La MaMa
The East Village experimental theater founded by Ellen Stewart in 1961, birthplace of Off-Off-Broadway.
Example
Tickets cost a fraction of Broadway, so you read the show description, accept the gamble and see work years before it becomes respectable.
Related terms
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Frequently asked questions
Is La MaMa a safe pick for a casual theatergoer?
It is a gamble by design. Read the show description, embrace the price, and treat a miss as part of the downtown experience.
How does La MaMa differ from Off-Broadway?
It is Off-Off-Broadway, smaller rooms, wilder work, lower prices. Broadway polish is exactly what it exists to escape.
What else is on the same block?
The East 4th Street cultural district holds around a dozen small theaters, so if La MaMa's show does not appeal, another stage nearby usually has something running.
