The Public Theater: A Stage for Groundbreaking Performances
Experience groundbreaking theater at The Public Theater, a historic NYC landmark and home to innovative performances and accessible art for all.
The Public Theater, a cornerstone of New York City's cultural landscape, has been a champion of innovative and accessible theater since its founding by Joseph Papp in 1954. Originally known as the Shakespeare Workshop, its mission was to support emerging playwrights and performers. The Public moved to its current location at 425 Lafayette Street in 1967, transforming the historic Astor Library into a vibrant performance space. The building itself is a designated New York City Landmark, a testament to its architectural and cultural significance. Throughout its history, The Public has been a launching pad for groundbreaking productions, including the world premiere of *Hair* in 1967 and *A Chorus Line* in 1975. Many shows that premiered at The Public have gone on to achieve widespread acclaim, winning Tony Awards, Obie Awards, Drama Desk Awards, and Pulitzer Prizes. The Public is committed to making theater accessible to everyone, offering various programs such as Free Shakespeare in the Park at the Delacorte Theater in Central Park, Public Works, and the Mobile Unit, which brings free Shakespeare performances to communities across New York City's five boroughs. The Public Theater's main building houses five performance spaces: the Anspacher Theater, LuEsther Hall, the Martinson Theater, the Newman Theater, and the Shiva Theater. In addition to its theatrical productions, The Public also features Joe's Pub, an intimate cabaret-style venue that hosts music and performance events. The Public continues to be a vital force in American theater, nurturing new talent, and presenting thought-provoking works that reflect the diverse voices and experiences of contemporary society.
Local tips
- Check out the Public's website for information on rush tickets and other discount programs to save on performances.
- Arrive early to secure your spot, especially for popular productions, as the theater's intimate spaces fill up quickly.
- Explore the surrounding neighborhood, which is filled with restaurants, cafes, and shops, to enhance your visit.
- Consider attending a performance at Joe's Pub, the Public's cabaret-style venue, for a more intimate and unique experience.
- Take advantage of the Public's free Shakespeare in the Park during the summer months for a quintessential New York City experience.
A brief summary to The Public Theater
- 425 Lafayette St, New York, Manhattan, New York, 10003, US
- +1212-539-8500
- Visit website
Getting There
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Subway
The Public Theater is easily accessible by subway. From the West Side, take the R or W train (yellow line) to the 8th Street Station. From the East Side, take the 6 train (green line) to the Astor Place Station. Both stations are within a short walking distance of the theater. A single subway ride costs $3.
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Bus
Several bus lines stop near The Public Theater. You can take the M2, M3, or M8 to 8th Street and 4th Avenue; the M5 or M6 to 8th Street and Broadway; the M15 to 2nd Avenue and 9th Street; or the M101 or M102 to 8th Street and Cooper Union. All these stops are a short walk from the theater. The cost of a single bus ride is $2.75.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Manhattan. A short taxi ride from Penn Station to The Public Theater typically costs between $12 and $16, depending on traffic. Note that prices may surge during peak hours.
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Parking
Street parking near The Public Theater can be challenging to find, but it is sometimes available on Lafayette Street and the surrounding area. Several parking garages are within walking distance, including locations on Lafayette Street between East 3rd Street and East 9th Street. Expect to pay around $19-$45 for 2 hours of parking at a nearby garage. Garages include 403 Lafayette St Parking and 85 Wanamaker Place Parking.
