The Art Lover's Guide to Lincoln Center Theater on the Upper West Side
Art is “not for the privileged few, but for the many,” said John D. Rockefeller III, the founder of Lincoln Center. With that pronouncement in mind, the iconic arts institution is dedicated to the artistic enrichment of the public — which is just one reason why Lincoln Center Theater (LCT) is so important.
Nestled in the heart of the Upper West Side, Lincoln Center is a majestic testament to the fusion of art and architecture. Encompassing three different venues within the center, Lincoln Center Theater’s rich history, diverse performances, and captivating ambiance make the organization a haven for those seeking immersion in both culture and creativity.
In this art lover’s guide, learn more about the captivating story of Lincoln Center Theater, its exquisite performance spaces, its variety of shows, and much more.
History of Lincoln Center Theater
The history of Lincoln Center Theater is woven intricately into the tapestry of New York City’s artistic legacy. Re-established in 1985 by legendary producer Bernard Gersten, the theater aimed to create a haven for both emerging and established playwrights, directors, and actors. Since 1985, it has operated out of the Vivian Beaumont Theater, which is on the Lincoln Center campus on the Upper West Side; in 2012, it opened a major addition to the theater that included rehearsal rooms, a new auditorium, a rooftop terrace, and more.
Nowadays, the organization is overseen by Chair Kewsong Lee and Artistic Director André Bishop, an inductee of the American Theater Hall of Fame.
The Three Theaters at the Beaumont
Opened in 1965, the Vivian Beaumont Theater is the primary seat of Lincoln Center Theater. Its glass and steel facade by architect Eero Saarinen, famed for his industrial designs, and the interior features a stunning display of contemporary artwork that sets the tone for the artistic experience that awaits within.
The main auditorium itself is designed in a thrust stage configuration, allowing the audience to immerse themselves fully in the performances. The Beaumont, as the main auditorium is referred to, has a capacity of about 1,080. The building also houses two other off-Broadway theaters, the Mitzi E. Newhouse Theater and the Claire Tow Theater, which are also operated by LCT.
Shows at Lincoln Center Theater
One of the hallmarks of Lincoln Center Theater is its commitment to presenting a diverse range of productions. From timeless classics to groundbreaking contemporary works, the theater consistently curates a selection of plays that captivate and inspire. From the classic “Our Town” and “King Lear” to Sarah Ruhl’s darkly comedic “Becky Nurse of Salem” and the basketball-inspired “Flex,” Lincoln Center Theater has a massive range. Find its current shows here.
In the 39 years LCT has been in operation, it has shown more than 160 productions, from worldwide premieres to classical revivals to New York City originals. The Vivian Beaumont Theater is technically on-Broadway, so LCT has hosted Broadway shows such as “My Fair Lady,” “Macbeth,” “It Ain’t Nothin’ But The Blues,” “Abe Lincoln in Illinois,” and many more. All of its past Playbills can be found at this website.
No matter your artistic inclinations, there's a high likelihood that Lincoln Center Theater has a production that will resonate with you.
How to See a Show
Attending a performance at the Lincoln Center Theater is an experience that requires a bit of planning and anticipation. Tickets are often in high demand, especially for popular shows, so you should book well in advance. After you choose the show you want to see, visit the LCT website for ticket information. The theater offers a variety of seating options — and each theater has a slightly different layout — so consider your preferences when selecting your seats.
Once you see your chosen performance, you can also consider exploring the nearby cafes and restaurants on the Upper West Side, some of which offer post-show menus and specials, allowing you to extend the enchantment of the evening.
Other Initiatives
Besides traditional performance programming, Lincoln Center Theater is also a bastion for public and artistic works. It operates Directors Lab, a workshop and developmental experience for emerging stage directors; Open Stages, a collaboration focused on arts education, organized in conjunction with New York City public schools; and the Platform Series, a program that provides conversation opportunities with Lincoln Center Theater-affiliated artists.
Lincoln Center Theater also provides thousands of free tickets to shows every year for under-served communities, ultimately fulfilling its mission of making art accessible to everyone.
A beacon of artistic excellence, Lincoln Center Theater beckons art lovers from near and far to immerse themselves in the magic of the stage. With its rich history, captivating shows, and commitment to celebrating the diversity of human expression, it continues to provide an absolutely unforgettable experience.
Lincoln Center is just a short walk away when you stay at The Wallace. Book today!