Princess Theatre (New York, 29th Street)

The Princess Theatre, located on 29th Street in New York City, was a small theatre known for its innovative and intimate musical productions during the early 20th century. Opening in 1913, it had a seating capacity of just 299, creating a close connection between performers and audience.

The Princess Theatre is particularly remembered for the series of musicals produced there by Elisabeth Marbury, F. Ray Comstock, and Morris Gest, with music by Jerome Kern and books and lyrics by Guy Bolton and P.G. Wodehouse. These "Princess Theatre Musicals," as they became known, included shows like Very Good Eddie (1915), Oh, Boy! (1917), and Leave It to Jane (1917). They were characterized by their contemporary settings, relatable characters, and sophisticated musical scores, moving away from the large-scale spectacle of earlier musical theatre. These productions are considered a significant step in the evolution of the American musical, influencing later works by composers like Rodgers and Hammerstein.

Despite its artistic significance, the Princess Theatre had a relatively short lifespan. It closed as a legitimate theatre in 1939 and was later used for other purposes, eventually being demolished. However, its legacy continues to be recognized for its contribution to the development of American musical theatre.