Shubert Theatre

The Basics

One of 17 theaters operated by the Shubert Organization, the Shubert Theatre opened in 1913 and staged many of Broadway’s longest-running shows, fromOliver! andThe Constant Wife toChicago. The originalA Chorus Line ran at the Shubert for a legendary 6,137 performances.

The ideal way to experience the Shubert is to attend a show there, and prebooking your ticket online is the easiest option. To see the Shubert’s exterior and explore Broadway, consider a walking tour of the Theater District, most of which take you to the best-known playhouses while sharing tales of their history. Some itineraries focus on the city’s 1920s Prohibition era, when Broadway was a hot spot for speakeasies and bootleggers.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The Shubert Theatre is a must for theater lovers and history buffs.

• The theater is only partially wheelchair-accessible, with seating available in the orchestra section.

• A cloakroom is available for storing coats, but strollers and furs aren’t accepted.

• On-site facilities include restrooms and a bar.

How to Get There

Located at 225 West 44th Street, just off 7th Avenue and Broadway, the Shubert Theatre is convenient to get to by subway. Take the A, C, E, N, Q, R, or W train to 42nd Street–Times Square station, then walk northward on Broadway toward West 43rd Street. Turn left onto West 44th Street to find the Shubert on your right. A paid parking garage is also located nearby.

When to Get There

The Shubert’s evening performances usually run Tuesday through Saturday, with matinees on Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday. Arrive around 15 minutes before showtime—latecomers are denied entry. The box office is open Monday through Saturday from 10am to 8pm, and Sunday from 12pm to 6pm.

Things to See at or Near the Shubert Theatre

Take some time to admire the Shubert’s exterior—its ornamental sgraffito plasterwork is a key feature. Then, look for the Shubert’s stage door in Shubert Alley, alongside the playhouse. In the 1920s and ’30s, actors used the pedestrian lane as a place to relax during intervals and after performances. There, they’d smoke and mingle with chorus girls, reporters, and bootleggers who’d take their orders for Prohibition-breaking alcohol.

Is there a dress code for Shubert Theatre?

No, there’s no dress code at the Shubert Theatre in New York City. Most Broadway theaters have ditched their dress codes, so you’ll see theater-goers in everything from jeans to evening attire. If you’re attending a special performance, though—such as first previews or opening nights—plan to dress up a bit.

How much are Shubert Theatre tickets in NYC?

The cheapest Shubert Theatre tickets go for as little as US$20, but that’s a major deal. Average Broadway show prices are around US$125, while great seats for a hot show cost hundreds of dollars. Unless you’re trying for same-day tickets, it’s generally best to book well in advance.

What is the best Broadway show to see first?

Consider a classic: If you’re booking your first-ever Broadway show, look for a time-tested performance such as The Lion King,The Book of Mormon, or Wicked. Any show that’s won a Tony Award is a safe bet—the prestigious awards are the Oscars of musical theater.

Is orchestra or mezzanine better for the Shubert Theatre?

Like most Broadway theaters, the Shubert Theatre has three seating categories; choose between orchestra, mezzanine, or balcony. Orchestra seats are closer to the stage, while sitting in the mezzanine offers wider, slightly elevated views of the entire scene. Balcony seats are less expensive, but you’ll be farther from the action.

How old is the Shubert Theatre?

The Shubert Theatre was built in 1910: Both its facade and its Italian Renaissance interior are considered New York City landmarks. That’s one reason the Shubert Theatre is an included stop on many Broadway tours, which combine sightseeing with the lore, legends, and ghosts associated with the “Great White Way.”

Where do you park for Shubert Theatre shows in NYC?

Street parking is limited in New York City’s Theater District, where the Shubert Theatre is located. Public transit is generally the best option, but there is also paid parking in a long list of lots. The closest parking garage to the Shubert Theatre is Icon Parking on West 45th Street.

Ways to explore

One of 17 theaters operated by the Shubert Organization, the Shubert Theatre opened in 1913 and has staged many of Broadway’s longest-running shows: Hell’s Kitchen!, Matilda The Musical, Spamalot, Chicago, and more. The original A Chorus Line ran at the Shubert for a legendary 6,137 performances.

An ideal way to experience the Shubert is to attend a show: prebooking your ticket online is the easiest option. To see the Shubert’s exterior and explore Broadway, consider a walking tour of the Theater District, most of which take you to the best-known playhouses while sharing tales of their history.

Accessibility

There are accessible entrances, wheelchair seating, and restrooms. Service animals are welcome.

Age limits

None, but consider your child’s interests and level of patience before booking show tickets.

What to pack

Binoculars if you’re seated far from the stage, small bag or purse

What to wear

Although the Shubert doesn’t have a strict dress code, aim to wear something smart-casual or dressier.

Not allowed

Photography or filming during a show, outside food and drinks, large bags and backpacks

Amenities

Water fountain, snack and drink bar, coat check

Address

The Shubert Theatre is in the heart of Manhattan’s Theater District, just off Broadway and a couple of blocks from Times Square. The grid-like structure of the roads here makes navigation easy.

Driving

Driving around Manhattan isn’t recommended as traffic can be heavy, and parking is both difficult and expensive. If you must drive, head toward Times Square, where there are parking garages.

Public transportation

The nearest subway stations are Times Square–42nd Street, where numerous lines converge—the best exit is at West 42nd Street. The 42nd Street–Port Authority Bus Terminal (for subway and buses) is also nearby.

Best times to visit

In the afternoons and evenings to watch a show—afternoon matinees are held a couple of times a week. Visit during daylight hours to check out the exterior.

Best days to visit

Shows are typically performed five or six days a week, depending on the season; check an up-to-date schedule as the rest day varies.

Best months to visit

New York City is a year-round destination, but June to August and November to December are peak tourism seasons. Book show tickets early if you’re visiting during busy times.