Gershwin Theatre

The Gershwin opened its doors in 1972 and was named in honor of composer George Gershwin, known for works like Porgy and Bess and Rhapsody in Blue. From the outside, it might not look like your typical historic Broadway playhouse—but step inside, and you'll find a sweeping space built for theatrical moments on a monumental scale. With nearly 2,000 seats and a massive stage, the theater has a distinctly modern feel while still offering a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

You’ll notice there’s no bad seat in the house. The acoustics are sharp, the sightlines are open, and the energy inside builds from the moment the lights dim. Whether you're seated in the orchestra or the mezzanine, you’ll feel like part of the story.

The Gershwin has been home to some incredible shows over the decades, but it's best known these days for Wicked. This spellbinding musical, which reimagines the world of Oz from the perspective of the witches, has called the Gershwin Theatre home since 2003. It’s beloved by longtime theatergoers and first-timers alike—not just for its jaw-dropping production value, but for the heart of the story.

Beyond Wicked, the theater’s stage has seen a rotating cast of Broadway heavyweights, including Annie. Each one has contributed to the venue’s reputation as a place for bold, imaginative storytelling.

The Gershwin is right in the middle of the Theater District, which means the entire neighborhood hums with energy, especially just before showtime. There’s something special about walking these blocks: the neon glow, the chatter of people swapping predictions before the curtain goes up, the buzz that builds as doors open and crowds begin to gather.

If you’re heading to a show, give yourself time to take it all in. Even a short walk down the block feels electric. You’ll pass other popular venues, maybe spot a performer ducking into a stage door, or catch the sound of a live band warming up inside.

One of the best parts of staying at The Pearl Hotel near the Gershwin Theatre? You’re right around the corner from it all. There’s something deeply satisfying about slipping out of the crowd after a show and being “home” in just a few minutes—no navigating subways or searching for taxis—just a short, peaceful walk back to your room.

And if you’re planning a few days in the city, the Gershwin makes a great starting point. Whether you book your tickets well in advance or try your luck at the box office the day of, there’s always the chance to catch something unforgettable. And staying nearby means you don’t have to miss a moment.

Even in a city filled with legendary theaters, the Gershwin holds its own. Maybe it’s the grandeur, or the way a production like Wicked fills the space so completely. Perhaps it’s the neighborhood, buzzing with excitement just outside the doors. Or maybe it’s simply the feeling you get when the lights go down and the music starts—that sense that something extraordinary is about to happen.

No matter what draws you in, a night at the Gershwin Theatre is one of those experiences that stays with you. And with The Pearl Hotel just steps away, the magic of Broadway is closer than ever.