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Barrymore Theatre

4.0 (118 reviews)
Closed Closed
Updated over 3 months ago

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Demishia O.

Small theater , but can basically see from everywhere. Seats are a little tight and may not be the best for those with back problems.

Lisa A.

The theater is easy to get to, clean, and the seats are comfy. The ushers are very helpful. There is a bar and snacks if you need to nosh. I think they had chips and a small bag of peanuts there. I went to see August Wilson's Joe Turner's Come and Gone. It was a good play. The actors and actresses were really good, including Taraji and Cedric the Entertainer.

Donna L.

The theatre was so amazing it didn't feel like your typical match box. The staff was genuinely helpful and kind. This play was good. I highly recommend it. Taraji and Cedric did a good job.

Kat T.

Great theatre in NYC! We saw Joe turner has come and gone and it was excellent. Will be back again if visiting!

Ruben Santiago Hudson as Bynum hilarious and moving
Dwayne A.

Built in 1928 the Ethel Barrymore theatre is a historic Broadway venue. It was the last theatre built b4 the depression it has a Mediterranean inspired facade featuring a white brick and terracotta screen design. Seating at most theaters are very snug however I sat very comfortably in the orchestra section row o seat 114 aisle seat. Night 2 of the new August Wilson play Joe Turner come and Gone starring Taraji, P Henson, and Cedric the entertainer. The play was very entertaining , though I've seen better August Wilson's plays such as Fences,the Piano Lesson and the recently Purpose which close last year which was a limited run. The most interesting part of the evening was to have the Director of this play sat DIRECTLY BEHIND US...The great Debbie Allen now she was so sweet she allowed us to take selfies with her,before the play started she has a recording about cell phones and unwrapping candy wrappers warning which was so Auntie like or mama scolding you in church about too much noise. Then another treat we were privy to hearing her scrutinized the production you would hear her say oh she missed a line or he missed a mark or she needs to speak up. That was like getting a lesson in directing. She would laugh so hard at time and then she would be sniffling about a scene. At intermission she left but would return for the second half but when she returned she had her husband the NBA hall of fame point guard Norm Nixon, he was very gracious after the show to take a selfie with me as he waited for his wife outside the theater. Great night all around. If you're a fans of Taraji, P Henson and Cedric, the entertainer and Miss Debbie Allen, go and support this play Joe Turner Come and Gone.

Theater
Bacon J.

Anna was so...,nice ans gave great Information thanks for being so,kind. We're here to see a play

Fans waiting for Denzel to come outside. To wave good night.
Ebony M.

Othello is true theatrical masterpiece. Highly recommend you see the performance before it leaves on June 8th. It was such a privilege to spend the evening enjoying the performance. Denzel Washington, Jake Gyllenhaal and all of the actors/actresses gave a stellar performance. This is the last week before this show closes, and this maybe Denzel Washington's last performance as rumors of retirement. A true privilege to be able to watch Denzel perform in person, live theatre. Tip: Brush up on your Shakespeare comprehension, to become better accustomed to the language. Must print your ticket, all phones are turned off, and placed in a sealed, locked pouch. The pouch is unlocked as you exit the theater after the performance.

Othello
Linda K.

Beautifully decorated theatre with decent legroom and efficient ushers. I just saw Othello there, a fabulous performance. I'm no Shakespeare expert, but as soon as I heard that two of my favorite actors of all time - Denzel Washington and Jake Gyllenhall - were starring in this production, I purchased tickets immediately. Despite the high pricing I was not disappointed by the performance. Seeing Denzel's poignant expressions up close was priceless, and Jake played a perfect version of the Machiavellian villian Iago. I will say the lines of sight weren't great from the center orchestra, especially for scenes requiring the actors to lie on the stage. The staff locked up all phones prior to the performance to prevent banned photo taking; at first I thought this was over the top, but after seeing the publicity-crazy fans I realized it was a smart move by management.

Hunter S.

I get it. It's Denzel Washington. And Jake Gyllenhaal. Famous people. Tickets are hundreds of dollars, into the thousands. But this production was handled terribly. I attended opening week, second night. Bought my ticket in September when sales first opened. Probably can't score anything less than like four hundred bucks now. Phones in pouches automatically. You always have to put your phone away, but rarely have I had to do the pouches. No problem. Seats not too bad, pretty comfortable, even if a little close together, which is standard for these old theaters. The problem I have is with how poorly concessions and intermission was run. First of all, concessions was painfully slow and disorganized. Lines long and up the stairs. You barely had time to get your order before having to report to your seat. Then at intermission, which was not nearly long enough, you had like 10 minutes to get concessions or use the bathroom. I got up directly, went straight to concessions, got straight in line, and had to leave to go back to my seat before I ever reached the counter. Because with this show and this level of celebrity, there is no late entry. Not back in your seat? Too bad, no more Denzel for you. I'm sure there were many people who stayed thirsty, didn't get to use the bathroom, or worse, got shut out of the theater because of how poorly managed this was. So the theater itself is fine, but even if you have high level celebrities, your concessions and intermission process could be better.

