Perhaps you’ve heard that the Gershwin Theatre is Broadway’s largest. The Gershwin Theatre stands tall on West 51st Street. It is a significant landmark in Midtown Manhattan. This theater has a rich history and continues to be a premier venue for spectacular Broadway productions.
Originally named the Uris Theatre, the Gershwin Theatre opened its doors on November 28, 1972. The Uris Buildings Corporation constructed it as part of the Paramount Plaza office building project. In exchange for the theater, they gained additional floors of office space. Ralph Alswang designed the theater. It was one of the first theaters built under the Special Theater District amendment of 1967.
Interestingly, the Uris family’s decision to name the theater after themselves was met with ridicule in theatrical circles. But the Uris Theatre was renamed the Gershwin Theatre in 1983. This renaming honored the legendary brothers George and Ira Gershwin. They penned many Broadway musicals.
Did you know that the Gershwin Theatre boasts a seating capacity of approximately 1,933? It is spread across two levels. The orchestra level has about 1,300 seats. The mezzanine level has about 600 seats. Alswang noted most people wanted orchestra seats. He designed the seating arrangement accordingly.
As you enter, take note of the American Theater Hall of Fame. Names of over 500 notable theatrical personalities are inscribed within the lobby and rotundas. To be eligible for induction, individuals must have a 25-year career in American theater. They need at least five major Broadway production credits.
The Gershwin’s stage is one of Broadway’s largest, ideal for grand musical productions. Its proscenium arch is adjustable to 65 feet wide. The stage itself extends to 80 feet. This vastness allows for elaborate sets and performances.
Early in its history, the Uris struggled to find its footing. Its first show, Via Galactica, flopped after only seven performances. However, the theater found success with concerts and dance specials in the 1970s. Later, musicals like The King and I and Sweeney Todd had relatively long runs.
The Gershwin Theatre has hosted six Tony Awards ceremonies since its renaming in 1983. The theater has seen a diverse range of performances over the years. These include concerts, straight plays, and musicals.
A major renovation took place in 1993. It updated the theater’s decor to a blue-and-white color scheme. The Gershwin continues to evolve while honoring its rich past.
Since 2003, the Gershwin has been home to the blockbuster musical Wicked. Wicked has broken numerous box office records. In 2010, it became the first Broadway show to gross over $2 million in a single week. By 2024, Wicked grossed over $5 million in one week. This made it the first Broadway show to achieve this milestone.
The Gershwin Theatre stands as a testament to Broadway’s enduring appeal. Its history is filled with triumphs, innovations, and unforgettable performances. As you leave, remember the countless stories told within these walls. They continue to inspire and entertain audiences from around the world.