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250 W. 52nd St.
New York, NY 10019
BUILT: 1927
SEATING CAPACITY: 1467
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Neil Simon Theatre (Broadway) History
Christened the Alvin in 1927, the Neil Simon Theatre was renamed in 1983 to honor America's most prolific playwright, following the successful engagement of Brighton Beach Memoirs, the first play of an autobiographical trilogy about his youth with his family. Fittingly, in 1985, the second play of Mr. Simon's trilogy, Biloxi Blues, played there successfully. In 1992, Mr. Simon returned again with his play Jake's Women. Since 2000, the Neil Simon has been filled with music and dancing as the home to two of Broadway's most popular productions, namely the acclaimed revival of The Music Man and the Tony Award winning Best Musical Hairspray.
Hairspray played the Neil Simon Theatre from August 15, 2002 to January 4, 2009, a total of 2,642 performances. Hairspray features music by Marc Shaiman, lyrics by Scott Wittman and Shaiman and a book by Mark O'Donnell and Thomas Meehan. The musical was based on John Waters's 1988 film. The show starred Marissa Jaret Winokur, Harvey Fierstein, Matthew Morrison, Kerry Butler, Laura Bell Bundy, Jackie Hoffman, and more!
The legendary Ethel Merman made her Broadway debut at the Neil Simon Theatre (then the Alvin) in the 1930 George and Ira Gershwin musical, Girl Crazy! The world was introduced to the iconic Ethel Merman as she belted out 'I Got Rhythm' and more. The musical also starred Ginger Rogers, and spawned many film versions, most notably the 1943 adaptation starring Mickey Rooney and Judy Garland.
Nearest Venues
Name: St. Malachy's – The Actors' Chapel
Category: Attraction
Address: 239 W 49th St
Description: St. Malachy's - The Actors' Chapel, located in the heart of New York City, is a unique and historic landmark that attracts visitors from all over the world. Built in 1902, the chapel was originally part of the Roman Catholic Church and served as a place of worship for the Irish community in the area. However, it became known as the "Actors' Chapel" in the mid-1920s due to its close proximity to the Theater District and the large number of actors who attended services there.
Today, St. Malachy's continues to be a popular destination for tourists, especially those with an interest in theater and the arts. The chapel's interior features beautiful stained glass windows, intricate woodwork, and a cozy atmosphere that provides a peaceful respite from the bustling city outside. Visitors can also view the numerous memorials and plaques dedicated to famous actors and performers who have attended services at the chapel over the years.
In addition to its historical significance and artistic appeal, St. Malachy's - The Actors' Chapel also hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year, including concerts, art exhibits, and theatrical performances. Whether you're a theater enthusiast or simply looking for a quiet and inspiring space to reflect, St. Malachy's is a must-visit destination for any tourist in New York City.
Name: Father Duffy Square
Category: Outdoor
Address: 7th Ave &, W 46th St
Description: Father Duffy Square is a popular tourist destination in New York City, located at the intersection of Broadway, Seventh Avenue, and 47th Street in Times Square. It is named after Francis P. Duffy, a prominent military chaplain who served in World War I and was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for his bravery.
Tourists are drawn to Father Duffy Square for several reasons. Firstly, it is located in the heart of Times Square, one of the most iconic and bustling areas of New York City. Visitors can take in the bright lights, billboards, and crowds that make Times Square famous.
Additionally, Father Duffy Square is home to several landmarks, including the TKTS booth, where tourists can purchase discounted Broadway show tickets, and the statue of Father Duffy himself, which honors his contributions to the military and the city of New York.
Overall, Father Duffy Square is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in experiencing the energy and excitement of New York City, particularly in the heart of Times Square.
Name: Central Park Bike Tours
Category: Tour
Address: 203 W 58th St
Description: Central Park Bike Tours is a popular destination for tourists looking to explore the vast expanse of Central Park in New York City. The company offers a range of bike tours that cater to all levels of riders, from beginners to experienced cyclists. One of the main attractions of the tours is the opportunity to see and experience the park's many landmarks and hidden gems in a fun and engaging way.
With the guidance of knowledgeable and experienced tour guides, visitors can learn about the history of the park, its famous landmarks, and the diverse wildlife that calls it home. The tours also offer the chance to enjoy breathtaking views of the city skyline and the park's scenic landscapes. Visitors can choose from a variety of tour options, including private and group tours, and can rent bikes for self-guided tours as well.
