The Firehouse Theater was converted into a fully functioning theater in 1999 featuring original plays as well as classics. It became exclusively a comedy house in 2009. The building was built in 1895, designed by George Champlin Mason and was used as an actual Firehouse until the 1920s. It has been used as many things between then and 1999 such as a bus terminal, union hall, and Laundromat. The Firehouse Theater is an intimate theater, seating 75 people. It is handicap accessible. Guests are strongly encouraged to buy tickets in advance or call ahead to reserve seats.

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The Bit Players, RI's most award-winning comedy show, have been performing their hilarious improvisation since 2007 at the Firehouse Theater in beautiful and historic Newport, Rhode Island. Their show is modeled after the hit TV show "Whose Line is it Anyway?" but with many of their own spins and interpretations. No two shows are ever the same with a large cast of improvisers and a vault full of different games or "Bits". Every show is entirely improvised. Nothing is ever pre-planned, scripted, or rehearsed in advance. The shows are dictated by the audience's suggestions however no audience member is ever "picked on" or singled out...unless they bring the attention upon themselves. :-) ALL shows at The Firehouse are BYOB. There is no age limit but shows are promoted as PG13. The Bits try to keep the content as high-brow and clean as possible but there is no guarantee what audience members will yell out. Adults are encouraged to use their own discretion as to what they deem appropriate for their children/party.​
 

The Firehouse can be booked for private functions. The Theater offers a full kitchen along with plates, serving utensils, and silverware for private parties and events on property. Group rates are also available for regular Bit Player shows. Guests or groups celebrating something special can be made part of the show. Just let us know about the celebration when you purchase tickets. Many Bits can be customized to individual guests or a group as well. The Firehouse Theater often welcomes bachelor(ette) parties, birthdays, anniversaries, divorces and has even had a couple FHT wedding proposals right on the stage during a performance! We try to celebrate everyone but make no guarantees.