The Company profile for a leading Broadway and Off-Broadway producer in New York
Roundabout Theatre Company was founded in 1965 by playwright Gene Feist and actor Elizabeth Owens. This company is a nonprofit devoted to classic plays and musicals as well as acclaimed revivals. In addition to producing on Broadway and Off-Broadway, Roundabout operates five New York venues, making it one of the largest not-for-profit theater organizations in the United States.
Roundabout began in a small basement space below a supermarket in Manhattan. Early on, the company faced financial challenges, but a turning point came in the 1980s when producer and administrator Todd Haimes joined the leadership, helping stabilize operations and setting the stage for growth. Roundabout went on to champion revivals and new work through dedicated new-play programs and partnerships with New York’s leading cultural organizations.
Roundabout’s landmark revival of “Cabaret,” directed by Sam Mendes and Rob Marshall, opened in 1998 and later transferred to Studio 54, where it became a long-running hit and a multiple Tony Award winner. The production helped bring Studio 54 back to life as an active Broadway house, and Roundabout subsequently acquired the building, securing it as one of the company’s flagship venues.
Roundabout partnered with the New 42nd Street initiative to restore the historic Selwyn Theatre, reopening it in 2000 as the American Airlines Theatre. In 2023, the venue was renamed the Todd Haimes Theatre in honor of Roundabout’s longtime artistic leader. Today it is a centerpiece for major Broadway productions.
In 2004, Roundabout opened two purpose-built Off-Broadway spaces in a single complex: the Laura Pels Theatre and the Black Box Theatre. Equipped with rehearsal studios and support facilities, the center develops new plays and stages intimate revivals, with audience amenities such as a welcoming lobby and café.
Roundabout also operates the Stephen Sondheim Theatre on West 43rd Street. The venue reopened in 2009 following redevelopment and, in March 2010, was renamed in honor of composer-lyricist Stephen Sondheim on the occasion of his 80th birthday.
Roundabout produces classic plays and musicals alongside new work, operates five venues across Manhattan, and runs extensive audience and education programs that connect artists, students, and theatergoers throughout the city.
Roundabout offers member experiences that can include artist conversations, preshow talks, and curated events that deepen engagement with current productions.
Education at Roundabout serves New York City schools, teachers, and students with in-school partnerships, career and technical education, and opportunities for young people to create and present original work. Programs introduce the fundamentals of theatermaking and support pathways into professional arts careers.
Here is the list of New York venues operated by the Roundabout Theatre Company. Follow each link for details.
Laura Pels Theatre
Broadway Musical Discount Tickets – On Sale Now!Find the best Broadway ticket deals right here – faster, cheaper, and backed by local expertise. Get ready to experience the magic of Broadway!