Broadway Theatre Tours and Activities

One of only five playhouses actually on Broadway itself, the Broadway Theatre is also one of the largest in the city. Despite its origins as a movie theater and vaudeville house, the theater is ideal for musicals, with a large stage and seating capacity and great acoustics, and it has hosted many hits over the years.
 
The Basics
First opened in 1924 as B.S. Moss’s Colony Theatre, the Broadway Theatre was designed by Eugene DeRosa to be a movie theater, large enough to accommodate an orchestra to accompany silent films. Today the theater has a seating capacity of 1,765 over two levels. Pass by the Broadway Theatre and other popular performance venues on a walking tour of the theater district. To see the interior and for the full experience, book tickets to a show.
 
Things to Know Before You Go

• Children under the age of 4 are not allowed inside the theater.
• Cell phones, cameras, recording devices, and other electronic devices cannot be used during performances.
• Outside food and drinks are not permitted.
• There are no escalators or elevators at the theater.
• Assistive devices for guests who are hard of hearing or visually impaired are available.
• The theater is not fully wheelchair-accessible, but there are areas designated for wheelchair users.

 
How to Get There
The Broadway Theatre is located on Broadway at 53rd Street. By subway, take the 1, C, or E train to 50th Street; the N, R, or W to 49th Street; or the N, Q, R, or W to 57th Street.
 
When to Get There
The theater’s box office hours vary depending on the show, but it is typically open from 10am to 8:30pm Monday to Saturday and 12pm to 6pm on Sunday. It’s best to arrive early as there may be lines for the box office or theater concessions. Latecomers will be seated at the theater’s discretion.
 
Early Film Screenings
During its early incarnation as a movie theater and film house, the Broadway Theatre screened some notable films, including Walt Disney’s Steamboat Willie in 1928, which introduced the American audience to Mickey Mouse. Disney also premiered Fantasia here, in 1939. The first Cinerama film, This Is Cinerama, also debuted at the Broadway Theatre in 1952.