Circle In The Square Theatre - Broadway's Special Spot
When you think of New York City, you probably picture bright lights and big shows, and that, is that, truly what Broadway offers. Among all the famous spots, there is a very special place called the Circle in the Square Theatre. It offers a unique kind of experience for anyone who loves live performances. This particular spot, tucked away in the city's well-known theatre area, has been putting on shows that people remember for a long time since it first opened its doors in 1951. It is, in a way, a cozy spot where every seat feels close to the action.
This venue, a historic place in New York City, has a long story to tell through its many performances. You can find tickets for upcoming events here, and it is, frankly, a good idea to look ahead to see what is playing. The schedule of shows, ticket costs, and how many seats are available for different performances, like "Just in Time," are all things you can check out. This theatre, as a matter of fact, provides a chance to see some truly memorable work on stage.
The Circle in the Square Theatre sits at 235 West 50th Street, just below the street level inside the Paramount Plaza building. This location, in the Midtown Manhattan area of New York City, New York, U.S., gives it a somewhat hidden feel, yet it is still right in the middle of everything. It is, you know, a place where the magic of the stage feels very close, making each show feel like a personal event for everyone watching.
Table of Contents
- A Special Place for Performances
- What Makes Circle in the Square Theatre Unique?
- Finding Your Way to Circle in the Square Theatre
- Where is Circle in the Square Theatre Located?
- A Look Back at Circle in the Square Theatre's Beginnings
- Who Started Circle in the Square Theatre?
- Catching a Show at Circle in the Square Theatre
- What Kind of Shows Play at Circle in the Square Theatre?
A Special Place for Performances
Stepping into the Circle in the Square Theatre offers a distinct way to experience Broadway. It is, you know, not like some of the larger, more traditional auditoriums you might find. This particular spot gives you a cozy feeling, making every performance feel very close and personal. When you are there, it is almost like the actors are performing just for you, which makes the whole experience quite special. The design of the theatre helps create this feeling, pulling you right into the story unfolding on stage.
Since 1951, this theatre has been a home for shows that truly leave a mark on people. It has built a reputation for presenting memorable works that stay with you long after the curtain falls. The shows here are, in some respects, known for their strong performances and the way they draw you into the world of the play. This closeness to the stage means you can pick up on every small detail, every expression, which really makes a difference to how you enjoy the show.
People often talk about how the performances here are quite powerful, and that is because of the way the theatre is set up. It lets you feel a direct connection to the story and the people telling it. This kind of setting, you see, creates an atmosphere where the art of acting can really shine, making for an evening out that is more than just watching a play; it is like being a part of it. It is, pretty much, a place where the barrier between the audience and the performers feels very thin.
What Makes Circle in the Square Theatre Unique?
One of the most striking things about the Circle in the Square Theatre is its stage. It is a Broadway theatre with a thrust stage, which means the stage reaches out into the audience on three sides. This design is, in a way, quite different from what you might expect from a typical Broadway house, where the stage is usually only at the front. This setup means that no matter where you sit, you are relatively close to the performers, and you get a different view of the action depending on your seat.
In its earlier days, the Circle in the Square Theatre provided a chance for some of America's best actors to take on really challenging parts. These actors could work in a setting where they did not have to worry so much about the usual pressures of selling tickets or making a big profit. This freedom, you know, allowed them to focus completely on their craft, leading to some truly remarkable and honest performances. It was a place where artistic expression could really flourish without too many outside concerns.
The theatre's seating arrangement can also be changed. It was built with seating that could be set up for three or four sides around the stage, holding up to 600 people. This adaptability means the theatre can be shaped to fit the needs of different shows, which is quite clever. It allows for a lot of creativity in how productions are staged, making each visit to the Circle in the Square Theatre potentially a fresh experience. This flexibility, you see, contributes to its special character.
The unique stage and the history of giving actors a space to explore their skills freely mean that shows here often feel very immediate and personal. You are not just watching a play; you are almost inside it, which is a powerful feeling. This close connection between the audience and the stage is, basically, what many people remember most about seeing a show at this particular theatre. It is, in fact, a design choice that truly sets it apart.
