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Delacorte Theater

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At a Glance

Time Needed: 180 min.

Ages: 5+

Allows Food/Drink: No

Luggage Storage: No

The Delacorte Theater is a unique and historic outdoor theater located in Central Park, New York City. It is known for its famous Shakespeare in the Park performances, which are free and open to the public. Visitors to the Delacorte Theater can enjoy the beauty of Central Park while watching world-class theater productions featuring some of the most talented actors in the industry. Attending a show at the Delacorte Theater is a great way to experience the magic of live theater in a truly unique and beautiful setting. The theater is surrounded by lush trees, and the stage is set against the stunning backdrop of Central Park. It's an unforgettable experience that combines the beauty of nature with the power of storytelling. In addition to the Shakespeare in the Park performances, the Delacorte Theater also hosts a variety of other productions throughout the year, including musicals, concerts, and other theatrical events. Whether you're a theater buff or just looking for a fun and unique way to spend an evening in New York City, the Delacorte Theater is a must-visit destination.

Central Park, New York, NY 10019 Get Directions





Delacorte Theater Videos

Inside the ULYSSES rehearsal room! After the sold-out return of GATZ, Elevator Repair Service, “a heroic company that dares to venture into literary realms where theater artists are known to sink and drown” (The New York Times) — returns to The Public! For over a century, ULYSSES has fascinated, perplexed, scandalized, and defeated readers. ERS’s high-speed New York Times Critics’ Pick staging brings James Joyce’s masterpiece to life like never before. Experience the epic that reshaped modern literature live on stage! 🎟️ Watch the full video and get tickets: thepublic.nyc/ULYSSES Video by A Doll’s House Pictures (adollshousepictures.com)

Inside the ULYSSES rehearsal room! After the sold-out return of GATZ, Elevator Repair Service, “a heroic company that dares to venture into literary realms where theater artists are known to sink and drown” (The New York Times) — returns to The Public! For over a century, ULYSSES has fascinated, perplexed, scandalized, and defeated readers. ERS’s high-speed New York Times Critics’ Pick staging brings James Joyce’s masterpiece to life like never before. Experience the epic that reshaped modern literature live on stage! 🎟️ Watch the full video and get tickets: thepublic.nyc/ULYSSES Video by A Doll’s House Pictures (adollshousepictures.com)

WORLD PREMIERE INITIATIVE By Else Went Directed by Emma Rosa Went Playwright Else Went, alumnus of The Public’s acclaimed Emerging Writers Group, brings her transformative new play INITIATIVE to The Public this fall. A bittersweet reflection on adolescence at the dawn of the new millennium, INITIATIVE charts the intertwined lives of seven teens from 2000-2004, as they become friends and more than friends, wrestle with their potential, face incalculable loss, and struggle to find their way in (and get out of) “Coastal Podunk, California.” Emma Rosa Went directs this epic world premiere guaranteed to make you remember the most difficult and beautiful things about growing up. Learn more: https://thepublic.nyc/InitiativeBCL

WORLD PREMIERE INITIATIVE By Else Went Directed by Emma Rosa Went Playwright Else Went, alumnus of The Public’s acclaimed Emerging Writers Group, brings her transformative new play INITIATIVE to The Public this fall. A bittersweet reflection on adolescence at the dawn of the new millennium, INITIATIVE charts the intertwined lives of seven teens from 2000-2004, as they become friends and more than friends, wrestle with their potential, face incalculable loss, and struggle to find their way in (and get out of) “Coastal Podunk, California.” Emma Rosa Went directs this epic world premiere guaranteed to make you remember the most difficult and beautiful things about growing up. Learn more & get tickets: https://thepublic.nyc/Initiative

