I've always loved MJ's music! Now you can see it on broadway! I've seen it seven times (on and off broadway) and have tickets to see it again. 100% a must see when in NYC! The theater is the perfect size for a show like this - no bad seat in the house, tho I recommend sitting up front - you won't regret it! Make a night of it and settle in for a heart-wrenching story and some fine ass tunes! Roman Banks, my favorite MJ out of the four I've seen, is doing Fri/Sat PM shows thru mid-Feb! Get going! read more

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One of the better organized (lines and such), more comfortable theaters on Broadway. Now, bear in mind it's still a Broadway theater so it's old with fairly small seats but unlike many of them you can survive here if you're 6'5" especially if you're on an aisle. read more

If there's one thing that can finally be crossed off my bucket list, and that is attending a Broadway Musical! And what better way than to do that than in true New York City style. There is where I had the honor and privilege of going to the historic "Neil Simon Theatre" where I got to witness "MJ - The Musical". Opened way back in 1927 and one of 9 Broadway theaters that are part of the Nederlander Organization, this theater seats nearly 1,500 guests and offers musicals on a year-round basis. One thing about me and that is I've been an avid Michael Jackson fan dating back to the 1980's when he released his mega-blockbuster album "Thriller" in 1982. Since then, I have listened to his early days of his career as a member with the Jackson 5 (from the late-60s to mid-70s) all the way up until his tragic passing in 2009. His music, dancing, and stage presence has captivated millions of his fans over the years. And what better way than to recreate that with various actors/dancers/singers that envision and embody his music as a Broadway musical for all to enjoy. Our showtime was set for the evening of Thursday 10/9/2025 at 7:00pm. We arrived on time (after dinner at nearby Rockefeller Center) and the line moved quickly. One very minor drawback is that our tickets were digital as I wish places would offer actual physical tickets to keep the memories alive for years to come. However, we each received a playbill that went into full detail of the performances, scripts, actors/actresses, and in-depth information that highlight this amazing spectacle of a show. As for the theater itself, we sat on the balcony in the mezzanine area. It was a fairly steep walk up and to those that are afraid of heights, I highly recommend sitting at the lower part of the theater. However, everything is presented in classic neo-Georgian style complete with the main entrance facade complete with large bay windows, a ticket area, and public restrooms. The seating itself can be quite small however I was very comfortable during the 3-hour performance (with a 15-minute intermission in between). And finally, this performance was absolutely EPIC! The theatrical presentation complete with the acting, dancing, singing, and choreography was on point. This musical jumped back-and-forth to all era's in Michael Jackson's career; from his time growing up in Gary, Indiana to joining with his older brothers in the Jackson 5. And of course singing chart-topping hits such as "Billie Jean", "The Way You Make Me Feel", "Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough", "ABC", and many others. This is a must see if you're an avid fan like myself. When you factor in the theater itself, venue, performance, and overall wow factor, I am giving the "Neil Simon Theater" a respectable four stars. read more

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I was trying to think -- had I been here before? YES! In the mid-eighties I'd seen "Brighton Beach Memoirs" and "Biloxi Blues," whose playwright was honored with the re-naming of the theater. (It was originally the Alvin Theater.) While a venue built in 1927 holds certain charm -- it's since been designated a NYC landmark -- it lacks features found in newer theaters. I point this out because of an older woman I chatted with when we lined up outside. Visiting from Chicago she was celebrating the 10th anniversary of her heart transplant. There is no elevator in the theater, and my new friend struggled -- but made it -- up the stairs to her mezzanine seat. (I followed closely behind ... just in case.) Despite sitting in the nosebleed section, we had a great view of the stage. Seats are properly staggered but note that the mezzanine is steep, with no handrail on one side of the steps. I was surprised that a matinee was scheduled Thursday -- but "MJ The Musical" is popular amongst tourists. (I obviously loved the music and dance -- Matte Martinez is phenomenal -- but the show didn't rank in my top ten.) A parting note to the buffoon who sat next to me: There is no talking during any performance. Your insistence to ignore my continual "shushes" was inconsiderate. When you sit in a narrow seat, elbows akimbo is unacceptable. Perhaps your wife didn't mind being poked in the ribs, but I did. And I let you know it. Theater etiquette, buddy. read more

Neil Simon Theatre - Despite upper mezzanine seats, we had a clear view of the stage. - Performing Arts Near Me - New York, New York

