Broadway Theatres

Known worldwide, Broadway theatres – concentrated in the Theater District and Lincoln Center in New York City – represent the best in theatre productions, primarily musicals and plays. Because of their increased visibility, prestige, and cultural relevance, Broadway theatres have a very long and rich history, cementing their title as the highest form of theatre in American culture today.

History

This story of Broadway theatres begins with the construction of the Theater District around Times Square in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The street is known simply as Broadway, not named after a person but derived from the fact that it is a broad avenue through the entire length of Manhattan, the oldest of New York City’s north-south arteries. As theatre-going began to flourish there, American theatre was symbolically personified with the term ‘Broadway’.

Theaters

There are 41 Broadway theatres in New York City with 500 or more seats, each with its history, architecture, and vibe. The Richard Rodgers Theatre on 46th Street, the Gershwin Theatre on West 51st Street, and the Winter Garden Theatre on West 50th Street are just a few of the venerable theatres that have seen many blockbuster shows come and go.

Productions

From musicals, dramas, and comedies to revivals of tried and true productions (consider the runs of Aladdin, Wicked, Hamilton, The Book Of Mormon, Harry Potter and The Cursed Child, and, of course, The Lion King), Broadway is a driving force in the culture of New York City. Shows name our children, inspire new thinking, drive tourism, and create special memories for residents and tourists. New musicals and plays are produced, rehearsed, and premiered almost every week.

Experiencing Broadway

In addition to providing a great form of entertainment, Broadway theatres are a major tourist attraction and a significant source of income for New York City. Because Broadway shows often mirror or lead American culture and social issues, theatre can play a role in cultural dialogue.

It is well-known that visiting a Broadway show is an activity that all New Yorkers should do at least once. There is a show for all tastes, from family shows to avant-garde. Tickets can be bought in different ways.

Broadway theatres and productions are honored yearly at the Tony Awards ceremony, which recognizes excellence in Broadway theatre. The Tony Awards are presented annually for Broadway theatre productions and performances during the previous season or season and a half.