Al Hirschfeld Theatre
The Al Hirschfeld Theatre, formerly known as the Martin Beck Theatre, is located at 302 West 45th Street in Midtown Manhattan. The theater was designed in a Moorish and Byzantine style by G. Albert Lansburgh, with lavish interiors and excellent acoustics. Originally opened in 1924, it has hosted iconic productions including Kinky Boots, Man of La Mancha, and Hair. Its intimate layout makes it a perfect home for Moulin Rouge! on Broadway, surrounding audiences with the immersive energy of Paris’s most famous cabaret. The Al Hirschfeld Theatre seating chart will help you find the best seats in the theater.
About Al Hirschfeld Theatre
- The Al Hirschfeld Theatre has a capacity of over 1,400 split across two sections, the Orchestra and an elevated Mezzanine level, and two boxes located on either side of the Orchestra. There is, additionally, standing room with a capacity of 20.
- The Orchestra section offers designated wheelchair seating and companion seats. The Mezzanine section is only accessible via a 20-step flight of stairs with handrails.
- The women’s restroom is one flight below the Orchestra, the men’s restroom is on the Mezzanine level, and an accessible, single-stall, all-gender restroom is located on the Orchestra level.
- The middle rows of both levels offer clear sight lines and good views. The Mezzanine offers a less restricted view.
- Seats toward the front of the Mezzanine tend to be preferred by most patrons.
- Row A in the Orchestra as well as rows A and G in the Mezzanine and corners offer some of the best legroom.
The Al Hirschfeld Theatre was opened in 1924 by vaudevillian Martin Beck, who was also a theater owner, manager, and booking agent. Influential in the theater industry, Beck was also integral to uplifting the arts as a whole, notably giving Harry Houdini his first big break. The theater was later purchased from Beck’s widow, Louise, in 1965 by Jujamcyn Theaters, who renamed it and continue to operate it today.
The westernmost theater in the district, it is notably unique in its architecture. Unlike the more neo-classical approaches of theaters around it, Al Hirschfeld has an intriguing blended-classical style to it that makes it the perfect place to stage productions like Moulin Rouge.
- The original Martin Beck Theatre, opened in 1924, was constructed using a blend of Islamic Moorish, Byzantine, and Romanesque architectural styles.
- The modern Al Hirschfeld Theatre retained much of the original structure and artistry, with the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission designating several parts of it as landmarks in the ‘80s.
- A 1996 renovation extended the Mezzanine forward by three rows, expanding the theater’s capacity.
- Another renovation in the early 2000s saw the addition of a new marquee which featured an illuminated version of Hirschfeld’s “Self-Portrait as an Inkwell.” The Mezzanine lounge also houses 22 reproductions of other Hirschfeld works that depict plays and actors who previously appeared at the theater.
- The current structure features facades with sections made in red brick, a double-height arcade and cast-stone columns at the base of the theater, interior designs from muralist Albert Herter, an auditorium with a multicolored dome and ornamental plasterwork, and more.
- Some elements of the theater’s aesthetic have been described as “macabre.” The overall structure is as ethereal as it is imposing, making it the perfect location for shows like Moulin Rouge.
- Romeo and Juliet (1934)
- On the Town (1945)
- Antony and Cleopatra (1947)
- Man of La Mancha (1968)
- Dracula (1977)
- The Sound of Music (1998)
- A Tale of Two Cities (2008)
- Hair (2009)
- Elf the Musical (2012)
- Kinky Boots (2013)
- Moulin Rouge (2019)
Know before you go
- Address: 302 W 45th St, New York, NY 10036, United States
- Bike: The Citi Bike bike-sharing system offers unlimited free 45-minute rides in the city. The nearest bike-sharing station is just outside the theater, on the corner of West 45th Street and 8th Avenue.
- Bus: The closest bus stop to the Al Hirschfeld Theatre is on 9th Avenue and West 44 Street. It services the M11 line. The 42 St-Port Authority Bus Terminal is within 5 minutes of the theater and services several bus routes. Lines 163, 190, M104, M11, M15, M42, M50, Q101, SIM1C, and more also pass near the theater, stopping within walking distance.
- Subway: The nearest station to the Al Hirschfeld Theatre is the 42 St-Port Authority Bus Terminal station. The station is a 2-minute walk from the theater and services lines 1, 2, A, F, N, and Q that stop near the theater.
- Car: Patrons can access the Al Hirschfeld Theatre by taxi or car. Guests arriving by taxi may hop off near the entrance, while anyone driving down in their vehicle may park in a nearby lot to avoid delays before entering the theater.
- Parking: Due to traffic, patrons are encouraged to book their parking spot in advance. Lots near the theater include Edison ParkFast, Bright Management, Impark, Vertical Parking Systems LLC, and Manhattan Plaza Parking.
- Recommended mode of transport: We recommend using the Subway for an easy, cost-efficient, and delay-free way to reach the Al Hirschfeld Theatre.
- Restrooms: The women’s restroom is a floor below the Orchestra, the men’s restroom is on the Mezzanine floor, and an accessible, all-gender toilet is located on the Orchestra level.
- Water Fountain: Water fountains are located in the Mezzanine, the Ladies' Lounge, and the Rear Orchestra.
- Accessible Seating: Designated wheelchair-accessible and companion seats are located in the Orchestra. Vision and hearing-accessible seating is located in the middle of the Orchestra, center row D.
- Hearing Assistance: Assisted listening and Closed Captioning devices, induction loops, infrared headsets, and more are available free of charge at the headset booth in the lobby corridor.
- Wheelchair Access: There are no elevators or escalators at the Al Hirschfeld Theatre. Accessible seating is available in the Orchestra only. There are no steps leading to the designated wheelchair seating locations.
