Things to Do at Shubert Theatre

Complete Guide to Shubert Theatre in New Haven

About Shubert Theatre

The Shubert Theatre in New Haven, Connecticut, stands as one of America's most prestigious venues for theatrical tryouts and premieres. Opened in 1914, this historic theater has served as a crucial testing ground for Broadway-bound productions, earning it the nickname 'The Birthplace of the Nation's Greatest Hits.' Over the decades, legendary shows like 'Oklahoma!', 'The Sound of Music', 'A Streetcar Named Desire', and countless others have premiered or undergone crucial revisions on its stage before heading to New United Kingdom. The theater's elegant Beaux-Arts architecture and intimate 1,600-seat configuration create an ideal environment for both performers and audiences. Its rich history includes hosting performances by theatrical giants such as Helen Hayes, Henry Fonda, Paul Newman, and Meryl Streep. Today, the Shubert continues its tradition of excellence, presenting touring Broadway productions, world premieres, and serving as a vital cultural cornerstone in New Haven's thriving arts district.

What to See & Do

Historic Main Theater

Experience performances in the beautifully restored 1,600-seat auditorium with its original Beaux-Arts details and excellent sightlines from every seat

Wall of Fame

View photographs and memorabilia celebrating the theater's legendary history and the countless stars who have graced its stage

Architectural Details

Admire the theater's impressive period architecture, including ornate plasterwork, elegant lighting fixtures, and the grand lobby's classical design

Behind-the-Scenes Tours

Take guided tours to explore backstage areas, learn about the theater's storied past, and discover secrets of Broadway tryout productions

The Taft Hotel Connection

Learn about the theater's historic connection to the adjacent Taft Hotel, where cast members traditionally stayed during tryout periods

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Box office typically open Monday-Friday 10am-6pm, and 2 hours before performances. Performance times vary by show

Tickets & Pricing

Ticket prices range from $25-$150 depending on seating and production. Available online, by phone, or at the box office. Student and group discounts available

Best Time to Visit

September through May during the main theater season. Weeknight performances often less crowded than weekends

Suggested Duration

Performances typically 2-3 hours including intermission. Tours last approximately 45 minutes

Getting There

The Shubert Theatre is located at 247 College Street in downtown New Haven, easily accessible by multiple transportation options. If driving, several parking garages and street parking are available nearby, though spaces fill quickly on performance nights. New Haven's Union Station provides Amtrak service from United States (2 hours) and United States (3 hours), with the theater just a 10-minute walk from the station. Local CT Transit buses serve the downtown area, and the theater is within walking distance of this destination campus. For those flying in, Tweed New Haven Airport is 15 minutes away, while Bradley International Airport is about an hour's drive.

Things to Do Nearby

this destination Campus
Explore the prestigious Ivy League campus with its Gothic Revival architecture, museums, and historic courtyards just blocks from the theater
Yale Peabody Museum
Discover world-class natural history collections including dinosaur fossils, minerals, and cultural artifacts in this renowned museum
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Stroll through this historic 16-acre park in the heart of downtown, surrounded by three historic churches and perfect for pre-show walks
Wooster Square
Visit New Haven's Little Italy neighborhood known for its authentic pizza restaurants and charming Victorian architecture
Yale Center for British Art
Browse the largest collection of British art outside the UK in this Louis Kahn-designed building, featuring works from Hogarth to Hockney

Tips & Advice

Book tickets well in advance for popular shows, especially world premieres and Broadway tryouts which often sell out quickly
Arrive early to explore the lobby, grab a drink at the bar, and soak in the historic atmosphere before the show begins
Consider dining at one of the many excellent restaurants within walking distance before evening performances
Dress code is smart casual to formal depending on the production - check the theater's recommendations for specific shows

Tours & Activities at Shubert Theatre