts
Artists like Almost Queen and AC/DC tribute bands have graced the stage, showcasing the venue's popularity for genre-specific performances. While concessions can be pricey, the quality of the sound and the close proximity to the performers make it a worthwhile experience for dedicated fans.
🏛️ History & Architecture Buffs
Even if you're not attending a show, the building itself is a significant attraction. It offers a glimpse into the golden age of cinema and theater design. The friendly staff also contribute to a positive experience, often happy to share insights about the venue's history.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Historic Charm of the F.M. Kirby Center
The theater's design contributes significantly to its appeal. The Art Deco style is evident in its geometric patterns, luxurious materials, and dramatic lighting. This aesthetic not only makes the venue visually stunning but also enhances the overall ambiance of any performance. It’s a place where the architecture itself becomes part of the show, offering a unique backdrop for concerts, films, and other events.
For those interested in local history or architectural marvels, the F.M. Kirby Center is a must-see. It stands as a testament to a bygone era of entertainment and design, offering a memorable experience that goes beyond just the performance on stage. The historic charm is a recurring theme in visitor feedback, highlighting its enduring appeal.
Experiencing Live Performances at the Kirby Center
One of the key advantages of the Kirby Center is its intimate seating arrangement. While some reviewers note that the seats can be a bit tight, this design contributes to a close-up view of the stage for most attendees. This proximity allows for a more personal connection with the performers, enhancing the overall impact of the show. The venue hosts a wide variety of events, from rock concerts and comedy shows to family-friendly performances and film screenings, catering to diverse tastes.
When planning your visit, it's worth considering the seating arrangements. While the tight seating is a common observation, the fantastic views and great sound are consistently praised. For those prioritizing comfort, researching the seating chart or opting for balcony seats might be beneficial. Ultimately, the F.M. Kirby Center offers a memorable way to enjoy live entertainment in a venue with both historical significance and excellent performance capabilities.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit