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Delacorte Theater
81 Central Park West, New York, NY 10024, United States
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Ma
Review №1

The Public Theater performs “Shakespeare in the Park here every year. Free to the public by way of online lottery and day of performance first come in lineup. Excellent talents and exquisite scenes and sets. Open air theater is comfortable unless rain or cold descends. Beverages and light food are available there as well as restrooms just outside the theater. After or before enjoy the park and frog pond.

Ca
Review №2

The delacourt theater is one of the treasures of new York City, primarily because of its hosting of the Shakespeare in the park programs that allow the public the opportunity to see some of the great works of English literature.The open air venue is lovely, and you sit in a theater surrounded by trees that belie its location in the heart of the city.

Sh
Review №3

We saw a fantastic free Shakespeare in the Park performance, put on by Public Theater. The venue is a great outdoor amphitheatre which offers beer, wine, and snacks. Highly recommend visiting (and getting your tickets before 5pm)!

Ji
Review №4

Great place, dont get seats in section E though because the angle is bad. A little bit of excitement when the heavens opened and it poured and poured. Still waiting to find out if the play will continue. Lots of fun, didnt need to go to the ticket booth four hours before they opened at noon. I could have arrived at 11:30. But probably on weekends and times when its guaranteed to be dry that would not be true. Certainly worth the visit.

Wi
Review №5

Shakespeare in the park - Much Ado About Nothing. The play was amazing; an all black casts. Danielle Brooks from Orange Is the New Black play Beatrice.

Ed
Review №6

A NYC staple. A singular adventure. Kudos to Mr. Kenny Leon for not merely modernizing Shakespeares Much Ado... but challenging his audience to recognize (be it by design or chance) those who find themselves numbered in ...the Watch... have a duty to expose mischief and villainy. In addition, those directly affected (while not reacting as vehemently as Beatrice) should have an equally emotive response to such potentially ruinous acts.

Za
Review №7

This theater is a gift to the city. There is nothing quite like sitting under the stars in Central Park and watching world class Shakespeare. And!!! ITS FREE!!! (if you are willing to wait in a very long line.) I recommend you pack folding chairs, books, and snacks and make a day of it (get there early.) Another great thing about Shakespeare in the park is that it is BYOB! (no glass containers.) I have seen so many great show here, and I am moved every time. I cant recommend this highly enough.

Ca
Review №8

This is the place to see Shakespeare in the park. Its a little easier to get tickets now that they have a digital lottery so no more lining up for hours in the morning! This is an outdoor theater so be prepared for the weather (no umbrellas during showtime) - shows will go on as long as the weather is not dangerous. The productions only run during the summer, and they feature some of the best actors and actresses. Seats are reasonably comfortable, which is important since you will in them for a few hours.

Wi
Review №9

Amazing showcase of public theater. Watch world class productuctions under the stars for free. One of the things that make living in this city worthwhile.

Bi
Review №10

Saw Shakespeare in the Park performance of 12th Night. The theater is very accessible by everyone and accommodates patrons of all ages and abilities. Before the show we were encouraged to go in stage and interact with the performers. The theater itself has food and beverages for sale and many people spend time at the restaurant having drinks before the show begins. It is a pretty intimate setting and there isnt really a bad seat. It is outdoors so weather has an impact on the show but it also makes for beautiful surroundings. We have been there before and will be there again. Its one of the must do activities in the city.

A
Review №11

Review Date 7/29/17 - A Midsummers Night Dream. Entertaining and fun. The magic of this theater never gets old.Review Date 6/18/17: The show is free. Tickets are distributed at 12PM. Senior citizens have a separate line in the front.Just go and experience the magic of the theatre because it never fails. Thankfully the plays in the last few years have been wonderful. I cant recommend it enough.Each person can get two tickets and you must stay in line the entire time. Bathrooms are at the theatre and theres a deli that delivers food regularly. Food And Drinks are allowed in the theater, but no glass containers allowed.Generally speaking you want to get in line by 6 AM for good productions; for productions with high profile celebrities cast members you need to get in line by 5AM; for less popular shows you can get in line as late as 7AM, maybe later.The staff takes pictures of the line because there is a strict policy about holding a place for a larger group and the folks in line with you will speak up to enforce this rule.There are digital tickets via lottery online, but youre guaranteed tickets if you wait in line as prescribed.You should bring a blanket, a long slave swearer/sweatshirt because the park can get cold and youll want to be able to lay down on the grass to catch some sleep or relax as you wait for tickets to be handed out.Lastly, theres a large rock outcrop close to the 83rd street lamp-post. Central Park lamp posts have numbers and an E or W to indicate East or West. The number corresponds to the street. This outcrop is The Rock of Hope. Generally, if youre in line close to this rock youre hoping to get tickets. GENERALLY. you can always ask the staff who counts patrons on line what are the chances of getting tickets.