The Neil Simon Theater is one of nine historic Nederlander theaters in Manhattan. This is a beautiful Neo-Georgian style theater that can seat over 1400 people. I've visited Neil Simon twice. Once to see a revival of Cats in 2017 and now for MJ the Musical. Not a fan of the new digital ticket process and prefer actual tickets. Workers at the theater were attentive and provided immediate guidance to our seating in front mezzanine. The mezzanine level has its own lounge with male and female restrooms at opposite ends. During intermission, the lines went very quickly with virtually no wait. Patrons can visit the lounge area to grab a drink, light bite or to purchase show merchandise. This is a must see show for any Michael Jackson fan. It managed to capture the essence of the man behind the music so well! The show's portrayal of the different stages of his life was unique. I love that this Broadway musical was able to cover so many of his greatest hits within a short span. At this show, you'll just want to get up and dance. The production and theatrical value was top notch quality and the talent and singing could not possibly be outdone. It was a touching moment to see MJ's actual handwritten notes on display as part of the set design. I was in amazement at the end of the performance for Thriller. Wow! Matte Martinez was the perfect fit to play Michael. It is one of the few shows I would see repeatedly! I hope MJ the Musical continues to live on at Neil Simon. Bravo! read more

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Not a bad seat in the house. Saw MJ the musical starring Matte Martinez. It was incredible!!!!!!! Staff was efficient at getting everyone seated and ready and also getting people out!! Women's bathroom had lines but went pretty fast. Quite a few stalls which is much appreciated read more

Neil Simon Theatre - MJ the musical - Performing Arts Near Me - New York, New York

Originally the Alvin Theatre, built in 1927, this establishment, having an old, glamorous vibe, was renamed in honor of the playwright Neil Simon. Located on West 52nd Street in the Theater District of Midtown Manhattan, this theater seats 1,445 patrons, where my partner and I scored two tickets in Front Mezzanine Row E during Broadway week for MJ the Musical.  Upon arrival today for the matinee, the line went around the corner but moved quickly, and we were ushered through security pretty quickly and got seated immediately.  Just like the three actresses in The Cher Show at the same theater a few years back, all three Michaels, fully possessing the celebrity presence of the King of Pop, were outstanding and held their own along with the rest of the extremely talented cast and musicians with their choreography, the costumes, the stage design, the lights, and of course the music--fantastic.  We had a great view of the stage even on the side with comfortable seating, an "intimate" feel, great lighting, and sound. The staff were all professional and friendly. Easily, the biggest dance musical currently playing on Broadway, where the energy stirred up from the opening scene all the way through the curtain call, where we can recommend it. read more

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We loved our time at the theatre. We visited in 2/01/25, during Broadway Week. We watched MJ The Musical. My girlfriend and I decided to take our kiddos to the 8pm showing. Honestly, you don't have to get there super early unless you're trying to purchase concessions. The website suggests arriving 30 minutes prior to showtime. If you go any earlier, you're just going to be waiting on line for no reason, because you already have your seats, so why bother? Once the doors open, the line moves extremely quickly. Have your phones out and ready to show your tickets. They scan them and direct you to where to go. Keep your tickets handy, and I would suggest getting concessions before taking your seats. Once we found our seats and got settled, we visited the bathroom before it got crazy. We were sat in the front center mezzanine, row C. These seats were perfect because we were in front and above, so we were able to see the entire stage. It was great. We had a brief intermission. The lines for the bathrooms were ridiculous. We went downstairs, thinking it would be quicker but it was not. A lovely woman let us skip the line because of my kiddo, which I greatly appreciated. Once we were don't at the bathroom, I stopped by concessions to purchase some snacks, water, and icees for the kids. The prices were reasonable and the staff did their best to check me out quickly. We just made it back to our seats when the show restarted. The music was fantastic, the dancing and acting was out of this world. I really wish we were able to get earlier showtime because the kids were dead tired by the time it was over. We were lucky enough to be sitting for their 300th show, and they brought out a cake for the occasion. The show was wonderful and I would love to come back to this theatre for other shows. I will say that when they tell you not to use your phone, they mean it. Not even for texting. A woman that was a few rows in front of us, kept taking out her phone to text, and the usher had to flashlight her several times to tell her to stop. Just follow the rules, and if it's that pressing, but an aisle seat, and take the call out to the hallway. read more

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I won tickets to MJ the musical through the lottery and the seats were perfect center mezzanine to see everything. The problem is that despite the ushers telling people to put their phones away and not talk people still have their phones out texting and are talking ir whispering throughout the show. read more

Neil Simon Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - New York, New York

