Saw "Breaking The Story" and woooaw--what a rattling performance! Highly recommend for anyone interested in top tier talent. Actors were spectacular. The set was minimalistic, yet the sheer force of talent on stage and a few special technical effects were able to transport me from one setting to another in a split of a second, so I appreciated those masterful solutions to the constraint of space, budget, props, etc. The plot is simple, yet the themes and topics unfolding on the stage are deep and philosophical. Perfect for anyone looking to leave the theater with a lot to reflect on. The characters made me question my own ethos, making me wonder what I would do if confronted with the choices that they had to make. An incredible experience. The theater space is small and intimate, which is great, as there truly are no bad seats. You will be close to the stage regardless of your seating, which I appreciated, since I enjoy observing the cast's mimicry without squinting. Only one bathroom [with a few stalls] on premises, so if you need to go, get there before the crowd. read more

The review is for Tony Kiser theater. Never watch off-Broadway shows for a long time. Grateful for these complimentary tickets and it is like a test for us to be ready to be out to Broadway world. The show is entertaining, hilarious and fun. The characters are well portrayed by the actors. This theater probably only has a capacity of 200 seats. Number of attendees is not bad for a matinee show. I love that the management still checking for a vaccination status. Although it is not required to put mask on but mostly is wearing it on. I felt comfortable watching the show with other people are still caring and thinking for the good of each theatergoer. There are like two sections of the orchestra seating. One section has about 13 seats across and the next section has like 5-7 seats across totaling 20 seats on each row. Rows going up is about 10-12. There are only two aisles and the steps are comfortably fine. The seats are comfy enough, not sure for others that has longer legs. There is a good view for all seats as the layout is pretty straight forward. The theater is on the second floor of the building, on same floor is the bar / lounge and restrooms. I like the setup of the theater. I am willing to come back for another show that may interest me. read more

Second Stage Theater - Performing Arts Near Me - New York, New York

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TO MY GIRLS, is definitely an off broadway performance that you don't want to miss out on! It is currently being played at Tony Kiser Theater. It is about a group of gay men who went in a post-pandemic getaway for a reunion, where they reclaim their time and replace the gloom with some gossip. It was an amazing show, be prepare to laugh your head off! read more

Second Stage Theater - Performing Arts Near Me - New York, New York

Love this off Broadway theatre! This is my second time here and it's a pretty small theatre which means any seat is good. My friend and I saw Between the Lines and I previously saw Dear Evan Hansen off Broadway here. read more

Second Stage Theater - Between the Lines - Performing Arts Near Me - New York, New York

It's a new facility unlike most of theater is amphitheater style seating that fans out but this is a square theater, that say most of the seats are good there's no partial view in any seats, only matters if it's closer to the stage or further. The legroom is ok doesn't feel crumped. They also have really good sound system that you can hear the voice clearly read more

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For a modern built theater, the Tony Kiser theater is sadly cramped and reminiscent of a high school auditorium. The risers are plenty steep, so no one will block your view, but the leg room leaves a lot to be desired. I was able to place my knees on either side of the bowed seat back. It's forced manspreading for anyone of average height. Or else, like the person behind me, you will be constantly moving the chair in front of you as you struggle to find a comfortable position. The rows are loooong. So you will be forcing a lot of people to get up as you make your way to the middle. THE THEATER IS COLD. Do yourself a favor and bring a sweater even on a 90° day. Don't be like the woman in front constantly telling her companion how cold she was, loudly, before finally giving up and leaving before the play was half over. You've been warned! read more

Second Stage Theater - Dying City - Performing Arts Near Me - New York, New York

Cool theater! I got a free ticket to We're Gonna Die through the library, which ended up being the first row. Hooked up! The show was exactly an hour and it was entertaining for the most part. The theater itself is relatively small for the area, so it's quick to get to your seat. But seating is clunky, to say the least. I've never sat on such uncomfortable chairs! Luckily, it's for a short period of time, but man, I would hate to return and bear those wooden seats. There's a bar and an open area adjacent to the show. I noticed that the volunteers end up grabbing the empty seats, so that is an option if you want to do that! Come here for low-key, quick, funky, off-Broadway shows. read more