Central Park Bike Tours provides an excellent opportunity for tourists to get out and explore the beauty and history of Central Park while getting some exercise and fresh air.
Name: Times Square
Category: Attraction
Address: Between 42nd & 47th St
Description: Times Square is one of the most iconic and bustling destinations in New York City, attracting tourists from all over the world. The area is known for its neon lights, towering billboards, and lively atmosphere, which make it a hub of entertainment, shopping, and dining.
Tourists flock to Times Square to experience the excitement of the city that never sleeps. The area is home to a variety of Broadway theaters, which host some of the most popular and critically acclaimed musicals and plays in the world. Visitors can also catch a movie at one of the many cinemas, or shop for souvenirs at the numerous stores.
In addition, Times Square is a popular spot for celebrating special occasions, such as New Year's Eve, when thousands of people gather to watch the famous ball drop. Tourists can also enjoy delicious food from a wide range of restaurants and food stands, or simply take in the vibrant atmosphere and people-watching opportunities.
Name: Carnegie Hall
Category: Attraction
Address: 881 7th Ave
Description: Carnegie Hall is a world-renowned concert venue located in New York City, USA. It has been hosting some of the most celebrated performers from around the globe for over a century, making it a must-visit destination for music enthusiasts and tourists alike.
Visitors to Carnegie Hall can experience the beauty of the venue's architecture, as well as the exceptional acoustics that make it one of the most prestigious concert halls in the world. The venue offers a range of music genres, including classical, jazz, pop, and world music, ensuring that there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Carnegie Hall also offers a variety of educational programs and tours that provide visitors with an inside look at the history and significance of the venue. From behind-the-scenes tours to talks and workshops with renowned musicians, visitors can immerse themselves in the world of music and gain a deeper understanding of the art form.
In summary, a tourist would want to visit Carnegie Hall to experience world-class music performances, explore the beautiful architecture and acoustics, and participate in educational programs and tours that offer a deeper understanding of the history and significance of this iconic venue.
Nearest Restaurants
Name: Gallagher's Steak House
Address: 228 W 52nd St
Description: Located just steps from the Theatre District and Times Square, Gallaghers Steakhouse sits in the heart of New York City. Gallaghers has been serving up trademark classic cocktails and USDA prime dry-aged beef fired of hickory coals for over 90 years.
Name: Victor's Cafe
Address: 236 W 52nd St
Description: Adjacent to the Neil Simon Theatre, Victor's Cafe is an elegant Cuban restaurant. Family owned and operated, Victor's Cafe offers authentic, Cuban cuisine. It's greenery and bright lighting creates a friendly, warm atmosphere.
Name: Ellen's Stardust Diner
Address: 1650 Broadway
Description: Ellen's Stardust Diner is a retro 1950s theme restaurant located on the corner of 51st Street in the Theatre District. The diner is known for it's singing waitstaff, making it a popular tourist attraction.
Name: McGee's Pub
Address: 240 W 55th
Description: Around the block from the Studio 54 Theatre, McGee's Pub is a great place to grab a drink after a show. A traditional Irish pub, it offers a wide variety of beer on tap. It also has a variety of bar food available.
Name: Le Bernardin
Address: 155 W 51st St
Description: A block away from the Walter Kerr Theatre, La Bernardin has the New York Times' highest, 4 star rating as well as a 3 star rating from Michellin Guide. Established over 20 years ago, La Bernardin offers elegant and formal dining in its beautiful interior dining room. Its seafood cuisine is infused with rich, French flavors.
News
Photos: Matte Martinez and More in MJ on Broadway
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Oct 2, 2025
You can now get a first look at new production photos of MJ! The photos feature the show’s new star, Matte Martinez in the role of ‘MJ,’ as well as new photos of the current Broadway cast.
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Oct 2, 2025
You can now get a first look at new production photos of MJ! The photos feature the show’s new star, Matte Martinez in the role of ‘MJ,’ as well as new photos of the current Broadway cast.
Wake Up With BroadwayWorld September 19, 2025- Jamie Lloyd Talks Broadway and More
by - Sep 19, 2025
Rise and shine, BroadwayWorld! It is September 19, 2025 and it's time to catch up on all of the theatrical happenings you may have missed in the last 24 hours.
by - Sep 19, 2025
Rise and shine, BroadwayWorld! It is September 19, 2025 and it's time to catch up on all of the theatrical happenings you may have missed in the last 24 hours.