Went here to see MJ- the Musical. The theatre looked pretty old but I really enjoyed my view of this musical. The chandelier was pretty nice and i felt like the seating was decent here. The ushers were pretty helpful as well. I found it a drag to go downstairs to use the bathroom since I was really pregnant. Luckily, one of the ushers let me know I could use the handicap bathroom which was pretty close to my seat so I didn't have to constantly do the trek up and down the stairs. Both bathrooms were super clean. The downstairs bathroom also is next to the concession stand. read more

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Sometimes the mics were too quiet for Michael Jackson. I could hear my neighbors. Smooth to get in. Stunning visuals. read more

Neil Simon Theatre - Michael Jackson - Performing Arts Near Me - New York, New York

My cousin and I came here from New Jersey to see the MJ Musical. It was one of the best Broadway shows I've experienced. We parked right across the street in a garage. New York traffic is a nightmare of course but we made it. Line was wrapped around the building but once they opened the doors, it began moving quickly. While I wanted to indulge in an adult beverage, I held off because the seating is really on top of each other and I wanted to be hands-free to clap (and dance) in my seat. All of the characters were phenomenal but younger Michael, older Michael and Ms. Katherine's solo stole my heart. My cousin and I danced, sang, cried and left overjoyed. I want to see it again so glad to know they are traveling. A must have to see in this lifetime. Long live MJ! read more

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Went yesterday to see Mj the musical. The line was wrapped around the corner to enter but once they allowed you inside the line moved quickly. You had to walk thru a metal detector before entering. The staff was very polite and the place was clean. The seating was pretty good. I don't think there was no bad seating for this production. It was a minor hassle to get out only because there were others waiting outside for the next show. I would definitely come here again. read more

Neil Simon Theatre - MJ the musical - Performing Arts Near Me - New York, New York

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Came here to watch MJ The Experience. Lovely lovely lovely 'experience' indeed! Absolutely my favorite broadway musical to date. The cast and especially the lead himself, put on an unforgettable show. I couldn't help but to move and dance a bit in my seat. It was wholesome and an exciting show. I was curious how they would fit his whole life into one show...but hey they exceeded my expectations and was so happy I was able to finally see it for myself. Had a good seat too. So that was a highlight!! I would recommend for everyone to see and can't wait to go back with the rest of my family. read more

Neil Simon Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - New York, New York

Doors open at 7:30. Getting here early was a good idea only cause the line was wrapped around the corner within 10 mins after we got in line. The bad part of being early was it is freezing raining in NY now. The theater is a very well kept older building. Seating is a tight fit for any one 5'10 and taller. But to see the Michael Jackson's musical. I'll deal with the tight seats. Very big and clean rest rooms. read more

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We was in the 6 row , row g rest seats he started off with beat it. What a great start to the show. He was amazing. They all were amazing. First start off with the show. The show is well set up by Michael Jackson to him as a kid to the dances to the songs to the lighting. Everything was amazing at intermission. They moved our seat up so we was in the third row closer to the state better view thanks to Sara.. I'm so glad I got to see it. Michael Jackson is a legend. It almost felt like he was still with us.. read more

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I saw the Michael Jackson Experience here. Entry quick Theater very small. Our seats were great but tight. Your knees touch the seat in front of you. I suggest sitting right in the middle of the row ans go to the bathroom prior so that you don't very disturbed by someone getting up. The sound was good. They have a small area where you can get refreshments. Exiting from the theatre was very easy. read more

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An amazing theater to watch a production. We saw MJ and it was phenomenal. The music and dancing was unreal. The theater had an amazing sound system, the music was perfect. Although the theater was small it was still comfortable with great views. A very nice venue. read more

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Came here to watch MJ musical when I won lottery tickets from broadway. The theater is small just like the others but they have no dorect way to gp to seats so at each corner, there was a staff to assist people. There's no restroom in the first floor, I have no idea if there is one at the second. I would recommend for guests to use the restroom during intermission as when the show ends, everybody gets pushed out. read more

MJ the musical was epic! A fun thrilling experience as you journey into a snapshot of the life of the superstar Michael Jackson, seating provides a great view no matter where you are! Excellent sound system and theatrical performance! I would give 10 stars! Parking lot across the street is pretty decent price $25 for 5 hours, read more

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We enjoyed the Michael Jackson musical in this wonderful theatre. Been in this theatre often, and always had comfortable seating. The staff was great as always and the sound sytem was perfect. read more

Neil Simon Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - New York, New York