"Our Town" - play running thru middle of January 2025
Susan C.

This theater is located in the hubbub that is Times Square on 47th Street between Broadway and Eighth Avenue, and smack in the middle of the aptly named theater district. Walking into the theater the box office and will call is on the left of the entrance. Entry is via several main doors which open up to a foyer that leads left or right--to theatre aisle access on the main level, down stairs to the lower level where bathrooms, merch stand and bar/lounge are located, or up stairs to the mezzanine level seats. Being an older theatre the stairs are on the steeper side though I was glad to see on their website they offer accommodations for patrons with blindness, deafness, and mobility restrictions. The auditorium seating space feels similar in size and feel to Booth and Imperial Theaters--older theaters from earlier in the 20th century--think curved/circular staircases between floors, Italian neo-classical style ornate ceilings with carved, painted flourishes and glitzy chandeliers, paired with stage designs that can extend into the open space in front of the curtains. The stadium seating is laid out very cozily and you will definitely need to stand up to let others pass you in the same row, leg room is tight. The pros are since the theater isn't too big the views of the stage from both ground floor and the single mezzanine are decently unobstructed (unless you're in the super left or right front/back seats, then sorry you're outta luck at basically every theater). The cons are that while the seat cushions were ok (comfortable enough for a 100 minute play), the seat width is on the smaller side especially if you're carrying bags or coats, or aren't a petite person. Also bathrooms are in the basement and there can be a long line. There are about 50 stairs between the basement and mezzanine levels so take that into account when going up and down. The play I came to see was "Our Town" since I was curious about seeing Jim Parsons and Katie Holmes on stage. Thought the total cast's performances were generally on point, the final impression I got from the ending left a little to be desired from a philosophical standpoint though I'll leave it up to each person's own judgment after viewing! (Sorry to be cryptic just don't want to give away any spoilers!)

Exterior of theater
Fawn G.

Here are some facts about the Barrymore Theater: "The Ethel Barrymore Theatre was designed by Herbert J. Krapp in several styles and was constructed in 1928 for the Shubert brothers. The theater is named after actress Ethel Barrymore (1879-1959), a prominent member of the Barrymore family of actors,and is operated by the Shubert Organization. The Barrymore has been used continuously as a legitimate house and, unlike most Broadway theaters, has never been sold or renamed since its opening. The Barrymore was the last theater to be built by the Shubert Organization until 2003." "According to the Shubert Organization, the auditorium has 1,058 seats; meanwhile, Playbill cites 1,039 seats and The Broadway League cites 1,096 seats.The physical seats are divided into 582 seats in the orchestra, 196 at the front of the balcony, 256 at the rear of the balcony, and 24 in the boxes.There were originally 1,100 seats, divided into 570 in the orchestra, 494 in the balcony, and 36 in the boxes. The seats were designed to be "unusually comfortable", with steel backs and bottoms." I'll stop there... I have seen numerous productions at this wonderful theater.. from the Sisters Rosenzweig to the extremely moving Death of a Salesman with the late great Phillip Seymour Hoffman and a young Andrew Garfield. The space is great wherever you sit. Today, seeing one of my all time fave, Denzel Washington in Othello, we were seated in Rear Mezzanine, Row F. The seats were extremely comfortable and space for our feet!!! Why is this important.. because the play is 3 hours long and our knees were not in our chests.! Great theater! Side note: this is my fifth production seeing one of the greatest actors alive, IMO, Denzel Washington ( Julius Ceasar, Fences, A Raisin in the Sun, The Iceman Cometh and now Othello!) Not to brag..but if you admire him as much as I do and haven't attended any of his live performances, go now! Quick!! You will not regret it. Additionally, all phones for this production are out in iPhone sealed carrying cases thus no pictures are allowed.

Othello was MAGNIFICENT!!! Denzel Washington is a true MASTER OF HIS CRAFT! A must-see!
Marcia T.

Great service, wonderful bartenders and a theater where EVERY SEAT IS GOOD. Very nice and intimate setting.

Carlan M.