Finding Your Way to Circle in the Square Theatre
Locating the Circle in the Square Theatre is pretty straightforward once you know where to look. It is situated right in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, a very busy part of New York City. The theatre itself is at 235 West 50th Street, and it is a bit unique because it is actually located within the basement area of the Paramount Plaza building. This means you might not spot it right away from the street, but there are clear signs to guide you in.
Getting there by public transport is quite simple, too. You can take the C or E subway lines directly to 50th Street, which drops you off very close by. Alternatively, if you are on the N or R lines, you can get off at 49th Street, and it is just a short walk from there. These subway stops are, you know, very convenient for anyone coming from different parts of the city. It is, in a way, very accessible for visitors and locals alike.
The theatre is on the north side of 50th Street, just off Broadway, which is a street everyone recognizes. This area is always full of life, with other theatres, restaurants, and shops all around. So, finding the Circle in the Square Theatre means you are already in a lively part of town, ready for a night out. It is, in fact, very much a part of the vibrant theatre scene that New York City is famous for.
Where is Circle in the Square Theatre Located?
To be very specific about its placement, the Circle in the Square Theatre calls 235 West 50th Street its home. This address puts it squarely in the Midtown Manhattan neighborhood of New York City, New York, U.S. It is literally just a stone's throw from the bright lights of Broadway, making it a central spot for theatre lovers. The fact that it is within the basement of Paramount Plaza gives it a certain kind of intimate feeling, almost like a secret gem hidden below the hustle and bustle of the street above.
The theatre's position between 50th and 51st streets, just a little bit off the main Broadway thoroughfare, means it is easy to find while still feeling like its own distinct place. You can walk to it from several directions, and the surrounding area is always full of activity. This location, you know, makes it a convenient choice for anyone looking to catch a show after dinner or before exploring more of the city. It is, pretty much, in the heart of where everything happens.
Its precise spot on the north side of 50th Street means that once you are on the right block, it is quite visible. The entrance is designed to welcome you into a world of live performance, away from the sounds of the city. So, if you are planning a visit, just remember 235 West 50th Street, and you will find your way to the Circle in the Square Theatre with ease. It is, as a matter of fact, a key part of the Broadway landscape.
A Look Back at Circle in the Square Theatre's Beginnings
The Circle in the Square Theatre has a rich history that goes back to 1951 when it was first created. This original founding laid the groundwork for what would become a very important part of the Broadway scene. However, the theatre did not stay in its first spot. It moved to its current home on 50th Street in 1972, which was a significant moment for the city's theatre world. This move marked a new chapter for the company and its performances.
When the Circle in the Square Theatre opened its doors at the new 50th Street address, it was quite a big deal. At that time, it was the first brand new Broadway theatre to be built in New York City in fifty years. This fact alone shows how important its arrival was to the growth and development of live theatre in the city. It was, you know, a sign that Broadway was still growing and finding new ways to present shows to people.
Before its move to Midtown, in 1960, the company had actually moved to a different location downtown. This was the Circle in the Square Downtown, found at 159 Bleecker Street in the Greenwich Village area. This earlier spot also played a part in the theatre's story, helping it build its reputation before settling into its more permanent Broadway home. So, it has, in some respects, had a few different homes over the years.
The current Circle in the Square Theatre in Midtown, which was built in 1970, was designed with that special intimate feel in mind. After it opened, it quickly became known for this cozy design, which worked very well for putting on really engaging theatre productions. This design choice helped solidify its place as a unique venue where audiences could feel truly connected to the performances. It is, basically, a design that has stood the test of time.
Who Started Circle in the Square Theatre?
The Circle in the Square Theatre was founded by a group of creative individuals who had a vision for a different kind of theatre. In 1951, Theodore Mann, Jose Quintero, Jason Wingreen, Aileen Cramer, Ed Mann, and Emily Stevens all came together to start this venture. Their combined efforts laid the foundation for what would become a beloved institution. Later, in 1963, Paul Libin joined this group, adding to the theatre's leadership and helping to guide its future.
Paul Libin, in particular, played a very long and important part in the life of the Circle in the Square Theatre and its associated theatre school. He led both for an impressive 62 years, showing a deep dedication to the arts and to the theatre's mission. During much of this time, he also served as an executive vice president and producing director for Jujamcyn Theaters for 28 years, up until 2017. He was, additionally, the president of Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS for 24 years, ending in 2018, which shows his wide influence in the theatre community.