The Neil Simon Theatre is a classic Broadway theatre currently hosting MJ the Musical. It was a Wednesday evening (1/31/24) when I managed to snag tickets. We arrived and were ushered through security pretty quickly. I went to the box office with my ID to pick-up my tickets and then entered the theatre. We were seated immediately. The seats are that of a typical Broadway theatre a little too snug with minimal leg room but, that's to be expected. I am ashamed to admit that I originally had no interest in seeing MJ. However one of the besties wanted to see to it for her birthday. I managed to get tickets, admittedly a little begrudgingly, but that's what friends do for each other. We immediately jumped into the show and were captivated. Needless to say I loved it! I don't want to give anything away but they way the show it setup and the format of the story telling really appealed to me. I truly felt, albeit incorrectly, that MJ would just be another impersonator situation. If you've ever been to any restore or even down 42nd street you have seen your fair share of Michael Jackson enthusiasts/impersonators. My assumption was I have no interest in seeing that on Broadway. Happy to say I was wrong. Great Show! Just A Note: Moonwalk your butt to go see MJ the Musical if you haven't already. It is totally worth it and you will leave wanting to see it again. I Did! read more

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We had an amazing experience!!!!!!!! The MJ musical was a phenomenal show!!!!!! The theatre is beautiful, the back-drops, speakers and props for the performance were top tier. The restrooms are clean, a little dated but clean. The staff were warm and welcoming. read more

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Great theatre! Saw the Michael Jackson musical this past Spring, sat in Orchestra Row H seat 102 and it was an ABSOLUTELY PERFECT location!!! Close enough to see the facial emotion of the cast and far enough too appreciate the width of the stage. Well worth the price for this perfectly located seat. And yes!!!... MJ the Musical was FIIRE!! It felt like the closest thing to seeing and feeling an actual MJ concert in person, would love to see it again! read more

Neil Simon Theatre - Orchestra Row H, seat 102 - Performing Arts Near Me - New York, New York

Fantastic old theater! Michael Jackson play was great - both the music & dancing. Everyone I encountered was pleasant and helpful read more

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I came here recently to watch MJ The Musical. Though I have seen over a dozen Broadway shows, this was my first time at this venue. I had a positive impression of it. This theatre is almost 100 years old and is an impressive looking building. Both the outside facade and the interior have been classified as New York City landmarks and it shows. The look and feel of the place look like a venue from decades ago. But at the same time, everything is extremely well maintained too. The theatre did not feel that big either and even a seat at the back of the orchestra offered a beautiful view of the stage. The acoustics were top notch and if anything, the show sounded too loud. A great venue to enjoy a Broadway show. read more

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MJ The Musical-It is truly an amazing show! The actors are incredibly impressive! I danced with my nephew the whole time we were there! I also cried as I learned more about Michael Jackson's life. The theater is a bit small, but comfortable enough to sing and/or dance while sitting there. If you are a Michael Jackson fan, go and see this show...you won't regret it! read more

Came to see the MJ Play here. It was so good! I didn't know what to expect. The singers, the set designs were all amazing! The theater was clean and well kept. I lucked up and got a space out front. They do not allow any phones so there is no recording of any kind. There was an intermission. I would go back to the theater and would go back and see the show again too. read more

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Great theater . I had the pleasure of seeing Michael Jackson on broadway here and it was a great show . It appears to be 2 levels & I was seated on level 2 in the mezzanine. I had a great view of the show . I was able to win lottery tickets for the show so my seats were chose at random by the lottery. I also grabbed a frozen drink while there and it was delicious. There is no recording during the show , but I would highly recommend the show it was phenomenal. read more

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Attended a Friday 7pm showing of the MJ Experience here. My seat was located in the orchestra. Row J. Very good seats for the evening to the right of the stage. Staff is very attentive and knowledgeable. We were quickly pointed to our seats and provided our play bills. Seats are very tight, but that is expected. No cupholders and slightly slanted floors so definitely something to be mindful of if you purchased a drink. Restrooms and the bar are located on the lower level. I love the option to pre-order drinks prior to intermission to help cut down on wait times of lines. I paid about $38 for a double drink which I expected. Fairly clean restrooms. No issues with crowds as far as entering and/or exiting. There is space outside to wait on the cast members to get autographs as well as take pictures. Overall, really great evening and great show. read more

I have been to this theater a number of times to see shows like Hamilton. The shows have all been excellent! The theater layout creates a lot of congestion from the very entrance of arrival. There is a bar and gift purchase areas right at the front entrance, which blocks walking in after showing your ticket. *Reminder there are other places to buy drinks and snacks on the upper levels! The friendly staff will assist you with finding your section & seat. Inside, you will see all the beautiful detail work of this old theater. The stairs are steep, so watch your step. The worst part is how sight the seats are. I am not very tall and there is barely any room for my legs to get comfortable. Perhaps get a balcony spot if possible! read more

