Merriam Theater

Merriam Theater is a performing arts venue on South Broad Street designed in classical style with a spacious auditorium. The interior holds roughly 1,870 seats arranged across multiple levels, creating good sightlines throughout the hall.

The building opened in 1918 and originally hosted Broadway touring productions under Shubert Management. Over time it transitioned from a commercial touring venue to an educational institution, eventually becoming central to the University of the Arts.

The space serves as a training ground and showcase for both student performers and established artists who share the same stage. Audiences encounter new generations of theater talent alongside accomplished professionals in a shared educational and cultural mission.

The venue offers wheelchair accessibility and assisted listening devices for visitors who need them. Its South Broad Street location puts it near public transit options making it straightforward to reach from anywhere in the city.

The building preserves original design elements from architect Herbert J. Krapp dating to its 1918 opening while maintaining contemporary performance systems. This blend of early 1900s craftsmanship with current technical capabilities creates a space where historical architecture serves living theater.

Location: Philadelphia

Inception: August 26, 1918

Architects: Herbert J. Krapp

Official opening: August 26, 1918

Capacity: 1870

Website: http://uarts.edu/about/merriam-theater

GPS coordinates: 39.94760,-75.16480

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:57