FAQ ABOUT YOUR VISIT TO THE DELACORTE
We are excited to welcome you back to the newly revitalized Delacorte Theater for Free Shakespeare in the Park! Learn more about what to expect during your visit below. This page may be updated throughout the summer, so check back closer to your performance date for the most up-to-date information.
ACCESSIBILITY AT THE DELACORTE
Where can I find information about ADA Accessibility at The Delacorte?
For information about accessibility accommodations and services, please visit ACCESSIBILITY SERVICES FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES.
You can find accessible walking paths and transit options here: DIRECTIONS, TRANSPORTATION, & PARKING AT THE DELACORTE
The Delacorte revitalization is still underway. Check back this summer for specifics about wheelchair locations, limited stair options, railings, ramps, and more.
Are service animals permitted at The Delacorte?
Yes, a service animal is a working animal, not a pet. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) defines a service animal as any dog that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability, including a physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual, or other mental disability. Dogs that satisfy this definition are considered service animals under the ADA regardless of whether they have been licensed or certified by a state or local government or any other entity. The Public has the right under the law to exclude a service animal only if the animal is out of control or not housebroken and the animal's handler does not control it. Pets are not permitted at The Delacorte.
- Assisting with navigation, or stability and balance;
- Alerting to sounds or allergens;
- Pulling wheelchairs, carrying and retrieving items;
- Seizure assistance;
- Interrupting impulsive or destructive behaviors.
Who can I contact if I have questions or want to request an ADA Accommodation?
We welcome audience members with disabilities. Do not hesitate to contact Audience Services at 212.967.7555 or accessibility@publictheater.org. We are here to help.
CONCESSIONS AND MERCHANDISE
Check back this summer for hours and locations
PHOTOGRAPHY AND VIDEOGRAPHY POLICIES
Is there a photography and videography policy at The Delacorte?
We welcome you to take photos outside The Delacorte and throughout Central Park. Inside the theater, you may photograph your party at your seats before the performance, during intermission, or after the show ends.
Photographs and video recording are not permitted during the performance unless otherwise stated via signage or with the express permission of Public Theater staff.
For everyone's safety, cameras must be self-contained and handheld; detachable lenses may not exceed five inches (5") in length, and the use of tripods, monopods, and selfie sticks is prohibited.
Members of the news media, those seeking permissions for commercial or documentary photography/videography, or those who wish to stage large-scale or formal photoshoots should email info@publictheater.org for assistance with your request.
PLANNING YOUR VISIT
How do I get to The Delacorte?
Here you will find transit and driving directions to Central Park, and walking directions to The Delacorte Theater: DIRECTIONS, TRANSPORTATION, & PARKING AT THE DELACORTE
What is the dress code for performances at The Delacorte?
Attending a performance at The Delacorte is undoubtedly a special occasion, but there is no strict dress code. Shirts and shoes are required to enter the theater.
Most nights, you will see a range from casual to business or festive attire. When there are special events, some audience members may wear cocktail or even formal attire. You are welcome to dress up or dress down, but above all, we want you to feel comfortable.
Is the theater enclosed/covered and air-conditioned?
The Delacorte is an open-air, outdoor theater set against the spectacular backdrop of Central Park. There is no coverage or climate control. While the setting is part of what makes The Delacorte experience so special, it also means facing the elements: heat, wind, rain, and sometimes bugs. For more information on what happens when the weather doesn't cooperate, see our INCLEMENT WEATHER POLICY.
Where is the nearest restroom located?
Public restrooms are located in the Stone Cottage, next to The Delacorte. The restrooms are maintained by the Central Park Conservancy; if you have any concerns about the conditions, please alert our staff, and we will pass your concerns along to the CPC.
Is there a designated smoking area at The Delacorte?
No. Smoking is prohibited inside Central Park, including vaping and e-cigarettes. Violators are subject to a $50 fine.
Can I bring a bag into The Delacorte?
Yes, you may bring bags smaller than 16" x 16" x 8" into the theater. All bags are subject to search before entering. Check back this summer for our complete bag policy.
Can I bring a stroller?
No, strollers are not permitted inside the theater due to a lack of storage space.
Who do I contact if I lose an item at The Delacorte?
