Dining at Chelsea Market was an incredible afternoon filled with culinary delights. The bustling atmosphere, endless food options, and vibrant energy made it a foodie’s paradise. From fresh seafood to artisanal pastries, every bite was unforgettable. Wandering the market’s stalls was an adventure, making the experience both delicious and exciting.
Broadway Theatre in New York City is not just a hub of live entertainment; it is a cultural icon with a rich history that dates back more than 250 years. Its evolution from humble beginnings to the dazzling global stage of today is a testament to the enduring power of live performance. Situated in the heart of Manhattan’s Theater District, Broadway is home to 41 theaters, making it the largest commercial theater district in the world.
Broadway’s roots can be traced back to the 1750s when the first theater opened in New York. By the 1800s, as New York City grew, so did its entertainment scene, with several playhouses emerging along what is now known as Lower Broadway. However, the real golden age of Broadway began in the early 20th century, particularly with the development of the Theater District around Times Square. During this era, Broadway solidified its reputation as the home of musical theater, thanks to groundbreaking productions such as Show Boat in 1927, which integrated music and storytelling in a new and innovative way.
Throughout the 20th century, Broadway continued to flourish. The 1940s and 1950s saw the emergence of iconic musicals such as Oklahoma! and West Side Story, which set the standard for modern theater. The 1970s brought us the British invasion of musicals, with productions like Cats and Les Misérables, while the 1990s saw the rise of large-scale Disney productions like The Lion King.
Broadway has never shied away from reinvention. While the glitz and glamour of large-scale productions continue to dazzle audiences, the district also celebrates more intimate, cutting-edge performances. Off-Broadway shows, often housed in smaller theaters, offer more experimental works, some of which go on to enjoy mainstream success. Broadway theaters are also steeped in history. The New Amsterdam Theatre, for instance, first opened its doors in 1903 and continues to host large-scale productions like Aladdin, while the Majestic Theatre has been home to the long-running Phantom of the Opera since 1988.
This guide will help you explore the world of Broadway Theatre in New York City, from its rich history to tips on securing tickets, making sure your theater adventure is nothing short of spectacular.
When visiting New York City, catching a show on Broadway is often a must-do experience, but the distinction between Broadway, On-Broadway, and Off-Broadway can be confusing for first-time theatergoers. While all three terms relate to the location and scale of the production, they don’t necessarily indicate the quality of the show.
Broadway typically refers to productions in theaters located in the famous Broadway district around Times Square. These theaters have 500 or more seats and often feature large-scale productions with high budgets, elaborate sets, and star-studded casts. Broadway shows are what most visitors envision when they think of New York theater, with long-running favorites like The Lion King or Hamilton commanding high ticket prices. The grandeur and spectacle of a Broadway show often come with a premium price tag, but the experience is well worth it.
On-Broadway is simply another term for a Broadway show—productions performed in a Broadway theater. These shows are recognized for their mainstream appeal and tend to be the most commercially successful.
Off-Broadway, on the other hand, refers to productions staged in smaller theaters with 100 to 499 seats, typically located outside the main Broadway district. Off-Broadway shows tend to be more experimental and offer a more intimate theater experience, often with lower ticket prices. While smaller in scale, many critically acclaimed productions, such as Rent and The Vagina Monologues, started Off-Broadway before moving to larger venues.
Ultimately, whether you choose a Broadway or Off-Broadway show, the decision should be based on your tastes. The production size might differ, but both can offer memorable, high-quality performances.
Many first-time visitors to New York City are surprised to discover that not all Broadway theatres are located on Broadway Street. In fact, the term “Broadway” has evolved to represent more than just a geographic location—it refers to the entire Theater District, which spans from 41st to 54th Streets and between 6th and 8th Avenues. While Broadway Street itself runs through this area, only a handful of theaters are actually located directly on this famous thoroughfare.
The reason for this lies in the development of New York City’s theater scene. In the early 1900s, when Broadway became the hub of American theater, many of the theaters were built in the vicinity of Times Square, which was then emerging as a cultural and entertainment center. Over time, theaters began to spread out across the area, but they all fell under the “Broadway” label, as the term had come to signify a certain size and prestige rather than a precise location.