- Assistive listening headsets: The Al Hirschfeld Theatre offers a variety of assistive devices free of charge for patrons with hearing needs.
- On-demand closed caption devices and apps: Descriptions and closed captioning devices are also available, free of charge.
- Wheelchair-accessible seats: The Orchestra level has designated seating and level access for persons with limited mobility. Companion seats are also available. There are no elevators or escalators leading up to the Mezzanine. The stairs are all equipped with handrails.
- Adapted washrooms and toilets: The Orchestra level has a single-stall, all-gender accessible restroom.
- Arrive Early: We recommend arriving at least 45 minutes before your show to avoid delays and allow time for security screening and entry.
- Dress Code: There is no set dress code for the al Hirschfeld Theatre and patrons are encouraged to dress comfortably. Since the theater is kept cool through all seasons, patrons might consider bringing a sweater.
- Baggage: Small and large bags, as well as luggage, may be checked in at the coatroom before entering and all bags are subjected to security screening. The bag check closes once it reaches capacity and collecting your bags during the exit rush could lead to delays on your way out. Patrons are encouraged to not carry larger bags with them.
- Food Policy: No outside food or drink is permitted inside the theater. Refreshments, snacks, candy, drinks, cocktails and more may be purchased at the theater’s in-house bars and snack counters.
- Restrictions: No recording equipment is permitted inside the theater. Noisemaking devices, flashlights, pointers, and any other equipment that could disrupt the show or cause a disturbance to fellow patrons are prohibited. Weapons of any kind, including sharp objects, mace or pepper spray, and tasers are strictly prohibited. Additionally, glass items, illegal substances, alcohol, bikes, and scooters are not permitted in the theater. The management also reserves the right to prohibit further items if they deem it necessary.
- Seats: Step-free wheelchair-accessible seating is on the Orchestra level. The center Orchestra rows D and E are the most ideal for proximity and comfort. Inner aisle seats have better legroom. The Mezzanine overhang starts at row K. Some seats are obstructed by those in front. Patrons are encouraged to choose their seats wisely based on their preferences.
- Pets and Service Animals: The theater does not permit animals, but makes an exception for some service animals like dogs. Be sure to check with the venue ahead of time if you plan to bring your service animal along.
The Al Hirschfeld Theatre is located near Times Square and a host of hotels, bars, restaurants, eateries, and much more. Its central location means patrons can spend some time sightseeing before they head over to the theater for their show. And if you’re not planning to snack too much later on, you can treat yourself to a snack or a hearty meal before you make your way over.
- Supernova: An airy, cozy, window-filled eatery at 226 West 52nd Street, Supernova pairs New American fare with city views.
- Directions
to Supernova
- The Palm West: This clubby eatery serves high-end steakhouse fare, seafood, and diverse wines.
- Directions
- Russian Samovar and Piano Bar: Get a taste of authentic Russian cuisine and drinks on Broadway at this iconic eatery with live piano music to set the mood.
- Directions
- Blue Fin: A popular pre-theater venue, this restaurant serves seafood and sushi in a trendy, glass-enclosed bar.
- Directions
to Blue Fin
- Gallaghers Steakhouse: An iconic steakhouse that serves classic cuts and raw bar items, alongside a great selection of wines, cocktails, beers, and more.
- Directions to Gallaghers Steakhouse
Frequently asked questions about Al Hirschfeld Theatre
The theater is 100 years old.
The Martin Beck Theatre began construction in 1923 and opened in 1924. It was renamed the Al Hirschfeld Theatre in 2003.
The theater was originally named the Martin Beck Theatre, after the vaudeville entrepreneur. It was renamed in 2003, this time in honor of the late Broadway caricaturist Albert Hirschfeld.
302 W 45th St, New York, NY 10036, United States
The Al Hirschfeld Theatre is accessible via car or taxi, bus, and the subway.
The theater was purchased by Jujamcyn Theaters in 1965, who continue to operate it.
Al Hirschfeld Theatre has a capacity of 1,424 split across two seated sections, two boxes, and a standing section.
Yes, the theater offers designated and accessible seating for varying levels of mobility and vision and hearing needs. It also has an accessible, all-gender toilet, assistive listening devices, and more.
The theater’s illustrious century-long history has included classic plays, like Romeo and Juliet and Antony and Cleopatra, iconic musicals like On the Town and The Sound of Music, dramas like Dracula, and much more. Its most recent show is the spectacular Moulin Rouge.
Moulin Rouge! The Musical opened on Broadway on June 28, 2019, at the Al Hirschfeld Theatre. The award-winning show has continued to run since.
There is no dress code for this theater. Patrons are encouraged to dress comfortably and to bring a sweater as the theater stays cool throughout the year.
Ticket prices vary based on the show, seating, season, and more. Tickets for Moulin Rouge! The Musical starts as low as $56.50.
The best seats in the Al Hirschfeld Theatre are in the front rows of the Center Mezzanine. These are ideal for the best views of Moulin Rouge! The Musical's set design and choreography, including the balconies and catwalk. Wheelchair seating is in the left and right Orchestra sections on the aisles of rows P and T. Transfer seats are towards the middle and back of the Orchestra, with companion seats available for each. The 20-step climb to the Mezzanine is inaccessible via escalators or lifts but does have handrails.
Centrally located, the Al Hirschfeld Theatre is close to a wide variety of restaurants and eateries. If you’re in the mood to enjoy an All-American experience, try Supernova. For something high-end, give the Palm West or Russian Samovar a shot. If you’d like something a little different, seafood and sushi joint Blue Fin is one of the most popular pre-theater destinations.
The theater's location allows you to access the district's most prominent landmarks with ease. These include Times Square, Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum, and the Museum of Broadway. If you're looking for experiences, the area has everything from jazz clubs and bookstores to escape rooms and beyond.
