James Earl Jones Theatre

The James Earl Jones Theatre is a theater building on West 48th Street featuring a neoclassical exterior with Corinthian columns and ornamental glass details above the stage opening. Inside, visitors find a marble lobby with decorative plasterwork and a three-level auditorium designed for classical theater productions.

The building opened in 1912, designed by architect Thomas W. Lamb who drew inspiration from French classical style. The venue became part of the Shubert Organization in 1927, which solidified its position as a major Broadway house.

The theater took the name of James Earl Jones in 2022, celebrating the legendary actor who launched his Broadway career on this stage in 1958. The renaming reflects his influence on American theater and the deep connection between performer and venue.

The theater has three levels and provides infrared devices for patrons with hearing difficulties as well as wheelchair access. Visitors with special needs will find various accommodations and accessible facilities throughout the venue.

The marble lobby is decorated with plasterwork inspired by the Petit Trianon palace at Versailles, creating an unexpected touch of French refinement within a Broadway theater. This European design element sets the interior apart from many other venues on the street.

Location: Manhattan

Inception: December 20, 1912

Architects: Thomas W. Lamb

Official opening: December 20, 1912

Capacity: 1084

Address: 138 West 48th Street

Website: http://shubert.nyc/theatres/cort

GPS coordinates: 40.75917,-73.98306

Latest update: December 6, 2025 21:27