Studio 54 theater will get a much-needed facelift as part of a $120 million three-part renovation plan
Time Out
Last updated: June 5, 2026
The Roundabout Theatre Company is undertaking a significant renovation of the historic Studio 54 theatre. This comprehensive overhaul, the first in nearly a century, aims to address long-standing structural issues and enhance audience experience.
- The renovation of Studio 54 is projected to cost approximately $100 million and will mark the building's first major update since its transformation from an opera house to its current Broadway venue status. Key improvements include rectifying inconsistent sightlines, increasing the number of dressing rooms, and installing an orchestra pit.
- Architects David Rockwell and Ennead are leading the design, focusing on enhanced audience comfort through upgraded seating and increased legroom. The theatre's seating capacity will slightly decrease from over 1,000 to around 990 seats.
- The plans also involve modernizing building systems, public areas, and introducing a new marquee. Studio 54 is a central component of Roundabout's broader "Next Stage Campaign," which also includes strengthening financial reserves and expanding education and community engagement programs.
- Incoming artistic director Christopher Ashley highlighted the campaign's goal to support artists and create an empowering environment for them, enabling ambitious productions and fostering the next generation of theatre professionals and audiences.