*Small theater *Perfect Size *Space is limited *Clean studio *Usher attendance-friendly *Snack bar at lower level *Excellent play What did I watch? "Lonely, I'm not.. starring Topher Grace (from That 70's show, Valentines day) Mark Blum, Lisa Emery, Christopher Jackson, Maureen Sebastian and Olivia Thirlby (who is in No strings attached and Being Flynn) read more

Second Stage Theater - Performing Arts Near Me - New York, New York

Maybe it's because I'm such a HUGE Pacey (I mean Joshua Jackson) fan, but I really LOVED this show!!!!! I came on the second night not knowing too much of what to expect, since the description was a bit broad and vague. But the plot was great, with really likable (and comical) characters who delivered such witty and poignant lines. Plus, it's always fun to see love stories come to life!! I also liked how the theater provided free drinks and light bites after the show, too. I don't know if it's just because it was opening week, but that was a sweet way to end the night! read more

Second Stage Theater - Performing Arts Near Me - New York, New York

I knew almost nothing about 'Between Riverside and Crazy'. Stephen McKinley Henderson is the reason I wanted to see it because he commands a stage like few do. This play disrupts and challenges the notions of black-and-white race relationships as basic human emotions of greed, power, and fear get in the way all to a satisfying conclusion. I just saw the play a few nights ago and it ends soon. Catch it soon. read more

Second Stage Theater - Between Riverside and Crazy - Performing Arts Near Me - New York, New York

I came for the great _Let Me Down Easy_. I liked how this theater is small but can take a large crowd with really great stadium-like seating. All the seats are good! The structure is simple but interesting, with little windows and small spaces here and there. It'd be great if there were more bathrooms - or at least women's bathrooms. Also, after the show, it was so slow to exit through the rear because the crowd is filtered into one corner. There seemed to be an older crowd here - at least for this show. As a 20-something, I was definitely bringing down the average age. read more

Came for Between the Lines. The seats where on the smaller side and not really comfortable. I brought a sweatshirt to wear because it was a bit chilly. It's a smaller theater so you'll be able to see everything (I sat in the third row from stage in the middle). The bathroom can be a bit cramped considering there's only three stalls but the lines move fast. It's a generic theater-- think small town school auditorium. read more

Due to the coronavirus situation, all performances have been canceled through April 13. Since Second Stage has committed to paying their actors and staff during the closure, (tax-deductible) donations are very welcome. read more

This is one of my favorite off-Broadway theaters. I've seen three productions here now, including last night's 'Make Believe' and all three have been so unique and wonderful. No, it does not offer the glamour and charm of the other main Broadway theaters, as you will not see any chandeliers or cool ceilings. However, you will get a very intimate experience, as the theater is small and any house seat will be a good seat. I do agree with the other recent reviews that this theater is kept on the colder side. This did not affect me at all, as yesterday was very hot and humid in the city and the theater felt refreshing. However, if you tend to get cold, be mindful and bring a jacket/light sweater. Lastly, I highly recommend checking out Showscore. This was where I was able to snag a $45 ticket for last night's performance, which is normally $59. I will be back here again for more of their amazing future shows! read more

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Such a nice theater to see a performance. Was here recently to see a musical and was pretty impressed. Walking in you discover the space was actually a bank back in the day now converted into a performance facility. Good use of the space, though somewhat simplistic in a modern way, yet works quite well. Downstairs is just a small lobby area where the box office is. The upstairs level features a bar / snack area and tables to sit at, spacey clean bathrooms, and large orange painted walls. The actual theater space and seating is terrific. It's almost like stadium style seating - not a bad seat in the house with great sight lines everywhere of the stage. The acoustics are spot-on, and the air conditioning keeps you nice and cool. Only drawback is that the actual seats are a bit uncomfortable. Very intimate spot to see a Broadway performance without paying the normal high cost for tickets as many acts here are discounted. If you are a subscriber here there is a discount on a bundle of plays. Good deal. read more

I saw Straight White Men today. First, shame on Armie Hammer. I paid a premium price to see this play based on his participation and he was a no show yesterday and today. Luckily, he wasn't missed. His understudy was excellent as was the rest of the cast. But the real star was the play itself. A thoughtful, clever, funny and totally charming examination of white male privilege. Kudos to the author. Hopefully, the Tony's are sniffing around. (But, out of spite, I'm fine if they pass over Mr. Hammer in favor of any other excellent performer in this company. ) read more

