Roseland Ballroom   

239 W 52nd St
New York, NY 10019
212-247-0200
www.roselandballroom.com

Directions   Email   Send to Cell  

Roseland opened in 1919 and immediately became what it still remains: New York's hardiest ballroom. Early on, it welcomed ankle-twisting Charleston-ers; in the Depression, it was a legendary 'dime-a-dance' hall. Located on 52nd Street -- the heartbeat of Gotham jazz -- it was unparalleled during World War II and for decades thereafter for presenting big bands and song stylists amid the jitterbugging, slow dancing, twisting and boogie-ing masses. Walk into the lobby -- for Sunday afternoon ballroom dancing, say -- and see display cases housing Ruby Keeler and Ginger Rodgers' dancing shoes. In the ballroom itself, Roseland puts the art deco trims and undulating ceiling to great use, whether for thrashing, head-banging rock concerts or Broadway opening night parties. Boxing matches, political fundraisers, cabaret shows, wedding receptions and trade shows all occur here too -- the latter requiring everything enveloped in bubble wrap. Other recent noteworthy events: Madonna suddenly showing up to perform unannounced and the Teletubbies North American debut party, at which Dipsy got tipsy and Laa-Laa went gaga. -- George Spelvin