Photos: Matte Martinez as 'MJ' in MJ on Broadway First Look
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Sep 2, 2025
You can now get a first look at new photos of Matte Martinez in the role of ‘MJ’ in MJ on Broadway. Learn more about the production and see how to purchase tickets here!
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Sep 2, 2025
You can now get a first look at new photos of Matte Martinez in the role of ‘MJ’ in MJ on Broadway. Learn more about the production and see how to purchase tickets here!
Wake Up With BroadwayWorld June 27, 2025- BROADWAY IN BRYANT PARK Lineup Revealed and More
by - Jun 27, 2025
Rise and shine, BroadwayWorld! It is June 27, 2025 and it's time to catch up on all of the theatrical happenings you may have missed in the last 24 hours.
by - Jun 27, 2025
Rise and shine, BroadwayWorld! It is June 27, 2025 and it's time to catch up on all of the theatrical happenings you may have missed in the last 24 hours.
Latest Standings Announced For The 2024 BWW Central New York Awards
by BWW Awards - Dec 9, 2024
Don't miss your chance to vote for the 2024 BroadwayWorld Central New York Awards! Voting ends on 12/31 at midnight. Don't miss out on making sure that your favorite theatres, stars, and shows get the recognition they deserve!
by BWW Awards - Dec 9, 2024
Don't miss your chance to vote for the 2024 BroadwayWorld Central New York Awards! Voting ends on 12/31 at midnight. Don't miss out on making sure that your favorite theatres, stars, and shows get the recognition they deserve!
MJ - DAS MICHAEL JACKSON MUSICAL Opens In Hamburg Tonight
by Blair Ingenthron - Dec 1, 2024
Check out a first-look image of MJ - DAS MICHAEL JACKSON MUSICAL star Benét Monteiro in the title role of the show in Germany!
by Blair Ingenthron - Dec 1, 2024
Check out a first-look image of MJ - DAS MICHAEL JACKSON MUSICAL star Benét Monteiro in the title role of the show in Germany!
Interview: Andrew Lippa on Being One of The Heroes of The Story for his Musical BIG FISH
by Elliot Lanes - Mar 20, 2024
Composer Andrew Lippa is probably best known for his musical The Addams Family but his work spans far beyond that one show. He wrote additional songs for the Broadway production of You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown and wrote the off-Broadway version of The Wild Party.
by Elliot Lanes - Mar 20, 2024
Composer Andrew Lippa is probably best known for his musical The Addams Family but his work spans far beyond that one show. He wrote additional songs for the Broadway production of You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown and wrote the off-Broadway version of The Wild Party.
Wake Up With BroadwayWorld March 7, 2024
by - Mar 7, 2024
Rise and shine, BroadwayWorld! It is March 7, 2024 and it's time to catch up on all of the theatrical happenings you may have missed in the last 24 hours.
by - Mar 7, 2024
Rise and shine, BroadwayWorld! It is March 7, 2024 and it's time to catch up on all of the theatrical happenings you may have missed in the last 24 hours.
Broadway Grosses: Week Ending 12/31/23
by - Jan 2, 2024
Grosses for all the Broadway shows for the week ending 12/31/2023.
by - Jan 2, 2024
Grosses for all the Broadway shows for the week ending 12/31/2023.
Photos & Video: MJ Celebrates Halloween With Special 'Thriller' Performance
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Nov 1, 2023
Get a glimpse of MJ's show-stopping 'Thriller' performance through photos and videos!
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Nov 1, 2023
Get a glimpse of MJ's show-stopping 'Thriller' performance through photos and videos!
Photos: Aaron Rodgers & The New York Jets Visit MJ for HARD KNOCKS Finale
by Bruce Glikas - Sep 6, 2023
MJ on Broadway was featured on the season finale episode of HBO’s Emmy-Award winning series “Hard Knocks.” Check out pics from the special visit and go behind the scenes!
by Bruce Glikas - Sep 6, 2023
MJ on Broadway was featured on the season finale episode of HBO’s Emmy-Award winning series “Hard Knocks.” Check out pics from the special visit and go behind the scenes!
Photos: The New York Jets Visit MJ: THE MUSICAL For HBO'S HARD KNOCKS Finale
by Michael Major - Sep 5, 2023
Check out photos of MJ on Broadway featured in the season finale episode of HBO’s “Hard Knocks.” In the finale episode, they bring 10 of their teammates to the Neil Simon Theatre where they can be seen enjoying MJ (the majority of the team’s first Broadway show), meeting the cast and creative team, and even attempting their best moonwalk on stage.
by Michael Major - Sep 5, 2023
Check out photos of MJ on Broadway featured in the season finale episode of HBO’s “Hard Knocks.” In the finale episode, they bring 10 of their teammates to the Neil Simon Theatre where they can be seen enjoying MJ (the majority of the team’s first Broadway show), meeting the cast and creative team, and even attempting their best moonwalk on stage.