We completely enjoyed our subscription to Second Stage, so much so that we renewed without knowing the shows for the upcoming season. However, with Torch Song, Lobby Hero, and Straight White Men as part of this season's shows, I think it will be hard to beat. The price is extremely reasonable for the quality of the shows. Staff is helpful and accommodating when a change is needed: no hassle at all. The seating and sight lines in the Off Broadway theatre are excellent. The Helen Hayes Theatre seating is very tight and there isn't a ton of leg room, but it has been beautifully renovated and has tons of bathroom stalls. read more

Small, quaint theater. Not many of those around anymore so it was nice. You walk into a lobby with three windows for ticket pick up. Two windows were open so no line there. Once you exit the elevator you are in their snack/bar area. They have the usual and the prices were not bad compared to other larger theaters. Bathrooms had many stalls for the size of the place which means no line at the women's bathroom (Score!). The theater itself was very intimate with stadium seating all around. So even if you are on the top row you still had a good shot of the stage. My only complaint were the seats. They had this hard plastic cover around them that would not budge so I definitely got a butt cramp at one point. Good for off broadway plays and very convenient right around the corner from port authority. read more

One of the best theater-going experiences you're going to have in NYC. The amazing 2ST team always ensures a great night out at the theater - the space is super cool and there's not a bad seat in the house. And of course you're always guaranteed to see a groundbreaking and thought-provoking production with a top-notch cast. read more

Second Stage Theater - Performing Arts Near Me - New York, New York

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A little bit off the beaten path and when you walk in it certainly doesn't look like you're going into a theater (the box office is in a bank vault!) But the theater, which is upstairs, is beautiful and intimate and every seat has a great view of the stage. read more

If you are looking for an enjoyable theater experience that is less formal, and with fewer choreographed numbers, this is a great alternative to Broadway glitz. Upon arriving to see Zach Braff in Trust, I was surprised at the size of the theater - very cozy. You will definitely have a great view no matter where you sit, unless you happen to have seats behind Mutumbo and Shaq on a date. I was also delighted at the price of the tickets. If you are under 30 your tickets are discounted. Also, if you subscribe to a series of plays, you can see 4 performances for under 100 dollars! read more

Cosy ex-bank-turned-theatre that produces fantastic shows like Next to Normal, Everyday Rapture. the revival of The Last Five Years (which I went to go see!), and SO many other great shows. The remodeling is actually ingenious - and the stage is so small that no matter where you sit, you'll have a decent view. And, you'll have a TON of leg room. Plus, they do $30 under 30 tickets and youth subscriptions (which means I got to see 4 shows for $100!) Amazing. For The Last Five Years (which was just absolutely amazing, EVERYBODY should see this revival), I got seat B7, which is the leftmost seat in the second row. Super close to the stage, but if you sat straight, you'd only see the wall. Super glad that the two people next to me never showed, so I ended up having a way better seat. The staff here is super nice, and there's a cafe in the theatre if you didn't have time to eat before the show (or if you didn't want to eat after. But note that prices at the cafe are seriously hiked up - think Yankee Stadium food prices. Kind of ridiculous. But in the end, this theatre company is absolutely amazing and offers shows for every taste. And, for all celebrity stalkers/seekers, there are often major stars (television, movie & theatre) in shows put on - like Aaron Tveit, Kevin Bacon, Kelly Bishop, Zach Braff, Sutton Foster, Norbert Leo Butz, Anna Camp, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Topher Grace, etc. So definitely go and check this place out - sooner better than later! read more

You know how Theaters always say every seat in the house is a good one? Well, at the Second Stage Theater, it's actually true. Every seat provides an excellent view of the stage. It's airy yet intimate at the same time. It's very clean and modern and the ushers are very nice. The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee is currently playing at the Second Stage Theater and if you haven't had a chance to see it, you should definitely go. The stage and surrounding theater is decorated to look like a school gymnasium where a spelling bee takes place and it's absolutely hilarious. There's audience participation so if you're lucky enough to get picked (I think you put in your name before the show and they have a drawing) then it'll heighten the experience. Loads of fun and very very smart. read more

The 25th Annuuaaall Putnam County Spelling Bee. Great show and the theater definitely lent to that gymnasium spelling bee feel. The show is a must see. The cast is also great with audience participation, particularly roasting them. I still chuckle at the thought of the "earth tone assassin" (some guy wearing all brown colored clothing). review 1/27/2008 I.M.Y. read more

