[nb 1] George Krause, a manager of other theatres, with financial backing of Tammany Hall politician Timothy D. Sullivan, built Schley Music Hall at 112 West 34th Street, on the south side of the street, and west of Broadway.

[2] It opened on February 26, 1900, aiming to show vaudeville and burlesque fare.

Kraus immediately sold out his stake to New York Yankees owner Frank J. Farrell, and the venue closed on April 29.

Under a new lease by Alfred Aarons, the house reopened on October 8, 1900, as the Savoy Theatre.

Aarons only lasted until early February 1901, and Hyde and Behman then leased it, followed by Charles Frohman and Frank McKee, who started performances on September 21, 1901. Notable runs included Mrs. Wiggs of the Cabbage Patch (Sept. 1903-Jan. 1905, 150 perf.