These founders and leaders, especially Paul Libin, helped shape the theatre's identity and its commitment to artistic freedom. They created a space where actors could truly explore their characters without the usual commercial pressures, which was a very forward-thinking idea for its time. Their legacy continues to influence the types of shows and the atmosphere that the Circle in the Square Theatre maintains today. It is, you know, a testament to their lasting impact on Broadway.
The vision of these individuals created a place where theatre could be explored in a more personal and direct way. They wanted to build a theatre that felt different, and they certainly succeeded. The unique design and the focus on strong acting were, in fact, central to their original goals. Their work allowed the Circle in the Square Theatre to become a truly special place for performers and audiences alike.
Catching a Show at Circle in the Square Theatre
If you are looking to see a performance at the Circle in the Square Theatre, getting tickets is fairly simple. You can often find Circle in the Square Theatre tickets at ticketmaster.com, which is a common way for many people to buy their seats. This site usually provides details on concert and event schedules for the venue, along with information on how to get there, and seating charts so you can pick your spot. It is, basically, your go-to for planning your visit.
When it comes to upcoming events, you can purchase tickets and see what is playing at the Circle in the Square Theatre. This venue is known for bringing incredible and quite memorable shows and events that you might not want to miss. Checking the schedule ahead of time is a good idea to make sure you catch the performances that interest you most. You will find a variety of shows, which means there is often something for many different tastes.
One recent example of a show that played here is "Just in Time," featuring Tony Award winner Jonathan Groff. He is known for his work in "Merrily We Roll Along" and "Hamilton," and he returned to Broadway for this show as Bobby Darin. Darin was a very well-known singer whose relatively short but remarkable life saw him go from a teen idol to a global superstar. This production was, in a way, a big draw for many theatregoers.
The show about Bobby Darin, directed by Tony Award winner Alex Timbers, was an immersive experience. It changed the Circle in the Square Theatre into a nightclub, complete with a live big band right there on the stage. This kind of transformation shows how flexible the theatre's space can be for different productions. The show featured Darin's timeless hits like "Splish Splash," "Mack the Knife," and "Dream Lover," tracing his very quick climb to fame and his lasting impact on the music world. It was, apparently, a truly unique way to tell his story.
Most of the productions held at the theatre typically last somewhere between an hour and a half to two and a half hours. This range means you can plan your evening accordingly, knowing roughly how long the performance will be. It is, you know, a good piece of information to have when you are making plans for dinner or other activities before or after the show. This general timeframe applies to many of the different types of performances you might see.
It is important to remember that the Circle in the Square Theatre is not responsible for replacing or refunding tickets bought through a third party. If you get your tickets from another source, any questions about refunds or replacements should go directly to where you bought them. This policy is, of course, a common one, but it is good to keep in mind when you are making your purchase. Always direct your ticket questions to the original point of sale.
What Kind of Shows Play at Circle in the Square Theatre?
The Circle in the Square Theatre has a history of hosting a wide range of productions, often featuring well-known performers. Various actors from both Broadway stages and screen productions have appeared at this theatre, and more are planning to be in upcoming shows. This means you have a good chance of seeing some familiar faces when you visit. The theatre tends to attract talent who appreciate its unique setting and the close connection it allows with the audience.
When it comes to finding the best seats at the Circle in the Square Theatre, many people suggest the first few rows of the center section. These seats are said to give you a great view of the stage and allow for the most immersive experience. Because of the thrust stage design, being closer means you are truly surrounded by the performance, making it feel very real and immediate. It is, you know, a great way to feel part of the story.
You can check the seating plan for the Circle in the Square Theatre on the New York Theatre Guide, which also lets you book theatre tickets and get travel information. This resource is quite helpful for planning your visit and making sure you get the seats that are right for you. It provides all the necessary details to make your trip to the theatre as smooth as possible. So, you can, pretty much, get all your information in one spot.
The theatre also provides accessibility information, which is important for many visitors. Knowing how to get to the theatre and what services are available for those with specific needs can make a big difference in planning a comfortable visit. You can find details about directions and box office information for the Circle in the Square Theatre, ensuring you have all the facts before you arrive. This attention to detail is, in fact, part of what makes the experience enjoyable for everyone.
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