As an expert in the world of theater, I have had the pleasure of exploring the vibrant arts and culture scene in Brooklyn, New York. One of the main draws for theater enthusiasts is the plethora of theatres in Brooklyn, NY. From small and intimate venues to grand and historic theaters, this bustling borough has something for everyone.
The Fascinating History of Brooklyn's Theatres
Brooklyn has a rich history when it comes to theater, dating back to the 19th century when it was a separate city from New York. The first theater to grace Brooklyn's streets was the Brooklyn Theatre, which opened its doors in 1861 and could accommodate over 2,000 people.It quickly became a popular venue for plays, operas, and concerts until it tragically burned down in 1876, claiming the lives of nearly 300 people. After the devastating fire, many new theaters were built in Brooklyn, including the Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM) in 1869. BAM is still in operation today and is one of the oldest continuously operating performing arts centers in the country. With a seating capacity of over 2,000, BAM hosts a variety of performances ranging from theater and dance to music and film.
The Largest Theatre in Brooklyn
While BAM may hold the title of one of the oldest theaters in Brooklyn, it is not the largest. That honor belongs to the Kings Theatre, which opened its doors in 1929 and boasts a seating capacity of over 3,000. Designed by Rapp and Rapp, the same architects behind the iconic Radio City Music Hall in Manhattan, the Kings Theatre was originally built as a movie palace and featured lavish decor and state-of-the-art technology. However, as the popularity of movie theaters declined, the Kings Theatre fell into disrepair and closed its doors in 1977. It sat abandoned for over 30 years until a group of investors purchased it in 2010 and embarked on a $95 million restoration project.The theater reopened in 2015 and has since hosted a variety of performances, including concerts, comedy shows, and Broadway productions.
Other Notable Theatres in Brooklyn
While the Kings Theatre may hold the title of the largest seating capacity, there are many other notable theaters in Brooklyn that are worth mentioning. The Brooklyn Music School Playhouse, which opened its doors in 1905, is a historic theater with a seating capacity of over 600. Originally built as a vaudeville theater, it has since been used for a variety of performances, including plays, musicals, and concerts. The Irondale Center, another historic theater in Brooklyn, was originally built as a church in 1850. In the 1980s, it was converted into a theater with a seating capacity of over 300. The Irondale Center is known for its innovative productions and has won numerous awards for its work. The St.Ann's Warehouse, located in an old tobacco warehouse on the Brooklyn waterfront, is a performing arts center with a seating capacity of over 600. It is known for its avant-garde productions and has hosted performances from renowned artists such as David Bowie and Lou Reed.
The Future of Theatres in Brooklyn
As Brooklyn continues to grow and evolve, so does its theater scene. In recent years, there has been a surge in the number of small, independent theaters popping up in the borough. These intimate venues offer a more immersive and experimental theater experience, with many having a seating capacity of less than 100. One such theater is the Brick Theater, which opened its doors in 2002 and has a seating capacity of just 50.The Brick Theater is known for its eclectic programming, including experimental plays, puppet shows, and improv comedy. Another notable addition to Brooklyn's theater scene is the Polonsky Shakespeare Center, which opened in 2013 and has a seating capacity of over 250. This state-of-the-art theater is home to the Theatre for a New Audience and is dedicated to producing Shakespeare and other classic plays.
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