The Samuel J. Friedman Theatre was designed by architect Herbert J. Krapp and opened as the Biltmore Theatre with the play Easy Come Easy Go in 1925. The theatre was used by Federal Theatre's Living Newspaper project in the 1930s, and CBS leased the theatre for use as a radio and television studio from 1952 until 1961. It then returned to use as a legitimate theatre. In 1987, the building caught fire and sat vacant for 14 years. In 2001, the theatre was assumed by the Manhattan Theatre Club, and was renamed the Samuel J. Friedman Theatre in 2008 after Broadway publicist Samuel J. Friedman.
Name: St. Malachy's – The Actors' Chapel Category: Attraction Address: 239 W 49th St Description: St. Malachy's - The Actors' Chapel, located in the heart of New York City, is a unique and historic landmark that attracts visitors from all over the world. Built in 1902, the chapel was originally part of the Roman Catholic Church and served as a place of worship for the Irish community in the area. However, it became known as the "Actors' Chapel" in the mid-1920s due to its close proximity to the Theater District and the large number of actors who attended services there.
Today, St. Malachy's continues to be a popular destination for tourists, especially those with an interest in theater and the arts. The chapel's interior features beautiful stained glass windows, intricate woodwork, and a cozy atmosphere that provides a peaceful respite from the bustling city outside. Visitors can also view the numerous memorials and plaques dedicated to famous actors and performers who have attended services at the chapel over the years.
In addition to its historical significance and artistic appeal, St. Malachy's - The Actors' Chapel also hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year, including concerts, art exhibits, and theatrical performances. Whether you're a theater enthusiast or simply looking for a quiet and inspiring space to reflect, St. Malachy's is a must-visit destination for any tourist in New York City.
Name: Father Duffy Square Category: Outdoor Address: 7th Ave &, W 46th St Description: Father Duffy Square is a popular tourist destination in New York City, located at the intersection of Broadway, Seventh Avenue, and 47th Street in Times Square. It is named after Francis P. Duffy, a prominent military chaplain who served in World War I and was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for his bravery.
Tourists are drawn to Father Duffy Square for several reasons. Firstly, it is located in the heart of Times Square, one of the most iconic and bustling areas of New York City. Visitors can take in the bright lights, billboards, and crowds that make Times Square famous.
Additionally, Father Duffy Square is home to several landmarks, including the TKTS booth, where tourists can purchase discounted Broadway show tickets, and the statue of Father Duffy himself, which honors his contributions to the military and the city of New York.
Overall, Father Duffy Square is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in experiencing the energy and excitement of New York City, particularly in the heart of Times Square.
Name: Shubert Alley Category: Attraction Address: W 45th St Description: Shubert Alley is a popular destination for tourists who are interested in theater and Broadway history. Located in the heart of the Theater District in New York City, Shubert Alley is a pedestrian-only walkway that runs between West 44th and West 45th Streets, connecting Seventh and Eighth Avenues.
The alley is lined with theaters, including the Shubert Theatre, which is one of the oldest and most famous theaters on Broadway. Tourists can take a stroll through the alley and admire the theater district's iconic architecture, posters, and marquees.
Shubert Alley is also home to a variety of souvenir shops, including the famous Theater Circle Store, which sells Broadway-themed merchandise, including T-shirts, posters, and show memorabilia. The alley is also known for its outdoor exhibits, such as Tony Award-winning costumes and props from popular Broadway shows.
Overall, Shubert Alley is a must-visit destination for any theater lover or tourist interested in experiencing the magic and history of Broadway.
Name: Times Square Category: Attraction Address: Between 42nd & 47th St Description: Times Square is one of the most iconic and bustling destinations in New York City, attracting tourists from all over the world. The area is known for its neon lights, towering billboards, and lively atmosphere, which make it a hub of entertainment, shopping, and dining.
Tourists flock to Times Square to experience the excitement of the city that never sleeps. The area is home to a variety of Broadway theaters, which host some of the most popular and critically acclaimed musicals and plays in the world. Visitors can also catch a movie at one of the many cinemas, or shop for souvenirs at the numerous stores.
In addition, Times Square is a popular spot for celebrating special occasions, such as New Year's Eve, when thousands of people gather to watch the famous ball drop. Tourists can also enjoy delicious food from a wide range of restaurants and food stands, or simply take in the vibrant atmosphere and people-watching opportunities.
Name: TKTS Category: Attraction Address: 47th St & Broadway Description: TKTS is a famous tourist destination in New York City, located in the heart of Times Square. Tourists flock to TKTS to get discounted tickets for Broadway and off-Broadway shows, musicals, and other performances. With its iconic red steps, TKTS is a must-visit attraction for theater enthusiasts and anyone looking to experience the excitement of New York City's performing arts scene.
Visitors to TKTS can expect to find a wide selection of show tickets at up to 50% off the regular price. The TKTS booth also offers same-day tickets for matinee and evening performances, making it an ideal choice for last-minute planners. Additionally, TKTS provides a unique opportunity to explore and discover new theatrical productions, from classic Broadway hits to innovative off-Broadway performances.
