The Theatre Museum

The Theatre Museum focuses on Broadway show photographs and theatrical artifacts from a broad range of performing productions. The institution operates without a permanent exhibition space, instead organizing temporary displays and events at various locations across New York City.

The organization was founded in 2003 through a merger with the Broadway Theatre Institute, which had been active since 1986. This consolidation of the two entities created the foundation for the museum's current mission.

The museum presents annual Awards for Excellence in Theatre History Preservation and Theatre Arts Education, honoring significant contributions to the performing arts.

The museum displays its collections through rotating exhibitions at various locations throughout New York City, so visitors should check ahead for current event locations and dates. The best way to stay informed about current activities and venues is to check the museum's website or local arts event calendars.

The museum presented an exhibition about showboats featuring authentic items such as a calliope, programs, production photographs, and oral histories from entertainment barge residents. This collection documented a vanished chapter of American show business and its traveling performance culture.