The Venue

History of the Eugene O'Neill Theatre

The Eugene O’Neill Theatre, nestled in Midtown Manhattan at 230 West 49th Street, boasts a storied legacy since its 1925 inception. Originally named the Forrest Theatre after 19th-century tragedian Edwin Forrest, it was designed by architect Herbert J. Krapp as part of a theater-hotel complex for the Shubert brothers. 

In 1945, the venue underwent renovations and was renamed the Coronet Theatre. By 1959, it honored esteemed American playwright Eugene O’Neill, becoming the first Broadway theater named after a playwright. 

The theater's architectural charm is evident in its Adam-style detailing, large mezzanine, and decorative arches. Significant refurbishments over the years have preserved its historic allure while integrating modern amenities. 

Throughout its history, the Eugene O’Neill Theatre has showcased numerous acclaimed productions, including the provocative Tobacco Road in the 1930s, which became the longest-running play on Broadway at the time. 

In the late 1960s, playwright Neil Simon owned the theater and presented seven of his plays there. Since 2011, it has been home to the Tony Award-winning musical The Book of Mormon, delighting audiences with its dynamic performances. 

As a designated New York City landmark, the Eugene O’Neill Theatre continues to be a beacon of theatrical excellence, seamlessly blending its rich history with contemporary productions that captivate theatergoers from around the world.