How to Access New York Theatre:
In 1996, Jonathan Larson’s Rent pioneered two affordable ticketing initiatives that dramatically increased access to Broadway: the rush and the lottery.
The Nederlander Theatre’s box office offered $20 orchestra seats first-come, first-served.
After almost a year of massive lines forming outside the theatre overnight caused safety concerns, Rent's producers reconfigured the rush into a lottery system. Instead, the box office held a drawing two hours before curtain for $20 tickets. Thanks to Rent’s success, both discount programs still exist today.
Photo: Joan Marcus
I’d argue the largest barrier that restricts or limits people’s access to theatre is the price of the ticket. Personally, I will only pay full-price for a ticket if I’ve exhausted all other methods. And if that’s the case, you’ll find me seated in the last couple rows of the nosebleeds. The good news is that the majority of New York productions (especially from Off-Broadway houses and non-profit companies) offer various discount options. Between promo codes, day-of discounts, youth memberships, and more, there are many budget-friendly programs that aim to increase access to theatre in New York. You just have to know where, how, and when to look. Here are the variety of options for discounted tickets to Broadway, Off-Broadway, and Off-Off Broadway productions.
(Note: The New York theatre scene is a living, breathing entity as shows constantly open and close while companies might change their policies/programs to better suit audiences. Because of this, my list will be primarily company-specific instead of show-specific. If your heart is set on a particular Broadway show, I’d recommend jumping straight to this Playbill article that categorizes the most up-to-date discount options available for each Broadway show.)
Discount Methods & Third-Parties:
DIGITAL LOTTERY
Many Broadway shows will offer online lotteries that provide discounted tickets for every performance to a handful of lucky winners. Lotteries are typically held through the websites Telecharge, Lucky Seat, Broadway Direct, or TodayTix. Each site will have all the necessary information on how and when to enter. While usually comparable in price to rush tickets, the price of lottery tickets (as well as the timeframe for purchasing tickets after winning) is determined by each show.
FLASH SALES
Flash sales are a common promotion that offer discount tickets for a limited time. One recent trend is on the day the box office opens for in-person sales, the upcoming production will offer super cheap tickets for some/all preview performances. We’re talking less than $20! (Pro-Tip: If there’s an upcoming show that you’re interested in, follow their social media accounts(s). The official social media page will often be the first place to announce a flash sale or other discount options.)
MAILERS / PROMO CODES
Once you buy Broadway tickets through an official ticket seller like Telecharge or BroadwayDirect and create an online profile, you will likely begin receiving physical advertisements for upcoming productions mailed to your address as their marketing teams kick into high gear. These brochures offer promo codes that reduce the price of full-price tickets, especially for preview performances. The mailer will include information on which ticketing website to visit and how to apply the promo code. (Pro-Tip: You can also take the code to the theatre’s box office to avoid paying the service fee(s) on top of discounted tickets.)
NYC BROADWAY WEEK
NYC Broadway Week, from New York City Tourism + Conventions, is a semiannual event (which is actually closer to 3 weeks) when most Broadway productions join together to offer 2-for-1 tickets for a range of select dates. The event usually runs through early February and again through early September when Broadway attendance dips and shows need the extra boost in sales. Information on which shows are participating as well as which codes to use will be announced on the first day of Broadway Week.
PARTIAL VIEW SEATS
A “partial view” seat means your view of the stage may be partially obstructed, causing you to miss some of the action onstage. This could be because of the theatre’s infrastructure (such as a support pillar, a safety rail, a high stage, or a mezzanine box overhang) or a unique design element that’s specific to the show. These tickets are sold at a significantly lower price than full view seats. All primary ticketing sites or box office staff will confirm if a seat is partial view so that you’re aware when booking. In my experience, these seats still allow you to see a decent amount of the show. (Pro-Tip: To be safe, I usually only agree to a partial view seat once I’ve heard some word-of-mouth about the staging, have already seen the show before, or trust that it’s still a better value than the extra $20 for a full-view rear mezzanine seat.)
RUSH
A rush ticket is a same-day ticket purchased directly from the box office. Since rush tickets are sold on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last, the more popular or newer Broadway shows will often have a line form outside before the box office has even opened. Rush ticket prices range anywhere from $25 to $50 and you can typically purchase up to 2 tickets. It’s increasingly common for rush tickets to be sold as partial view seats, but the box office staff will verify that before you purchase. Keep in mind that not every show will offer in-person rush tickets (some opt for a digital rush or no rush at all), so I’d recommend checking the show’s official website or social media before arriving in Times Square at sunrise. (Pro-Tip: Are you a student? Bring your student ID with you and ask about a student rush option).
STANDING ROOM
Though growing rarer, some shows will offer standing room tickets at an extremely discounted rate. You’ll be standing in a designated area towards the rear of the theatre for the duration of the performance. Standing room tickets are typically around $30-$40 and offered on a first-serve basis at the box office on the day of the performance. If you’re lucky, an usher may bring you to an open seat after the late-seating period! (Pro-Tip: Always double-check the runtime before purchasing standing room tickets. 90 minutes? A great deal. But for a 3-hour play? It may be worth the extra $30 for a nosebleed seat if it means you can sit down.)