Ni
Review №12

The show is free, food and beer is reasonable and it’s NYC in the cool late summer evening. What else do you want? Well maybe a raccoon might run on stage. I always like that.

Ol
Review №13

Great theater in Central Park, Shakespeare in the Park is a must do here! (But be warned, the seats are bun-numbing, might be a good idea to bring a cushion of sorts.)

Is
Review №14

It was a phenomenal experience the actors and the performance itself was original the cast was great and profound. Classic Ive seen nothing like it & highly recommended to any and all ages( they take Shakespeare and bring ...it and it becomes so understandable and relatable to our current. It really pays to be a patriot and support your locals especially when it comes to cultural awareness and your support it also would not do justice to this performance if I didnt include the amazing performance by the children staff Theatre of New York they were absolutely astounding as a part of this production.

An
Review №15

Went to see much ado about nothing. The show was excellent and the theatre is nice. If you get the chance try to get tickets.

Ve
Review №16

Helpful and friendly staff. Seats were more comfortable than expected for an amphitheatre setting. Rose wine was sweet and yummy!

Wa
Review №17

We watched the free & very well reviewed modern dress production of the Shakespearean classic Much Ado About Nothing at the Delacorte Theater in Central Park. It was amazing & the actors were spectacular.

Ge
Review №18

There is nothing quite like a little Shakespeare under the stars in the crisp New York summer air. Or, conversely, being rained on during intense productions. I visit every year and it always seems to get better as time passes. A hallowed summer tradition that cant be beat and its free!

Al
Review №19

This must be my favorite outdoor activity in New York! Its amazing how after all these decades they still keep it free for the public. People may think its hard to get tickets but I find it to be not true. Every year I get to see a play either from winning lottery tickets or doing the line for 1-2 hours. Not a big deal. Specially cause is so rewarding in the end!

Al
Review №20

Iconic open air theater to see Shakespeare in the Park. The hard part is getting the free tickets - who was 6-7 hours to wait on line for tix. If you have a connection let me know! Otherwise, consider donating to get your tix because its a must-do NYC experience.

Fr
Review №21

Shakespeare in the park is always a treat. Just stop being political and entertain me.

Le
Review №22

I won tickets from the lottery. I picked them up at the box office with my ID and no problems! They have food, drinks (including alcohol), and snacks at the concession stand before you enter. There is accessible seating for those with disabilities, but it’s inside the park a little ways so it could be an issue to get there. There are paved roads and walkways to the entrance.

Or
Review №23

Saw the final dress rehearsal for 12th Night. It was unbelievable. Amazing cast. Amazing costumes. Incredible musical numbers. It was one of the most magical experiences Ive had in my 10 years in New York.

Ja
Review №24

A beautiful open air theatre usually used for Shakespeare in the park. Stadium seating but you should think about bring something soft for your tuckus. Theyre plastic. Hard plastic.

Gr
Review №25

Went to see Shakespeare in the Park on a recent trip. Had to line up for tickets in the morning, but they were free! Free live theater in NYC?...How do you top that? The play itself (Coralianus) was excellent. This will definitely be on my list of things to do the next time I visit New York city in the summer.

Jo
Review №26

Allows everyone to enjoy live performance

Mr
Review №27

A popular venue for Shakespeare in the Park.

Sa
Review №28

I love this place because you get to see live great performance and great actors that makes the show come to life. Everyone should come and see it and bring their families as well. It is really fun.

