Orpheum Theatre

The Orpheum Theatre is a theater building in the East Village with 347 seats arranged to bring audiences close to performers on stage. The intimate layout of the performance space creates an immediate connection between the stage and viewers.

This theater opened in 1904 as Player's Theatre and became part of the Second Avenue Jewish Rialto, a thriving theater district known for Yiddish performances. The era marked a period when the neighborhood served as a cultural destination for working-class audiences.

This theater became a hub for experimental and avant-garde performances that drew artists willing to take creative risks. Over time, it earned a reputation as a place where unconventional shows could find an audience.

The theater is located on Second Avenue near Astor Place subway station, which serves multiple transit lines. Several bus routes stop within easy walking distance, making public transportation access straightforward.

The building preserves original architectural details from its founding era while being equipped with modern stage and lighting technology. This blend of historic charm and contemporary functionality creates a space where the past and present artistic practice coexist.

Location: Manhattan

Inception: 1904

Official opening: 1904

Capacity: 347

Address: 126 2nd Avenue, New York, NY 10003

GPS coordinates: 40.72830,-73.98770

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:56