In 1927, real estate moguls the Chanin Brothers commissioned Herbert Krapp to design the three-theater complex that houses the midsize Royale, the smaller Theatre Masque (now called the John Golden) and the large, spectacular Majestic Theatre so that multiple shows of varying sizes could run simultaneously. The Majestic was the largest Broadway house at the time. Krapp’s vision included terra cotta ornamentation and a Palladian motif above the entrance, a Spanish modern design. The auditorium features a single large balcony rather than two smaller ones as well as stadium-like seating—a newly conceived concept in those days. The stage has seen such hits as the inaugural production of the Rufus LeMaire’s Affairs revue (1927), Me and Juliet (1953), and The Phantom of the Opera, which first landed at the Majestic in 1988 and made history as the longest-running musical on Broadway.

The closest subway stop to the Majestic is 42nd Street Port Authority, which services the A, C and E lines. Alternatively, visitors can take one of the city’s many trains to Times Square—the theater is a short, scenic jaunt away from there. Among the many nearby parking garages is the Edison ParkFast at 307 West 44th Street.

There is no escalator or elevator at the theater, so guests with mobility issues should plan accordingly. Visitors are advised to get to their seats in plenty of time; latecomers will be sat at the discretion of the ushers. Concessions are available at the theater.