Originally named the Alvin Theatre, the name was a portmanteau of the first names of producers Alex Aarons and Vinton Freedley.
The Gershwins' 'Girl Crazy,' which launched the careers of Ethel Merman and Ginger Rogers, premiered here in 1930.
The theatre hosted the original production of 'Annie' in 1977, which ran for 2,377 performances.
It is one of five Broadway theatres currently owned or operated by the Ambassador Theatre Group.
The venue underwent a major interior renovation in the early 1990s to restore its original 1920s aesthetic.
The Neil Simon Theatre is a 1,362-seat Broadway venue located in the Theater District of Manhattan. It was originally built in 1927 as the Alvin Theatre, designed by architect Herbert J. Krapp in the Georgian Revival style. The venue was renamed in 1983 to honor playwright Neil Simon. It occupies a mid-block site on 52nd Street between Broadway and Eighth Avenue. The theatre is currently operated by the Jujamcyn Theaters division of Ambassador Theatre Group. Its interior features a distinct, relatively intimate proscenium layout for a house of its capacity. The venue frequently hosts major musical productions and limited-run engagements. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The marquee on 52nd Street provides the best exterior photo opportunity, especially when illuminated at night.
Use the restroom before arriving at the theater, as the facilities are notoriously small and experience long lines during intermission.
The mezzanine offers excellent sightlines and is often preferred by repeat Broadway attendees over the orchestra level.
Check the digital playbill online in advance to familiarize yourself with the cast and creative team.
Avoid purchasing tickets from unofficial street vendors or unauthorized scalpers near the theater entrance.
Typically dark on Mondays; shows usually operate on a Tuesday through Sunday schedule.
Business casual dress is recommended; standard theater decorum requires silencing mobile devices and refraining from recording during performances.
