Finding cheap tickets to New York City theater is tough, especially if you’re trying to get into the hottest show. However, there are deals around if you’re willing to look in the right places, and you can get these deals even on the day of performance. If you’re willing to do the footwork—and possibly wait in a few lines--you can find a cheap theater ticket and experience the magic of the Great White Way.
Check for discount codes online. BroadwayBox.com provides these discount codes, and you don’t have to sign up for any lists or give away personal information (see Resources). For extra savings, skip Telecharge and Ticketmaster fees by printing out the code and bringing it to the box office in person.
Get in line at the TKTS booths. These booths sell theater tickets for Broadway and Off-Broadway shows at discounts of 20 to 50 percent. There are three booths: in Times Square, at the South Street Seaport and in downtown Brooklyn (see Resources). Try the South Street Seaport or Brooklyn locations, as lines may be shorter and they sell tickets for next-day matinee performances as well as day-of tickets for evening shows. The Times Square TKTS booth sells tickets for day-of evening performances only.
Try for a rush ticket. Shows often offer discount tickets on the day of the performance. These tickets are usually available at the box office. There may be age conditions for rush tickets—you may need to prove that you are a student or a senior. Some shows offer lottery drawings for tickets. Check the Talkin’ Broadway website for specific rush ticket conditions for Broadway shows (see Resources).
If your favorite show is sold out, standing room only tickets may still be available, if you’re willing to stay on your feet for a few hours. Talkin' Broadway provides a list of shows that provide standing room only tickets.
If you’re visiting during the summer, the Public Theater presents Shakespeare in the Park. Well-known actors put on a show (usually Shakespeare, but sometimes another classic play or musical) at Central Park—all for free. Not surprisingly, lines can get long, so get to one of the ticket locations early in the morning (for locations, see Resources).