P.
Review №29

Just got back from seeing Much Ado about Nothing. Stellar work from all. Of course the outdoor theater was just as magical. It did not rain tonight and it was cool on the first night of the summer soltice of 2019. Danielle Brooks as Beatrice absolutely sublime. The actor who played Benedick, why am I only just now seeing your undeniable brilliance. The only thing I didnt see tonight that I missed was the glorious moon in all her wonderful splendor but still the night was no less magical. If you can catch this? Do so. Bring a friend. If youve never been to The Delacorte Theater in Central Park(west) whats holding you back from having a great night?

sa
Review №30

One of the best places to see a performance in all of NYC. Home of The Publics Shakespeare In The Park, I have seen many shows in this wonderful venue. The seats are very comfortable, and the view of the stage is great from every section. The lighting and sound are always spot on perfect. The setting is very beautiful, in the heart of Central Park with Shakespeares Gardens and Belvedere Castle nearby. The snacks and drinks are good, priced a bit high, but fairly normal for this kind of venue. If you get the chance to see a show here, do it!

Al
Review №31

Must visit! Spend all day in the park!

Sa
Review №32

Gorgeous outdoor amphitheater space with the feel and production capabilities of an indoor theater. I will definitely see another show there!

Pa
Review №33

The Delacorte is outdoors so plan and dress accordingly. Food stalls and staff were helpful. Seats were a tight fit.

Lo
Review №34

Dont miss Shakespeare in the Park!

Ja
Review №35

Shaina Taubs musical adaptation of 12th Night was AMAZING!!! (and I dont like musicals!)

An
Review №36

Nice outdoor theater to watch Shakespeare and other plays. Seats are a bit tight but still very fun!

Sa
Review №37

Nice small open air-theater. Went for a Shakespeare play. Even though it was raining, it continued. It was a wonderful experience. Loved the atmosphere.

Ge
Review №38

Free public theater. You can get tickets by queuing up early on the day for evening shows or signing up on TodayTix app for the lottery or through sponsor firms who get tickets.The performances are great, ushers helpful. The seats are cramped ( made for 5 4 or smaller). The bathrooms can get busy during the break in the shows. The location is great. I lounged around for an hour before the show. A recommended experience for those who like theater.

St
Review №39

Went there for the free Shakespeare play. The entire experience was awesome. Friendly staff. Beautiful location..and the play. Man...so good.

Ed
Review №40

Clean and safe the Delacorte Theater is a New York institution. Featuring productions of Shakespeare in the park, free of charge to citizens and visitors alike. All featured in a magnificent out door setting.

co
Review №41

The show was great. The seats were tiny and very uncomfortable. Like not everyone is tiny.

Do
Review №42

Great when free, but a mixed bag. Is it worth waiting in line all day? Usually not. Go at the last minute and take your chances, particularly during previews.

Ro
Review №43

Watched Othello here over the summer. Long lines as expected however area was clean and staff was very helpful.

SH
Review №44

Their Shows are always Broadway Bound. WhooWhoo to an incredible cast every year.

Na
Review №45

Wonderful outdoor venue. Shakespeare in the Park is one summer event we all look forward to and Much Ado was incredible!

El
Review №46

Free theater nevwr gets old

Th
Review №47

I had pleasure of viewing HERCULES and it was AWESOME! Also, my mom was in the ensemble

Be
Review №48

Free public performances! What could be better?

Da
Review №49

Always a wonderful time catching Shakespeare in the Park!

Ri
Review №50

I saw Much Ado About Nothing. The cast was outstanding. Delacorte Theater is an excellent venue.

Ia
Review №51

Beautiful outdoor arena in Central Park. I was here to see Shakespeare in the Park and had a lovely time. The seats had a great view of the stage and the performance was truly entertaining. It was so nice to be in this hidden nook of Central Park to see theater. Will hopefully be back! The only downside was that the seats werent extremely comfortable, but the show was free so I can hardly complain!

Ar
Review №52

Such a cool outdoor theatre! Great vibes/atmosphere

ma
Review №53

Great space where you get to watch Shakespeare in the park. They do a wonderful job on the set every year. The performances are always great. Definitely worth seeing at least once!

Sh
Review №54

I saw an amazing production! Much Ado About Nothing.

Ad
Review №55

Love the venue and location. The lines can be a little annoying but such is life at a theater. It would be nice if there were some hot drinks served at intermission to warm you up during the cooler months.

K
Review №56

Lovely performance. Serious lack of facilities. Go to the bathroom before you get here and limit fluid take!

