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Cherry Lane Theatre

Founded in 1923, the Cherry Lane Theatre is the oldest continuously running off-Broadway theater in New York City and is celebrated as the birthplace of the off-Broadway movement.

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Cherry Lane Theatre
www.cherrylanetheatre.org, og_image_www.cherrylanetheatre.org

What is the Cherry Lane Theatre known for?

It is the oldest continuously running off-Broadway theater in New York City and is known as “The Birthplace of Off-Broadway.”

Where is it located?

The theater is located at 38 Commerce Street in the West Village neighborhood of Manhattan, New York City.

How do I get there?

Nearby subway options include taking the 1 train to Christopher Street or the A, B, C, D, E, F, or M trains to West 4th Street.

How can I buy tickets?

Tickets can be purchased online and are delivered via email.

Is the theater accessible?

Visitors who have questions about accessibility or need additional assistance are invited to contact the box office in advance at boxoffice@cherrylanetheatre.org.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

Located at 38 Commerce Street in the West Village, the Cherry Lane Theatre stands as a historic pillar of Manhattan's performing arts scene. Opened in December 1923, it is recognized as the oldest continuously running off-Broadway theater in New York City and is often referred to as the Birthplace of Off-Broadway. The venue is designed for intimate storytelling, featuring a 167-seat main stage and a smaller 60-seat studio. These spaces allow for a close connection between the performers and the audience, maintaining the venue's legacy of exploring the boundaries of storytelling for over a century. In 2025, the theater underwent a renovation and officially reopened its red doors on September 8. The reopening celebration featured a week of special one-night-only events from September 8 to 14, including film screenings and Q&A sessions with high-profile figures such as Spike Lee, Jodie Foster, Michael Shannon, and Brandi Carlile. Beyond its theatrical productions, the site now integrates culinary experiences. Wild Cherry, a dining establishment, is nestled inside the theater at 38 Commerce Street, offering dinner and drinks to complement the venue's programming of comedy, music, and film.

Visitor tips

  • Purchase tickets online to have them delivered directly to your email.
  • If you have accessibility needs, contact the box office at boxoffice@cherrylanetheatre.org before your visit.
  • Visit Wild Cherry inside the theater for dinner, which is served until 9:30 pm Tuesday through Sunday.
  • Use the 1 train to Christopher Street or the A, B, C, D, E, F, or M trains to West 4th Street for easy access.

Nearby context

The theater is situated in the heart of the West Village neighborhood of Greenwich Village, specifically on Commerce Street between Barrow and Bedford Streets.

Sources

Evidence and links