Experience the Grandeur of the Gershwin Theatre

Wicked on Broadway

Highlights

Enjoy a top-rated Broadway production that reimagines the tale of the Wicked Witch of the West.

Witness compelling performances and a memorable musical score.

Discover the complex relationship between Elphaba, the green-skinned witch, and Glinda, her friend and rival.

Marvel at stunning stage effects and impressive choreography.

Immerse yourself in a unique story that challenges the classic narrative.

The Gershwin Theatre, located at 222 West 51st Street in Midtown Manhattan, is the largest Broadway theatre with a seating capacity of about 1,900. It opened in 1972 as the Uris Theatre and was designed by Ralph Alswang, later renamed in 1983 to honor composers George and Ira Gershwin. The theatre also houses the American Theatre Hall of Fame in its lobby. Today, it is best known as the long-running home of the hit musical Wicked and is operated by the Nederlander Organization.

The Gershwin Theatre – General Information

Location: The theater is situated at 222 West 51st Street, positioned between Broadway and Eighth Avenue within the Paramount Plaza building complex in Midtown Manhattan.

Seating Capacity: Boasting a maximum capacity of 1,933 seats, the Gershwin stands proudly as the largest auditorium on Broadway. The seating is arranged across two massive tiers: the expansive ground-floor Orchestra and an elevated Mezzanine, both configured in a “continental style” (meaning there are no center aisles, just long unbroken rows with side exit paths).

Modern Design History: Designed by radical set designer Ralph Alswang and built in 1972 as part of a modern office tower development, it originally debuted as the Uris Theatre. The venue features exceptionally wide sightlines, excellent acoustics, a colossal proscenium stage, and an expansive Art Nouveau-influenced lobby space.

The Name & Hall of Fame: In 1983, during the Tony Awards ceremony, the venue was formally renamed to honor legendary American composer George Gershwin and his lyricist brother Ira Gershwin. The theater’s massive, soaring front rotunda permanently houses the Theater Hall of Fame, which features names of Broadway legends inscribed in gold leaf on its walls.

Management & Current Hit: The landmark playhouse is owned and operated by the Nederlander Organization. Since October 2003, it has served as the permanent, blockbusting home to the multi-Tony Award-winning musical phenomenon Wicked, which ranks as one of the highest-grossing shows in Broadway history.

Seating Charts and Viewing Experience

The Gershwin Theatre has two main seating levels: the Orchestra and the Mezzanine. For the best overall view, center Orchestra seats—especially in the middle rows—offer a strong balance of closeness and a full, clear view of the stage. Because it is a very large theatre, seats on the far sides can feel more distant or angled, so center seating is usually preferred.

For a wider, more panoramic perspective, the front rows of the Mezzanine are a popular choice. This elevated position is ideal for taking in large-scale staging and choreography. If you’re looking for more affordable tickets, the rear Mezzanine offers lower prices. Although higher up, the steep seating rake helps maintain generally clear sightlines, making it a good value option.

Facilities and More at the Gershwin Theatre

Facilities
Accessibility Features
Souvenir Store

The Gershwin Theatre offers standard Broadway amenities to make visits comfortable. Bars are located in the lobby and other levels, serving snacks, drinks, wine, beer, and cocktails that can usually be taken into the auditorium in theatre-approved cups. Restrooms are available on multiple levels, and water fountains are also provided. A seasonal coat check may operate during colder months.

The theatre is more accessible than many older Broadway venues. It has step-free entry from the street and is equipped with escalators and elevators for access to the Orchestra and Mezzanine levels. Wheelchair and companion seating is available throughout the theatre, along with accessible restrooms and assistive listening devices. Captioning support is also available through theatre services or approved mobile apps.

A merchandise shop in the lobby sells official items for the current production, Wicked. These typically include clothing, programs, accessories, and souvenirs. The shop is open before the show, during intermission, and after the performance, giving guests time to browse and purchase memorabilia.

FAQs

Where is the Gershwin Theatre located?

The theater is located at 222 West 51st Street, situated between Broadway and Eighth Avenue inside the Paramount Plaza building complex in Midtown Manhattan.

What Broadway show is currently playing at the theater?

The venue is the proud, long-running home to the global blockbuster musical phenomenon Wicked.

How long is a performance of Wicked?

The total running time for the production is 2 hours and 45 minutes, which includes one 15-minute intermission.

Is the Gershwin Theatre equipped with public elevators or escalators?

Yes! Unlike most historic 1920s Broadway houses, the modern Gershwin Theatre features both escalators and a passenger elevator in the lobby area, providing seamless, step-free access to the upper Mezzanine seating tier.

Where are the wheelchair-accessible seats located?

ADA-compliant wheelchair spaces and companion seats are integrated across both the Rear Orchestra and Mezzanine levels, easily reachable via the lobby elevator or escalators.

Are there accessible restrooms on-site?

Yes. A dedicated wheelchair-accessible restroom is located on the second floor. Additionally, the standard restrooms located on the fourth-floor Mezzanine level feature wide stalls and are entirely step-free.