To be classified as a Broadway theater, a venue must have at least 500 seats, and the theaters in the Theater District fit this description regardless of their exact street address. While theaters on Off-Broadway or Off-Off-Broadway stages are smaller and often more experimental, Broadway shows are synonymous with large-scale productions, star-studded casts, and commercial success.
In essence, the term “Broadway” has transcended geography, becoming a symbol of world-class theater that draws audiences from around the globe. Whether you’re catching a show on 44th Street or 52nd Street, you’re still experiencing the magic of Broadway in its most iconic form.
Here’s an updated list of Broadway theaters with famous shows and the year each theater was built:
Al Hirschfeld Theatre Built in: 1924
Famous Shows: Kinky Boots, Moulin Rouge! The Musical
Seating Capacity: 1,424
Website: www.jujamcyn.com/theatres/al-hirschfeld/
Built in: 1921
Famous Shows: Chicago
Seating Capacity: 1,114
Website: www.ambassadortheater.org
(227 West 42nd Street) – Built Built in: 1918
Famous Shows: The Man Who Came to Dinner, A Soldier’s Play
Seating Capacity: 740 Website: www.roundabouttheatre.org
Built in: 1925
Famous Shows: Jersey Boys, Mean Girls
Seating Capacity: 1,228
Website: www.jujamcyn.com/theatres/august-wilson/
Built in: 1928
Famous Shows: The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, A Raisin in the Sun
Seating Capacity: 1,058
Website: www.shubert.nyc/theatres/barrymore/
Built in: 1907
Famous Shows: Hedwig and the Angry Inch, Girl from the North Country
Seating Capacity: 1,016
Website: www.shubert.nyc/theatres/belasco/
Built in: 1927
Famous Shows: Once, Company (2021 revival)
Seating Capacity: 1,078
Website: www.shubert.nyc/theatres/jacobs/
Built in: 1927
Famous Shows: Once, Company (2021 revival)
Seating Capacity: 1,078
Website: www.shubert.nyc/theatres/jacobs/
Built in: 1917
Famous Shows: Anastasia, Les Misérables (revival)
Seating Capacity: 1,186
Website: www.shubert.nyc/theatres/broadhurst/
Built in: 1924
Famous Shows: West Side Story, Miss Saigon
Seating Capacity: 1,761
Website: www.thebroadwaytheatre.com
Built in: 1926
Famous Shows: Waitress, Six: The Musical
Seating Capacity: 1,069
Website: www.nederlander.com/venues/brooks-atkinson-theatre
Built in: 1972
Famous Shows: Fun Home, Oklahoma! (2019 revival)
Seating Capacity: 776
Website: www.circlesquare.org
Eugene O’Neill TheatreBuilt in: 1925
Famous Shows: The Book of Mormon, Spring Awakening, Death of a Salesman
Seating Capacity: 1,108
Website: www.jujamcyn.com/theatres/eugene-oneill/
Built in: 1912
Famous Shows: The Lifespan of a Fact, The Minutes
Seating Capacity: 1,082
Website: https://shubert.nyc/theatres/james-earl-jones/
Built in: 1928
Famous Shows: The Band’s Visit, Betrayal
Seating Capacity: 1,058
Website: www.shubert.nyc/theatres/barrymore/
Built in: 1917
Famous Shows: Come From Away, To Kill a Mockingbird
Seating Capacity: 1,079
Website: www.shubert.nyc/theatres/schoenfeld/
Built in: 1972
Famous Shows: Wicked
Seating Capacity: 1,933
Website: www.gershwintheatre.com
Built in: 1912
Famous Shows: Grand Horizons, The Rose Tattoo
Seating Capacity: 597
Website: https://2st.com/
Built in: 1903
Famous Shows: Burn This, Plaza Suite
Seating Capacity: 970
Website: www.thehudsonbroadway.com
Built in: 1923
Famous Shows: Les Misérables, Ain’t Too Proud – The Life and Times of The Temptations
