THE ASTOR PLACE THEATRE is located in the historic Colonnade Row, originally constructed in 1831 as a series of nine connected buildings, of which only four remain. Designed in Greek revival style, and fronted by imposing marble columns, the buildings served as residences for Astor's and Vanderbilt's, and are among the oldest buildings in the city. They were designated as New York City Landmarks in 1963.
The theatre first opened its doors under the direction of Bruce Mailman on January 17, 1968, with Israel Horovitz's The Indian Wants the Bronx starring Al Pacino. The Astor Place Theatre was known for premiering works by up and coming downtown playwrights including productions like Sam Shepard's The Unseen Hand and Forensic and theNavigators. Other notable productions include Tom Eyen's The Dirtiest Show in Town (1970); Modigliani by Dennis McIntyre (1979); John Ford Noonan's ACoupla White Chicks Sitting Around Talking (1980); A.R Gurney, Jr.'s The Dining Room (1982); Larry Shue's The Foreigner, directed by Jerry Zaks (1984); The Perfect Party (1986), a return for A.R. Gurney, Jr.
The Astor Place Theatre is currently unable to provide barrier-free access for our patrons who use wheelchairs. Patrons that use a wheelchair are welcome to attend our show, however, such patrons must bring companions to assist them in their entry and exit from the theatre, and must be able to physically transfer into a standard theatre seat. We ask that all patrons in wheelchairs contact our Customer Service office prior to their show date (212-254-4371 or nyshowinfo@blueman.com)and that they arrive at the theatre 45 minutes before their scheduled show time. Entry and exit into the theatre includes 8 stairs leading to the lobby and box office area, and 6 stairs to access the orchestra seating area. For further information, please contact the Customer Service office at 212-254-4371 or nyshowinfo@blueman.com.