I visited this theater to watch OTHELLO!! The theater is conveniently located a stone's throw away from Times Square. A lot of leg room and one of the more comfortable theaters I've been in. The space is very tight coming in and out. It was an utter nightmare during intermission when everyone was trying to rush to concession or outside to use their phones as all cellphone devices were locked away in a pouch (a first for me). There is one stand out staff name TYRESE who went above and beyond for ALL guests! He was EVERYTHING! He was a true professional and pleasant!!!

Ceiling

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A beautiful theatre. I sat front and center - but was able to see all aspects of the performance.

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Barrymore Theatre Reviews in Other Languages

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Review Highlights - Barrymore Theatre

Came here to watch The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time.

Mentioned in 4 reviews

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Harry Potter and the Cursed Child - Showbill and theater pre-show

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child

4.4(281 reviews)
0.2 miTheater District, Midtown West

Before I start this review, if you have priority tickets, make sure that you go to the front near…read morewhere people are entering, but on the left-hand side of the doors. I wish I would've taken a picture because it was really confusing how to use our priority tickets because there were so many people standing in line they were blocking the sign. Also, you should definitely get the priority tickets. For us it was only $11 extra and it is WELL worth it. The play was amazing! Everybody did such a great job and I really loved Scorpius's character. Of course Tom Felton was there as the original Draco Malfoy, which is the entire reason that we came. If you want to during the play, you can order food to your seat which I thought was cool. The rest of the snacks were good for what they were. We booked through AAA and got a snack bag with popcorn water and a cursed child cup filled with Gummies. Everything was really good. If I could change one thing and I know this is like, "come on" but the seats were kind of uncomfortable. Google says that the Lyric Theatre was redone in 1996. The seats feel like they are from the 1930s so plan for that. Some

Saw Harry Potter and the Cursed Child -- 2 tickets in Row E, aisle seats ($789 total for a Sunday…read morematinee). ~3-hour show with a short intermission (~10 min) Seating is a bit narrow but overall comfortable These seats offered an AMAZING view for a live show Absolutely one of the best shows I've ever seen. The staging, effects, and performances were incredible. Wouldn't mind seeing it again! Perfect for both longtime Harry Potter fans and newcomers alike. I would not necessarily recommend for young kids as it's long.

Photos
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child - Inside; felt magical :)

Inside; felt magical :)

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child - Butterbeer

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Butterbeer

Moulin Rouge - Can't believe she sleeps in and elephant. #goals

Moulin Rouge

4.3(175 reviews)
0.2 miMidtown West, Theater District, Hell's Kitchen

I received my Mother's Day gift early this year and it was absolutely unforgettable! My husband and…read moreI went to New York and took me to see Moulin Rouge on Broadway, and it was everything and more. The show was surprisingly modern, and completely captivating from start to finish. The energy in the theater was unreal as everyone, including celebrities, came out to celebrate Megan Thee Stallion in her final performance as Zidler. She was hilarious, quick, and owned that stage in every moment she appeared. Even though I've seen her perform on tour, it felt like such a special experience to witness. We soaked in the city, took in some sights, and of course grabbed a slice while we were there. I am beyond grateful to my husband for such an incredible and thoughtful gift. This is a memory I will never forget! Signed a Hottie

I usually scoff at stunt casting, but seeing Megan Thee Stallion's take on Harold Zidler is a time…read morewell had. Even though it's a non-traditional spin on the character, she infuses the role with her signature "hot girl" energy and is a total joy to watch on stage. Despite her massive personality, she manages not to overshadow the rest of the cast. I think that speaks volumes about the group's chemistry... she fits right in without upstaging anyone. Since it's a jukebox musical anyway, having Meg perform some of her own hits while the rest of the company joined in was a great touch. Having seen the original cast in the 2019 Moulin Rouge production, which was also wonderful, I'm really glad I got to experience both interpretations.

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Moulin Rouge - The end of the show. Well done!

The end of the show. Well done!

Moulin Rouge - Moulin Rouge Curtain Call

Moulin Rouge Curtain Call

Moulin Rouge - Mountain Rouge Curtain Call

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Mountain Rouge Curtain Call

Smokey Joe's Cafe

Smokey Joe's Cafe

4.9(10 reviews)
0.4 miMidtown West, Hell's Kitchen

Maybe Leiber and Stoller aren't super famous but their music is! This is a really cool jukebox…read moremusical with no plot but a continuous flowing song and dance with a cast of about 8 people. Since it was one set, they did a good job going from area to area to keep things visually interesting without breaking from the singing. At one point the actors ran through the audience aisles, which I usually find really unsettling, but the music is so catchy why not get up and dance? So simple in concept but really well executed. Only critique was the one girl who wasn't a size 2 had on long sleeves and pants under a dress. Like...it's not that hard to dress an averaged size woman. She had a great solo number too, so shame the costume designers fell flat. But it was a high energy show and not too pricey! Definitely recommend!

