Union Square Theatre, Off-Broadway theatre
Union Square Theatre is an independent theatre building in Manhattan on East 17th Street operated by Liberty Theatres, focusing on smaller productions and off-Broadway shows. It features an intimate layout with good sightlines from most seats and maintains a simple, welcoming design that prioritizes the performer-audience connection.
The first theatre bearing this name opened in 1870 on East 14th Street, featuring plays including Oscar Wilde's works and operettas before later becoming a cinema and closing in 1936. The current theatre with this name opened in 1985 near the same area as an off-Broadway venue, running successful long-term productions until closing in early 2016.
The theatre sits at Union Square, a historic gathering place in the heart of Manhattan with deep roots in the city's cultural life. It reflects the role independent smaller theatres play in supporting local artists and connecting performers with audiences who seek a more personal viewing experience.
The venue sits at a major transit hub with easy subway and bus access from across Manhattan. Arriving early gives you better seat selection, and the surrounding neighbourhood has numerous restaurants and cafes where you can spend time before or after a performance.
The theatre gained recognition for extended runs of productions such as Slava's Snowshow and Wit, which attracted loyal audiences over many performances. This ability to sustain shows over long periods set it apart and built its reputation as a reliable venue for sustained theatrical work.
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