August Wilson Theater Tours

Originally known as the Guild Theatre, the August Wilson Theatre—renamed in honor of the prolific and award-winning playwright—has been hosting shows since 1925. Designed in a pseudo-Italian style to resemble a 15th-century Tuscan villa, the 1,222-seat theater continues to delight guests with a range of performances today.
 
The Basics
Designed by Crane & Franzheim and constructed by the Theatre Guild, the August Wilson Theatre has been known by multiple names in its history, including the ANTA Theatre and the Virginia Theatre. A display in the lobby showcases the 10 plays that comprise Wilson’s Pittsburgh Cycle, while Al Hirschfield’s drawings of Wilson’s works, including Fences, are on display in the mezzanine lobby. Pass by the August Wilson Theatre and other popular performance venues on a walking tour of New York City’s theater district. To see the interior and for the full experience, book tickets to a show.
 
Things to Know Before You Go

• Children under the age of 4 are not permitted inside the theater.
• There is a coat check at the theater.
• The theater offers gender-inclusive restrooms.
• The August Wilson Theatre is wheelchair-accessible.

 
How to Get There
The August Wilson Theatre is located on West 52nd Street between 7th and 8th avenues. By subway, take the 1, 9, C, or E train to 50th Street or the N, Q, R, or W train to 49th Street. Alternatively, take any bus that runs along 7th or 8th Avenue.
 
When to Get There
The theater’s box office hours vary depending on the show but are typically 10am to 8pm Monday to Saturday and 12pm to 6pm (or until curtain when there’s a performance) on Sunday. It’s best to arrive early as there may be lines for the box office, coat check, or concessions.
 
August Wilson
August Wilson was a Pulitzer Prize– and Tony Award–winning playwright, with such notable works as Fences and The Piano Lesson (both part of his Pittsburgh Cycle series). He is the first African-American to have a theater named in his honor. The August Wilson Center for African American Culture in Pittsburgh and August Wilson Way in Seattle are also named after him.