Saw "Things to Ruin" here last night. It's a song revue with a live rock band and 7 singers. Or 2 good singers, 3 so and so and 2 who have no business singing. Badia Farha is one of the good ones and the other is the guy who sings "Honey". Best thing about the show was the energy and enthusiasm of the performers and by extension the audience. The songs were more miss than hit. I had free tickets so I enjoyed it. Otherwise I'd have been MAD! read more

Second Stage Theatre provides great quality Off-Broadway productions. I've seen a few shows there now, at both their Midtown and Upper West Side locations, and I've been pleased every time. The material they present is excellent, and it's fun to see some big name actors performing on these more intimate stages. Though the houses are on the smaller side, you'll be pleased to know that every seat in the house is a good one and you won't miss a thing, no matter where you are. And for those of you on a budget - like me, the poor, struggling acting conservatory student - you'll be happy to know there's a way to see shows for free. Yes, that's right: FREE! Second Stage Theater uses volunteer ushers for nearly every production. So if you're tight on cash and don't mind dressing up to hand out programs and assist patrons before the show, at intermission, and after the curtain goes down, you're the perfect candidate for the position. Information on volunteer ushering can be found on their website at www.2st.com. read more

Thanks to CM Jane K, I was able to watch The Blue Flower show at this theater and upon seating, I fell in love with the space. It's a wonderful, small, intimate theater, located in Times Square. I learned that the building was initially built was a bank, not a theater space and when you walk in, you can see the original vaulted door. It's a simplistic, somewhat modern stage. There really is no bad seat in the house. Great acoustics. Bathrooms are big and clean. read more

I've seen a couple shows here and I love that it is a smaller, more intimate theater and there is not a bad seat in the house. Most recently, I saw "The Last 5 Years" with two of my girlfriends. A couple of us agreed that the storyline was a little tougher to follow as the woman is telling her story in reverse and the man going forwards. All story is through song so if you miss any of the lyrics, tougher to follow. However, the main actor had the most amazing voice , maybe ever. Rivals Josh Groban for sure. I would see the show just to hear his voice. Bravo! As others have said, they often have $30 under 30 deals for those aged 30 and under. read more

My parents have had a subscription to this theater for a number of years so every once in a while I am allowed to steal a ticket or two from them in order to get me some culture. Seriously, this is a wonderful theater. The shows I have seen have ranged from good to excellent and even if a play was not particularly to my liking, it always engaged me and has never failed to spark some interesting and thoughtful conversations amongst my companions afterward. I also like how intimate the theaters are. Intimate in a kind of "not a bad seat in the house" way, which is a good thing. Due to the small space this also means shows never rely upon elaborate sets or chintzy numbers. Just honest scripts and acting. Plus this is the theater where the "25th Annual Putnam Counting Spelling Bee" began its run and for that alone I will always love Second Stage. read more

I'm on a mission to figure out which theaters offer great rush or discounted seats (tips welcome) and was most pleased to find myself in the third row of Second Stage Theater for only $30--part of their "Youth" discount for patrons under thirty. Most pleased until I realized that I was hugging the wall of the theater, which clanged loudly every time I accidentally brushed against it. Less pleased as I realized the Foursquare tips were true, and that the youth seats are in a smelly section. I won't offend you by guessing where the body smells were coming from, but be warned that the discount comes at a price. That said, the theater's will call line moved quickly, and it was easy getting into and out of the theater. I don't think there's a bad-LOOKING seat in the house, as the capacity is smallish, and the rows are raised. read more

Second Stage is a great theater company. Their work is usually of a much higher caliber than other off-Broadway theaters. (Theater Row, I am looking at you!). I have seen everything from pre-Broadway shows like Next to Normal, to experimental musicals like The Blue Flower, to the revival of The Last Five Years which is currently playing. The show is excellent. Adam Kantor and Betsy Wolfe are fantastic. But to continue discussing the theater it is an excellent venue, and a unique re-proposing of a space. What is nice about it is that since it is so small, even the rear seats are great. The only section to avoid is the side seats. The legroom is ample here, and sightlines are great. The theater is very clean and modern. What is also nice is that they have two great rush policies. 1 hour before the show, you can try to obtain $20 rush tickets if you are a student. In advance on their website, they offer $34 tickets to anyone under 30. This is the way to go if you really want to see a production as they often sell out since it is a smaller space. Bottom line: Great Theater Company for a great theater! read more