Neil Simon Theatre - Good views everywhere - Performing Arts Near Me - New York, New York

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MJ Musical was an absolute definite for me to check out for my birthday. I am a MJ fan so planning a trip to NY Trip was absolutely must. We waited outside to enter prior to the show starting in a very long line luckily it moved quickly once the doors opened. The theatre is small to medium in size. The seats are very small, tight and uncomfortable especially for my tall daughter. Her knees were jammed in the back of the seat in front of her. The bar located downstairs was great. I loved the themed drinks. I ordered a smooth criminal and brought me a lovely MJ shirt. The actual musical was just ok to me. I was expecting to see Myles play MJ however, he was not longer working on the musical. The musical covered the Dangerous tour timeline however, I was confused with some of dialogue especially between the actor playing Joe Jackson and the tour manager. The characters were hard to delineate at times. Overall, the second half of the show was the best because I got a chance to hear some of the classic MJ hits. Oh, the little boy who played young Mike did a great job. All in all I am a huge Michael Jackson fan and would not have missed the opportunity to see anything MJ related. read more

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Came to see MJ the musical. Definitely 5stars!! It was INCREDIBLE!! I highly recommend it. The storyline was brilliant and the music and choreography was captivating. I'm giving the theatre 3 stars. I would like to say that every seat is pretty much a good seat. The venue is small and intimate. The ticket entry was speedy so that is a plus. However, the seats are uncomfortable and tight. Thank goodness for intermission! The slope is also slight. So if you have a taller person sitting in front of you, you will have difficulty seeing the stage. read more

Neil Simon Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - New York, New York

Huge MJ's fan it's very lovely and the emotional place, I buy two tickets for my wife's birthday and we've been here to watch the show. It's very very exciting. read more

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This is an old but beautiful theater. There's limited space and seats are super cramped and uncomfortable but the people who work here make it an excellent experience. Every staff member we encountered was kind, welcoming and helpful. The facility is also extremely clean. We had front row mezzanine seats for MJ and i would highly recommend sitting here. We saw everything perfectly and it's always fun seeing the trap doors and such on the stage. read more

Neil Simon Theatre - Excellent view row A mezzanine - Performing Arts Near Me - New York, New York

they email you all these rules but they are not applied: they did not check our bags / purses. the line was long but they kept it moving. the staff is good bathroom clean can't really take pictures in there. we came to see MJ the musical. AC temp was perfect! can't wait to see another show read more

This is a nice theater. I came here to watch MJ, and the show was awesome. It is wheelchair and handicapped accessible. There's a bathroom for anyone who needs to use a personal one. The ushers are quite strict about who can use it. For everyone else, there's a large restroom all the way down the stairs. I wouldn't say that sitting everywhere would give you great views. For MJ, I sat on the side balcony, so it wasn't the best of views. There is an obstruction to the side. But for the price point, it was good. The theater is quite old, but it didn't feel like it was deteriorating. All in all, I would go back to this theater for any show. read more

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The MJ Musical is excellent! The staff are very friendly and the seller was very accommodating under such short notice. However, the seats are not comfortable nor practical for people over six feet. I was uncomfortable the entire time and felt like I was in the lap of the person next to me. The theatre should consider comfort and practicality of its audience over profitability. Tips: Do not get seats in the Rear Mezzanine; the views are fine but the seats are snug and uncomfortable, and there's not enough knee space if you're taller. read more

Neil Simon Theatre - Outside - Performing Arts Near Me - New York, New York

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I had the pleasure of catching MJ while I was visiting NYC and this charming theatre did not disappoint. Seats were cozy but comfy. The lines for concessions and restrooms wind endlessly but flow efficiently. We sat center orchestra in a packed house and had the perfect view! Great Theater and great show! read more

Neil Simon Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - New York, New York

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I came here to see MJ the musical. The show itself was phenomenal! The theatre is ornate and beautiful to look at. My biggest complaint was that there were late arrivals to the show who were seated in my row. We had to get up at least (not exaggerating!) 4 times in the middle of scenes/songs to let other folks get in. It was honestly pretty distracting having an usher shine a flashlight in our row during the show to get the late arrivals seated, and I was surprised the theatre team didn't have these individuals wait until after a scene to find their seats. read more