The New Amsterdam Theatre on West 42nd Street in New York is a landmark Broadway house celebrated for its Art Nouveau grandeur, storied history, and world-class productions.
The New Amsterdam Theatre opened in 1903 and quickly became one of the most celebrated venues in American entertainment. Built for Klaw and Erlanger, it hosted the Ziegfeld Follies for many years, cementing its place in Broadway history. The building's Art Nouveau facade and richly detailed interior made it an architectural landmark as well as a cultural one.
After decades of decline, Disney Theatrical Productions undertook a meticulous restoration in the 1990s, returning the theatre to its former glory. The revival of the venue helped anchor the broader revitalization of Times Square and the surrounding West 42nd Street corridor, transforming the area into the destination it is today.
Since reopening, the New Amsterdam Theatre has staged major Disney productions, drawing families and theatre enthusiasts from around the world. The auditorium seats roughly 1,800 guests, and sight lines from most sections are excellent. For those exploring the neighborhood, the Lyceum Theatre is just a short walk away and offers another window into Broadway's architectural heritage.
Few Broadway houses match the New Amsterdam Theatre for the combination of historical depth and theatrical spectacle it delivers on any given night.
Visit on a weekday matinee to enjoy a quieter 42nd Street and easier access to nearby dining before the show.
Arrive at least 30 minutes early to take in the theatre's intricate Art Nouveau lobby details before the house opens.
Check the official Disney Theatrical Productions site for rush and lottery ticket options, which can offer significant savings.
Wear comfortable layers, as the auditorium can run cool during long performances.
After the show, walk the short distance to Times Square to experience the neighborhood fully lit up at night.
Private Midtown West architecture walk with Times Square and Broadway stops
Walk Broadway’s past and present on a 90-minute small-group story tour
Explore 120 years of Broadway history inside Times Square's oldest operating theater