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One Astor Plaza

Current Status:

Complete

Completed:

1972

Architect:

Der Scutt of Ely J. Kahn & Jacobs

Address:

1515 Broadway
at West 45th Street

Height:

745 feet

Number of Stories:

54

Also Known As:

W.T. Grant Building

Building Info:

One Astor Plaza is a 745 ft tall skyscraper in Times Square in Midtown Manhattan. Completed in 1972, the building is 54 stories tall and was designed by Der Scutt of Ely J. Kahn & Jacobs. Originally known as the W.T. Grant Building, it is currently the headquarters for Viacom and houses the MTV Studios, Minskoff Theatre, the Nokia Theatre at Times Square, and some retail outlets. It is located at 1515 Broadway at West 45th Street. The building was constructed in the site of the site of the legendary Astor Hotel (built in 1904 and closed in 1967). Construction of the building began in 1968 and was completed in 1972.

Nokia Theatre

Located in the sub-level of One Astor Plaza was the Loews Astor Cinema. It opened on 26 June 1974 but closed on 2 August 2004. It was famous for drawing large crowds on opening nights and was a popular place to see films in New York City. After closing, it experienced a nine month renovation and reopened as the Nokia Theatre at Times Square. Holding approximately 2,000, it is now used as a rock venue.

The Minskoff Theatre

The Minskoff Theatre is a legitimate Broadway theatre. The 1621-seat venue, designed by architects Kahn and Jacobs, is on the third floor of One Astor Plaza. Named after Sam Minskoff and Sons, builders and owners of the high-rise building, it opened on March 13, 1973 with a revival of Irene starring Debbie Reynolds. Over the years it has served as host to musicals, dance companies, and concerts.  Access to the theatre is through the arcade in the centre of the building.

The following productions were presented at The Minskoff Theater: