Booth Theatre, West 45th Street, New York City

The historic Booth Theatre is situated at 222 West 45th Street in the Theater District of Midtown Manhattan. It was built for the Shubert brothers, opened in 1913 and is operated by The Shubert Organization. The façade, lobby and auditorium were designated New York City landmarks in 1987.

In the early 20th century, the Shubert Organization, founded by three Shubert brothers Sam S., Lee and J.J. Shubert, was one one the most important in the New York's theater district. They began as producers and expanded into acquiring and building theaters as well.

In 1911, a single New Building Application was filed for the Shubert and Booth theaters in Building Department. This application was withdrawn on June 4, 1912, and separate applications were filed for the two adjoining theaters. Construction of the Shubert Theatre on West 44th Street began on August 7, 1912 and was completed on October 10, 1913. Construction of the smaller Booth Theatre on W 45th Street began on August 20, 1912 and was completed October 30, 1913. The Shubert and Booth theaters were designed by Henry Beaumont Herts (1871-1933) in the Italian Renaissance style, with similar arrangements. Booth Theatre has 800 seats across two levels.

The site, behind the old Hotel Astor, was previously occupied by several houses on 44th and 45th Street. Shubert Alley was originally a 15-foot-wide fire escape passage. Booth Theatre was named after Edwin Thomas Booth (1833-1893), an actor and theatrical manager who toured in the United States and Europe, performing Shakespearean plays.