August Wilson Theater

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 asFences andThe 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.

Ways to explore

The August Wilson Theatre hosts long-running Broadway blockbusters, such as Jersey Boys, as well as new productions. The best way to visit is by booking tickets to a show, as the venue does not offer independent tours. Most performances take place in the evening, with select matinees available on weekends.

Some Theater District walking tours include a stop at the August Wilson Theater and highlight its history, including its 1925 opening and renaming in honor of August Wilson in 2005. For a seamless experience, book a guided Broadway tour that includes nearby venues, or eat a pre-show dinner nearby.

Accessibility

The theater offers wheelchair-accessible seating, aisle-transfer seating, and companion seating, as well as vision- and hearing-accessible options. A stair lift connects the main entrance to the Orchestra level; staff provide assistance upon request.

Age limits

Some shows are recommended for youth ages 13 and older. Children under 13 can’t sit in table seating; no one under 5 is admitted.

What to pack

Bring minimal belongings; space is limited in the lounge-style seating area.

What to wear

Dress in layers; the club areas tend to stay cool year-round.

Not allowed

Photography, video

Amenities

Wi‑Fi, bars, snacks, VIP experiences, accessible restrooms on multiple levels, coat check

Address

The August Wilson Theater sits at 245 West 52nd Street, between Broadway and 8th Avenue, in Midtown Manhattan’s Theater District.

Driving

While you can drive, Midtown parking is costly and limited. Many visitors opt to take a rideshare or taxi and request a drop-off close to the theater.

Public transportation

Take the 1 train to 50th Street or the N/Q/R/W lines to 49th Street. Nearby bus lines include the M5, M7, M20, and M104, with stops along 7th Avenue and 52nd Street.

Best times to visit

Evening performances showcase the Kit Kat Club’s immersive atmosphere. Matinees on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays offer opportunities to explore the Theater District at diverse times of day.

Best days to visit

Visit Tuesdays through Thursdays for smaller crowds and better seat availability. Avoid booking shows on Mondays, when most Broadway theaters, including this one, go dark.

Best months to visit

The theater operates year‑round, but quieter periods often fall between January and April, right after the holiday rush, offering greater ticket availability and less crowding.