New Victory Theater (originally Theatre Republic)
overview
Opened as the Theatre Republic in 1900, this venue staged two known works by gay playwrights, one by Clyde Fitch and the other by Roi Cooper Megrue.
After being converted to burlesque in 1931 and a movie theater in 1942, it reopened as the New Victory Theater in 1995.
Lover's Lane by Clyde Fitch, 1900. Photo by Byron Co. Courtesy of the Museum of the City of New York.
History
This venue, the oldest surviving Broadway theater, was originally known as the Theatre Republic. In 1902, it became the Belasco Theater, and in 1910 reverted to the Theatre Republic. There were two known plays by gay playwrights at this theater, both rather successful: Lover’s Lane (1901) by Clyde Fitch (opened at the Manhattan Theater), and Where Poppies Bloom (1918) by Roi Cooper Megrue. Adrea (1905) featured costume design by Percy Anderson and Mollie O’Hara.
In 1931, it was converted to burlesque, then in 1942 to movies. The theater was restored and reopened in 1995 as the New Victory Theater for family-oriented fare.
Entry by Jay Shockley, project director (June 2019).
NOTE: Names above in bold indicate LGBT people.
Building Information
- Architect or Builder: Albert Westover
- Year Built: 1900
Sources
Internet Broadway Database.
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