Broadway Theatre
Broadway Theatre
4.5
About
The Broadway Theatre is one of only five playhouses that front on the street named Broadway. It opened in 1924 as B. S. Moss's Colony, a premiere film house. The most notable film that played there in the early years was Walt Disney's Steamboat Willie which opened in 1928, and introduced American audiences to an adorable rodent named Mickey Mouse. The theatre went "legit" from 1930 to 1934, when it was re-christened the Broadway. From 1934 to 1940, the house was once again dedicated to motion picture exhibition, and offered the premiere of Disney's Fantasia in 1939. In 1940, however, it returned to legitimate stage production and, except for a brief stint as a Cinerama movie theatre in the 1950s, has remained in the business of showcasing live theatre ever since. B. S. Moss commissioned architect Eugene DeRosa to design the Colony as part of his chain of movie theatres, many of which also housed vaudeville. The large size of the theatre made it ideal for musical comedies.
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Neighbourhood: Theater District
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- 7th Ave • 2 min walk
- 50th St • 3 min walk
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4.5
521 reviews
Excellent
364
Very good
107
Average
32
Poor
9
Terrible
10
bl0ndie72
Ko Samui, Thailand3,443 contributions
Feb 2020 • Couples
West Side Story at the Broadway theatre was excellent. (When choosing your seat perhaps use the ‘view from my seat’ facility, then you’ll know where to sit & be able to see all the action). We sat front mezzanine & could see everything. The theatre itself is quite small. The foyer is tiny & there’s a fair amount of waiting around before you’re seated. No intermission was a bonus. Drinks are hugely over priced (a beer & a bottle of water $21). The show itself was fantastic. Wonderful acting, singing & dancing & I loved the modern spin with the camera man & mobile phones on stage. The ‘back stage’ sets of Docs & the sewing shop were inspired - I loved the attention to detail & being able to see it all on the big screen.
Maria has the most incredible voice & Anita’s dancing was superb.
I was worried about the actors slipping over in the rain, but what a sensational effect.
The group dance sequences were incredible.
Just a fantastic show & I’m so glad it has a modern twist.
I really enjoyed the show. Worth every penny (except for the beer).
Maria has the most incredible voice & Anita’s dancing was superb.
I was worried about the actors slipping over in the rain, but what a sensational effect.
The group dance sequences were incredible.
Just a fantastic show & I’m so glad it has a modern twist.
I really enjoyed the show. Worth every penny (except for the beer).
Written 11 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Carol S
Los Angeles, CA427 contributions
Jan 2020 • Family
I was looking forward to seeing the new West Side Story revival once I heard it was coming to Broadway. I bought tickets a few weeks ago expecting to see the understudy for Tony, due to Isaac Powell’s injury, but to my surprise I read Powell was healed and back on stage on the 17th. Still, no guarantee he would perform every show. When I opened my Playbill to find no note stating he would be absent, I was more than excited.
I am a huge fan of WSS. Seen the movie more times than I could count, attended high school and college performances. I had high expectations for Broadway.
This rendition is new yet keeps the heart of the original. The set design, if that’s the correct terminology for this revival, was a creative fresh approach as we enter a new decade. I love musicals with extraordinary set designs, but WSS proved you can achieve the same affect with great story telling and visual technology. The beginning of the musical we are introduced to each member of the Jets and Sharks in stunning HD. I had chills watching each character, pausing for a moment, helping us get to know who they were. Genius introduction.
For a cast to comprise of so many new actors to Broadway, they were talented and enjoyable to watch. I commend the director for choosing actors on the talent he wanted and not based on others who expect seasoned Broadway actors. You are giving the young actors a chance and that’s to be applauded. They did not disappoint and I enjoyed watching every single one. Powell was outstanding and I literally wept like a baby when he sang Maria. Then came the first Tonight and my tears continued. Maria (Shereen Pimentel’s) voice was angelic. WOW! What a gift from God she’s been given.
Lastly, I read many articles prior to seeing the musical, that songs... I Feel Pretty and Somewhere were cut for timing. I was saddened by the removal of Somewhere as it encapsulates the hope of their love, not to ignore it’s an absolutely beautiful song. I searched the internet and never found it had been added to the show, but last night, Tony began saying a few of the lyrics, and as I sat with much anticipation, thinking, no he’s not, no he’s not, Tony sang Somewhere. He sang the entire song. I lost it and this time I cried like a baby. If they don’t leave that song in the production, they are crazy!
I often see major productions and this trip to NYC I knew I couldn’t miss West Side Story. I saw Powell, I heard Somewhere, and I was emotionally thrown into its message. Bravo!
I am a huge fan of WSS. Seen the movie more times than I could count, attended high school and college performances. I had high expectations for Broadway.
