When it comes to the arts and entertainment, Brooklyn, NY is a hub of creativity and diversity. From music venues to art galleries, this borough has it all. But one aspect of the cultural scene that often gets overlooked is the theatre scene. With a rich history and a thriving present, Brooklyn's theatres are a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the best of live performances.
The History of Theatres in Brooklyn
The first theatre in Brooklyn was built in 1808, known as the Park Theatre.It was located in the neighborhood of Fort Greene and could seat up to 2,000 people. This theatre was a popular destination for New Yorkers and was known for hosting famous actors such as Edwin Booth and Charlotte Cushman. In the late 19th century, Brooklyn's theatre scene saw a boom with the opening of several new venues. The Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM) was established in 1861 and is still one of the most prominent theatres in the borough today. Other notable theatres from this time include the Brooklyn Theatre, the Grand Opera House, and the Majestic Theatre. However, it wasn't until the early 20th century that Brooklyn's theatre scene truly flourished.
The opening of the Brooklyn Paramount Theatre in 1928 marked the beginning of a golden age for theatres in the borough. This Art Deco style venue could seat over 4,000 people and hosted popular acts such as Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley.
The Present Day Theatre Scene in Brooklyn
Today, Brooklyn's theatre scene is as vibrant as ever. The borough is home to a diverse range of theatres, from small intimate venues to large historic spaces. One of the most well-known theatres in Brooklyn is the BAM Harvey Theater, which was originally built in 1904 and has been restored to its former glory.This theatre hosts a variety of performances, from plays and musicals to dance and opera. Another popular theatre in Brooklyn is the Kings Theatre, which opened in 1929 and was recently restored after being closed for over 40 years. This stunning venue has a capacity of 3,000 and hosts a mix of concerts, comedy shows, and Broadway productions. The St. Ann's Warehouse is another must-visit theatre in Brooklyn. This converted warehouse space has been transformed into a state-of-the-art performance venue and has hosted acclaimed productions such as "Hamilton" and "A Streetcar Named Desire."
Theatres in Brooklyn by Neighborhood
Brooklyn is a large borough with many diverse neighborhoods, each with its own unique character.And the same can be said for its theatres. Here are some of the top theatres in each neighborhood:
Park Slope
- Park Slope Armory YMCA: This historic building hosts a variety of performances, including theater, dance, and music.
- Brooklyn Conservatory of Music: This theatre focuses on classical music and also offers classes and workshops.
Williamsburg
- Nitehawk Cinema: This unique theatre combines film screenings with food and drinks.
- Rough Trade NYC: This music venue also hosts comedy shows and other live performances.
Downtown Brooklyn
- The Invisible Dog Art Center: This theatre showcases experimental and avant-garde performances.
- The Brick Theater: This theatre is known for its innovative and boundary-pushing productions.
Coney Island
- Ford Amphitheater at Coney Island Boardwalk: This outdoor theatre hosts concerts, comedy shows, and other live events.
- Coney Island USA Sideshow Theater: This theatre is home to a variety of sideshow acts, including sword swallowing and fire eating.
The Future of Theatres in Brooklyn
The future of theatres in Brooklyn looks bright. With new venues opening up and established ones continuing to thrive, the borough's theatre scene is constantly evolving. One exciting development is the opening of the new Performing Arts Center at the Brooklyn Academy of Music, which is set to open in 2022 and will feature three new performance spaces. In addition, many smaller theatres are popping up in Brooklyn, providing a platform for emerging artists and experimental performances.These theatres are helping to keep the arts scene in Brooklyn diverse and inclusive.
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