When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
59E59 Theaters
Why 59E59 Theaters is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
59E59 Theaters offers an exceptional cultural experience in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, situated conveniently at 59 East 59th Street between Park and Madison Avenues. This contemporary theater complex is celebrated for presenting a diverse and innovative range of Off-Broadway productions, making it a popular gathering place for theater enthusiasts and friends looking to enjoy thought-provoking performances together. The venue features three distinct stages—Theater A, Theater B, and Theater C—each equipped with state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems that deliver immersive theatrical experiences. The sleek, modern design alongside an elegant lounge area provides an inviting atmosphere for pre-show and intermission refreshments. Since its inception in 2004, 59E59 Theaters has been committed to fostering creativity and excellence by supporting non-profit theater companies with comprehensive resources including production, marketing, and technical support. Its location in Midtown offers easy access via multiple subway lines (N, R, W, 4, 5, 6) and bus routes, making it a convenient choice when planning a night out. With a program curated year-round, showcasing everything from new plays to musicals and international works, 59E59 Theaters is more than just a venue—it is a vibrant hub of cultural exchange and artistic innovation that promises enriching experiences for groups of friends seeking memorable theater outings.
Here's what people think of 59E59 Theaters
As of recent, 59E59 Theaters holds a 4.7-star rating based on 456 reviews.
Reviews of 59E59 Theaters highlight its status as a top Off-Broadway destination, praised for delivering high-quality theatrical productions in a sophisticated setting. Users frequently commend the venue for the excellent variety of shows it offers, ranging from powerful dramas to inventive musicals, which cater to a wide array of tastes. The modern facilities, particularly the advanced lighting and sound systems, are noted for significantly enhancing the audience experience. Reviewers also appreciate the friendly and professional staff, along with the comfortable and stylish lounge that adds to the overall enjoyment before and between performances. Positive feedback often emphasizes the theater's commitment to supporting non-profit theater companies, which many find admirable and culturally enriching. On the other hand, some negative comments mention occasional issues with seating comfort and ticket availability during popular shows. A few visitors have also noted that the venue's acoustic quality can vary depending on the production and seat location. Despite minor critiques, the overall consensus in the reviews paints 59E59 Theaters as a premiere and dependable venue for those looking to experience innovative and thought-provoking theater in an accessible Midtown location. Its strong reputation for programming and welcoming environment secures its appeal amongst locals and tourists alike.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Gary Levin
We saw a wonderful program tonight, Polishing Shakespeare. Written a year ago, it sounds like it could have been written yesterday. The three person cast is wonderful, with the playwright as one of the characters. 59E59 is a set of three stages that can accommodate a wide variety of programs. There is almost always something interesting showing, so get on its mailing list.
Carina Kwok
We attended a fabulous show here. On the second floor is a little bar, but you need to finish your drinks because they can't go in the theatre. The staff were courteous and welcoming, even when my long jacket got in their way (sorry!). Just FYI, there's no coat check, so wear a short jacket.
Jeffrey Solis
Good productions for the most part, but lacks a Rush Ticket policy That other non-profit have. This I know first hand has kept many from attending E59 productions because of fact that we don't know much about many of the presentations because they come usually from overseas and lack major reviews. Foolishly losing under 40 market ( as their average audience looks over 85) and houses are rarely full, recent Charles Busch play an exception
Allison Abbate
I just saw the delightful theater adaptation of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice and thoroughly enjoyed it. The play is performed by three wonderful British actors who all did amazing jobs inhabiting the colorful characters of this classic piece. For a property that is so well known, I was blown away by how fresh the material seemed in this production. Of course the wonderful love story that it is so famous for was beautifully depicted, but the adaptation really pulled forward the extaordinary comedic characters and reimagined the piece to pull forward the hysterical comedy that is often overshadowed by the poignant love story. The three actors play all the roles and watching them transform before your eyes adds to the amusement. The production felt familiar, fresh and fun; a trifecta that is a rare treat and another testament to how spectular this timeclass classic continues to be!
Kristen Birkelbach (The Disability Ally NYC)
We are so lucky to have this theater in midtown east . We have the option to enjoy plays here without having to deal with the hustle and bustle of Broadway. The staff has always been nice when I’ve attended . I also love that there is a small concession area if you want a drink or snack before the show . Also of note , you can buy a copy of the script at the concession bar too if you loved a particular performance . Such a great idea . Wheelchair , walker & stroller Accessible Bathrooms are located on the bottom level that you can easily get to by elevator . 59E59 Theaters is wheelchair accessible. Theater A and Theater B have wheelchair accessible seats in the front row. There are several other locations in Theater A that are accessible without steps and may have wheelchair access. When booking online, look for ADA accessible seats, or call our Box Office at 646-892-7999 to order tickets, and they will be happy to assist you based on your needs. All three theaters are equipped with radio assistive listening devices for the hearing impaired. Hearing loop adaptors are also available. Large print programs are available upon request. You can see pics of my visit in the photos section ;)
How to reach 59E59 Theaters
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Why 59E59 Theaters may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at this place with your friends?
