Olympic Theatre (New York City)

The Olympic Theatre in New York City refers to several distinct theatrical venues operating under that name at various times and locations throughout the 19th century. These theatres played a significant role in the development of American theatre, showcasing a range of productions from Shakespearean dramas to popular minstrel shows and burlesque.

The most prominent Olympic Theatre was located at 624 Broadway, near Bleecker Street. This theatre, originally known as Brougham's Lyceum, was renamed the Olympic in 1854 when it was taken over by William Stuart. Under Stuart's management, the Olympic gained considerable popularity, becoming known for its well-produced plays and strong acting company. Notable actors and actresses of the era performed there.

Another Olympic Theatre, sometimes referred to as the New Olympic Theatre, was located on Chatham Street (later Park Row). This theatre, established in the 1830s, had a somewhat more disreputable reputation, catering to a less affluent audience and often featuring more sensational and less refined entertainment.

The Olympic Theatre name was also associated with other short-lived theatrical ventures in New York City during the same period. The overlapping timelines and varied reputations of these different "Olympic Theatres" can make it difficult to definitively trace their individual histories and impact. The Olympic Theatre on Broadway is generally considered the most historically significant of the various iterations.