This rendition is new yet keeps the heart of the original. The set design, if that’s the correct terminology for this revival, was a creative fresh approach as we enter a new decade. I love musicals with extraordinary set designs, but WSS proved you can achieve the same affect with great story telling and visual technology. The beginning of the musical we are introduced to each member of the Jets and Sharks in stunning HD. I had chills watching each character, pausing for a moment, helping us get to know who they were. Genius introduction.
For a cast to comprise of so many new actors to Broadway, they were talented and enjoyable to watch. I commend the director for choosing actors on the talent he wanted and not based on others who expect seasoned Broadway actors. You are giving the young actors a chance and that’s to be applauded. They did not disappoint and I enjoyed watching every single one. Powell was outstanding and I literally wept like a baby when he sang Maria. Then came the first Tonight and my tears continued. Maria (Shereen Pimentel’s) voice was angelic. WOW! What a gift from God she’s been given.
Lastly, I read many articles prior to seeing the musical, that songs... I Feel Pretty and Somewhere were cut for timing. I was saddened by the removal of Somewhere as it encapsulates the hope of their love, not to ignore it’s an absolutely beautiful song. I searched the internet and never found it had been added to the show, but last night, Tony began saying a few of the lyrics, and as I sat with much anticipation, thinking, no he’s not, no he’s not, Tony sang Somewhere. He sang the entire song. I lost it and this time I cried like a baby. If they don’t leave that song in the production, they are crazy!
I often see major productions and this trip to NYC I knew I couldn’t miss West Side Story. I saw Powell, I heard Somewhere, and I was emotionally thrown into its message. Bravo!
Written 24 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Zoom_Gotti
Henderson, NV1,506 contributions
Feb 2020
The theater itself is pretty spacious and holds about 2000 attendees. But it's only partially accessible, so if that's a concern for you, don't buy balcony seats. For others, depending on the production, seat location might matter. I've seen shows here before, sat in the balcony, and found it best to use binoculars. This time for West side Story, I sat in the left orchestra. This iteration of the classic Broadway show, uses the dance to its fullest, so the minimalist stage set is recessed to the rear. The time isn't really the 1950's; it could be anytime current. So maybe the Puerto Rican and opposing gangs don't have the same relevance today. Though big screen videos try to pick up all of the stage action, it's really hard to see the sets except for those patrons in the close up seats. And another caveat: the performers were cast for their dancing ability, not their voices. Often the acting is drab and some singers have trouble hitting the proper notes. Especially with Tonight and Maria (though I saw the understudy in the lead role at this performance). But Shereen Pimentel as Maria does justice to the Bernstein originated music with her voice. Some of the fun, color, and liveliness of the older productions are missing here. Also missing is "I Feel Pretty". I did like the ending though. Better than the original stage production or the Natalie Wood film. So I think this show will go over better with a younger audience who are excited by the dance, tattooed bodies, and multi-media imagery.
Written 25 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
MelissaClaire93
Cinnaminson, NJ1,013 contributions
Jan 2020
I’m giving a poor in hopes that my review will actually be read by someone and that I might save someone some money. We came to see West Side Story. I was really excited about it and splurged on front row seats which I was really excited about. They cost almost $500 for 2. I was SO disappointed when it came to the show. The stage is so high that you really can’t see much from the front row. You have an okay view of the dancing but once they move past a certain point on the stage you can’t see anything (and this particular show did A LOT at the back of the stage). They had a screen playing the show on it so you could see what was happening but if I wanted to watch a movie I would’ve done that at home for free. Nowhere on the site or the tickets did it say the front row had a restricted view. I’ve seen other theaters where it puts a warning if the stage is high and your view will be restricted. I was very unhappy. The front row is also very cramped (you’re crammed RIGHT next to the stage). I was pretty uncomfortable for most of the show and I’m not a very tall person. If I were to ever come back to this theater I would be sure to sit farther back so I had a full view and could enjoy the whole show. I hope someone else sees this and doesn’t spend $500 for tickets to only see part of it!
Written 28 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hello,
Sorry to hear about your experience.
If you wish to write in, feel free to contact audienceservices@shubertorg.com
We appreciate your patronage.
