The Public Theater

Just south of Astor Place on Lafayette Street lies the Public Theater (both the organization and building name). The photo is of the interior lobby - click here for exterior photos of the building (the glass high-rise is the Gwathmey). The performing arts organization was founded in 1954 by Joseph Papp as the Shakespeare Workshop. It found a permanent home in the former Astor Library in 1967, when it premiered Hair. The 1854 building, considered by many to be the finest example of Rundbogenstil - a German variant of Romanesque Revival, was actually slated for demolition before being rescued by Papp. Click here for an excellent NY Times article on the building. The Public Theater has won over 200 awards (Obie, Tony, Drama Desk, Pulitzer); 49 shows originating here moved to Broadway. They produce new plays, musicals, and Shakespeare; many of their productions tend to be more avante-garde. They also operate the free Shakespeare in Central Park, a summer actor training intensive called the Shakespeare Lab, and Joe's Pub, a venue for musicians and other performers. Every time I walk by, I admire the building and also remind myself that I should make an effort to attend their performances...