With the revitalized Times Square now almost unrecognizable when compared to the sleazy, dangerous-looking place it was only a decade ago, more and more tourists are enjoying New York -- and New York theatre. To cater to this influx, the Times Square Business Improvement District (BID) has announced they've signed a lease on the Embassy movie theatre on Broadway at 46th Street, near the Roundabout Theatre, and will turn it into the new home of the Times Square Visitors Center. (The previous Center, on 42nd Street, collapsed Dec. 30.)

As reported in Backstage, patrons will be able to buy full-price theatre tickets at the $1 million venue, as well as get sightseeing information, take bus tours, use automated tellers and internet stations, and buy international newspapers.

Designed to comply with the venue's landmark status, Backstage reports that the building's renovations will be done by F. J. Sciame Construction Company. The original Embassy was built in 1925 and used as an MGM movie theatre. In the change-over to this landmarked (1987) venue, the seats will be removed and a new, patterned floor will be put in.

A source from BID confirmed that construction is scheduled to get underway next week (demolition happens this week), with the building expected ready by springtime. BID also confirmed that 20 million tourists are expected to hit New York this year, spending more than $3.5 billion.

BID President Gretchen Dykstra said in a statement, "It will be open all day, every day." -- By David Lefkowitz