A MUST SEE!!! It is a most up lifting fun show/musical. 90…read moremin. of pure fun. Something that most of us could use in the world we are living in at the present. 90 min. without intermission. Just sit back relax. sink into the music and the songs. forget about everything else. You need not do anything, else. Just have a fabulous time and leave the theater with a big smile. I saw it twice already. Once during the previews and the second time, yesterday at opening night. I can go and see it many more times. It's one of those shows that because it's all singing one can go again and again and enjoy it the last time just as much as or more every time. Take a friend/s or go alone but don't miss it. Have fun!

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Smokey Joe's Cafe
Smokey Joe's Cafe
Smokey Joe's Cafe

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The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon - BOO... Looking good Jimmy Fallon tonight with your new sharp hairstyle and beard! 10/28/2022

The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon

4.3(127 reviews)
0.3 miTheater District, Midtown West

Date: Monday, March 2nd, 2026 Time: around 3:15pm…read moreParty of: 4 GUESTS THAT DAY - *Nicole Kidman *Luke Thompson *Jack Hughes, Quinn Hughes & Hilary Knight *Chef Mario Carbone One of my friends has been wanting to go to a Fallon show for the past few years. We take a yearly trip to NYC, so he always signs up. This year, we scored and got tickets. We actually signed up for two days and got into both. Mon had the better guest lists (at least in our opinion) so we gave up the other tix. It's a process to get in, so nothing too surprising. The earlier you get there, the more of a chance you will sit closer. All in all, we were out by around 6:30pm. Tho they did add a game that was going to air on a another day with I believe the One Piece cast? A good experience if you are into talk shows. It's free, and we got a jar of carbone sauce due to mario carbone being a guest. What's there to complain about? REVIEW #4000

I was excited to do this with my friend! Be sure to arrive early, since everyone else will be sure…read moreto line up. I'd say we got there around 315 and thankfully with this one, all the waiting is indoors. The whole thing including the taping takes about 4 hours. Getting to wait inside 30 rock and have access to the bathrooms is also super nice. The seating is at random but it's all still a really fun experience.

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The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon - J-Hope on Jimmy Fallon debuting "Sweet Dreams" - 3/11/2025

J-Hope on Jimmy Fallon debuting "Sweet Dreams" - 3/11/2025

The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon - Where the Tonight Show is filmed!

Where the Tonight Show is filmed!

The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon - Show ticket

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Show ticket

Speakeasy Magick - Next door all the way in the back of the dry cleaners. Beautiful speakeasy.

Speakeasy Magick

4.5(42 reviews)
1.2 miFlatiron

I go to a ton of magic shows, and somehow Speakeasy Magick still completely blew me away. This…read moredidn't feel like the usual "magic show" experience at all. No cheesy jokes, no awkward crowd work, no fake game-show energy. Just really smart, insanely talented magicians doing impossible things right in front of you. What also stood out was that every single performer was great. Usually at shows like this there's at least one act you're waiting to end. Not here. Everyone was cool, confident, funny in a natural way, and honestly just seemed like people you'd want to hang out with afterward. The whole vibe of the night is awesome too. Everyone's dressed up, the room feels intimate, and it somehow manages to feel classy without being pretentious. It's one of the few nights out in NYC lately where I walked away genuinely impressed. Even if you already like magic, this is on another level.

The show itself is actually quite fun which is exactly why I booked it for a group of friends…read morevisiting from out of town. Unfortunately, the way this was handled turned what should have been a great night into a pretty bitter experience. There are far better ways to spend $200 than having your plans canceled on you at the last minute. Here's what happened: * My 10 p.m. tickets were canceled with only about a week's notice for my group. * I was told that 7 p.m. tickets were available instead. * I immediately replied confirming I would take those tickets. * Two days later, I was told those 7 p.m. tickets were no longer available. * Somehow, it seems acceptable to cancel my booking but not others'. If you're going to cancel on customers, at least handle the rebooking process competently and fairly. This felt disorganized at best and careless at worst.

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Speakeasy Magick - The host and all of the magicians of the night.

The host and all of the magicians of the night.

Speakeasy Magick - Waiting area

Waiting area

Speakeasy Magick - Live background piano music

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Live background piano music

Barrymore Theatre - theater - Updated May 2026

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