Gershwin Theatre New York
Gershwin Theatre Tickets
What’s On at Gershwin Theatre
The Gershwin Theatre has been home to several big-budget and crowd-pleasing musicals over the years, but none have been as iconic as its current show. Since 2003, the venue has been synonymous with the iconic Wicked on Broadway. The musical delves into the untold story of the witches of Oz in their younger years: Elphaba, who has green skin, and Glinda, who is blonde and beautiful. Initially at odds, they form an unlikely bond that shapes their destinies. From girlhood friendship, it is revealed how Elphaba becomes the Wicked Witch of the West while Glinda transforms into the Good Witch. This captivating show continues to enchant audiences at the Gershwin Theatre, making it a must-visit venue for tourists and local theater lovers alike.
About the Gershwin Theatre
Named for the great brothers - composer George and lyricist Ira - the Gershwin Theatre New York is one of Broadway's jewels, located in midtown-Manhattan at the bottom of the Paramount Plaza building. It features one of the largest stages on Broadway and admits almost 200 more audience members than the second-biggest venue, the Broadway Theatre. It is perfectly suited to large-scale productions and since 2003 has been the home of smash-hit musical Wicked.
Set designer Ralph Alswang is responsible for the building’s modernist Art Nouveau style. From inside you’ll see the venue's sweeping rotunda which was specially designed to display Broadway's own Theater Hall of Fame: the names and photographs of the brightest and best who've trodden the boards in New York's theaterland. The stage itself is 80 feet wide with a 65-foot-wide, adjustable proscenium arch.
Originally opening as the Uris Theater on November 28, 1972, the venue spent two years as a concert hall. Legendary performers like Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald and Bing Crosby graced its stage. Its 1976 hosting of Porgy and Bess ushered in a new era of hit musical productions which continues to this day. In addition, the Tony Awards have been hosted at the Gershwin on several occasions.
These days, on most evenings and less frequent matinees, the foyer spills over with theatergoers heading to see Wicked at the Gershwin Theatre. The musical set a new box office record for the venue and was then the highest one-week box office gross income earned by any show throughout Broadway history.
Know Before You Go
- Children under 5 not permitted in the theater
- In-house bars on second and fourth floors; pre-order to save time if you can
- Wicked merchandise available from upper lobby
- Coat check available in foyer during winter months
- Complimentary booster seats are available
Map and Address
222 W 51st St, New York, New York, 10019
Gershwin Theatre sits on the south side of 51st Street and is accessed via a tunnel that connects 50th to 51st Street. Standing amid the bustling heart of the Theater District, it’s just a short walk from Times Square and many other tourist hotspots. There are several ways of getting to Gershwin Theatre. One of the easiest methods is by subway, as a choice of stations surround the venue. Taxis are also an easy option, but a much pricier one.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the Gershwin Theatre box office open, and how do I collect tickets?
Tickets are sent electronically for the Gerswhin Theatre. The box office is open Monday-Saturday from 10am-8pm and Sunday from 12pm-7pm ET. The box office at the Gershwin Theatre box office cannot print tickets purchased from other ticket retailers websites.
What time does the Gershwin Theatre open for a show?
The theater is open approximately 45 minutes ahead of the show start time. Please arrive with plenty of time for security checks - the theater advise arriving no later than 30 minutes ahead of curtain up.
Is there a dress code for the Gershwin Theatre?
There is no official dress code, with most patrons dressing smart-casual. As the theater is air-conditioned, it is advised to bring layers. Costumes are allowed, however, any costumes that may obstruct other audience members' view, including tall witches hats, should be removed before the start of performances.
Does the Gershwin Theatre have a coat check?
There is no coat check at the Gerswhin Theatre - please do not bring any items that cannot fit under your seat, as they will not be allowed in the theater.
What food and drink are available at the Gershwin Theatre?
There are two bars located on the second floor of the theater, and two bars located on the fourth floor of the theater. Cocktails and other Alcoholic beverages, as well as nonalcoholic beverages, candy and snacks are available for purchase. Customers are permitted to bring bottled water and beverages with secured tops into the auditorium, but food and open drinks must be consumed in the lobby before taking your seat.
The bars are open 45 minutes before the performance and during intermission.
Can I bring food and drink into the Gershwin Theatre?
Outside food and drink is not permitted, unless it is for medical reasons.
Where should I eat near the Gershwin Theatre?
There are plenty of dining options nearby. Carnegie Diner and Cafe and Saar Indian Cuisine & Bar are just two of the restaurants located on the same block at the Gershwin Theatre.
What is the best hotel to stay at near the Gershwin Theatre?
There are lots of hotels in the surrounding Time Square area, including citizenM New York Times Square Hotel, The Pearl and The Michelangelo New York.
Is the Gershwin Theatre air-conditioned?
The Gershwin Theatre is air-conditioned during the summer.