Founded in 1954, The Public Theatre is housed inside the iconic Astor Library Building in Lower Manhattan, New York. Originally opened as the Shakespeare Workshop, the theater has staged several successful theatrical productions like Hair, A Chorus Line, and Hamilton. and also produces different series, festivals, and programs every year. Additionally, it also operates the Delacorte Theater in Central Park, where it stages Shakespeare in the Park performances free of charge.

1092 Seats

Wheelchair Accessible

Accessible Toilets

Assistive Listening System

Washrooms

Air Conditioning

Cloakroom

Bar

Level Access

Security Check

Hearing Assistance

Water Fountain

Restaurant

About Public Theater

Seating chart
History
Architecture
Popular productions
  • Seating capacity: The Public Theater can accommodate a total of 1,216 people.
  • Performance spaces: The theater comprises six performance spaces - Anspacher Theater, LuEsther Hall, Martinson Theater, Newman Theater, Shiva Theater, and Joe’s Pub.
  • Joe’s Pub: Joe’s Pub is a performance space cum restaurant that can accommodate 184 people but the seating plan can be modified according to the event.

Know before you go

Getting there
Facilities
Accessibility
Tips & guidelines
Restaurants nearby
  • By subway: Take the R or W train on the yellow line to 8th Street Station or the #6 train on the green line to Astor Place Station. The theater is a short walk from both these stations.
  • By bus: You can take the M2, M3, or M8 bus to 8th Street and 4th Avenue; the M5 or M6 bus to 8th Street and Broadway, the M15 bus to 2nd Avenue and 9th Street, or the M101 or M102 bus to 8th Street and Cooper Union. The theater is a short walk from all these stops.
  • Recommended mode of transport: The recommended mode of transport is the subway because it is the most convenient and cost-effective way to travel. It also saves a lot of time.
  • Parking: Public Theater does not have a parking facility of its own but there are a few parking garages nearby including a couple of them on 403 and 410 Lafayette Street, where you can get a 5% discount if you show them your Joe Pub’s coupon/voucher. Other parking spots include Edison ParkFast, MPG Parking, and Champion Parking.

Frequently asked questions about Public Theater

When was the Public Theater founded?

The theater was founded in 1954 as the Shakespeare Workshop.

What is the address of the Public Theater?

The address of the Public Theater is 425 Lafayette St, New York, NY 10003, United States.

What is the seating capacity of the Public Theater?

The theatre can accommodate a total of 1,216 people across its six performance spaces.

Is there a dress code for Public Theater?

There is no dress code for this venue. Dress comfortably in casual clothes.

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