What is the David H. Koch Theater known for?

It is a ballet and dance venue at Lincoln Center in Manhattan's Lincoln Square neighborhood and serves as the home theater for the New York City Ballet.

The theater is located at 20 Lincoln Center Plaza, at the intersection of Columbus Avenue and 63rd Street in New York City.

How do I get there by public transit?

The closest subway stop for access to the theater is the 66th Street–Lincoln Center stop.

What is the seating capacity?

The theater is a traditional proscenium theater with seating for 2,544 people.

What should I check before going?

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

David H. Koch Theater in New York City

David H. Koch Theater

A premier venue for ballet and dance at Lincoln Center, the David H. Koch Theater is the home of the New York City Ballet and a landmark of mid-century modern architecture.

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Official site

Get directions

Is there parking available?

Yes, nearby parking entrances include 24/7 access at 62nd Street and Amsterdam Avenue and at 62nd Street between Columbus and Amsterdam Avenues, as well as an entrance at 65th Street open daily from 6 AM to 8 PM. Wheelchair-accessible parking reservations for the yellow section can be made by phone.

What to know

The David H. Koch Theater is a specialized venue for ballet and dance located at 20 Lincoln Center Plaza in Manhattan's Lincoln Square neighborhood. Originally opened on April 23, 1964, as the New York State Theater, the facility was funded by the State of New York to mark the state's cultural participation in the 1964–1965 World's Fair. Designed by architect Philip Johnson, the theater is a traditional proscenium house specifically engineered to showcase dance performances. The interior is noted for its opulent auditorium, which features five balcony rings and a gold paneled ceiling adorned with a large spherical chandelier and jewel-like faceted lights. The seating is a hybrid of traditional and continental styles on the orchestra level, accommodating a total of 2,544 people. Since its inception in 1964, the theater has served as the home of the New York City Ballet. It also hosted the New York City Opera from its opening until 2011. Today, the venue continues to be a cornerstone of the performing arts, hosting a wide array of modern and classical dance works. Situated on the south side of the main Lincoln Center plaza near 63rd Street and Columbus Avenue, the theater sits opposite David Geffen Hall. Its strategic location makes it a focal point for visitors exploring the performing arts complex in New York City.

Visitor tips

Use the 66th Street–Lincoln Center subway stop for the most direct access to the theater.
Check for 'Choose-What-You-Pay' tickets during the Summer for the City event series.
If driving, 24/7 parking is available at 62nd Street and Amsterdam Avenue.
Visit the box office located inside the theater lobby at Columbus Avenue for ticket inquiries.

Nearby context

The theater is a primary anchor of the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, occupying the south side of the main plaza. It is positioned directly opposite David Geffen Hall, creating a hub of musical and dance activity in the heart of the Lincoln Square neighborhood.

Quick facts