New World Stages

The Basics

This complex’s five theaters range in size from 199–499 seats, offer a range of seating styles, and usually host five different performances simultaneously. Visit to enjoy award-winning shows that have left their Broadway venues as well as more intimate plays and readings. Past shows have included Tony Award-winning and Pulitzer Prize-earning plays likeRent,Jersey Boys,Rock of Ages,A Clockwork Orange,Avenue Q, andMillion Dollar Quartet.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Children under the age of 4 are not permitted inside the theaters.

• Cell phones, cameras, recording devices, and other electronic devices cannot be used during performances.

• Coat check is available; bags are subject to a security search.

• Concessions and drinks are available at several bars located throughout the complex.

• Assistive listening devices are available for the hard of hearing.

• The theaters are wheelchair accessible, and there are designated wheelchair seats.

How to Get There

New World Stages is located on West 50th Street, between Eighth and Ninth avenues. By subway, take the 1, 2 or C, E to 50 Street, the N, Q, R to 49 Street, or the B, D, F, M to 47-50 Streets Rockefeller Center. Or take a bus running along Eighth or Ninth avenues.

When to Get There

Performance times vary; check the show’s schedule, and plan to arrive early, as there may be lines for the box office or concession stands. Latecomers will be seated at the theater’s discretion.

What is “Off-Broadway”?

There’s more to the New York City theater scene than just Broadway. The city’s smaller theaters offer a range of fun, moving, and award-winning shows. These venues are categorized by their seating capacity: 100-499 seats is “Off-Broadway,” while 99 seats and under is considered “Off-Off-Broadway.” Notable Off-Broadway theaters include the Astor Place Theatre, the Cherry Lane Theatre, the Lucille Lortel Theatre, the New York Theatre Workshop, the Public Theatre, SoHo Playhouse, and the Orpheum Theatre—and, of course, the New World Stages.

Ways to explore

New World Stages’ theaters host up to five different performances concurrently, including award-winning shows that have left their Broadway venues, as well as more intimate plays and readings. Past productions have included Tony Award-winning productions such as Rent, Jersey Boys, and Avenue Q.

You can purchase advance tickets online, by phone, or in person at the box office; alternatively, score last-minute, discounted rush tickets. Even if you don’t have time to attend a show, drop by the public art gallery or spot the venue on a Theater District walking tour.

Accessibility

New World Stages is wheelchair accessible, with accessible restrooms and an escalator and elevator running from the lobby to the theater’s orchestra and mezzanine levels.

Age limits

Children under 4 are not permitted in the venue; some shows may be better suited to older kids and adults.

What to pack

Tickets, small handheld bag

What to wear

There is no dress code at New World Stages; wear what you’re most comfortable in, and bring layers in case of chilly air conditioning.

Not allowed

Recording the shows, storing fur coats, devices with lithium batteries (except mobility devices that comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act)

Amenities

Paid cloakroom, restrooms, water fountains

Address

New World Stages is located on 50th Street between 8th and 9th Avenues, right in Midtown Manhattan’s Theater District. The area is well-served by public transportation, taxis, and rideshare services, while tours with included transit offer another way to get there.

Driving

Owing to congestion and very limited or expensive parking in Manhattan, especially in the Theater District, driving to New World Stages is not recommended. Use taxis or rideshare services instead.

Public transportation

The theater is easy to reach via subway. Take the 1, C, or E train to 50th Street; the B, D, or E train to Seventh Avenue; or the N, R, or W train to 49th Street.

Best times to visit

Showtimes and hours vary, and both evening and matinee performances are offered, depending on the day; consult the venue’s calendar for specifics.

Best days to visit

New World Stages’ box office is open daily, typically from early afternoon until evening, although it opens at mid-morning on Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Shows are rarely held on Mondays.

Best months to visit

New World Stages hosts performances all throughout the year. Expect the summer and holiday high seasons to be particularly busy.

Special events

Don’t miss the Festival of New Musicals, held at New World Stages in late October.