Caissie Levy Will Lead the London Premiere of NEXT TO NORMAL at Donmar Warehouse
by Stephi Wild - Jan 26, 2023
Caissie Levy will lead the London premiere of Next to Normal at the Donmar Warehouse beginning this summer. The production runs 12 August – 7 October 2023.
by Stephi Wild - Jan 26, 2023
Caissie Levy will lead the London premiere of Next to Normal at the Donmar Warehouse beginning this summer. The production runs 12 August – 7 October 2023.
Wake Up With BWW 10/18: OHIO STATE MURDERS Casting, and More!
by - Oct 18, 2022
Today's top stories include Ohio State Murders casting, Patti LuPone responds to the recent flurry of social media drama, and more.
by - Oct 18, 2022
Today's top stories include Ohio State Murders casting, Patti LuPone responds to the recent flurry of social media drama, and more.
MJ THE MUSICAL Will Open in London in March 2024
by Stephi Wild - Oct 17, 2022
The multiple Tony Award winning Broadway musical MJ will open in the U.K. Learn more about the production here!
by Stephi Wild - Oct 17, 2022
The multiple Tony Award winning Broadway musical MJ will open in the U.K. Learn more about the production here!
Wake Up With BWW 6/14: TONY AWARDS Performances, Photos, Reviews, Ratings, and More!
by - Jun 14, 2022
Today's top stories include further coverage from this weekend's Tony Awards, including all of the performances, ratings, reviews, and more! Plus, Hugh Jackman will miss performances of The Music Man after testing positive for COVID-19, and more.
by - Jun 14, 2022
Today's top stories include further coverage from this weekend's Tony Awards, including all of the performances, ratings, reviews, and more! Plus, Hugh Jackman will miss performances of The Music Man after testing positive for COVID-19, and more.
Recap the 2022 Tony Awards Acceptance Speeches
by Team BWW - Jun 12, 2022
Miss a speech from the 75th Annual Tony Awards? As winners take the stage this evening, stay tuned to BroadwayWorld as we bring you full text of all of the acceptance speeches; from the emotional to the humorous, and everything in between.
by Team BWW - Jun 12, 2022
Miss a speech from the 75th Annual Tony Awards? As winners take the stage this evening, stay tuned to BroadwayWorld as we bring you full text of all of the acceptance speeches; from the emotional to the humorous, and everything in between.
Photos: North American Tour of CATS Comes to Portland's Keller Auditorium
by Marissa Tomeo - Jun 4, 2022
One of the biggest hits in theatrical history, CATS will come to Portland’s Keller Auditorium from Tuesday, June 21 through Sunday, June 26 as part of a new North American tour.
by Marissa Tomeo - Jun 4, 2022
One of the biggest hits in theatrical history, CATS will come to Portland’s Keller Auditorium from Tuesday, June 21 through Sunday, June 26 as part of a new North American tour.
Unreleased Michael Jackson Material on 'Thriller' 40 Anniversary 2 CD Set
by Michael Major - May 16, 2022
Michael Jackson Thriller 40 is a double CD set comprised of Michael’s original masterpiece Thriller and an exciting second disc full of surprises for fans including never-released tracks which were worked on by Michael for the Thriller album. To date, the album has amassed in excess of 100 million in sales worldwide.
by Michael Major - May 16, 2022
Michael Jackson Thriller 40 is a double CD set comprised of Michael’s original masterpiece Thriller and an exciting second disc full of surprises for fans including never-released tracks which were worked on by Michael for the Thriller album. To date, the album has amassed in excess of 100 million in sales worldwide.
Wake Up With BWW 5/5: Ariana DeBose to Host the Tony Awards, and More!
by - May 5, 2022
Today's top stories include our Tony Awards host, Ariana DeBose! Plus, watch the opening number from MJ the Musical, check out photos and clips from the Stephen Sondheim celebration performances, Sondheim's Old Friends, and more!
by - May 5, 2022
Today's top stories include our Tony Awards host, Ariana DeBose! Plus, watch the opening number from MJ the Musical, check out photos and clips from the Stephen Sondheim celebration performances, Sondheim's Old Friends, and more!
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