A Theater Lover's Guide to New York

[dianamorales]

Posted: 2/14/17 at 9:53am

Hey everyone,

This March I'm taking a 4 day trip into the city. This is an extremely rare (I'll go maybe once every 5 or so years) occurrence for me, so I'd like to do as much as I can in such a short time. Aside from going to see shows, what are some things around the city that can't be missed?

[MarkBearSF]

Posted: 2/14/17 at 10:19am

Are you looking for theater-specific attractions or general NYC things to see? (If the latter, there are so many and they are listed in so many places...)

For theater-related stuff
 - The Lincoln Center branch of the NY Public Library has a small Broadway exhibit right now.
 - There are various walking tours that promise backstage info (but never get inside the theaters, I think) Haven't been on one, but you may want to check the reviews
 - Not Broadway but I'm told the behind-the-scenes tour of the Radio City Music Hall is interesting
 - No visit by a broadway fan is complete without a meal at Joe Allen, home of the infamous flop wall. (Reservations available one week before the date)
 - I'd also include a pre-theatre drink at the upstairs bar at Sardi's as well. (no need to wait or check in with the Maitre 'd. Just turn right inside the door and head up the steps.

A non-theater attraction I can strongly recommend is the NY architecture cruise. Classic schooners (lots of polished wood and brass) depart from Chelsea Piers for a 2-3 hour circumnavigation of Manhattan with a narrated tour of the architectural history of NY, presented by excellent (and very knowledgeable) guides. Really interesting and classy. (Included in the afternoon cruise is a glass of beer or wine and a middle-eastern snack buffet). Bonus, if you're an architect, it qualifies for AIA credit towards maintaining your credentials. (However, you don't need any training to understand or enjoy the tour.) NYC Architecture Cruises

 

Updated On: 2/14/17 at 10:19 AM

[neonlightsxo]

Posted: 2/14/17 at 2:37pm

Drama Book Shop on 40th Street!

[Kad]

Posted: 2/14/17 at 2:46pm

Seconding Drama Book Shop. A must-visit stop for anyone who loves theatre, and, as far as I know, the only store of its kind in the country.

[M.O.A.I.]

Posted: 2/14/17 at 4:16pm

Kad said: "Seconding Drama Book Shop. A must-visit stop for anyone who loves theatre, and, as far as I know, the only store of its kind in the country.

 

"

There is one in Los Angeles as well, a Samuel French theater and film shop. 

 

[neonlightsxo]

Posted: 2/14/17 at 4:23pm

There's no Drama Book Shop in LA. Must be a different drama book shop...

http://www.dramabookshop.com/about

[M.O.A.I.]

Posted: 2/14/17 at 5:30pm

Yes, as I say one run by Samuel French. I meant a drama themed bookshop, not a sister store.

[jbird5]

Posted: 2/14/17 at 6:07pm

Levain Bakery at 74th & Amsterdam.