Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre, New York
Seating Chart

When real estate magnates the Chanin Brothers built a three-theater complex in 1927, the Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre (then the Royale) was the middle sibling between the larger Majestic Theatre and smaller Theatre Masque (now the John Golden Theatre). It was renamed after Jacobs, former president of the Shubert Organization, in 2005.

Architect Herbert J. Krapp unified the complex with a Spanish-inspired design, but the Bernard B. Jacobs isn’t simply a copy: inside, visitors can enjoy the venue’s unique Lovers of Spain mural (by Willy Pogany) which spreads across the support arches. What is most notable about this theater however is its size, perfectly versatile for both drama and musicals.

The Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre has long been successful, with a varied and lively slate. Stars including Laurence Olivier and Bette Davis performed here, and Julie Andrews’ Broadway debut in The Boy Friend (1954) took place on the Bernard B. Jacobs stage. Other notable productions include the long-running Grease (1972-1980), Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (1982), Speed the Plow (1988), and The Color Purple (2015).

With a capacity of 1,092, the Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre comprises two main levels. The ground-floor Orchestra is the largest, with 636 seats across Left, Center and Right. Views are generally very good here, although the Mezzanine overhang cuts into the stage after row O. There are some excellent, wide views in the Mezzanine, especially in seats placed more centrally above the stage. Further back, this section’s good rake keeps views pleasingly clear and not too distant. On both levels, seats on the far aisle are more restricted; Boxes offer similarly angled views.

Tips

• Children under four are not permitted into the theatre
• Step-free access from the street to the Orchestra
• Restrooms serving the whole theater are below the Orchestra
• Drinks at the bar can be expensive; consider setting a budget beforehand
• Bag checks may be in operation; leave plenty of time to reach your seat

Good value seats

For patrons with a budget in mind, there are many good value seats in the Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre. The middle rows in the Center Orchestra are below premium and offer a good look at the stage. In the Mezzanine, rows G to K are well-elevated, and a decent rake means the very rear of the section is surprisingly clear.

Premium seats

Rows A to D in the Center Orchestra are considered some of the best in the Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre: they offer immersive detail which is perfect for a play, whilst not being uncomfortably close. In the Mezzanine, rows A and B, especially in the middle, provide similar premium views with the extra benefit of an elevated look at the set.