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Walter Kerr Theatre: A Broadway Landmark

Experience Broadway history at the Walter Kerr Theatre, a landmark venue with a storied past and home to acclaimed theatrical productions in Times Square.

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The Walter Kerr Theatre, originally the Ritz Theatre, is a Broadway theater known for its varied history and notable productions. Designed by Herbert J. Krapp and opened in 1921, it has hosted radio and TV broadcasts, films, and acclaimed stage performances. Today, it stands as a treasured venue in the heart of New York's Theater District.

A brief summary to Walter Kerr Theatre

Local tips

  • Consider arriving early to explore the Theater District and soak in the pre-show atmosphere.
  • Check the theater's website for any specific COVID-19 related policies or requirements before attending a performance.
  • Take public transportation, as parking can be challenging and expensive in the Theater District.
  • If you require special assistance, book in advance and notify the theater of your needs.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Walter Kerr Theatre is easily accessible by subway. Take the C, E, or 1 train to the 50th Street station, which is the closest stop. Alternatively, the N, Q, or R train to 49th Street is also nearby. Several bus lines also stop near the theater, including the M7, M20, and M104. A single subway or bus fare is $2.75.

  • Walking

    From Times Square, the Walter Kerr Theatre is a short walk. Head west on 48th Street between 7th and 8th Avenues. The theater is on the north side of the street. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Manhattan. A taxi from Times Square to the Walter Kerr Theatre typically costs $15-$19 and takes about 7 minutes. Note that fares may vary depending on traffic and time of day.

  • Parking

    Parking in the Theater District can be challenging and expensive. There are several parking garages near the Walter Kerr Theatre. Garages closest to the theater include Quik Park – Crowne Garage (215 W. 48th St) and Icon Parking – Port Parking, LLC Garage (235 W. 48th St). Expect to pay approximately $25-$40 for 2 hours of parking. It is recommended to reserve a spot in advance.

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Discover more about Walter Kerr Theatre

The Walter Kerr Theatre, located at 219 West 48th Street in New York City, has a rich and diverse history. Designed by Herbert J. Krapp for the Shubert Brothers, it opened as the Ritz Theatre in 1921. While the Shuberts planned for six theaters in the area, only four were built, with the Walter Kerr being one of them. The theater's facade is simple, featuring patterned brickwork. During its early years, the Ritz struggled to find consistent success, leading to various uses throughout the 20th century. From 1943 to 1965, it served as a radio and television studio for ABC. In the 1970s, it functioned as an adult movie cinema, a vaudeville house, and even a children's theater. Jujamcyn Theaters acquired the building in 1981 and undertook extensive renovations, reopening it as a traditional theater in 1983. In 1990, the theater was renamed the Walter Kerr Theatre in honor of the Pulitzer Prize-winning drama critic. The reopening production was August Wilson's *The Piano Lesson*, which also won a Pulitzer Prize. The interior was restored to its original splendor, featuring an Italian Renaissance style with gold leaf and Italian scrollwork. Today, the Walter Kerr Theatre continues to host acclaimed productions, including the Tony Award-winning musical *Hadestown*, the longest-running show in the theater's history. The Walter Kerr has also been the venue for multiple productions involving major LGBT performers and creators, including *Angels in America* by Tony Kushner.

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