The Lambs ® is America’s First Professional Theatrical Club, established in New York in 1874, and not a public restaurant. As a social club, The Lambs nurtures those active in the arts, as well as those who are supporters of the arts, by providing fellowship, activities and a clubhouse for its members. Established Christmas week of 1874, and incorporated on May 9, 1877. The Lambs was named after a club by the same name in London, England, which flourished between 1869-1879. The Club’s name honors the essayist Charles Lamb, and his sister Mary, who, during the early 1800’s, played host to actors and literati at their famed salon in London.

The Lambs is a social gathering place for entertainment industry and art professionals. Performers, directors, writers, artists and technicians of the entertainment industry gather to celebrate their commonality, in a place where they come to enjoy each others’ company, and to display and hone their crafts in an atmosphere of creativity and support, and to nurture creative endeavors. The Lambs is also a historical society preserving and promoting our remarkable 141+ year history.

Historically, The Lambs has been the spawning ground of plays, friendships and partnerships. Mark Twain Tonight (with Hal Holbrook) and Stalag 17 were first performed at The Lambs prior to national success. Alan Jay Lerner and Frederick Loewe first met at the Club and teamed to make theatrical history, often trying works-in-progress on their fellow Lambs. The Lambs has been recognized by NYC Mayor Michael Bloomberg, Governor Andrew Cuomo, Senator Kirsten Gillibrand and by Pope John Paul II.