Top Strategies for Affordable Broadway Tickets Revealed
It was more than six decades ago that the Drifters crooned, 'One thin dime won't even shine your shoes (on Broadway),' and in the years that followed, ticket prices on the Great White Way have not gotten any cheaper. If you have a desire to catch some of the fantastic shows playing on or off Broadway this season but need to be mindful of your budget, don't worry, it's not a lost cause. There are various apps, deals, services, and membership programs that can help bring down the cost, especially if you are willing to make the trip to Times Square in advance. Before you shell out the full ticket price plus fees, give one of these strategies a shot.
Looking for mobile tickets? Try TodayTix
A simple and efficient way to find tickets, whether discounted or not, is by using the TodayTix app. This app showcases discounts, lotteries, rushes, and other deals. For certain shows, you can choose specific seats, or select a desired price range and opt for 'Best Available' to secure tickets in a general area.
In Times Square? Visit the TKTS booth
For those impromptu plans, head to the reliable TKTS booth, now more of a gleaming structure in the heart of the hustle and bustle. Run by the nonprofit TDF, TKTS provides a range of same-day or next-day tickets at a discount. If you prefer to spend as little time as possible in Times Square, there are also TKTS kiosks at Lincoln Center and the South Street Seaport.
Have a flexible schedule? Try your luck with a lottery
If you're open to seeing a show whenever the opportunity arises, a lottery might be the way to go. The challenge is figuring out where to enter since each show (whether on Broadway or elsewhere) conducts its lottery through various platforms. Many use TodayTix or their own Telecharge websites, while Hamilton, being Hamilton, has its dedicated app. Prices can differ depending on the show — for example, Hamilton still offers $10 lottery tickets through its Ham4Ham guarantee. Playbill regularly updates a comprehensive list of deals.
Early bird? Consider a rush
Similar to a lottery, the rush system involves theaters releasing a limited number of tickets to audiences who either grab them online at a specific time or show up at the box office in person. The process of a rush and whether it necessitates an in-person presence vary from show to show, so consult Playbill's guide to determine if a rush would work for you.
Set on a specific show? Subscribe to its mailing list
If there's a particular show you're eager to see, sign up for its email list, and you might receive a discount code.
Indifferent to the show? Take a gamble with Broadway Roulette
The service does exactly what the name suggests: you pay a fee (starting at $49) and receive tickets for a random show. It can be an enjoyable experience if you're feeling adventurous or wouldn't mind watching Chicago for the umpteenth time.
Last-minute plans? Check out Theatr
Previously known as Stooping Theatre, Theatr — accessible via Instagram or its app — is a treasure trove of low-cost or even free tickets. Snagging great deals simply requires vigilance and a swift response.
Planning to be a frequent theatergoer? Become a patron
Some theater companies like Roundabout or the Manhattan Theatre Club offer ticket subscriptions, ensuring access to their productions. If you fall within a specific age group, see if they have memberships tailored for young patrons. Roundabout features the Hiptix Gold program for donors aged 18 to 40, where a $100 membership fee entitles you to $30 tickets. Anyone under 35 can enroll in MTC's free 30 Under 35 program, inclusive of two $30 tickets. Playwrights Horizons offers Young and Student Memberships, while Lincoln Center presents LincTix for individuals aged 18 to 35.
Meet the qualifications? Join the Theatre Development Fund
Eligible individuals can join the Theater Development Fund for discounted tickets. The eligibility criteria are not as restrictive as one might assume, with groups like students, teachers, individuals under 30, union members, retirees, artists or art professionals, and even freelancers being able to join.
Fine with the full price? Save on online fees and purchase at the box office
The simplest way to buy tickets is by paying the full price. For New York residents, heading to the theater in person and buying tickets directly from the box office can help you avoid online ticketing fees. Every penny counts!