A Home for Film, Media, & the Visual Arts.

Opened in 2009 after being re-envisioned by celebrated designer Milton Glaser and a team of architects and artists, SVA Theatre has become a world-class facility, specializing in the projected image, as well as seminars, lectures, and other presentations, many of which are free and open to the public.

The SVA Theatre is widely known for Milton Glaser’s iconic kinetic sculpture atop the marquee, which comes to life every hour on the hour. Inside, the elegant lobby leads to two auditoriums, Silas and Beatrice (named for SVA’s founder and his wife), which seat a total of 745 guests.

Originally opened in 1963 as the RKO 23rd Street, the building’s prior tenants have included both cinematic and performing arts organizations, most notably Broadway’s Roundabout Theatre Company, and played host to hundreds of artistic events over the years.

The SVA Theatre continues that tradition by hosting a variety of events year-round, both private and public. In addition to serving the needs of the School of Visual Arts, it is available to the community at large. We welcome you to attend our public events and to rent the space for your event needs.