THE SEAT OF OUR PANTS: A New Musical Adaptation, Music, and Lyrics by Ethan Lipton Based Upon the Play The Skin of Our Teeth by Thornton Wilder Choreography by Sunny Min-Sook Hitt Directed by Leigh Silverman Obie Award-winning playwright and songwriter Ethan Lipton and two-time Tony nominee director Leigh Silverman bring their irreverently funny new musical THE SEAT OF OUR PANTS to The Public this fall. A rollicking adaptation of Thornton Wilder’s Pulitzer Prize-winning The Skin of Our Teeth, this new musical about age-old problems tells the twisting, often absurd story of the Antrobus family, who have been alive for 5,000 years but live in the same existential dread as the rest of us. Mired in the hot mess of their everyday worries, the Antrobuses survive all manner of catastrophes in an endless quest to begin again, and again, and again. Choreographed by Sunny Min-Sook Hitt, this bracingly original spectacle is a musical reminder that surviving is what we do best. Learn more & get tickets: https://thepublic.nyc/SEAT

THE SEAT OF OUR PANTS: A New Musical Adaptation, Music, and Lyrics by Ethan Lipton Based Upon the Play The Skin of Our Teeth by Thornton Wilder Choreography by Sunny Min-Sook Hitt Directed by Leigh Silverman Obie Award-winning playwright and songwriter Ethan Lipton and two-time Tony nominee director Leigh Silverman bring their irreverently funny new musical THE SEAT OF OUR PANTS to The Public this fall. A rollicking adaptation of Thornton Wilder’s Pulitzer Prize-winning The Skin of Our Teeth, this new musical about age-old problems tells the twisting, often absurd story of the Antrobus family, who have been alive for 5,000 years but live in the same existential dread as the rest of us. Mired in the hot mess of their everyday worries, the Antrobuses survive all manner of catastrophes in an endless quest to begin again, and again, and again. Choreographed by Sunny Min-Sook Hitt, this bracingly original spectacle is a musical reminder that surviving is what we do best. Learn more & get tickets: https://thepublic.nyc/SEAT

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Delacorte Theater News

NYC Cultural Affairs Reports Record Funding, Capital Expansion, and New Arts Programs Under Adams Administration

New York City officials have detailed nearly $2 billion in cultural investments made through the Department of Cultural Affairs over four years. The funding includes record expense and capital support for more than 1,100 cultural nonprofits, major renovations, and new citywide initiatives. The Adams administration says the investments strengthen access to arts and culture across all five boroughs.

Lindsay Mendez From Stage to Screen: WICKED to MERRILY WE ROLL ALONG

Though the revival of Merrily We Roll Along ended its limited Broadway run in 2024, the show will live on in the form of the new filmed version, now in theaters. To celebrate the release of the hit Stephen Sondheim musical, we are taking a look back at the storied careers of its three leading stars, including Tony Award-winner Lindsay Mendez.

Free Shakespeare in the Park ROMEO AND JULIET and More Set for The Public Theater Summer 2026

The Public Theater has revealed its 2026 Shakespeare for the City season, including Free Shakespeare in the Park’s Romeo and Juliet, Mobile Unit and more.

Video: Behind the Scenes of the Renovated Delacorte Theater in Central Park

In a new video, viewers are invited backstage at the newly revitalized Delacorte Theater in Central Park, home to Free Shakespeare in the Park. Check out the video, which dives into the history of the space and the approach to the recent updates.

Full Cast Set For WHEN WE ARE MARRIED At Donmar Warehouse

Artistic Director Tim Sheader and Executive Director Henny Finch has announced the full cast for Sheader’s revival of When We Are Married by J.B. Priestley, which will open at the Donmar Warehouse,

From Broadway to DOWNTON ABBEY: A Look at Elizabeth McGovern's Stage Career

A longtime staple of New York and London stages, we are chronicling Elizabeth McGovern's theater roles ahead of the debut of Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale.

Wake Up With BroadwayWorld September 5, 2025- ROMY & MICHELE Cast Announced and More

Good morning, BroadwayWorld! Whether you're gearing up for a backstage call or settling in with your morning coffee, we've got all the big Broadway headlines you need to know. Today, take a sneak peek at the electrifying new musical MEXODUS as it heads to New York City, and go backstage with Phillip Taratula from Ginger Twinsies for all his pre-show routines.

John Leguizamo's THE OTHER AMERICANS Extends at The Public

The Public Theater will begin previews for the New York premiere of THE OTHER AMERICANS. The production has extended its run. Learn more and see how to purchase tickets.

