Shubert Theatre, West 44th Street, New York City

The historic Shubert Theatre is located at 225 West 44th Street in the Theater District, Times Square area. The theater opened on September 29, 1913, and is operated by The Shubert Organization. The facade and interior 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 This application was withdrawn on June 4, 1912, and separate applications were filed for the two adjoining theaters.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 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. Shubert Theatre has 1,502 seats across three levels. The Shubert Alley façade is divided into two sections. The portion
adjacent to the corner pavilion has two pairs of aluminum and glass doors leading from the auditorium and a pair of wood and glass doors leading to the Shubert offices at the ground floor. The Shubert's interior is dominated by elaborate plasterwork. A series of theatrically-themed panels adorn the boxes, the area above the proscenium arch, and the ceiling. Lee chose to build an office above the theatre, which is now the home of the Shubert Organization’s executive offices.