Samuel J. Friedman Theatre: Manhattan Theatre Club's Broadway Home

The Samuel J. Friedman Theatre is one of New York's premier venues for live entertainment. Located at 261 W 47th Street, New York, NY 10036, this broadway theater has a capacity of 650 and has been a fixture of the city's cultural landscape since 1925.

History of Samuel J. Friedman Theatre

The Samuel J. Friedman Theatre opened on December 7, 1925, as the Biltmore Theatre, designed by Herbert J. Krapp in neo-Renaissance style with a terracotta and buff-colored brick facade. The auditorium sits slightly askew on its site, an unusual architectural choice that gives the interior a distinctive rectangular layout.

The theater endured a difficult period in the late 1980s when it was severely damaged by vandals who set fires in the auditorium. Manhattan Theatre Club undertook a $35 million renovation, restoring the theater and reopening it in 2003 as MTC's permanent Broadway home. The venue was renamed in 2008 after Broadway publicist Samuel J. Friedman (1912-1974).

Under Manhattan Theatre Club's stewardship, the Friedman has become one of Broadway's most artistically daring addresses. The original production of Hair had two runs here (1968, 1977). Recent acclaimed productions include Jaja's African Hair Braiding, The Thanksgiving Play, and Choir Boy.

What's On at Samuel J. Friedman Theatre

The Samuel J. Friedman Theatre is the Broadway home of Manhattan Theatre Club, presenting new plays and musicals each season.

• Jaja's African Hair Braiding (Plays)

• Bug (Plays)

• The Balusters (Plays)

Browse all plays in New York on tickadoo.

Seating and Accessibility

The theater seats 650 across two levels: Orchestra and Mezzanine. The intimate scale means every seat offers a strong connection to the stage. Center Orchestra rows are ideal, though the Mezzanine front rows also provide excellent views.

Wheelchair-accessible seating is available. Assistive listening devices and infrared hearing systems are provided. Accessible restrooms are on the Orchestra level.