Seating Capacity: 1,457
Website: www.shubert.nyc/theatres/imperial/
Built in: 1927
Famous Shows: Avenue Q, A Doll’s House, Part 2
Seating Capacity: 804
Website: www.shubert.nyc/theatres/john-golden/
Built in: 1913
Famous Shows: The Prom, Diana: The Musical
Seating Capacity: 1,077
Website: www.shubert.nyc/theatres/longacre/
Lunt-Fontanne TheatreBuilt in: 1910
Famous Shows: Beauty and the Beast, Tina – The Tina Turner Musical
Seating Capacity: 1,509
Website: www.nederlander.com/venues/lunt-fontanne-theatre
Built in: 1903
Famous Shows: A Strange Loop, The Play That Goes Wrong
Seating Capacity: 922
Website: www.shubert.nyc/theatres/lyceum/
Built in: 1927
Famous Shows: The Phantom of the Opera (longest-running Broadway show)
Seating Capacity: 1,681
Website: www.shubert.nyc/theatres/majestic/
Built in: 1986
Famous Shows: Tootsie, Beetlejuice
Seating Capacity: 1,611
Website: www.nederlander.com/venues/marquis-theatre
Built in: 1973
Famous Shows: The Lion King
Seating Capacity: 1,621
Website: www.nederlander.com/venues/minskoff-theatre
Built in: 1921
Famous Shows: Dear Evan Hansen, The Sound Inside
Seating Capacity: 1,025
Website: www.shubert.nyc/theatres/music-box/
Built in: 1921
Famous Shows: Rent, Newsies
Seating Capacity: 1,232
Website: www.nederlander.com/venues/nederlander-theatre
Built in: 1927
Famous Shows: Hairspray, MJ: The Musical
Seating Capacity: 1,445
Website: www.nederlander.com/venues/neil-simon-theatre
Built in: 1903
Famous Shows: The Lion King, Aladdin
Seating Capacity: 1,701
Website: www.newamsterdamtheatre.com
(1564 Broadway) [Currently undergoing renovation]
Built in: 1913
Famous Shows: Annie, Sunset Boulevard
Seating Capacity: 1,743
Website: www.nederlander.com/venues/palace-theatre
Built in: 1925
Famous Shows: Hamilton, In the Heights
Seating Capacity: 1,319
Website: www.shubert.nyc/theatres/richard-rodgers/
Built in: 1925
Famous Shows: The Nap, The Parisian Woman
Seating Capacity: 650
Website: www.manhattantheatreclub.com
Built in: 1913
Famous Shows: Hello, Dolly!, Matilda the Musical
Seating Capacity: 1,460
Website: www.shubert.nyc/theatres/shubert/
Built in: 1927
Famous Shows: Frozen, The Producers
Seating Capacity: 1,710
Website: www.jujamcyn.com/theatres/st-james/
Built in: 1918
Famous Shows: Mrs. Doubtfire, Beautiful: The Carole King Musical
Seating Capacity: 1,055
Website: www.roundabouttheatre.org
Built in: 1927
Famous Shows: Cabaret, Kiss Me, Kate
Seating Capacity: 1,006
Website: www.roundabouttheatre.org
(150 West 65th Street, part of Lincoln Center)
Built in: 1965
Famous Shows: My Fair Lady, The King and I
Seating Capacity: 1,105
Website: www.lct.org
Built in: 1921
Famous Shows: Hadestown, Spring Awakening
Seating Capacity: 975
Website: www.jujamcyn.com/theatres/walter-kerr/
Built in: 1911
Famous Shows: Mamma Mia!, The Music Man (2022 revival)
Seating Capacity: 1,526
Website: www.shubert.nyc/theatres/winter-garden/
Each of these historic venues has played a significant role in Broadway’s legacy, hosting some of the most iconic and influential performances in theater history.
Attending a Broadway show in New York City is an exciting experience, and while there’s no strict dress code, your attire can vary depending on the time of day and the occasion. For daytime matinees, casual attire is perfectly acceptable. Many theatergoers opt for comfortable yet stylish outfits.