When looking for a memorable spot to gather with friends or family, 59E59 Theaters stands out as an exceptional choice. Nestled in the vibrant heart of Midtown Manhattan, this contemporary theater complex is much more than just a venue—it’s a cultural hub where creativity, innovation, and shared experiences converge. With an impressive 4.7-star rating from over 450 reviews, the reputation of 59E59 for delivering engaging, high-quality performances is well-established. Rallying your group here means immersing yourselves in a world of diverse theatrical productions that range from cutting-edge American works to international premieres. The sleek, modern design of the theaters gives the venue a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere that encourages social interaction before, during, and after the shows, making it ideal for groups who enjoy lively discussions and reflections on art. Additionally, the strategic Midtown location is easily accessible via multiple subway lines and bus routes, ensuring that your meetup is convenient for everyone. Whether you’re theater enthusiasts or novices, the shared experience of watching award-winning shows together creates lasting memories and sparks meaningful conversations, enriching your time with friends in a uniquely cultural and stimulating environment.
What types of activities can your group enjoy at 59E59 Theaters?
59E59 Theaters offers a rich variety of activities centered primarily on theater arts but also fostering social engagement and cultural exploration. The venue contains three distinct performance spaces—Theater A, Theater B, and Theater C—each designed to host different types of theatrical presentations. This diversity in spaces allows your group to experience anything from intimate plays in a smaller setting to larger, more dynamic musicals and performances. The carefully curated program throughout the year showcases more than 30 productions annually, ranging from new American works to international theater that often premieres exclusively at 59E59. Beyond the shows, the venue features an elegant lounge where groups can gather before the performance or during intermission for refreshments, providing an excellent setting to connect and share impressions in real time. The lounge atmosphere enhances the social aspect of a meetup, making it a perfect spot to unwind and engage in lively discussions about what you are about to see or have just experienced. Additionally, the theater’s commitment to high-end sound and lighting technology ensures that every show offers an immersive and high-quality theatrical experience that your friends and family will appreciate. This combination of top-tier performances, cozy social spaces, and a modern, accessible venue makes it a versatile place to gather for entertainment and meaningful shared moments.
Why is 59E59 Theaters perfect for a group meetup?
The uniqueness of 59E59 Theaters as a meetup spot lies in its ability to blend cultural enrichment with comfortable social interaction all under one roof. Its three theaters provide versatile stage settings that cater to groups of varying sizes, whether it’s a handful of close friends or a larger family outing. The venue’s design and amenities were thoughtfully planned; from sleek interiors to excellent acoustics and lighting, each detail enhances everyone’s ability to engage with the performances, creating a shared emotional and intellectual journey. Beyond aesthetics and technical aspects, 59E59’s mission to support not-for-profit theater companies means many productions are original, innovative, and often exclusive, providing your group with a fresh artistic experience that can’t be found elsewhere. Another great advantage is the financial model where theater companies keep the vast majority of ticket sales and pay no weekly rent, which translates into a strong lineup of quality, diverse shows at reasonable ticket prices—an important consideration for groups looking for affordable outings. The theater’s central location near Park and Madison Avenues makes meeting up easy regardless of where friends or family are coming from within New York City. For attendees, this accessibility combined with the venue’s reputation gives confidence that the day or evening will be smooth, enjoyable, and culturally fulfilling, which is exactly what a perfect group outing demands.
What types of shows and performances are featured here?
59E59 Theaters is dedicated to presenting an eclectic selection of Off-Broadway productions, including plays, musicals, and experimental performances. The programming strongly focuses on premieres, both American and international, making it an ideal place for discovering new works and emerging voices in contemporary theater. The theater supports a diverse range of genres and styles, from serious dramas to lighthearted comedies, and even multidisciplinary and innovative productions that challenge traditional boundaries. Many shows presented are by non-profit theater companies, which means the productions often carry a creative and artistic passion that resonates well with audiences seeking meaningful cultural experiences. Past seasons have featured productions that received prestigious awards and critical acclaim, adding to the venue’s reputation as a launching pad for high-quality theater. For groups interested in the arts, 59E59 provides a compelling range of content that can cater to various tastes within the group, ensuring that everyone finds something intriguing to engage with, sparking discussions and shared excitement about diverse theatrical storytelling.
How accessible and convenient is the location of 59E59 Theaters?
