As someone with a passion for the arts, I’m always intrigued by the intricate details that go into a live production. One of the most unique experiences to date was a private tour and walk through of the New Amsterdam Theatre, which is the current home of Mary Poppins on Broadway. Built in the early 1900’s, the theater is the oldest venue on Broadway (along with the Lyceum). With a history that includes housing the Ziegfeld Follies and a renovation from movie theater to Broadway theater, the New Amsterdam Theatre is now the flagship for Disney Theatrical Productions on Broadway.
You might remember from my review that there was a time in the not-so-distant past when the area surrounding the theater (Times Square, Theatre District) was a very different place. In many ways, Disney’s acquisition of the theater was integral to the clean-up that occurred in the mid-90’s.
Visually, The New Amsterdam Theater is stunning. The interior was architecturally designed in the Art Nouveau style with intricate carvings, elaborate artwork, and photos of actors who’s career began in this very theater.
During the Great Depression, the theater business as a whole suffered and The New Amsterdam Theatre closed down for a time before being converted into a movie theater. Patrons complained about the brightness of the venue, so the owner at the time painted the entire interior (including the architectural designs) brown. Little did he know that his decision preserved the beauty of this venue. When Disney Theatrical Productions acquired the theater, it was dilapidated and in shambles. As work commenced to remove the brown paint, it was discovered that the interior, for the most part was preserved so well they actually had to have the theater aged.
Today, the theater is listed in the National Register of Historic Places as a New York City Landmark.
During our tour, we got a glimpse of the theater’s production history in the prop room. Here are some of my favorite photos from musicals that have performed in this theater:
In 2012, visitors will be able to tour the New Amsterdam Theatre. Stay tuned for more details regarding this special experience.
No compensation was received for this post. All expenses related to the trip provided by Disney/DreamWorks.
Photos: Rockin’ Mama
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When I saw the Lion King Play I really wanted to have some of the costumes & props…lol
haha! I love costumes…I’m always fascinated by their intricacies…