Walter Kerr Theatre | Complete theatre guide

Located at 219 West 48th Street, the Walter Kerr Theatre is a Broadway house that hosts a variety of shows, both plays and musicals. Operated by Jujamcyn Theaters, the performance venue was originally designed by Herbert J. Krapp for the Shubert Organization. This happened in 1929 and the theatre, then called Ritz Theatre, had a moderately successful run. During this time, the theatre was used for a multitude of purposes, ranging from broadcast studio to cinema. In 1990, the theatre saw a change in ownership and was also renamed the Walter Kerr Theatre, in honor of playwright and critic, Walter Kerr. The theatre underwent major renovation, costing upwards of $2 million to go with the new name and officially reopened on March 5th 1990. While before its renovation and rechristening, the theatre was doing just fine, post 1990, the theatre began hosting some spectacular shows, some that went on to win the Pulitzer Prize and Tony Awards.

If you’re looking to catch the show, Walter Kerr Theatre guide is here to help you find the best seats.

Venue Details

Address: 219 W 48th St, New York, NY 10036, USA

Opened: 1929

Seating Capacity: 975 approx.
Orchestra: 543
Mezzanine: 322
Balcony: 66

Seating Chart
Check out the Walter Kerr Theatre Seating Chart here.

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Practical Information

Section Accessibility

Orchestra: Most of the seats in the orchestra section are located on the main floor of the theatre and there are no steps to climb in order to reach them. The only exception are seats in rows R and S, which are located up two steps.
Mezzanine: There are 37 steps from the orchestra section to the mezzanine. While there is no elevator, there are handrails on either side of every aisle in the mezzanine. Entrance to the mezzanine section is behind row H in the orchestra.
Balcony: The balcony seats are up 52 steps from the orchestra section and the entrance to the balcony is behind row B in the orchestra.

Available Facilities

Wheelchair Accessibility: The Walter Kerr Theatre provides wheelchair accessible seating only in the orchestra section. There are no steps leading to any of the wheelchair accessible from the sidewalk.
Restroom: The women's and men's restrooms are both located in the orchestra section. The men's restroom is located 18 steps from the orchestra while the women's restroom is up 19 steps. The wheelchair accessible restroom is located on the main level itself.
Coat Check: While there's no dedicated coat check at the theatre, you can ask the staff to check your large bags (if any).
Assisted Listening Device: The theatre provides audio assistive devices for every performance. No prior reservations are required. Just bring along a valid address ID and deposit it with the staff if you need an assisted listening device.
Bar: Located in the back of the orchestra and mezzanine sections, the bars at the Walter Kerr Theatre are stocked with both cocktails and non-alcoholic beverages. You can also pick up a snack from the bar.

Handy Tips

• The theatre bars close five minutes before show time, so make sure you get your snacks and drinks before the show starts.
• If you're bringing any electronic devices, please keep them in silent mode. Remember, the use of cameras, recording devices, cell phones, beepers, and other electronic devices during the performance is prohibited.
• If you're looking to buy any show merchandise or souvenirs, you can head over to the merchandise booth in the orchestra section.
• The theatre is fully air conditioned and it can get pretty chilly inside. Dress appropriately and bring a pullover or jacket just in case.
• Make sure you reach the theatre at least 30 minutes before the show is scheduled to begin. This is because latecomers will be seated at the discretion of management.
• Since the theatre is not completely wheelchair friendly, make sure to book your tickets where there’s no climbing involved if you or your companion use a wheelchair. Please note that the theatre doesn't have any elevators.

Getting There

Restaurants near Walter Kerr Theatre

You can make your Broadway experience extra special with our hand-picked selection of the best restaurants near Walter Kerr Theatre. If you’re looking for an in-depth guide for food options in the Theatre District, we have got you covered. Looking for a quick bite before or after your Broadway show? Here our some of our favorite restaurants around the Walter Kerr Theatre:

1. Ellen’s Stardust Diner: This multi-level, '50s-themed diner with singing servers has an expansive menu of classic American fare.

2. Haru Sushi: Lovers of sushi and Japanese cuisine in general, should definitely give Haru Sushi a try.

3. The Palm West Side: This clubby eatery serves high-end steakhouse fare, seafood, and assorted wines.

4. Russian Samovar: Get a taste of authentic Russian in Broadway at this iconic eatery with live piano music to accompany the delicacies.

5. Blue Fin: A classy restaurant which serves pre-theater seafood and sushi served in a trendy setting with a glass-enclosed bar.

6. Carmine's: NYC’s legendary family-style restaurant offering the most delicious Italian food. Be prepared for gigantic proportions similar to ones your grandma would serve you.

Check out our Theatre District restaurants guide for even more fantastic dining options in and around Broadway district.

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