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Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre | Complete Theatre Guide

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Formerly known as the Royale Theatre, before being renamed after the Shubert Organisation’s longtime president, the Bernard B Jacobs Theatre is a popular Broadway house. The theatre is located at 242 West 45th Street and opened in 1927 with a musical, Piggy. This midsized theatre was designed by Herbert J. Krapp in a contemporary Spanish style. The interior features a cross-vaulted ceiling that is supported on each side by arches that are decorated with two pai. The theatre has a seating capacity of 1101, making it a medium-sized theatre. The Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre is a very versatile theatre that is notable for having plenty of legroom. Given its versatile nature, the theatre has witnessed a variety of dramas and musicals over the years, such as Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Conversations with My Father, Grease, Frost/Nixon, Once, An Inspector Calls, The Color Purple, Bandstand, The Iceman Cometh, and most recently The Ferryman.

If you’re looking to catch the show, our Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre guide is here to help you find the best seats.

Venue Details


Address: Bernard B Jacobs Theatre , 242 West 45th Street in Midtown Manhattan, New York

Opened:11 January 1927

Seating Capacity: 1,078
Orchestra: 612
Mezzanine: 420

Seating Chart
Check out the Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre Seating Chart here.


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Practical Information


Section Accessibility

Orchestra: Seating in the orchestra section is accessible to all parts without steps. Note that there are no steps to the designated wheelchair seating location.

Mezzanine: The mezzanine section is located on the second level, up 3 short flights of stairs (29 steps). Once on the mezzanine level there are approximately 2 steps up/down per row.

Available Facilities

Wheelchair Accessibility: While no wheelchair assistance is specified, the orchestra section and the main level are fully accessible. A wheelchair accessible (unisex) restroom located on the orchestra level. The theatre doesn’t have any elevator or escalator.
Restroom: For ladies, the restroom is located at the lower level, where there are 7 urinals and 4 stalls for men including one which is handicapped accessible.

Concessions: Cocktails, non-alcoholic beverages, and light snacks are available for purchase at the concession stand.

Assisted Listening Device: 10 infrared assistive listening devices are available for every performance at the theatre. Also, after 4 weeks from a show’s official opening night performance, at least 10 audio description devices are available for every performance at the theatre.

Water Fountains: Water fountains are located in restrooms

Payphone: Located in the lobby. Accessible at 54".

Handy Tips


  • Latecomers are seated at suitable breaks in the performance in conveniently reachable seat locations at the discretion of management. Please arrive at the location at least 30 minutes before your show timing to avoid missing the show.
  • While there’s no required dress code, clothing should be comfortable and appropriate.
  • The theatre is fully air conditioned and it can get pretty chilly inside. Dress appropriately and bring a pullover or jacket just in case.
  • Company is two hours and forty five minutes long and with one intermission.
  • Please note that the use of cameras, recording devices, cell phones, beepers, and other electronic devices during the performance is prohibited.

Getting There


The Bernard B Jacobs Theatre is located at 242 West 45th Street (George Abbott Way) in Midtown Manhattan.

There are many buses and metro trains you can take to reach the Bernard B Jacobs Theatre. Buses plying to Theatre District are M104, M10, M27/M50, M6, M7 or M42. If you prefer travelling by subway, you can take the 1, 2, 3, 7, 9, N, R or S train to Times Square or the A, C, or E to Port Authority.

If you’re travelling in your car, there are numerous paid parking spots close to the Bernard B Jacobs Theatre Some of the popular ones include Edison ParkFest, Impark, LAZ Parking, and Bright Management.

Restaurants near Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre


You can make your Broadway experience extra special with our hand-picked selection of the best restaurants near Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre. If you’re looking for an in-depth guide for food options in the Theatre District, we have got you covered. Looking for a quick bite before or after your Broadway show? Here our some of our favorite restaurants around the Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre:

1. City Kitchen: Market counter serve featuring classic ramen soups, edamame & pork buns, plus Japanese beers & sake.

2. Smith's Bar: Enjoy live music & craft beers update at this vintage neighborhood bar & grill near Times Square.

3. Ruby Tuesday: Enjoy a peaceful meal at this casual chain with American fare, featuring burgers, a salad bar, cocktails & a convivial vibe.

4. John's of Times Square: Famous circa-1929, this Village pizzeria slings trademark thin-crust pies in a soaring Midtown space.

5. The Counter: A contemporary chain with customizable gourmet burgers, including vegetarian, plus beer & wine.

6. Shake Shack: Visit this hip, counter-serve chain for their gourmet takes on fast-food classics like burgers & frozen custard.

Check out our theatre district restaurants guide for even more fantastic dining options in and around Broadway district. It has everything you're looking for. And more.

FAQs


How old is the Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre in New York?

95

When was the Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre built?

The Royale was restored as a legitimate theater under its original name in 1940. The theater was renamed for longtime Shubert Organization president Bernard B. Jacobs in 2005.

What is the address of the Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre?

242 W 45th St, New York, NY 10036, United States

What is the seating capacity of Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre?

Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre has a seating capacity of 1,078.