For evening performances, especially on weekends, a step-up in style is often seen. While formal wear isn’t necessary, many attendees choose smart-casual outfits to elevate the evening’s experience.
Opening nights and special events call for a bit more flair. On these occasions, theatergoers often dress to impress, with cocktail attire being common. Men might wear a suit or blazer, while women may choose a cocktail dress or an elegant outfit. Although black tie isn’t required, it’s not uncommon to see more formal attire on Broadway’s glitziest nights.
Ultimately, dressing for a Broadway show in New York City is about feeling comfortable while adding a touch of sophistication. Whether it’s a matinee or an evening performance, your outfit should reflect both the special nature of the event and the cosmopolitan energy of the city. I tell my friends, “Be you, be comfortable or be fabulous and enjoy the experience.”
Stepping into the enchanting world of Broadway for the first time? Here are some essential tips to enhance your inaugural experience.
Broadway shows have a reputation for their unwavering punctuality. To ensure you catch the entire performance from start to finish, it’s essential to plan ahead. Arriving at least 30 minutes before showtime is a prudent choice. This window allows you ample time to breeze through security checks and, if needed, drop off any bags and grab a refreshment.
This is just a given. A ringing phone is distracting to both patrons and actors alike.
Similar to movie theaters, capturing photos and videos during a Broadway performance is generally prohibited. While some theaters may have varying restrictions, if the rules explicitly state “no photos or videos,” it’s vital to comply. Failure to do so may result in being asked to leave the theater. I have seen it first hand.
It’s customary to show your appreciation for the incredible talent on stage. Applause is a must after a musical performance or at the conclusion of an act. It’s a way to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of the performers.
Talking during a performance can be profoundly distracting, not only to your fellow audience members but also to the artists on stage.
As tempting as it may be, it’s generally best to resist the urge to sing along during musical numbers unless the performers specifically encourage audience participation.
Upon your theater entry, you’ll receive a Playbill, a treasure trove of performance information. Also a wonderful keep-sake, especially if you get it signed later.
Many Broadway productions feature live orchestras, creating the magical soundscape that accompanies the show. These talented musicians are typically nestled in a pit just below the stage.
After the final curtain call, the actors of a Broadway production often exit through the stage door located outside the theater. (You can always ask an usher which door).
Indulging in a delectable dining experience both before and after a Broadway show is a cherished tradition for many theater enthusiasts. Fortunately, the Theater District and Times Square are teeming with an array of enticing dining options. While the convenience of in-house theater refreshments is undeniable, it’s worth noting that they often come with a hefty price tag. To make the most of your theater night, consider relishing a fantastic meal at one of the many restaurants that dot the neighborhood before the show.
And when the curtain falls, the magic continues. After the performance, you can extend your evening by stepping into the vibrant pulse of Times Square and the Theater District, where an array of bars and lounges await. For those in search of a post-show drink, my favorite place is Lilie’s, a place where the ambiance is nothing short of special.
Broadway, the heartbeat of New York City’s theater scene, is surrounded by a range of attractions that offer visitors a full Manhattan experience. Just steps from any Broadway show, Times Square dazzles with its flashing lights and iconic billboards. A short walk from any theater in the district, this bustling crossroads is the perfect post-show stop to soak in the electric energy of the city.
If you’re looking to explore New York’s culinary scene, head about 1.5 miles downtown to Chelsea Market. A quick ride on the A, C, or E subway lines will take you to this industrial-chic market, where you can enjoy everything from artisanal food stalls to trendy shops.
For stunning skyline views, venture 2 miles west to The Edge at Hudson Yards. Accessible by subway on the 1 line or a short 10-minute cab ride, The Edge offers breathtaking panoramas of the city from its sky-high observation deck.
For a more serene escape, Battery Park is located about 5 miles south of Broadway. Take the 1 subway line directly to the southern tip of Manhattan, where you can enjoy waterfront views and ferry rides to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. These nearby attractions offer the perfect balance of culture, cuisine, and outdoor beauty after your Broadway experience.
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Wherever I go and with every picture I take, I see a story. So every journey, becomes a storied journey.
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