Broadway Theatre
Broadway Theatre: A Timeless Stage
Ed Sullivan Theater: A Stage for Legends
Experience the legacy of American entertainment at the Ed Sullivan Theater, from The Beatles to Stephen Colbert, in the heart of NYC's Theater District.
The Ed Sullivan Theater, a historic landmark in New York City's Theater District, has been a stage for legendary performers since 1927. From its beginnings as Hammerstein's Theatre to its iconic status as the home of 'The Ed Sullivan Show' and now 'The Late Show with Stephen Colbert,' this venue has played a pivotal role in American entertainment history.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Ed Sullivan Theater
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
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Getting There
Public Transport
The Ed Sullivan Theater is easily accessible by subway. Take the 1, A, C, B, or D train to 59th Street-Columbus Circle and walk south on Broadway. Alternatively, take the N, Q, R, or W train to 49th Street or the 1 or 2 train to 50th Street. From there, it's a short walk to 1697 Broadway, located between 53rd and 54th Streets. A single subway ride costs $2.90.
Walking
From Times Square, walk north along Broadway for approximately 15 minutes to reach the Ed Sullivan Theater. The theater is located at 1697 Broadway, between 53rd and 54th Streets. This is a straightforward and popular route, allowing you to take in the sights and sounds of Midtown Manhattan.
Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available throughout Manhattan. A taxi ride from Times Square to the Ed Sullivan Theater typically costs between $8 and $11 and takes only a few minutes, depending on traffic. Be sure to specify the address, 1697 Broadway, to your driver.
Local tips
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Check the schedule in advance for tapings of 'The Late Show with Stephen Colbert' and plan your visit accordingly.
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Arrive early for tapings, as wait times can be long, and be prepared to stand outside.
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Consider bringing warm clothing if attending a taping during colder months, as temperatures inside the theater can be cool.
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Explore nearby attractions like Times Square and Central Park before or after your visit.
Discover more about Ed Sullivan Theater
Located in the heart of Manhattan's Theater District, the Ed Sullivan Theater stands as a monument to American entertainment. Originally built in 1927 by Arthur Hammerstein and designed by Herbert J. Krapp, the theater first opened as Hammerstein's Theatre, named in honor of his father, Oscar Hammerstein I. The theater's early years saw it transition through various names and purposes, including a stint as a nightclub, before CBS acquired it in 1936 for radio broadcasts.
The theater found its greatest fame as the home of 'The Ed Sullivan Show' from 1948 to 1971. During this era, the theater, then known as CBS-TV Studio 50, hosted a dazzling array of talent, including The Beatles' American debut in 1964 and groundbreaking performances by Elvis Presley. In 1967, the studio was officially renamed the Ed Sullivan Theater, cementing its place in television history.
Today, the Ed Sullivan Theater continues to be a vibrant part of New York City's cultural landscape as the home of 'The Late Show with Stephen Colbert'. The theater's neo-Gothic architecture, including its cathedral-like auditorium with a domed ceiling and stained glass, provides a unique and elegant setting for live television. Visitors can experience the magic of this historic venue by attending a taping of 'The Late Show' or simply admiring its iconic facade on Broadway.
A brief summary to Ed Sullivan Theater
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