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Barrymore Theatre: A Broadway Landmark

Experience Broadway history at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre, a landmark venue for acclaimed plays and musicals since 1928.

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The Barrymore Theatre, a historic Broadway venue named for actress Ethel Barrymore, has been a stage for acclaimed plays and musicals since 1928. Designed with a blend of architectural styles, it remains a significant cultural landmark in New York City's Theater District.

A brief summary to Barrymore Theatre

Local tips

  • Arrive at least 45 minutes before the performance, as the check-in process can be lengthy due to the small entrance.
  • Consider accessible seating options in the Orchestra section, as the Mezzanine requires climbing stairs.
  • Utilize the free assistive listening, captioning, and audio description devices available for patrons with hearing or visual impairments.
  • Be aware that children under the age of four are not permitted in the theatre.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Barrymore Theatre is easily accessible by subway. Take the C or E train to 50th St. or the 1 train to 50th St. From there, it's a short walk to the theater at 243 W 47th Street. Subway fare is $2.90 per ride.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Times Square. A short taxi ride from Penn Station to the Barrymore Theatre will cost approximately $8-$11. Keep in mind that fares may vary depending on traffic and time of day.

  • Walking

    If you are already in the Times Square area, walking to the Barrymore Theatre is a convenient option. The theater is located at 243 West 47th Street, a short walk from many major landmarks. Be aware of pedestrian traffic, especially during peak hours.

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Discover more about Barrymore Theatre

The Ethel Barrymore Theatre, located in the heart of Broadway at 243 West 47th Street, stands as a testament to the golden age of American theatre. Opened in 1928 and designed by Herbert J. Krapp, the theater is named after the celebrated actress Ethel Barrymore, a member of the renowned Barrymore acting dynasty. The theater's architecture is a unique blend of Elizabethan, Mediterranean, and Adam styles, with an exterior modeled after Roman public baths, featuring a distinctive two-story terracotta grillwork screen. The Barrymore was commissioned by the Shubert brothers as a gift to Ethel Barrymore, and it was the last theater they built for performers affiliated with them. The theater opened with "The Kingdom of God," starring Ethel Barrymore herself. Over the years, the Barrymore has hosted numerous star-studded and critically acclaimed productions, including Tennessee Williams' "A Streetcar Named Desire" starring Marlon Brando and Jessica Tandy. Legends such as Katharine Hepburn, Fred Astaire, Gene Kelly, and Denzel Washington have graced its stage. Today, the Barrymore continues to operate as a legitimate theater, showcasing a variety of plays and musicals. It is one of the few Broadway theaters that has never been sold or renamed since its opening, preserving its rich history and tradition. The theater has been refurbished in the 1980s and 2000s, ensuring it remains a captivating space for audiences. The Barrymore Theatre provides accommodations for patrons who are blind, deaf, partially sighted, and/or have hearing loss. The theater provides infrared assistive listening devices for every performance.

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