Et
Review №57

Home to the Publics free Shakespeare in the Park, this spot is gem in the heart of the city. Performances are typically rain or shine, and are welcoming to diverse crowds experiencing their first of five hundredth Shakespeare performance. Sight lines to the stage are extremely well thought out, so dont worry about sitting close the back. Keep in mind the seats are plastic if youre prone to back pain, you may want to bring a small cushion.

Sn
Review №58

Watched Shakespeare in the park. Absolutely amazing experience and totally work the wait!

Kr
Review №59

Was lucky enough to score two tickets to Shakespeare in the Park and boy , was it an amazing experience! One of the many moments I get a tear in my eye and rejoice in the fact that I get to live here . Prices for food and drinks were very reasonable accompanied by a decent amount of choices . All areas of staff could not have been any more friendly. A night forever in my heart .

Da
Review №60

Coriolanis was poorest show in years. But this open air theater is wonderful.

Je
Review №61

Saw Shakespeare in the Park Much Ado About Nothing , great play, great cast, great venue. An enjoyable experience!

Mi
Review №62

The most beautiful theater in the world. Where values meet value.

Al
Review №63

Shakespeare in the park is the most accessible Shakespeare in the country. Well done Shakespeare doesnt come for free, yet the public gives both several times, every year. Do not miss squander this opportunity if you live in the City.

Ca
Review №64

Even in the rain, the venue is fine and dandy. As a public space, this NYC-OWNED open air theater is truly praiseworthy. It helped that the program we saw, Gospel at Colonus is a terrific event; the theater nonetheless is superb.

Kw
Review №65

Such a inclusive, connected, web of community enjoying the arts of live theater.

Ki
Review №66

Still a great place to visit.pros: excellent acting (by everyone but othello) food was good, virgin drink was tasty. friendly staffcons: seating - I was in line early enough that we shouldve been seated in the center but because I wasnt asked and didnt offer where to seat us we were stage right. food was over priced.

ri
Review №67

Love this theater! If you can attend a performance at this theater, do it! Outdoors in Central Park. Shakespeare in the Park during the summer. Great staff. Great productions. Great casting. Public Theater affiliated.

Ja
Review №68

I have been going to The Delacorte for 6 decades and regard it as one of NYCS greatest attractions. The chance to see high quality Shakespeare productions every summer has become an important ritual for those who stay behind while others flee the heat and humidity. Because of limited runs and limited seating availability, obtaining tickets can be a daunting proposition except for those with access to seat reservations (financial support has its benefits). If you have the time to wait on line there are actual free seats available. That is why this gets 4 stars instead of 5.

Li
Review №69

Free professional Shakespeare in the Park! Got tickets at 5pm via walkup, but that isnt always the case.

Mi
Review №70

Great outdoor theater (run by the Public Theater) with wonderful sight lines. Cant pretend that Ive liked everything here, but quality of the shows is typically strong. And it is free to those with the time and patience to wait in line (or lucky enough to win an online lottery). Catching a show here is certainly a great New York experience.

Pe
Review №71

Great free outdoor theater. Sound and lights were on point.

Ju
Review №72

This theatre has been 100% free for the public since its inception. It has demonstrated the fearless nature of New York’s freedom seekers. It is the perfect example of what a coordinated effort to unify a city through an art form looks like. If you have the privilege of winning a spot to see one of their summer shows, don’t take it for granted!

Sa
Review №73

Fun public theater located in the heart of Central Park. I had the opportunity to see a Midsummer Nights Dream, and it was an absolute delight. Won the tickets via the online lottery. Would definitely recommend you trying to get your hand on tickets for this amazing experience.

Le
Review №74

Such a beautiful night in the middle of Central Park!

Ja
Review №75

Went to Shakespeare in the Park with my girlfriend. It was great. The acting and acoustics were excellent. Get there before 7 am on weekends to make sure you get free tickets!

Jo
Review №76

Arena theatre outdoors. Excellent productions.

Je
Review №77

The atmosphere at Shakespeare in the Park is so unique in that, they are using exceptionally simple set designs, and letting the actors shine. Talent like this so rare anymore, look at our obsession with Marvel films. This production was the opposite of all that nonsense, and truly a breath of fresh air.

