Shubert Theatre
The Shubert Theatre was established in 1913 by the Shubert brothers, Lee and J.J. This historic theatre has played a pivotal role in the evolution of American performing arts. The theatre's refined interior showcases intricate plasterwork and theatrical-themed panels. Currently housing the Shubert Organization's office, an apartment above adds historical depth. Over its century-long history, the Shubert has been the stage for iconic productions like The Merchant of Venice, Bye Bye Birdie, A Chorus Line, Chicago, and Matilda the Musical. Seating Capacity: 1502
About Shubert Theatre
- Shubert Theatre in New York has a seating capacity of 1,502 divided into three sections - Orchestra, Mezzanine, and Balcony.
- The middle seats of the Orchestra section offer unobstructed views of the stage and are the most expensive.
- The seats in the Balcony section are the farthest from the stage. The middle seats in this section provide great views of the stage and the theater.
Shubert Theatre is a testament to the enduring legacy of Broadway. Lee and Jacob J. Shubert built the theatre in 1913 as a tribute to their late brother, Sam, who died in a train accident at a young age. The theater boasts a fascinating history of staging a variety of performances, including the launch of Sir Johnston Forbes-Robertson's American Farewell Tour with Hamlet as the opening production.
Over the years, the venue has seen its fair share of triumphs and challenges. It has survived fires, economic downturns, the Great Depression, and changing tastes and preferences in the entertainment business. Despite these hurdles, the theater remains a cherished institution in the heart of Times Square. It continues to showcase the best of Broadway, including Pulitzer Prize-winning productions like Idiot’s Delight and A Chorus Line, to audiences from across the globe.
- Henry Beaumont Herts designed the Shubert Theatre for the Shubert brothers Lee and Jacob J.
- It was designed in the Venetian Renaissance style with modern touches, like sturdy terra-cotta pillars and arches, and a Broadway-facing brick and terracotta facade.
- Herts used a technique called sgraffito to counter rules that didn't allow any part of the building to stick out past the street, employing colored cement layers carved to make beautiful designs.
- The interior ceilings and walls are adorned with intricate plasterwork and mythological murals, while majestic chandeliers illuminate the auditorium.
- Majestic elliptical proscenium arches frame the stage, adding to the theater's timeless charm.
- Hamlet (1913)
- Idiot’s Delight (1936)
- The Philadelphia Story (1939)
- Can-Can (1953)
- Promises, Promises (1968)
- A Little Night Music (1973)
- Seascape (1975)
- A Chorus Line (1975)
- Memphis (2009)
- Matilda, the Musical (2013)
- Hello Dolly! (2017)
Know before you go
- Bus: You can take the M104, M10, M27, or M42 buses, all of which stop near the theater. The closest bus stop is 8 Av/W 46 St, which is a 3-minute walk away from the theater.
- Subway: The venue is easily accessible by subway, with the Times Square-42nd Street station being the closest. This station is served by the 1, 2, 3, 7, N, Q, R, W, and S trains.
- Train: The closest train stations are Grand Central Terminal and Pennsylvania Station, both about a 10-15 minute taxi ride away.
- Parking: The venue does not have a parking area but there are several parking garages nearby. These include the Icon Parking Garage, Edison ParkFast, and City Parking - 1515 Broadway Garage LLC.
- Recommended mode of transport: We recommend the subway as a convenient and reliable way to reach the theater, especially during peak hours.
- Washroom: Shubert Theatre offers clean and well-equipped washrooms conveniently located throughout the venue.
- Cloakroom: Use the cloakroom to store your coats and belongings during the performance.
- Concession stands: The theater’s concession stands sell snacks, beverages, and refreshments to enjoy during intermission or before the show.
- Information desk: An information desk is available at the theater to assist visitors with inquiries, ticketing, and other assistance they may need during their visit.
- Digital displays and signage: Digital displays and signage throughout the venue provide helpful information about upcoming shows, seating arrangements, and more.
- Payphone: Available in the ticket lobby if you wish to use it.
- Water fountain: Available in the ticket lobby for the convenience of visitors.
- Wheelchair access: This venue is not completely wheelchair-friendly but provides accessible entrances, seating areas, and viewing spaces in the Orchestra section and transfer seats with folding armrests in various sections.
- Assistive listening devices: For visitors with hearing impairments, the theater provides assistive listening devices that amplify sound directly to headphones, enhancing the auditory experience during performances.
- Captioning: The theater also offers handheld devices and software that provide captioning for Deaf or hard-of-hearing patrons.
- Accessible restroom: No accessible restrooms are available inside the theater. However, the staff recommends using the accessible restroom in Sardi’s Restaurant across the street.
- Advance booking: If you require special assistance or wish to book wheelchair spaces, book in advance and notify the theater of any special requirements.
- Trained staff: The staff at the theater is trained and well-equipped to assist guests with reduced mobility or disability issues.
- Service animals: Only certified and trained service animals are allowed inside the theater.
- Advance booking: Book tickets in advance, especially for popular shows, to secure the best seats.
- Arrive early: Reach the theater at least 20 minutes before the scheduled time. If you’re late, you’ll be seated at the manager’s discretion.
- Food & drinks: No outside food and drinks are allowed inside the theater.
- Mobile phones: Silence cell phones and other electronic devices during the performance.
- Refreshments: Purchase refreshments and snacks at the venue's bars and concession stands before or after the performance.
- Identification: Bring a valid photo ID for verification and ticket pickup.
You'll find a variety of dining options near the Shubert to suit every taste. Here are some restaurants located within walking distance:
- La Grande Boucherie: A chic French brasserie known for its elegant ambiance and a diverse menu featuring steak frites, seafood, and delectable desserts.
- Directions to La Grande Boucherie
- Carmine’s: A bustling family-style Italian restaurant known for its generous portions and classic Italian-American dishes like pasta, seafood, and hearty meat entrees.
- Directions to Carmine’s
- Sardi’s: A legendary Broadway restaurant famous for its iconic caricatures of celebrities adorning the walls paired with classic American cuisine.
- Directions to Sardi’s
- Smith's Bar: A cozy neighborhood spot known for its relaxed atmosphere and classic pub fare featuring burgers, sandwiches, and comfort food favorites.
- Directions to Smith's Bar
- Dos Caminos: A vibrant Mexican restaurant renowned for its modern twist on traditional cuisine, extensive tequila selection, and handcrafted cocktails.
- Directions to Dos Caminos
Frequently asked questions about Shubert Theatre
The theater is over a century old.
It was built in 1913.
225 W 44th St, New York, NY 10036, United States.
The theater can accommodate 1,502 people.
There is no strict dress code for Shubert Theatre. Casual attire or everyday clothes are generally acceptable for most performances.