Best,
Theatre Operations
Written 11 February 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
nbdraleigh61
Raleigh, NC124 contributions
Feb 2020
The Broadway Theatre offered good seating with minimal obstructions of view for the new West Side Story. The set is an experiment with a large backdrop video screen (think IMAX) with the live characters on a relatively blank stage. Any seat in the house would be able to see. The female voices were strong and beautiful. Tony’s audio could be projected a bit more, so I was thankful to have orchestra seat tickets for that. Stop for dinner and drinks before entering the theatre as a plastic cup of so-so wine was $26
Written 1 March 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Rebecca C
1 contribution
Jan 2020
I gave this one star for so many reasons. Based on the content itself, I would have given it 2 stars, but considering the price of tickets and the fact that this is supposed to be a Broadway show, it doesn't deserve the second star. Van Hove had some 'cool' ideas like raining on the stage, booming thunder and lightning, and the idea to open the stage back to reveal sets beyond just a stage. But with this idea came NUMEROUS flaws. The set was pushed so far downstage that the audience could not see a majority of the action in a traditional stage manor. To compensate for that fact, Van Hove had the idea to have 2 or 3 men join the cast as videographers. They recorded the live action behind the stage to play on a big screen like a film. The camera men were an eye sore on the stage. The actors themselves were not fit for film acting. The acting overall was sub-par. The choreography was new but lacked enthusiasm and passion. It seemed as if they were marking their steps rather than dancing them full-out. The whole entire show seemed extremely rushed to the point that the cast was going through their lines without any inflection and most of the show was unintelligible. Complete lack of story telling over all. There was a fundamental problem with this show. Although it was an adaptation, and the costume design and diversity reflected that, they decided to keep the original, old language script in its entirety.
Suggestion: Cast actors who sing and dance. Not dancers who sing and act.
Redeeming qualities: The "Maria" scene was beautiful and full of energy and emotion and felt brand new.
The dancing in "America" was fun and exciting
Overall: I've seen better community productions. Doesn't matter how "cool" the staging is. The show itself was uninspiring.
Suggestion: Cast actors who sing and dance. Not dancers who sing and act.
Redeeming qualities: The "Maria" scene was beautiful and full of energy and emotion and felt brand new.
The dancing in "America" was fun and exciting
Overall: I've seen better community productions. Doesn't matter how "cool" the staging is. The show itself was uninspiring.
Written 14 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hello,
Sorry to hear your experience at "West Side Story" wasn't what you might have hoped for.
Nonetheless, we thank you for your patronage.
Best,
Theatre Operations
Written 17 January 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
787sallyb
Park City, UT1,636 contributions
Mar 2020
We were especially delighted to see Patti Lu Pone again after catching her concert in San Francisco during the summer. She is extraordinary. But this reboot of a Sondheim 70's show is dated and a bit frantic. And I'm no expert, but the staging felt claustrophobic to me--framed by neon lights that were glaring.
Written 17 March 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Amy
60 contributions
Jan 2020
Phantom of the Opera has been long standing at Broadway for a reason! The singers sound powerful and hauntingly beautiful and the actors were especially captivating. I absolutely love the dramatic chandelier drop and the misty rowboat scenes. I would definitely recommend it!
Written 3 June 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Funtoeat
Silver Spring, MD17 contributions
Jan 2020 • Couples
Having seen the original many years ago, I was not prepared for this revival. Frankly, I did not care for it. I found the production amateurish and far too gritty. The use of overpowering visuals distracted me from the live actors and could be confusing. This was a preview, so hopefully things get worked out.
Written 25 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Passenger21540014473
4 contributions
Feb 2020
Absolutely a wonderful revival. It’s was true to Jerome Robbins and Leonard Bernstein. The cast was sensational. The voices great. Large screens recapturing and projecting the happenings on stage. The closing scene was not as powerful as the movie, but it was still moving. I enjoyed it.
Written 21 March 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
what is playing on August 13, 2019?
Written 29 July 2019
Quais shows estão recomendados para 05/10/2019
Written 29 July 2019
I have the theatre cup I purchased 2 years ago when I was at the Jacob a couple of years ago. Will this cup be honored for refillable at the Broadway?
Written 18 January 2019
I very much doubt it but you could give if a go. Who dares wins
Written 19 January 2019
Hi everyone,
Planning to see Anistasia on broadway this month for my 21st birthday.
I have no idea which tickets to book? Is it worth paying extra to be in the orchestra? Or should I save the money and book the mezzanine?
We are a family of 5 and are looking to be as cost effective as possible!
Written 7 October 2018
We want to come and see Miss Saigon when in NY in December, should we book tickets first or wait and get on the day?
Written 16 November 2017
I booked a few weeks before and I paid about $70 but the seats we were in were really bad very uncomfortable, so I suggest you pay a bit more and get better seats. The day we went was a Monday and it was sold out so if I was you I would buy them before, but some people do buy them last minute.
Written 19 November 2017
Bonjour
Nous désirons voir le spectacle Miss Saigon pendant notre séjour à New-York. Je vais acheter les billet en ligne. Je retirerai les billets au Théatre. Quels sont les horaires pour retirer les billets et combien de jours à l'avance je peux venir les retirer?
Merci pour votre réponse
Written 2 July 2017
mollylollo
Kristianstad, Sweden
Vilken dag och vilken tid kan man kolla på gospel?
Written 8 April 2017
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