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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
About Lyric Theatre
- The Lyric Theatre houses 1,622 seats spread across three levels: an Orchestra, a Dress Circle, and a Balcony.
- The Orchestra and seats located on all levels toward the center aisle tend to hand the best views in the house with clear sightlines of the stage. Particularly, central seats in rows A to E are considered the most favorable for a truly immersive experience.
- The Dress Circle and Balcony are elevated levels, accessible via stairs and escalators.
- The Orchestra and Dress Circle levels have designated ADA seating and wheelchair access via elevators.
- Accessible restrooms are located in the lobby of the Dress Circle.
- Seats toward the back are less favorable, owing to the depth of the auditorium creating a greater sense of distance from the action. These are, however, some of the most affordable seats in the house with unobstructed, clear sightlines.
- Seats toward the left and right of the elevated levels tend to be more restricted, while seats closer to the center offer more legroom.
- Private seating is available in the boxes.
Know before you go
- Address: 214 West 43rd St, New York, NY 10036, USA
- Bus: The closest bus stop to the Lyric Theatre is on 7th Avenue and West 42nd Street, at the theater's rear entrance, where lines 163, M104, M15, M42, M7, Q101, and more stop. Multiple other stops line 42nd Street, leading up to Times Square, and are all within a 5-minute walk from the theater. The Port Authority Bus Terminal, located less than 5 minutes from the Lyric Theatre on 8th Avenue between 42nd Street and 41st Street, services over 8,000 buses from across the city. It also services commuter lines like New Jersey Transit (routes 107-199), intercity operators, airport buses, and more. New York City Bus routes M11, M20, M34A, M42, and M104 as well as local bus routes SIM8, SIM8X, SIM22, SIM25, SIM26, and SIM30 all stop outside the terminal.
- Subway: The nearest station to the Lyric Theatre is the Times Square - 42nd Street station. The station is a 2-minute walk from the theater and services lines 1, 2, 3, 7, N, Q, R, W, and S.
The next closest station is the 42nd Street - Port Authority Bus Terminal station on 8th Avenue. The station provides easy access to Times Square - 42nd Street and Port Authority Bus Terminal via passageways. This station services train lines A and E at all times, and C at all times except at night. - Car: Patrons can access the Lyric Theatre by taxi or car. Guests arriving by taxi may hop off near the entrance, while anyone driving down in their vehicle may opt to park in a nearby lot to avoid delays before entering the theater.
- Parking: Owing to traffic, it’s difficult to find a space on the spot. We recommend using the commercial parking lots located near the theater to save time and money. The nearest garage is located at 250 West 43rd Street. There are additionally multiple Icon Parking garages in the vicinity, all within walking distance of the theater.
Pre-booked parking is also available near the Lyric Theatre via ParkWhiz at significantly lower rates. We recommend booking in advance and saving yourself a spot. - Recommended mode of transport: We recommend using the Subway for an easy, cost-efficient, and delay-free way to reach the Lyric Theatre.
Frequently asked questions about Lyric Theatre
How old is the Lyric Theatre in New York?
The new Lyric Theatre is 26 years old.
When was the Lyric Theatre built?
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.”
Is the Lyric Theatre the same as the Ford Center?
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.
Are the Lyric and Apollo Theatres the same?
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.
What is the address of the Lyric Theatre?
The theater is located at 214 West 43rd Street, Manhattan, New York City, United States.
How do I reach the Lyric Theatre?
The Lyric Theatre is accessible via car or taxi, bus, and the subway.
Who owns the Lyric Theatre?
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.
What is the seating capacity of the Lyric Theatre?
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.
Is the Lyric Theatre accessible to people with special needs?
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.
What are the best productions the Lyric Theatre has staged?
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.
Is Harry Potter and the Cursed Child playing at the Lyric Theatre?
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.
Is there a dress code for the Lyric Theatre?
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.
How much do Lyric Theatre tickets cost?
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.
Where should I sit for Harry Potter and the Cursed Child?
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.
Are there any dining options available near Lyric Theatre?
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.
What are some attractions or things to do near Lyric Theatre?
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.