If you lose an item while visiting The Delacorte, please call The Delacorte Box Office at 212.539.8663. Found objects are logged into a database and are held in a secure location through the end of our performance season.
PRODUCTION INFORMATION
Where can I learn more about the production(s) this summer?
For more information about TWELFTH NIGHT, including performance calendar, accessible performances, and cast information, visit our website: TWELFTH NIGHT
Some info, like approximate running time, will be added closer to the start of performances.
Is this production appropriate for children?
All ages are welcome for productions and events at The Delacorte Theater, including Free Shakespeare in the Park. If you have a question about the content of a production or need more information to determine if a production is appropriate for your child, please contact Audience Services at 212.967.7555 or info@publictheater.org.
For information on tickets and lap vouchers for children, please see SEATING, TICKETING, AND BOX OFFICE
SEATING, TICKETING, AND BOX OFFICE
How do I get tickets to a production at The Delacorte?
We are excited to offer multiple in-person distribution points for free tickets this summer, as well as the return of TodayTix as our official digital lottery partner for Free Shakespeare in the Park.
- Distribution in Central Park
- In-person lottery at The Public Theater
- Distribution across all five boroughs
- Digital lottery with TodayTix
- Standby line in Central Park
More detailed information about how to access tickets will be shared in May 2025. Stay tuned!
Can I buy tickets or reserve tickets in advance?
We do not sell tickets for Free Shakespeare in the Park. However, you can support The Public Theater and reserve your seat by becoming a Supporter Plus, Young Partner, or Partner with a donation starting at $300. Seating assignments, number of reserved tickets, and access to special events are based on your level of giving. Learn more about our donor programs and reserve your seats today.
Please note, reserved seating for a donation is limited in order to continue to keep the majority of tickets to Free Shakespeare in the Park accessible to all.
Are group tickets available for my corporate outing?
Does my child need to have a ticket for the performance?
Children five and older must have their own ticket for a performance. Children under age five are not required to have a ticket and may sit on your lap during the performance after acquiring a lap voucher at your entry gate into the theater.
My tickets are being held at the box office. How do I pick them up?
The box office is located outside The Delacorte in the center of the building. When picking up your tickets, you will be asked to present some form of identification. Please have your ID before arriving at the box office window. If you will not be present to supply identification when picking up tickets for a performance, please contact Audience Services at 212.967.7555 and ask for assistance arranging a "Hold Under" name to be added to the order. You may also make this request when reserving your tickets online and over the phone.
Reserved tickets can be picked up between 4PM and 7:30PM. After 7:30PM, unclaimed tickets may be distributed to the standby line.
How do I enter the theater with digital tickets?
Access your digital tickets by logging in to wallet.publictheater.org. Your tickets will be scanned directly from your mobile device for entry.
When will the theater open for seating?
The theater opens for seating 30 minutes before performance time. Seats are pre-assigned, so there is no need to line up before the gates open.
What is your policy for audience members who arrive late?
Ticketed seat locations are not guaranteed past the scheduled curtain time printed on tickets. Late seating is solely at the discretion of the theater management for all performances, and late seating policies are subject to change per production. Please plan your travel carefully, and leave extra time for traffic, mass transit delays, parking, and walking to the theater.
Are the seats padded or cushioned?
They are not, but you are welcome to bring your own seat cushion or pillow.
Can I return to my seat if I leave the theater during the performance?
If you must leave the theater during the performance, you will be required to present your ticket for re-entry. You may be held at your entrance gate until an appropriate break or transition in the performance upon your return. Re-entry to the theater may be denied at the discretion of our theater management.
I found a ticket to Free Shakespeare in the Park on StubHub or another third-party resale site. Is it valid?
Official tickets for Free Shakespeare in the Park are only available through our distribution points, by donating and reserving tickets through The Public Theater, or by special invitation. Please be wary of any other sites claiming to sell tickets to our events. We do not endorse third-party sites, and we cannot guarantee or verify the validity of any tickets purchased in this way. If entry into our venues is attempted with an illegitimate ticket or one obtained under fraudulent circumstances, we will not honor it, even if money has been exchanged between you and a non-endorsed sales channel. The Public is not financially responsible for any monetary loss you incur.