August Wilson Theatre

English

Located in central Manhattan’s Theatre District, the August Wilson Theatre was originally designed as the permanent home for the Theatre Guild. The exclusive members club pooled resources to present exceptional performances far from commercial considerations. Over the years, it has served many functions, including as a radio broadcast studio. When it opened in 1925, President Coolidge flipped a custom switch in the White House to turn on the lights in Manhattan. In 2005, the theater was renamed in honor of award-winning playwright August Wilson and became the first American theater to be named after an African-American artist. Despite being a mid-sized venue, the textured walls and warm tones in the auditorium’s decor lend it a cozy, intimate appeal.

1239 Seats

Wheelchair Accessible

Accessible Toilets

Guide Dogs

Assistive Listening System

Washrooms

Air Conditioning

Bar

Security Check

Hearing Assistance

Cloakroom

WiFi

Souvenir Shop

Now Playing

Cabaret

4.7(17)

$133.15

About August Wilson Theatre

Seating chart

History

Architecture

Popular productions

The mid-sized theater space seats 1239 patrons spread across two levels - 754 on the orchestra floor and 485 on the mezzanine.
The larger orchestra floor is further divided into three sections - left, center, and right. Rows E-J in the center section have the best view in the house, situated at a favorable distance from the stage so you can take in the entire set and performance.
Seats towards the rear of the orchestra are highly impacted due to the mezzanine overhang, but still offer a decent sightline at a lower price.
Middle rows in the left and right of the orchestra and rear seats in the mezzanine are great options on a budget, where you can pay less for a good overview of the action.
Seats in the mezzanine generally provide a good sightline owing to the decent rake between each row and an optimally angled position above the stage.

Know before you go

Getting there

Facilities

Accessibility

Tips & guidelines

Nearby restaurants

Address: 245 West 52nd Street, New York, NY 10019, United States
Bus: There are plenty of options for getting to the theater by bus, including M50, M7, and M20, with the nearest stop a 3-minute walk from the venue.
Subway: The closest subway stations, all within a 5-minute walk from the theater, are 50th Street Station (1, C, E lines), 7th Avenue Station (B, D, E lines), and 49th Street Station (N, Q, R, W lines).
Train: If you're traveling from outside NYC, drop off at Penn Station, then take the subway or a 15-20 minute walk to the venue at your convenience.
Recommended route: The bus and subway are close by and offer the most convenient way to reach the venue.

Frequently asked questions about August Wilson Theatre, New York

How old is the August Wilson Theatre?

The theater has been functional since 1925 and is close to 100 years old.

When was the theater built?

The August Wilson Theatre was constructed in 1925, as the permanent home to the Theatre Guild in New York.

What is the address of the theater?

The August Wilson Theatre is located in the Theatre District of New York, at 245 W 52nd St, New York, NY 10019, United States.

What is the seating capacity of the theater?

The renovated auditorium can seat up to 1239 patrons, divided into two levels.

Does the theater have a dress code?

No, there is no dress code and formal dressing is not mandated. Semi-formal or smart-casual attire is generally preferred by theater-goers. Make sure to carry a jacket as the auditorium is often cold.

Are photos allowed inside?

Photography and videography are not permitted during the performances. The staff may confiscate electronic devices found recording during the show. Please use the time before and after the show to capture the theater or set.

Is there any age limit?

Children below 4 years of age are not permitted inside the theater. All adults and children above 4 must carry a valid ticket.

What was August Wilson most famous for?

August Wilson is a Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright, well known for writing plays that explore life as a 20th Century African American. Some of his most popular works are Fences and The Piano Lesson.

What was the former name of the August Wilson Theatre?

Until 2005, the theater was called Virginia Theatre. It was renamed to honor award-winning playwright August Wilson, following his death in the same year.