Queens Theatre in the Park has provided the borough of Queens with the finest in the visual and performing arts for nearly two decades. The program was officially established in 1989, opening to the public in 1993; since then it has grown from a small community theatre to a major performing arts center, serving over 100,000 (mostly) Queens residents each year.
The programming at QTP spans the spectrum of performing arts, largely featuring artists from and/or based in the borough. In addition to its diverse programming, QTP produces original theatre, concentrating on emerging directors and playwrights, many of whom also hail from Queens.
All of the operations of Queens Theatre in the Park are based in the New York State Pavilion, built for the 1964 World’s Fair in Flushing Meadows Corona Park. The Pavilion was converted into a theater in 1972 and hosted a number of organizations until 1985. Originally containing only a small cabaret-style theater, the Pavilion was renovated before the opening of QTP, and now boasts a mainstage and separate studio theater, seating 464 and 99 respectively.
Queens Theatre in the Park Information
- Public Transportation: Good (accessible by subway line 7 at 111th Street, and buses Q23, Q48, and Q58)
- Handicapped Accessibility: Good
- Performances/Programs: Approximately 300 events annually
- Ticket Prices: Varies (free–$35) depending on event; discounts available at some events for students & seniors
- Group Discounts: Available for groups of 15 or more; greater savings for groups of 40 and over (signed contract, including a 25% deposit, required for group discount rates)
- Subscriptions: Multi-show discount prices available on ticket purchases to three or more events (discount applies to all events for the remainder of the season).