Video: Lin-Manuel Miranda & Phillipa Soo Recreate Viral HAMILTON Trend

At this week's screening of the Hamilton Proshot at the Delacorte Theater in Central Park, Lin-Manuel Miranda and Phillipa Soo treated the audience to an in-person recreation of the viral trend. Check out the video!

Video: Broadway Comes Out to Celebrate the Return of Shakespeare in the Park

Shakespeare in the Park officially has a new home... or a new version of it's old home! Watch in this video as Broadway comes together to celebrate the special night in the park.

Interview: Crystal Lucas-Perry Opens Up About Public Works' Divine PERICLES

What happens when the words of Shakespeare and the power of gospel music comes together onstage? Something like the magic that is happening onstage at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine with PERICLES. Crystal Lucas-Perry plays 'Gower' in the production and she is checking in with BroadwayWorld to tell us all about this powerful theatrical experience. 

Wake Up With BroadwayWorld August 28, 2025

Rise and shine, BroadwayWorld! It is August 28, 2025 and it's time to catch up on all of the theatrical happenings you may have missed in the last 24 hours.

Video: TWELFTH NIGHT Cast Celebrates Opening Night in the Park

Just last week, the Delacorte Theater officially reopened with Free Shakespeare in the Park's TWELFTH NIGHT. Watch in this video as the whole company celebrates the big night!

How to Get Free Tickets to Shakespeare in the Park

Every production of Shakespeare in the Park is free, but that doesn't mean that you can just arrive at showtime and expect admission. How can you get tickets to the hottest show of the summer? You can check the status of ticket availability daily and learn more about the many ways to get tickets...

Photos: Stars Walk the Red Carpet for Opening Night of TWELFTH NIGHT

The Delacorte Theater officially reopened with Free Shakespeare in the Park's TWELFTH NIGHT. BroadwayWorld was there and we're bringing you photos from the star-studded red carpet arrivals!


Delacorte Theater Frequently Asked Questions

What are the closest subway stops to Delacorte Theater

The closest subway stops to Delacorte Theater at Central Park are:

1. 72nd Street Station: This station is served by the 1, 2, and 3 trains. It is located on Broadway, just a short walk away from the theater. [Click here for subway updates](http://www.mta.info)

2. 66th Street - Lincoln Center Station: This station is served by the 1 train and is located near Lincoln Center, which is a beautiful cultural hub in the city. It's a slightly longer walk to Delacorte Theater, but you can enjoy the scenic walk through Central Park. [Click here for subway updates](http://www.mta.info)

While you're in the area, I recommend exploring some of the other attractions near Central Park, like:

1. The Metropolitan Museum of Art: Located on Fifth Avenue and 82nd Street, the Met is one of the world's largest and most renowned art museums. It's just a short walk from Central Park and definitely worth a visit. [Click here for more information](https://www.metmuseum.org/)

2. Strawberry Fields: This peaceful memorial in Central Park is dedicated to John Lennon and is located near the entrance at West 72nd Street. It's a great spot to take a moment of reflection and enjoy the beauty of the park.

3. The Dakota Building: Just across the street from Strawberry Fields, you'll find the iconic Dakota Building, known for being the former residence of John Lennon and the site of his tragic death. It's a historic building with stunning architecture.

Remember to check the MTA website for any subway updates or changes in service. Enjoy your visit to Delacorte Theater and have a fantastic time exploring Central Park and its surrounding attractions!


What's the best way to get to Delacorte Theater by bus?

The closest NYC bus stops to Delacorte Theater at Central Park are:

1. Central Park West/W 81 St: This stop is served by the M10 bus. You can check for updates on the M10 bus schedule [here](http://bustime.mta.info/m/index?q=M10).

2. 5 Av/W 79 St: This stop is served by the M1, M2, M3, and M4 buses. You can check for updates on the M1 bus schedule [here](http://bustime.mta.info/m/index?q=M1), the M2 bus schedule [here](http://bustime.mta.info/m/index?q=M2), the M3 bus schedule [here](http://bustime.mta.info/m/index?q=M3), and the M4 bus schedule [here](http://bustime.mta.info/m/index?q=M4).

