Shakespeare’s famous “all the world’s a stage and the men and women merely players” truly comes to life once you visit a theatre. A trip to the New Amsterdam Theatre and its many attractions will bring this quote to life.
Theatre doesn’t just allow us to spend some time entertaining ourselves away from our busy lives. It helps us relate to characters that transport us away from our dull worlds. We can let out our inner demons through catharsis by watching them come to life on stage.
New York City’s popular theatre district has nurtured this prized possession since 1903. Over a century’s worth of shows have come to pass within this oft-visited stage on Broadway. The theatre includes attractions for those that love music, dance, and acting, all in one place.
Here’s a small guide on how to get to the theatre and the attractions you don’t want to miss;
About the New Amsterdam Theatre
History combines with construction to present to New York’s citizens the Beaux Arts façade and Art Nouveau interior within the theatre. This places it under New York’s historic Landmarks Preservation Commission.
It’s important to note some popular facts before your trip to New Amsterdam Theatre. These include the Herts and Tallant interior design with 1,801 seats spread out over three rows. The maintenance and operation of the theatre are dedicated to Disney Theatrical Productions.
Design
One of the popular activities at New Amsterdam Theatre doesn’t require a ticket. You can enjoy it for free! This is the beautiful design of the theatre.
The auditorium contains one gray limestone façade accompanied by a brick structure spread over the rest of the building. The inside contains a foyer, a reception room, and multiple lounges, not to mention auditoriums with balconies dedicated to orchestras.
The interior and exterior decoration were done by a dozen painters who included the typical floral and foliage elements that theatre was known for at the time.
How to Get to New Amsterdam Theatre
You can easily find the theatre by locating the theatre district at 214 West, 42nd Street, south of Manhattan Square. You can plan your trip via the subway, bus, or car. If you are traveling through the subway, hop onto the N, Q, R, or W train and get off at 42nd street.
From Times Square Station, you need to walk to 8th Avenue by going westward on 42nd street. If you are using personal transport, you can find many parking garages nearby.
History of New Amsterdam Theatre
Your trip to New Amsterdam Theatre was planned more than a century ago…
Okay, maybe not literally, but had it not been for Klaw and Erlanger’s decision to provide the area with a theatre, your trip may not have been possible. Made in 1903, the theatre stood strong through the early years of the Great Depression era.
By 1937, theatres were no longer in demand. In fact, this was the last theatre in the area. It passed from one businessperson to the other as they strived to keep it running. In the ownership of Max Cohen, the theatre refused to display the burlesque.
The theatre was declared a landmark in 1979 and leased by Disney in 1992. It has remained that way ever since.
Timing and Seats
The Box Office Hours are from 9 am to 8 pm throughout the week, except for Sundays when closing time extends by two hours. If you want the best experience, go for the seats in either the center orchestra or the front mezzanine.
If you want an eagle’s eye view of the stage, perhaps the balcony would be a better choice. However, do remember that the seats are very high, so they are best avoided if heights make you queasy.
Activities at New Amsterdam Theatre
There’s a lot to do at the New Amsterdam Theatre, and it will keep you entertained for the duration of your stay. People usually visit the theatre when a big production is in the works, so make sure you go through their website to get more information about the events.
You can choose from the Orchestra, Balcony, or Mezzanine seating and enjoy the Shakespearean plays or many of Disney’s live recreations of popular happily-ever-after tales. You could also choose to admire the interior design or numerous paintings on the walls of history the building has witnessed.
Here are a few tips;
- Every floor has a restroom so if you are looking for it, follow the signs.
- There is accessible seating available near the rear orchestra section and to the house-right of the mezzanine. You can also receive hearing assistance through captions or audio devices on iPods.
- If you feel thirsty, you can locate the water fountains at the balcony level.
Places To Visit Near the New Amsterdam Theatre
Once you are done with the activities at New Amsterdam Theatre, you can grab a bite at one of the many popular restaurants spread out around the region or visit one of the following attractions;
- Madame Tussauds
- Times Square
- Sightseeing Tours
- New Victory Theatre
- Statue of Liberty
- One World Observatory
The trip doesn’t end at the theatre. In fact, there are many theatres nearby which you can visit. You could choose to spend some time viewing the Phantom of the Opera or many of the other attractions nearby.
Final Thoughts
The New Amsterdam Theatre in New York is every theatre lover’s paradise. The variety of productions it offers and the beautiful interior reminiscent of the early theatre days will leave you coming back for more.
Keep your eye out for special productions being offered in the upcoming year, and book your tickets early to turn your trip into an experience the whole family could enjoy together. If you are out and about, visiting the theatre might turn into a night to remember!