Just saw the closing performance of the fantastic "The Happiest Song Plays Last" here. Great, intimate space. 30 buck rush tickets yielded some of the best seats in the house (not that there are any bad ones, really). Prior to the show, my friend and I were chatted up by a friendly couple from DC who managed to get us backstage afterwards, to meet the cast and toast champagne. Holler. read more

I had a blast with Let Me Down Easy... a superb one-woman production and I was here again for Mr & Mrs Fitch which I thought was enjoyable but in a very different way. The theatre is great, very professionally run by Josh and his crew. I'm looking forward to returning very soon... read more

I have to echo the below sentiments regarding the Second Stage Theater. It's clean, modern, friendly staff, and well air-conditioned. Stadium seating too. The 'balcony' is actually up and to the left of the stage, where about 9 seats are lined up. You still have a view of the stage (from the side) and if you're claustrophobic, this might be the seat for you! (http://2st.com/tickets/seating-chart) Just saw "The Way We Get By" - really great. If you're a Neil LaBute fan, you're in for a treat. Looking forward to returning to this theater in the future! read more

Liked "Trust" with Zach Braff Cop from Will & Grace was great I will be back soon (Yelp! haiku #3) read more

Old Bank turned Theater. Small, good sight lines, stadium seats, and slow moving exits. read more

Everything you want in, in a theater. Cozy, clean, comfortable seats, perfectly sized, friendly staff and a good snack bar. What did I watch: The way we get by... Verdict: Definitely, worth a visit! read more

Some shows recommended but not all. Recommendation: Don't get duped into buying a 3 play subscription. Choose the play you want to see. I bought tix online and ordered for the wrong show. I wanted to see 'Smart People' with Joshua Jackson(The Affair).Called theater following morning and manager said their policy is no refunds. Only choice he gave was for me to become a member and buy for 3 shows. Bottom line: I did not attend show I paid for and did not see the play I wanted to attend. This manager has very poor communication skills.He could care less about my problem. I shouldn't have to buy a subscription to see plays I have no interest in.Got Amex involved but they couldn't go against the No Refund policy. I reopened the dispute 2 more times to no avail. BUYER BEWARE!!! I am a frequent theater goer. read more

Second Stage Theater - Performing Arts Near Me - New York, New York

Linda Vista is a character study of Dick Wheeler (Ian Barford), a 50-year-old man who is in the throes of a divorce. Not only has his marriage failed but so has his fatherhood and his body. He free wheels between women, beautiful Jules, excellently portrayed by Cora Vander Broek, and 26-year-old Minnie (Chantal Thuy), a Vietnamese rocker with pink hair. Both his first and last names have obvious meaning for his role. He sabotages every relationship as he fears success and other than superficial bonds and easy sex while his world view is beautiful, thus the ironic title of the play. Tracy Letts, playwright (August: Osage County and Superior Donuts), is a master portrayer of the dysfunctional family and human connections. Despite Wheeler's self-destructive actions, the play is a comedy. There are many laugh-out-loud scenes and lines as an aging man tries to recreate his life having learned little or nothing about his motivations and failures. This is a Steppenwolf production from Chicago, with many of the same principals. Barford is outstanding as are his friends Paul (Jim True-Frost) and his wife Margaret (Sally Murphy), the only notes of realism in Wheeler's world. Minnie is the weak link swallowing many of her lines as a user-loser neighbor who sinks into her own self-imposed miseries. The play ends with the audience wondering if Wheeler will ever regain the status he held as a photographer for the Chicago Sun-Times or devolve into another abyss with his coworker Anita (Caroline Neff) and wheel into yet another fruitless, inappropriate relationship. This was a rich evening of a study of a l pessimistic life tinged with irony and the viewer's annoyance both at the stupidity of the world and the play's stupid-smart protagonist. There was a post-production discussion with director Dexter Bullard, who gave audience members insights into some of the show's technical and professional problems with the numerous settings, interpretation of characters, and their sex scenes. read more

Great theater company in a great space. My mom is a subscriber, so I've been to countless plays (and a couple musicals) with her, and almost always enjoy them. The space is small enough that there is no bad seat in the house. Nice cocktail area, nice that the women's bathroom has lots of stalls. read more