Please note that bus schedules and routes are subject to change, so it's always a good idea to check for updates closer to your visit. Enjoy your time at Delacorte Theater and Central Park!


How much time should I plan to spend at Delacorte Theater?

The ideal length of time to plan to spend at Delacorte Theater in New York City depends on the show you are attending. The theater is located in Central Park and is home to the famous Shakespeare in the Park productions. These performances are typically around two and a half hours long, including an intermission. However, it's always a good idea to arrive early to secure a good spot and soak in the beautiful surroundings. So, I would recommend setting aside at least three hours for your visit to Delacorte Theater. This will give you enough time to find your seat, enjoy the performance, and take in the magical atmosphere of Central Park.


Can I bring food and drinks into Delacorte Theater?

The Delacorte Theater, located in Central Park, is an iconic outdoor venue that hosts the annual Shakespeare in the Park productions. When it comes to food and drink, the theater has a few guidelines in place.

Outside food and non-alcoholic beverages are allowed inside the theater, so feel free to bring your own snacks and drinks to enjoy during the performance. However, please be mindful of others around you and avoid bringing anything that may be noisy or have a strong odor.

Alcoholic beverages are not permitted to be brought into the theater. However, there is a bar located on-site where you can purchase a variety of drinks, including beer, wine, and cocktails. It's a great option if you'd like to indulge in a refreshing beverage while watching the show.

Keep in mind that the Delacorte Theater is an outdoor venue, so it's always a good idea to come prepared for the weather. Bring a jacket or blanket to keep warm during cooler evenings, and consider bringing bug spray during the summer months.

Overall, the Delacorte Theater offers a relaxed food and drink policy, allowing you to enjoy a picnic-style experience while watching a fantastic performance under the stars.


Does Delacorte Theater offer luggage storage?

The Delacorte Theater, located in Central Park, does not have a luggage storage policy. As an outdoor theater, it does not have designated storage facilities for personal belongings. It is recommended that you travel light and only bring essential items to the theater. If you have larger bags or luggage, it is best to leave them at your hotel or find a nearby luggage storage service.


Is Delacorte Theater a good place to visit for foreign travelers who are not native English speakers?

The Delacorte Theater, located in Central Park, is a fantastic destination for visitors from other countries and non-English language speakers. The theater is renowned for its free Shakespeare in the Park performances, which attract theater enthusiasts from all over the world.

One of the great things about Shakespeare's plays is that they are timeless and can be enjoyed by audiences regardless of language barriers. The Delacorte Theater offers supertitles, which are projected translations of the dialogue onto screens on either side of the stage. This allows non-English speakers to follow along and fully immerse themselves in the performance.

Attending a show at the Delacorte Theater is not only a cultural experience but also an opportunity to enjoy the beauty of Central Park. The theater is an open-air venue, providing a unique and enchanting atmosphere. It's a great way to spend a summer evening in New York City.

Keep in mind that tickets for the Delacorte Theater's Shakespeare in the Park performances are highly sought after and can be challenging to obtain. They are distributed through a digital lottery system, so be sure to plan ahead and check their website for details on how to enter for a chance to win tickets.

Overall, the Delacorte Theater is a must-visit for theater lovers and a fantastic option for visitors from other countries and non-English speakers looking to experience the magic of Shakespeare in the heart of New York City.


What ages are appropriate for Delacorte Theater?

The Delacorte Theater in New York City is a fantastic outdoor venue located in Central Park. It is home to the famous Shakespeare in the Park performances, which are free and open to the public. While there is no strict age limit for attending shows at the Delacorte Theater, it is generally recommended for children who are at least 5 years old and above. The performances are typically Shakespearean plays, which may contain complex language and themes that may be more suitable for older children and adults. However, it ultimately depends on your child's interest and maturity level. If you think your child would enjoy and appreciate the experience, by all means, bring them along! Just make sure to plan accordingly, as the theater can get crowded, and seating is on a first-come, first-served basis.


Videos