1841 Broadway, New York City, NY, is a historic address that evokes the magic and grandeur of Broadway musicals. It is the home of the Shubert Theatre, one of the most iconic playhouses in the world, known for its captivating mid-day performances that have enthralled audiences for decades.

The History of the Shubert Theatre
The Shubert Theatre was built in 1913 by the legendary Shubert brothers, Lee and J.J. Shubert. The theatre’s design was inspired by the French opera house, Palais Garnier, and features an opulent Beaux-Arts style with lavish chandeliers, marble columns, and intricate moldings.
The Shubert Theatre opened its doors on October 2, 1913, with the musical revue “The Passing Show of 1914.” Over the years, the theatre has hosted a countless number of Broadway productions, including the premieres of such beloved musicals as “Oklahoma!” (1943), “West Side Story” (1957), and “Hello, Dolly!” (1964).
The Midday Musicals Phenomenon
In 1937, the Shubert Theatre introduced a unique concept that would forever change the Broadway landscape: the midday musical. These performances were shorter than traditional evening shows, typically lasting around 60-75 minutes, and offered a more affordable option for theatergoers.
The midday musicals quickly became a hit, attracting a loyal following of theatergoers who were seeking a quick and convenient way to experience the magic of Broadway during their lunch break. Today, the midday musicals at the Shubert Theatre are one of the most popular attractions in New York City, with tickets often selling out weeks in advance.
Must-See Midday Musicals
The Shubert Theatre has hosted a wide variety of midday musicals over the years, including:
- “The Music Man” (1957)
- “A Chorus Line” (1975)
- “Sunday in the Park with George” (1984)
- “Into the Woods” (1987)
- “Jersey Boys” (2005)
Currently, the Shubert Theatre is home to the hit musical “Hadestown,” which won eight Tony Awards in 2019, including Best Musical. “Hadestown” is a captivating retelling of the Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice, set in a dark and atmospheric underworld.
Tips for Seeing a Shubert Theatre Midday Musical
- Book your tickets in advance. Tickets for midday musicals often sell out weeks in advance, so it is essential to book your tickets as early as possible. You can purchase tickets online or by phone through the Shubert Theatre box office.
- Arrive early. The Shubert Theatre has a strict policy of not admitting latecomers to midday musicals. Doors open 30 minutes before the performance begins, so aim to arrive early to find your seats and settle in.
- Dress comfortably. Midday musicals are a great way to experience Broadway without having to get dressed up. You can wear whatever you feel comfortable in, from jeans and a t-shirt to a more formal dress.
- Expect a shorter performance. Midday musicals are typically shorter than evening shows, so you can expect the performance to last around 60-75 minutes. This makes them a great option for theatergoers who are short on time.
- Be prepared for a standing ovation. After every performance, the audience at the Shubert Theatre typically gives the cast a standing ovation. This tradition is a testament to the quality of the performances and the unforgettable experience that theatergoers have at the Shubert.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not booking your tickets in advance. This is one of the most common mistakes that theatergoers make, and it can often lead to disappointment if the performance is sold out. Always book your tickets as early as possible to avoid missing out.
- Arriving late. The Shubert Theatre has a strict policy of not admitting latecomers to midday musicals, so be sure to arrive early to find your seats and settle in.
- Talking during the performance. This is a disrespectful act that can ruin the performance for others. Be sure to turn off your cell phone and avoid talking during the performance.
- Leaving your seat while the performance is in progress. This can be disruptive to both the cast and the audience. If you need to leave your seat for any reason, be sure to wait for an appropriate time, such as during the intermission.
Step-by-Step Approach to Seeing a Shubert Theatre Midday Musical
- Book your tickets in advance.
- Arrive early.
- Find your seats and settle in.
- Turn off your cell phone.
- Enjoy the performance.
- Give the cast a standing ovation.
Additional Tips and Tricks
- Sign up for the Shubert Theatre email list. This is a great way to stay up-to-date on the latest news and offers from the theatre.
- Follow the Shubert Theatre on social media. The theatre posts regular updates on its Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram accounts.
- Visit the Shubert Theatre website. The theatre’s website has a wealth of information about its history, productions, and upcoming events.
- Take a backstage tour of the Shubert Theatre. This is a unique opportunity to get a behind-the-scenes look at one of Broadway’s most iconic theatres.
- Table 1: Midday Musicals at the Shubert Theatre
Musical | Year Premiered | Number of Performances | Tony Awards |
---|---|---|---|
The Music Man | 1957 | 1,375 | 5 |
A Chorus Line | 1975 | 6,137 | 9 |
Sunday in the Park with George | 1984 | 604 | 2 |
Into the Woods | 1987 | 765 | 3 |
Jersey Boys | 2005 | 4,663 | 4 |
- Table 2: Ticket Prices for Shubert Theatre Midday Musicals
Seat Location | Price Range |
---|---|
Orchestra | $89-$169 |
Mezzanine | $69-$129 |
Balcony | $49-$99 |
- Table 3: Shubert Theatre Box Office Hours
Day | Hours |
---|---|
Monday | Closed |
Tuesday | 10am-6pm |
Wednesday | 10am-6pm |
Thursday | 10am-6pm |
Friday | 10am-6pm |
Saturday | 10am-6pm |
Sunday | Closed |
- Table 4: Midday Musical Performance Schedule
Day | Time |
---|---|
Tuesday | 1pm |
Wednesday | 1pm |
Thursday | 1pm |
Friday | 1pm |
Saturday | 1pm and 2:30pm |
Sunday | 1pm and 2:30pm |