Address, opening, capacity of Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre
Basic Information about the Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre in NYC
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Address: |
236 W 45th St, New York, NY 10036（
Map ）
Located on 45 Street, between Broadway and 8th Avenue
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Opened: |
1917 |
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Capacity: |
1,046 seats |
Seating Chart of Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre
The Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre has a seating capacity of 1,046 seats, divided into two main sections: Orchestra (1st level) and Mezzanine (2nd level).
*Click to view larger image
Directions to Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre
Access to Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre are most commonly by taking the New York City Subway (MTA).
The area around the theatre becomes very crowded close to showtime, so whether you are arriving by subway or taxi, please allow extra time to reach the venue.
Map, location of Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre
Here is the map of the Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre.
Best hotels near the Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre
Discover the best hotels near the Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre. Stay within walking distance of Broadway and enjoy easy access to shows, restaurants, and attractions.
The list of recommended hotels near the theater:
History of the Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre
From Plymouth Theatre to the Shubert Organization
The Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre first opened in 1917 as the Plymouth Theatre. It was built for the Shubert Organization, which was expanding rapidly at the time. The design was created by architect Herbert J. Krapp, who was responsible for many of the Shubert theatres.
The theatre’s style shows similarities to the neighboring Booth and Shubert Theatres, reflecting Krapp’s effort to give this block of 45th Street a unified identity for the Shubert empire.
Shortly after opening, the theatre was leased to producer Arthur Hopkins, who presented *A Successful Calamity* starring William Gillette and Estelle Winwood as its first show. Hopkins went on to bring many major stars to the stage, including members of the famous Barrymore family.
After Hopkins’ death in 1948, management returned to the Shubert Organization. In 1987, both the interior and exterior of the building were designated official New York City Landmarks. In 2005, it was renamed the Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre in honor of the Shubert Organization’s longtime chairman.
A cluster of theatres on 45th Street
The Schoenfeld stands tightly alongside the John Golden, Bernard B. Jacobs, and Booth Theatres on West 45th Street, creating one of the most concentrated blocks of Broadway houses. This setting captures the true spirit of New York’s Theatre District.
About Gerald Schoenfeld
The leader who revitalized the Shubert Organization
Gerald Schoenfeld graduated from the University of Illinois, served in World War II, and later earned his law degree from New York University. He began his career at a law firm that represented the Shubert Organization and quickly gained the trust of Jacob J. Shubert.
In 1972, Schoenfeld and his longtime friend Bernard B. Jacobs assumed leadership of the Shubert Organization. Schoenfeld focused on theatre operations and maintenance, while Jacobs oversaw artistic programming. Together they transformed the company into a profitable and forward-looking enterprise.
Schoenfeld’s leadership helped guide the Shubert Organization out of financial uncertainty and secure its position as the largest theatre owner on Broadway. In recognition of his impact, the Plymouth Theatre was renamed in his honor in 2005. He passed away in 2008 at the age of 84, leaving behind a legacy that continues to shape Broadway.
Inside the Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre
Seating and views
With 1,079 seats, the Schoenfeld is considered one of Broadway’s more intimate theatres. The orchestra level has a limited number of rows, allowing audiences to feel close to the stage. However, in the very front rows the view can be steeply angled, which some may find less comfortable for long performances.
Because the orchestra has a relatively gentle slope, taller audience members seated directly in front may partially obstruct the view.
Interior design
The Schoenfeld’s interior is decorated with gold accents and traditional boxes, creating a bright and elegant atmosphere. Visitors often compare its design with the neighboring Golden, Jacobs, and Booth Theatres, which all share the same historic block.
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Lines,
49 Ststation (About a 5-minute walk)