The location of 59E59 Theaters at 59 East 59th Street in Manhattan ensures it is highly accessible and convenient for group meetups. Situated between Park and Madison Avenues, this spot is well-served by numerous public transportation options, including several subway lines (N, R, W, 4, 5, 6) that stop at 59th Street, making it easy to reach from various parts of New York City. Additionally, multiple bus routes (M1, M2, M3, M4, M5, M31) service the area, further enhancing the ease of access for those who prefer surface transportation. For groups traveling from outside the city or from neighboring boroughs, this central location is a natural meeting point that minimizes travel time. The theater’s proximity to a variety of cafes, restaurants, and shops in Midtown also allows groups to extend their meetup beyond the theater experience, whether by grabbing a meal before or after the show or just enjoying a stroll through a bustling part of the city. This accessibility combined with vibrant surroundings makes it effortless to organize and enjoy a group outing at 59E59 Theaters.
What amenities does 59E59 Theaters provide to enhance your group experience?
59E59 Theaters boasts several amenities that significantly enhance the experience for groups attending performances. Foremost among these is the elegant lounge that serves as a welcoming social space where friends and family can gather before shows and during intermissions. The availability of refreshments in this area allows groups to relax and converse in comfort, turning waiting times into pleasant social opportunities. Each theater is equipped with state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems, ensuring that every seat in the house delivers crystal-clear audio and spectacular visual effects, which heighten the overall enjoyment of any production. The venue also offers full service including ticketing, marketing, and front-of-house support, which helps groups by streamlining the arrival and seating process so that less time is spent in lines or confusion. The nonprofit nature of the theater means that ticket prices tend to be reasonable while supporting artistic innovation, making it a value-packed outing. These thoughtful amenities combined create an environment where your group can focus on enjoying the performances together without hassle, making 59E59 an inviting and hassle-free destination for cultural group experiences.
How does 59E59 Theaters support artists, and why does it matter for your meetup?
59E59 Theaters is deeply committed to supporting emerging and established not-for-profit theater companies by providing them with rent-free Performance spaces and extensive production support. This mission means that the venue showcases innovative and original theatrical productions that might otherwise struggle to find a platform in New York City. For groups meeting here, this commitment translates into a roster of cutting-edge, high-quality performances that you won’t find on mainstream commercial stages. The theater’s role in nurturing creativity ensures that every show is fresh, often experimental, and artistically rich, offering attendees a unique chance to experience theater as a dynamic art form in the making. The sense that you are supporting a nonprofit cultural institution adds a dimension of social responsibility to your outing, which can deepen the group’s connection to the arts. It also enhances conversations about the performances, creative processes, and the importance of independent art, enriching the meetup beyond mere entertainment. This makes 59E59 Theaters not just a venue but a vital cultural partner for any meaningful group gathering.
What makes 59E59 Theaters a place for all kinds of groups?
59E59 Theaters caters admirably to a variety of group types, whether it’s friends celebrating a birthday, families enjoying a day out, theater clubs, or colleagues seeking an inspiring outing. The three distinct theaters provide flexibility in seating and stage design, which accommodates intimate groups as well as larger parties in a comfortable way. The broad program of diverse theatrical styles makes it easy to select productions that match the interests and sensitivities of your group members. The venue’s inclusive and welcoming ambiance creates a relaxed environment allowing everyone to enjoy the shared experience regardless of their prior knowledge of theater. Moreover, the central Midtown location is especially convenient for urban dwellers and visitors alike, making logistics straightforward. The affordability of tickets combined with premium technical setups and service quality means your group benefits from both value and excellence, creating a fulfilling social and cultural event. In short, 59E59 Theaters excels as a gathering spot for groups with diverse backgrounds and interests who want to enjoy the best of innovative Off-Broadway theater.
How should your group plan a meetup at 59E59 Theaters?
Planning a meetup at 59E59 Theaters involves selecting from the rich slate of upcoming performances which is refreshed regularly to showcase the best in contemporary theater. Since the theater runs productions nearly year-round, your group has ample flexibility to choose dates and shows that suit everyone’s schedule. Booking tickets in advance is highly recommended to secure seats together, especially for popular productions or larger groups. Utilizing the theater’s ticketing services can simplify the process, and group discounts or special accommodations may sometimes be available—checking with the box office ahead of time is advisable. Arriving early to enjoy the lounge space, grab refreshments, and socialize sets a great tone for the evening and maximizes the communal experience. Because the theater is located in a lively part of Manhattan, your plans can easily include activities before or after the show, such as dining or strolling nearby attractions, making the meetup an extended cultural outing. Thoughtful planning will ensure a smooth and rewarding experience for your friends or family at this premier Off-Broadway venue.