Named after prominent American actor Edwin Booth, the theatre opened on October 16, 1913.
Booth Theatre auditorium
Created by Henry B. Herts, the theatre was a joint venture between aristocratic producer Winthrop Ames and impresario Lee Shubert.
Designed in an early Italian renaissance style, the theatre offered audiences a cozy house for the viewing of dramas and comedies.
In addition to an intimate 668-seat auditorium (later augmented to 785), according to newspapers at the time, the theatre also featured “designs in sgrafitto in brown and ivory, colors which harmonize with the exterior of the theatre, which is yellow brick and ivory terra cotta.”
The Booth opened with the first America production of Arnold Bennett’s play The Great Adventure, dramatized by him from his novel Buried Alive.
Throughout its history, the Booth has ushered in the Broadway debuts of hit shows such as the Sunday in the Park with George, Once on This Island, and Next to Normal.
In addition, the stage has seen performances from theatre legends including Bette Midler, Phylicia Rashad, and Patti LuPone.
Booth Theatre auditorium
Booth Theatre auditorium
Booth Theatre auditorium
Booth Theatre auditorium
Booth Theatre auditorium
Booth Theatre auditorium
Booth Theatre lobby