Pa
Review №78

Gorgeous outdoor theatre. Never been disappointed here, the summer Shakespeare in the Park series is always amazing!

Mi
Review №79

I havent been inside in many years, but it was a great venue for summertime concerts

Pa
Review №80

Shakespeare in the Park is one of greatest things about New York City!

Jo
Review №81

Great Shakespeare in the Park night, despite the fact that it pissed down rain, it’s an absolute must do.

El
Review №82

The show, Much Ado About Nothing, was outstanding! The acting, dancing and modern interpretation really enhanced the comedic nature of the play.

Ba
Review №83

It’s so wonderful. Shakespeare in the Park at The Delacorte Theatre is a NYC landmark. One of the best things our great city has to offer!

Em
Review №84

We went to the (free) Shakespeare in the park show here, which was fabulous! The theatre itself has a few queuing issues, eg. the queue to get into one of the entrances overlapped with the queue for the bar; the womens bathroom facilities are much, much too small to deal with the size of the audience (so make sure to go before you get there). However, our experience was pretty seamless, and the staff were all friendly and helpful. The seats are quite comfy, and it looks like there arent any obstructed view seats in the house.

Ha
Review №85

Not a bad theater considering its outdoors. They should give you a napkin or something to dry the seat before you sit after it has rained though. Seems like all seats are pretty good seats. But being outdoors you have to worry about the weather. Luckily I brought a sweater cause the wind was blowing a lot and making me cold. Also there are so many insects/bugs around and landing/crawling on you or biting you so thats annoying. Definitely use bug spray.

Da
Review №86

Ample space and great sound, but the seats are SO uncomfortable.

sa
Review №87

Superb shows under the NYC sky.Too many helicopters however interfere with sound.

Fr
Review №88

Great outdoor space in central park. Home of Shakespeare in the Park.

Ma
Review №89

I have seen many Shakespeare in the park plays here and they are always great! The atmosphere makes it that much better as well.

Ro
Review №90

One of the best things NY has to offer every summer

To
Review №91

Refreshing minds with good drama show & green environment

Te
Review №92

This is a great outdoor theatrical experience! From waiting on line to get your free tickets to whatever Shakespeare (or on occasion another classic playwright like Brecht or Chekov) production that is showing that evening, to the actual performance itself, it is a full-day event usually. Ive seen Mother Courage here. Romeo and Juliet. Into the Woods. And Ive loved loved loved every time.

D
Review №93

I was able to see Shakespeare in the Park here on numerous occasions. Luckily it was nice weather out when I went. Pretty much all the seats here give you a great views. You just have to hope that it is nice weather outside though. Likewise, you have to hope that it is not too buggy outside or too windy. Bring a light denim jacket if it gets windy.

Jo
Review №94

A beautiful public playhouse. Everyone should attend a show there at least once.

Co
Review №95

A true Jewel of NYC. If you come to see a show, check the weather for rain and bring a poncho. They will often continue a show when theyre is light rain and its totally open to the elements. NYC must do if you can get tickets.

Sp
Review №96

Has improved tremendously over the years.

Do
Review №97

Filmed as you like it for PBS great performance

Ka
Review №98

There is no excuse not to come here to see Shakespeare in the Park. All you have to do is pack food and a chair or blanket to wait for your free tickets. And every show Ive seen there (with the exception of one that Im willing to ignore) has been absolutely amazing. Usually, the cast is full of big name actors from the stage and screen.I would give a heads up that the seats arent super comfy. So you might want to bring your own pillow if you have any back problems!

Va
Review №99

I went to see Othello. The most impressive show I’ve ever been. The cast is absolutely amazing and very professional. Corey Stroll surprised me with his delightful performance of “Iago”. It is a public theatre, which means it is free, but you must do the line early (my recommendation is aprox. at noon). It is a wonderful expierence that I do not regret at all. Watching people perform in the heart of Central Park , in an astonish city like New York, is a expierence I would never forget in my entire life. 100% recommended.

Ad
Review №100

They offer FREE plays through the year.

Information
100 Photos
100 Comments
4.7 Rating
  • Address:81 Central Park West, New York, NY 10024, United States
  • Site:https://www.centralpark.com/things-to-do/attractions/delacorte-theater/
  • Phone:+1 212-967-7555
Categories
  • Performing arts theater
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair-accessible car park:No
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