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Imperial Theatre New York

Imperial Theatre Tickets

What’s On at Imperial Theatre

The Imperial Theatre NYC is hosting a huge revival of Chess the Musical this year - the first time this classic story of intrigue, romance and gameplay has been on Broadway for 20 years. Aaron Tveit, Lea Michele and Nicholas Christopher star in Tim Rice’s iconic musical, which boasts a fantastic score from ABBA’s Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus. As America and Russia go head-to-head at the World Chess Championships, a love triangle brews. Which man will capture their queen’s heart?

With unforgettable songs and dazzling choreography, Chess will have you hooked as it explores cutthroat Cold War politics and the thrill of the game.

About the Imperial Theatre

The Imperial Theatre was always intended to be a home for hit musicals, and it’s an aspiration the venue has lived up to countless times since becoming the 50th addition to the Shubert family’s theater empire.

Built as a replacement for the older, outdated Lyric Theatre, the Imperial Theatre’s design followed a familiar theme. Architect Herbert J. Krapp was once again hired to create a building with Adamesque influences, including floral motifs and ornamental panels. The main entrance on 45th Street is very narrow because it was squeezed in between the old Klaw Theatre and Music Box Theatre.

The Imperial Theatre played host to one of the biggest hits of the 1920s, Rose-Marie (1924) and since then has gone from strength to strength. Notable productions include Annie Get Your Gun (1946), Fiddler on the Roof (1964) and Dreamgirls (1981). Since the turn of the century, audiences have sold out the house to see Hugh Jackman perform in The Boy from Oz (2003), the Tony Award-winning Billy Elliott (2008) and a revival of Les Misérables (2014).

Know Before You Go

  • Children under four are not permitted into the theater
  • Bag check may be in operation; leave plenty of time to reach your seat
  • Restrooms are on one level and serve all patrons; queues will be long

Map and Address

249 West 45th Street, New York, NY 10036

The Imperial Theatre is located at 249 West 45th Street, on a strip populated by Broadway theaters. With Times Square just around the corner and Central Park less than half an hour away on the subway, there’s more than enough to pack in before enjoying a night out at the theater. There are also many restaurants, bars and hotels in the immediate vicinity. Transport links to the Imperial Theatre are therefore plentiful, with buses, subway stations and parking garages all conveniently nearby.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the Imperial Theatre box office open, and how do I collect tickets?

The Box Office is currently closed until September 22. From September 22 the Imperial Theatre box office opening times are Monday - Saturday 10am- 6pm ET.

There are no future sales 30 minutes before the start of a performance to allow for ticket collections and on-the-day purchases.

What time does the Imperial Theatre open for a show?

The Imperial Theatre opens approximately 30 minutes ahead of the show.

Is there a dress code for the Imperial Theatre?

There is no dress code for the Imperial Theatre - many people wear smart casual and/or comfortable clothing.

Can I bring food and drink into the Imperial Theatre?

Outside food and beverages are not permitted at the Imperial Theatre.

Where should I eat near the Imperial Theatre?

There are lots of options for dining near the Imperial Theatre, including The Marshall, Mom’s Kitchen and Bar and Pronto Pasta.

What is the best hotel to stay at near the Imperial Theatre?

The New York Marriott Marquis, Hotel Edison and Tempo by Hilton are just a few of the hotels available to stay at near the Imperial Theatre.

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