Beyond ticket sales, TKTS offers a vibrant atmosphere with street performers, musicians, and vendors selling souvenirs and snacks. Visitors can enjoy the bustling energy of Times Square while waiting in line or relaxing on the red steps. Overall, TKTS is an exciting destination that offers tourists the chance to immerse themselves in the heart of New York City's theatrical culture.
Name: Playwright Bar And Restaurant Address: 202 W 49th St Description: Located just west of Penn Station, Playwright Irish Pub serves Irish and American style dishes along with a nice variety of beers and cocktails. With over a dozen flatscreen TVs, this gastropub is a great place to catch a game. The Playwright serves lunch and dinner, as well as a late night bar menu.
Name: R Lounge at Two Times Square Address: 714 Seventh Ave Description: Located in the heart of Times Square, R Lounge at Two Times Square offers spectacular views of the city. It serves a broad collection of American cuisine, such as its BBQ sliders and lobster rolls. Its modern, elegant design makes it just as breathtaking from the inside.
Name: Serafina at the Time Hotel Address: 224 W 49th St Description: Located at the bottom of the Time Hotel, Serafina offers delicious, Italian cuisine. Serafina specializes in tradiational, Northern Italian recipes. Right next to the Eugene O'Neill Theatre, this charming restaurant serves as a nice refuge from the bustling Theatre District.
Name: Blue Fin Address: 1567 Broadway Description: Blue Fin, just steps away from a variety of Broadway theatres, offers fresh, modern seafood and sushi. Enjoy your favorite dishes with Blue Fin’s favorite specialty cocktails and extensive wine list.
Alan Cumming and Shirley Henderson will perform together onstage for the first time in A HISTORY OF PAPER, a Scottish musical by Oliver Emanuel and Gareth Williams, at Pitlochry Festival Theatre and Dundee Rep Theatre.
Rise and shine, BroadwayWorld! It is April 30, 2026 and it's time to catch up on all of the theatrical happenings you may have missed in the last 24 hours.
Rise and shine, BroadwayWorld! It is April 29, 2026 and it's time to catch up on all of the theatrical happenings you may have missed in the last 24 hours.
The critics are weighing-in on the world premiere of The Balusters, a new play by Tony Award and Pulitzer Prize winner David Lindsay-Abaire, directed by Tony Award winner Kenny Leon. Read the reviews and learn more about this new comedy now at the Samuel J. Friedman Theatre in our review roundup!
The 2025/26 Broadway season is here at last, with many new productions set to arrive before the end of the season. If you don't live in New York City or frequent the Theater District, odds are you haven't seen Broadway's newest marquees! Check out what's up so far below.
Broadway shows 2026 are here! Daniel Radcliffe, Adrien Brody, Taraji P. Henson & more star in an incredible season of plays, musicals & revivals. See the full list!
Merry Christmas Eve, BroadwayWorld! It is December 24, 2025 and it's time to catch up on all of the theatrical happenings you may have missed in the last 24 hours.
Rise and shine, BroadwayWorld! It is October 1, 2025 and it's time to catch up on all of the theatrical happenings you may have missed in the last 24 hours.
Now running at Manhattan Theatre Club is the American premiere of Punch, by James Graham, which just opened last night at the Samuel J. Friedman Theatre. Catch photos of the cast in action here.
Stephen Sondheim's Old Friends concluded its limited run at the Samuel J. Friedman Theatre. Watch a video of the final performance of 'Side By Side,' followed by speeches from Bernadette Peters and Lea Salonga.
Lynne Meadow, Artistic Director of Manhattan Theater Club, will step down from her position. Learn more about Meadow and about the shift in leadership here.
Donald Margulies' Collected Stories, featuring acclaimed performers Grace Kiley and Christina Toth (Orange Is the New Black) is now playing at The East Village Basement. See photos of the production.
It's a celebration of all things Steve as Cameron Mackintosh’s production of Stephen Sondheim’s Old Friends, starring two-time Tony Award winner Bernadette Peters and Tony Award winner Lea Salonga, celebrates on Broadway! See what the New York critics thought of this West End transfer! Read the reviews!
The Nottingham Playhouse production of Punch by Olivier Award-winning playwright, James Graham, based on the book ‘Right From Wrong' by Jacob Dunne, will transfer to the West End.
The Spring 2025 Broadway season is here at last, with many new productions set to arrive before the Tony Awards eligibility cutoff on April 27, 2025. Check out where this spring's shows were developed.
The cast of Manhattan Theatre Club's production of Stephen Sondheim’s Old Friends met the press this week! Check out photos of the show's stars, two-time Tony Award winner Bernadette Peters and Tony Award winner Lea Salonga, and more!
Rise and shine, BroadwayWorld! It is January 17, 2025 and it's time to catch up on all of the theatrical happenings you may have missed in the last 24 hours.
You can now get a first look at photos of Stephen Sondheim’s Old Friends starring Bernadette Peters, Lea Salonga and more. Learn more about the new cast members joining the upcoming Broadway production!
What did BroadwayWorld's critic think of A NEW YEAR'S EVE CELEBRATION WITH BERNADETTE PETERS AND THE BOSTON POPS at Boston Symphony Hall? Read the review here!