Broadway’s Imperial Theatre Poised for Major Renovation and Expansion

Broadway’s Imperial Theatre, a historic gem that has graced New York City for over a century, may soon see a significant transformation. The Shubert Organization, which owns the venue, has proposed an ambitious renovation and expansion plan to the Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC), aiming to modernize and enhance the theatre while preserving its iconic status.

A Storied Past Meets a Bold Future

The Imperial Theatre, currently housing the musical Water for Elephants, boasts a rich history and an elegant interior designed by famed architect Herbert J. Krapp. While its exterior is a modest brick façade often used as a canvas for striking marquee displays, the interior is a visual masterpiece. Adorned with ornate plasterwork, neoclassical motifs, and rich hues of russet, cream, burgundy, and gold, the Imperial’s auditorium and lobby evoke its regal namesake. This grandeur earned its interior a landmark designation in 1987, safeguarding its historic character even as surrounding theatres faced demolition during that decade.

Now, the Shubert Organization seeks to preserve the theatre’s legacy while addressing practical limitations that have long hindered the venue’s functionality.

Proposed Enhancements

The proposed plans, unveiled on December 17, include restoring the Imperial’s lavish interior while dramatically expanding its footprint. The cornerstone of the project is the annexation of an adjacent empty lot—also owned by the Shuberts—to create a modern ticket lobby, additional commercial space, and much-needed restroom facilities.

The bathroom issue has been a long-standing challenge for the Imperial, with overflow managed by temporary “toilet trailers” placed in the adjacent lot. The expansion would introduce accessible, gender-neutral restrooms, aligning the theatre with ADA standards. The annex would also include escalators to the balcony level, elevators, and a spacious lounge area to alleviate congestion in the current compact lobby.

A Facelift for 45th Street

The project also envisions a striking redesign of the theatre’s exterior. Renderings show a new vertical blade sign emblazoned with the Imperial name, a state-of-the-art video marquee, and an extended entrance canopy. Large glass windows would allow patrons to enjoy views of 45th Street from the expanded lobbies and auxiliary spaces, echoing the design of the Marquis Theatre overlooking 7th Avenue.

Preservation Meets Progress

While the exterior changes are exciting, the LPC’s oversight of the theatre’s protected interior adds complexity to the approval process. In the 1980s, the Shuberts, along with other major Broadway theatre owners, contested the LPC’s landmark designations for 22 theatres, arguing the restrictions impeded property modifications. After years of legal battles, the designations were upheld in 1992, ensuring that changes like those proposed for the Imperial require LPC approval.

A Broader Trend of Renovation

If approved, the Imperial Theatre would join a growing list of Broadway venues undergoing major restorations. The Majestic Theatre recently received a meticulous refurbishment, and the James Earl Jones Theatre underwent extensive renovations before its renaming from the Cort Theatre. These projects reflect a trend toward preserving Broadway’s architectural heritage while adapting to modern needs.

The LPC’s decision on the Imperial Theatre’s proposed renovation is pending, and the approval process may take considerable time. However, if realized, the project would not only enhance the theatre’s functionality but also solidify its status as a historic yet forward-thinking Broadway landmark.