When it comes to the rich history of New York City’s theaters, it’s hard to ignore the impact that Disney has had on the restoration of one of the city’s most iconic venues. In 1997, Disney took on the ambitious task of restoring the historic New Amsterdam Theatre. This project not only revitalized the theater itself but also sparked a revitalization of the surrounding area, making it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists.
The History of the New Amsterdam Theatre
The New Amsterdam Theatre has a long and storied history, dating back to its opening in 1903. Designed by architects Herts and Tallant, the theater was commissioned by the famed Ziegfeld Follies impresario Florenz Ziegfeld. Known for its opulent design and lavish productions, the New Amsterdam quickly became a cornerstone of the Broadway theater scene.
However, like many historic theaters in the city, the New Amsterdam fell into disrepair in the mid-20th century. It was eventually designated a New York City landmark in 1979 but still faced an uncertain future.
Disney’s Restoration Project
In 1993, Disney entered into a 99-year lease agreement with the City of New York to restore and operate the New Amsterdam Theatre. This marked a major turning point for the historic venue, as Disney’s deep pockets and commitment to quality ensured that the restoration would be nothing short of spectacular.
The restoration project took four years and $34 million to complete. Disney spared no expense in bringing the theater back to its former glory, hiring a team of experts to meticulously restore the ornate plasterwork, wood paneling, and other original features of the theater. The result was a breathtaking combination of old-world charm and modern amenities, making the New Amsterdam a top-tier venue for Broadway productions once again.
Impact on Times Square
The restoration of the New Amsterdam Theatre also had a profound impact on the surrounding Times Square neighborhood. At the time of Disney’s involvement, Times Square was still in the midst of a transformation from a seedy, crime-ridden area to the bustling hub of entertainment and tourism that it is today.
Disney’s investment in the New Amsterdam served as a catalyst for the revitalization of Times Square, attracting a new wave of investment and development to the area. This, in turn, helped to make Times Square a safer and more welcoming place for both New Yorkers and visitors alike.
Legacy of the Restoration
The restoration of the New Amsterdam Theatre by Disney is widely regarded as a turning point in the history of Broadway and Times Square. It set a new standard for the preservation and revitalization of historic theaters, inspiring other organizations to invest in similar projects throughout the city.
Today, the New Amsterdam Theatre continues to be a vibrant and integral part of the Broadway scene, hosting a wide range of hit productions such as “The Lion King” and “Aladdin.” Its status as a cultural landmark and its continued success as a commercial venue are a testament to the lasting impact of Disney’s restoration efforts.
Conclusion
In 1997, Disney achieved a major milestone in the history of New York City theater by restoring the historic New Amsterdam Theatre. This ambitious project not only revitalized the theater itself but also played a key role in the larger revitalization of Times Square, setting a new standard for the preservation and restoration of historic venues. Today, the New Amsterdam Theatre stands as a testament to the power of investment in the arts and the enduring appeal of Broadway.
