Mercury Theatre Plaque – New York, New York - Atlas Obscura
Places near me Random place

Mercury Theatre Plaque

Manhattan, New York

Where the legendary Orson Welles got his theatrical start before "Citizen Kane." 

View all photos
The plaque, now (perhaps permanently) removed. James Hadley (Atlas Obscura User)
76
213
Top Places in New York
Irish Hunger Memorial.
Irish Hunger Memorial
New York, New York
Grand Central Terminal Whispering Gallery
New York, New York
The Players
New York, New York
 See All
This entry is a stub
Help improve Atlas Obscura by expanding Mercury Theatre Plaque with additional information or photos.

On an unassuming block just west of Manhattan’s Bryant Park stands a bronze plaque honoring a theatrical and cinematic icon.

On this spot in 1937, actor, director, and producer Orson Welles founded the storied Mercury Theatre with fellow actor and producer John Houseman. Welles would go on to create many legendary stage productions here, including his historic production of Julius Caesar—all before his 26th birthday. 

The block is a fitting place to remember such a diversely talented entertainment icon. The site of the former theater is nestled between the theatre district and Bryant Park, home to one of New York City’s most popular outdoor film series. 

Update as of October 2019: The building is currently undergoing construction and the plaque may no longer be visible. 

performances theaters plaques film history
Community Contributors
c
Added by
cait7911
g
SEANETTA
S
James Hadley
Anna Minster
Edited by
giadavis11, SEANETTA, Simpluree, James Hadley, Anna Minster
Published
February 27, 2019
Edit this listing
Make an Edit Add Photos
Nearby
Nikola Tesla Street Corner
0.07 miles
Bryant Park Escape Hatch
0.11 miles
Giant Needle and Button
0.12 miles
Want to see fewer ads? Become a Member.
Near This Place
New York, New York

Nikola Tesla Street Corner

Commemorating the spot where the famous scientist fed his pigeons.
Plaque has been refurbished
New York, New York

Bryant Park Escape Hatch

A commemorative plaque hides a door that leads down to the New York Public Library's underground book bunker.
New York, New York

Giant Needle and Button

There must be a pun in this haystack somewhere...
One of the tile sticker designs slowly peeling off the wall.
New York, New York

Times Square Station Fake Tiles

Fake subway tiles were installed to cover a design that resembled the Confederate flag—it's unclear if the resemblance was intentional.
Related Places
Galveston, Texas

The Grand 1894 Opera House

Despite changing times, the legendary stage has proved the show must always go on.
New Port Richey, Florida

Richey Suncoast Theatre

This historic silent film-era theater is now a community playhouse with a chilling visitor.
Lincolnshire, England

Kinema in the Woods

This century-old cinema is complete with musical interludes and boasts a rare projection system.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Mask and Wig Clubhouse

A curious building honoring past and current members of a historic musical comedy troupe.
In partnership with KAYAK

Plan Your Trip

From Around the Web