Circle in the Square Theatre
Overview
Circle in the Square is Broadway's most unusual room: a single level of stadium-style seating wrapped around three (sometimes four) sides of the stage, with no mezzanine. There's genuinely no bad seat — the amphitheater layout means every seat has a clean sightline — but the experience varies by which side of the action you're on, since shows are staged to be viewed from all angles at once. It's an intimate, immersive way to see a show, and productions are often specifically reimagined (staging, choreography, even the set) to work in the round.
Notable Shows
- Oklahoma! (Tony Award-winning revival)
- Fun Home (Broadway premiere; Pulitzer Prize finalist)
- The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee (house-record 1,136 performances)
- Once on This Island (Tony Award-winning revival)
- Lady Day at Emerson's Bar & Grill (Audra McDonald)
- Just In Time (current, Bobby Darin musical)
History
Descended from the pioneering off-Broadway company co-founded around 1950 by Theodore Mann and José Quintero, the current Broadway venue opened in 1972 beneath the Paramount Plaza tower alongside the Gershwin Theatre. It received a Special Tony Award in 1976 for twenty-five years of quality productions and remains one of only two true arena-style Broadway houses.
Seating at a Glance
| Tier | Section | Price Level | Why Choose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | Front Rows (A–E, all sides) | $$$ | Unmatched intimacy and immediacy |
| Great Value | Mid Rows (F–H, all sides) | $$ | Balanced view of blocking that plays across the whole space |
| Most Affordable | Rear Rows (H, J and back) | $ | Most affordable tickets in the house |
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Accessibility
Entrance to Orchestra involves some steps behind row K; no elevated levels to navigate since there's no mezzanine.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many seats does the Circle in the Square Theatre have?
The Circle in the Square Theatre has approximately 776 seats.
What are the best seats at the Circle in the Square Theatre?
Front Rows (A–E, all sides) generally offers the best overall experience — unmatched intimacy and immediacy. For a lower price with a strong view, Mid Rows (F–H, all sides) is a popular alternative.
Is the Circle in the Square Theatre wheelchair accessible?
Entrance to Orchestra involves some steps behind row K; no elevated levels to navigate since there's no mezzanine.
What shows have played at the Circle in the Square Theatre?
Oklahoma! (Tony Award-winning revival); Fun Home (Broadway premiere; Pulitzer Prize finalist); The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee (house-record 1,136 performances).