The Shubert Theatre

Definition

The Shubert Theatre is a historic Broadway theater located in New York City, known for its significant role in the development and popularity of American musical theater. Opened in 1913, it was one of the first theaters to be built by the Shubert Organization, which played a crucial part in shaping Broadway as we know it today. The theater has hosted numerous iconic productions and remains an important venue for showcasing early Broadway musicals from 1900 to 1940.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Shubert Theatre was designed by the architect Herbert J. Krapp and is known for its beautiful interior and innovative design features.
2. It is one of the longest-running theaters on Broadway and has hosted a wide range of famous productions, including 'A Chorus Line' and 'Chicago.'
3. The Shubert Theatre is part of a larger group of theaters owned by the Shubert Organization, which has significantly influenced Broadway's commercial landscape.
4. The theater has a seating capacity of approximately 1,600, making it one of the larger venues on Broadway, allowing for grand productions and elaborate staging.
5. Over its history, the Shubert Theatre has been awarded multiple Tony Awards for excellence in theater production, highlighting its status as a premier venue.

Review Questions

• How did the Shubert Theatre contribute to the growth of Broadway as a significant cultural institution?
  • The Shubert Theatre played a pivotal role in establishing Broadway as a cultural hub by providing a venue for groundbreaking productions that attracted large audiences. Built by the influential Shubert Organization, it became a cornerstone of theatrical innovation and helped launch many successful musicals that defined the era. The theater's commitment to showcasing high-quality performances contributed to Broadway's reputation as the pinnacle of American theater.
• Discuss the impact of the Shubert Organization on early Broadway musicals during the 1900-1940 period.
  • The Shubert Organization was instrumental in shaping the landscape of early Broadway musicals by financing and promoting numerous productions. By building venues like the Shubert Theatre, they created spaces specifically designed for musical performances, which facilitated the growth of the genre. Their influence ensured that successful shows received the support they needed to thrive on Broadway, thus establishing a lasting legacy in American theater history.
• Evaluate the significance of major productions staged at the Shubert Theatre in relation to the evolution of musical theater between 1900 and 1940.
  • Major productions staged at the Shubert Theatre had a profound impact on the evolution of musical theater by introducing new styles, themes, and artistic approaches. Shows like 'A Chorus Line' not only broke new ground in storytelling through dance but also reflected social changes occurring in America during that time. The theatre became a launchpad for innovative works that influenced future generations of performers and playwrights, thereby solidifying its place as a key player in the narrative of American musical theater.

Related terms

Shubert Organization: A prominent theater company responsible for the construction and management of many major theaters in New York City, including the Shubert Theatre.

Broadway:

The famous theater district in New York City, known for its high-quality live performances, particularly musicals and plays.

Musical Theater: A theatrical form that combines songs, spoken dialogue, acting, and dance to tell a story, with roots tracing back to operetta and vaudeville.