The Lyric Theatre, as it currently stands, opened its doors in 1998. Originally, however, the space was split between two well-known establishments: the Apollo Theatre and the original Lyric Theatre. Through the late ‘90s leading well into the 2010s, the space evolved and morphed into its current form. The current Lyric Theatre was built largely from scratch, but several elements of the original interiors have been retained. Additionally, the external facade remains beautifully preserved.
The theater has staged a wide array of well-known titles, ranging from the electric “Jesus Christ Superstar” (2000) to the acrobatic “Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark” (2011) and “Paramour” (2016). It is, however, most known for its record-breaking staging of “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child” (2018).
1622 Seats
Wheelchair Accessible
Accessible Toilets
Guide Dogs
Assistive Listening System
Washrooms
Air Conditioning
Lift
Cloakroom
Bar
Elevators
Booster Cushions
Level Access
Security Check
Shop
Hearing Assistance
The new Lyric Theatre is 26 years old.
The original Lyric Theatre was built in 1903. The newer structure was constructed in the same spot in 1998, when it opened its doors with a production of the musical, “Ragtime.”
The new Lyric Theatre was originally named for its sponsor, the Ford Motor Company. It went through several name changes alongside multiple shifts in ownership, before it was finally renamed after the original theater.
The old Lyric Theatre and the Apollo Theatre were demolished after both failed to stay afloat over the decades since their respective debuts. In their place was built the new Lyric Theatre, largely from scratch, while retaining some elements of the original structures.
The theater is located at 214 West 43rd Street, Manhattan, New York City, United States.
The Lyric Theatre is accessible via car or taxi, bus, and the subway.
The theater is owned by the city and state governments of New York and developed by New 42, a not-for-profit organization that oversees the restoration and redevelopment of historic theaters on 42nd Street. It is currently operated by the Ambassador Theatre Group.
The theater has 1,622 seats in its auditorium, split across three levels. It originally housed 1,821 seats but had to be downsized after complaints about its size. Nonetheless, it remains one of the largest theater venues on Broadway.
Yes, the Lyric Theatre provides accessible entry and designated seating, adapted washrooms, safe spaces, sensory bags, assistive listening devices, and much more for its patrons.
The theater has staged everything from jukebox musicals, dance shows, and operas to plays and acrobatic extravaganzas. Some of its notable productions include Ragtime, Jesus Christ Superstar, Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark, and On the Town. Its most recent offering is Harry Potter and the Cursed Child.
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child opened at the Lyric Theatre in 2018 and has run continuously since then. In its third week of previews, the play had the highest single-week gross for a non-musical play on Broadway. It went on to top this feat, achieving the largest single gross in December 2023.
There is no set dress code for the Lyric Theatre. Owing to its current run of “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child” (2018), however, it isn’t uncommon to see patrons wearing Harry Potter-themed outfits.
Ticket prices at the Lyric vary depending on your chosen show, timings, and where you sit. Prices also change based on season. The theater also offers discounted rates and draws on special days. Tickets for Harry Potter and the Cursed Child currently start at $66.5.
The Lyric is a larger theater with multiple elevated levels. The best seats in the house are along the center aisles. Since the show makes ample use of illusions and special effects, the central seats in Orchestral rows A to E offer a truly up close and immersive experience.
The theater sits in a prime location, giving you access to everything from gourmet and authentic cuisines to street or fast food, healthy snacks, cocktails and juices, and much more. Some restaurants nearby include LOS TACOS No. 1, RA Sushi Bar, and Green Symphony.
There is plenty to do around the theater. For a bit of sightseeing, try Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum, Times Square, or the Museum of Broadway. If you're looking for experiences, try bookstores like Kinokuniya or The Drama Book Shop, or one of the many escape rooms nearby.