Located in the heart of Times Square, The Marquis Theatre opened in 1986 as a modern high-tech theatre in the Marriott Marquis Hotel.
Just before its unveiling, the theatre’s architect and designer John C. Portman Jr. told Playbill, “Our dream was to create a new theatre for the Broadway of today that could handle any type of production, any kind of light and sound equipment, provide maximum comfort for audience and actors, and still convey a feeling of intimacy.”
Designed with the patron in mind, the Marquis was created with a raked orchestra floor, three separate aisles that offer ideal viewing from all seats, and a ceiling designed to hide lighting and sound equipment, the theatre was created to be ideal for the audience experience.
The theatre was inaugurated with a concert by Shirley Bassey and George Kirby on July 8, 1986 ahead of its theatrical debut: a Tony-nominated production of Me and My Girl, which opened a month later on August 10.
Throughout its history, the Marquis has ushered in the Broadway debuts of many seminal works including Nick & Nora, 9 to 5, and ,Thoroughly Modern Millie.
In addition, the stage has been the home to performances from theatre luminaries including Julie Andrews, Bernadette Peters, and more.
Marquis Theatre lobby
Marquis Theatre lobby
Marquis Theatre lobby
The Marquis Theatre is currently home to the Tony-nominated musical comedy, Tootsie, which opened on Broadway April 23.
