James M. Nederlander Theatre (Formerly known as Ford Center for the Performing Arts)
The James M. Nederlander Theatre, formerly known as the Oriental Theatre and the Ford Center, opened in 1926. Located at 24 West Randolph Street in Chicago, the 2,253-seat venue opened as a movie palace. It was successful in attracting motion pictures, shows and celebrities to the Windy City, but, as the years went by, it was clear that the theater had seen better days. In 1978, it was added to the Federal National Registry of Historic Places; however, it closed to the general public in 1981. Come 1996, it was announced that the James M. Nederlander Theatre would be restored. The venue is named after the Broadway theater producer and owner, and it is known for its stage musicals. Shows that have played at the theater include
Wicked
,
Billy Elliot
,
Rent
,
Mean Girls
and
Dear Evan Hansen
. The best James M. Nederlander Theatre tickets are available at StubHub.
The James M. Nederlander Theatre has 2,253 seats. It is owned and operated by Broadway In Chicago.
The theater is located in the Loop section of downtown Chicago, which offers plenty to do whether you like the arts, nightlife or culture. See the Picasso statue, visit the Chicago Cultural Center or take in the famous art installations in Millennium Park or the Art Institute of Chicago. For those who are into nightlife, enjoy post-show drinks at ROOF on theWit, a trendy rooftop bar. If you are in the mood for a bite to eat before your James M. Nederlander Theatre show, stop by one of the area's many restaurants and food halls. If you prefer, try a Chicago-style hot dog or a deep-dish pizza.
Concessions are available throughout the venue; however, only certain ones are allowed in the theater. Outside food and drink is not permitted.
The lobby opens 45 minutes prior to show time, while the seating area opens 30 minutes prior. Give yourself ample time to arrive and take your seat.
It is the theater's policy that children under 5 are not allowed although occasional exceptions may be made if the show is specifically for young theater-goers. This is out of courtesy for guests. Guidelines about a show's age-appropriateness will be published on the show and Broadway in Chicago's website, but it is up to an adult to make the best decision for the child. Regardless of age, everyone must have a ticket.
Per federal law, taking pictures and video or audio recordings of James M. Nederlander Theatre events is illegal. You may bring your cell phone, beepers and watches with an alarm into the theater, but please turn it off or silence them before the show starts.
Park at InterPark, the official parking garage of Broadway in Chicago, for a discounted fee. The Wabash & Randolph InterPark is the closet location to the theater.