The York Theatre Company occupies a unique spot in New York’s theatrical landscape. Now in its 50th year, The York is the only theater in the city, and one of the few in the world, whose two-fold mission is to produce new musical works and rediscover musical gems from the past.
The York’s intimate, imaginative producing style has become its trademark. Its productions have won critical acclaim, a host of honors and awards, and a loyal audience. Just as important, The York provides a nurturing, constructive environment for new artists to hone their craft, and for some of the masters of the musical theater’s Golden Age to take fresh looks at their classic works. A special Drama Desk Award was presented to the company for its “vital contributions to theater by developing and producing new musicals.”
Founded by Janet Hayes Walker, The York has presented more than 70 full-scale musical productions, including such classics as The Golden Apple, The Grass Harp, On the 20th Century, A Doll’s Life, Lost in the Stars, Carnival!, and Merrily We Roll Along. Under the guidance of Producing Artistic Director James Morgan since 1997, The York has focused exclusively on musical theater: newer musicals in its Mainstage Series (most of them world, American or New York premieres) and revivals in its popular Musicals in Mufti series of semi-staged readings.