Broadway musicals, plays, and other live performance events can be very expensive to attend, especially if you are purchasing tickets for your entire family. Theaters and theater advocates alike have come together in a few creative ways to lower the prices of some of Broadway’s most popular shows. Here are some of the best ways to find a discounted Broadway show ticket.
Support Theatre
By joining the TDF, or Theater Development Fund, you can enjoy discounted Broadway tickets all year long while helping a non-profit organization keep the theatrical arts alive. Since 1968, the TDF has been involved in the success of 32 Pulitzer Prize wining performances and more than 900 total events. Being a member means no waiting in line and tickets are as low as $35. If for some reason you can’t join the Theatre Development Fund, you can still support theater arts. Try purchasing a discounted ticket at one of their TKTS booths.
TKTS Booths
TKTS booths are in three locations around New York City: Times Square, Downtown Brooklyn, and South Street Seaport. Normally, the Times Square location is the busiest while the Downtown Brooklyn and South Street Seaport locations are less busy. Also, these two locations sell matinee tickets, which the Times Square location does not. All three booths sell discounted tickets for same day performances though, and are sometimes up to 50% off. All proceeds go to the Theater Development Fund, so you can feel positive that your purchase is supporting artists. Be prepared to wait in line however, as these booths are a popular tourist destination for ticket purchasing.
Rush (or Standing Room Only) Tickets
Rush tickets, or SRO tickets, are available at most Broadway theaters, but are specific to each performance. Rush means that seats are offered in the $25 - $35 range right before the show begins or right when the box office opens. Usually, the theaters only accept cash. For more detailed information, call the theater that you’d like to attend and ask about shows with available rush tickets.
Discount Websites
There are many websites that offer discounted Broadway tickets, but beware of scams. Try well-known sites like Playbill.com, Theatremania.com, and Broadwaybox.com for less expensive ways to see your favorite Broadway performances. Playbill.com is well organized and easy to navigate. It also offers promotional codes that you can use on other discount ticket purchasing websites, like Theatremania.com and Broadwaybox.com. “Ticket Brokers”, or individuals selling tickets online through secure websites, such as StubHub.com, are another option for finding inexpensive Broadway tickets online.
Age Matters
If you’re a student, senior citizen, or military member, many Broadway theaters offer a discount. In fact, some same day rush tickets as low as $25 are only available to students and senior citizens. Be sure to bring your ID with you to the theater, as well as cash. Most theaters offer these tickets for cash only.
