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.
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.
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.
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.
During its early incarnation as a movie theater and film house, the Broadway Theatre screened some notable films, including Walt Disney’sSteamboat Willie in 1928, which introduced the American audience to Mickey Mouse. Disney also premieredFantasia here, in 1939. The first Cinerama film,This Is Cinerama, also debuted at the Broadway Theatre in 1952.