TODAYTIX
“A Rush ticket is a same-day ticket for a show. Rush tickets are available to claim and buy on a first-come, first-served basis on the TodayTix app each morning, and the ticket is good for that afternoon or evening's show.” Rush tickets become available at either 9:00AM or 10:00AM on the day of the performance and are priced anywhere from $25-$50. It’s best to open the TodayTix app a couple minutes early as you will see a countdown leading up to the moment Rush tickets become available. (Pro-Tip: Popular shows almost always sell out within a split second, so avoid recommend making travel arrangements with the expectation of securing a TodayTix rush.)
“A theatre Lottery ticket is a ticket to a Broadway or Off-Broadway show that you enter to win. Winners are selected at random, and they will be able to purchase discounted tickets on the TodayTix app for an upcoming performance of their chosen show. Lottery tickets are either for performances the same day or up to a week away - it varies by Lottery.”
THEATR
The Theatr App is a “community driven ticket marketplace” for both ticket-buyers and sellers. Users can purchase resale theatre tickets at face value or less directly through the mobile app. The best part is that Theatr doesn’t allow price gouging! Theatr is a great option if you’re looking to resell last-minute theatre tickets if you can no longer attend a show. Also, you can simply scroll through the marketplace of available tickets to find something to do that night! Theatr allows you to set notifications for individual shows, so you’ll receive an alert if someone lists tickets you’re interested in. You’ll want to act fast as hot tickets, especially if they’re steeply discounted, will go quick!
THEATRE DEVELOPMENT FUND
The Theatre Development Fund (TDF) is a “not-for-profit organization that has been dedicated to bringing the power of the performing arts to everyone since 1968.” It offers a $40 annual membership program that gives members exclusive access to discounted tickets for hundreds of Broadway and Off-Broadway shows, dance performances, operas, and concerts. Tickets can range anywhere from $11 to $57 (plus fees) depending on the type of show. Unlike lottery or rush tickets, TDF reservations can be made in advance as a period of dates are usually available to choose from. (Pro-Tip: While you won’t be choosing your actual seat, TDF is known to provide excellent seats at an affordable value.)
TKTS
The iconic red bleachers in Times Square are home to perhaps the most well known discount ticket vendor: the TKTS Discount Booth. Brought to you by TDF, TKTS offers last-minute savings on Broadway and Off-Broadway productions of up to 50% off - including some of the big musicals! The available tickets are for same-day matinee and evening performances as well as next-day matinees. There are two TKTS locations in New York: one in Times Square (Broadway and West 47th Street) and the other near Lincoln Center (61 West 62nd Street). The operating hours vary by location and day of the week. (Pro-Tip: You can download the official TKTS mobile app to see real-time updates of which shows are available as well as a price estimate before going to one of the booths).
WEBSITES
Broadway Box: Provides promo codes for Broadway and Off-Broadway productions through official ticket sellers as well as the other discount options that are available.
Broadway on a Budget: The original fan website that shares affordable options for each Broadway show.
Broadway Rush Report: See live reports of the amount of people in line by certain times for each Broadway show’s in-person rush.
B’way Rush: A succinct, no-frills website that lists rush, lottery, standing room, and special discounts for both current and upcoming Broadway shows.
WEEKDAY PEFORMANCES
Broadway shows often have slightly less expensive tickets for weekday performances when compared to the weekend. While the price difference is minimal, you can expect to save $10-$20 for the same exact seat by attending a weekday performance instead of the popular Saturday evening/matinee.
Non-profit / Off-Broadway Theatre Companies:
ATLANTIC THEATRE COMPANY
“Atlantic Theater Company offers $20 student rush tickets to every performance at both our Linda Gross and Stage 2 theaters. Tickets are sold at the box office starting two hours prior to curtain and are subject to availability. Cash only, one ticket per valid student ID.”
“Atlantic Theater Company offers same-day digital rush tickets for $30 via TodayTix. We also offer in-person rush tickets for $50 at both our Linda Gross and Stage 2 theaters. Tickets are sold at the box office starting two hours prior to curtain and are subject to availability. Rush tickets are not available for sold out performances.”
“Atlantic is committed to connecting deeply and authentically with audiences from a broad range of economic backgrounds, ages, ethnicities and perspectives. Our Access25 ticket initiative (formerly “Back25”) makes $25 tickets available to every preview performance in the 2023|2024 season. Access25 tickets are sold on a first come, first served basis beginning approximately 2 weeks prior to the first performance of each Atlantic Theater Company 2023|2024 production. For specific Access25 on sale dates, please check the production page on our website.”
CLASSIC STAGE COMPANY
Future Classic Tickets: $35 For 35 And Under
“CSC continues our commitment to making our programming accessible to youth and young adults, the audiences who will determine the ‘Future Classic’ canon. We offer $35 tickets for all performances anywhere in the house (Classic Prime & Prime tickets excluded) during the run of each of our shows. To redeem a $35 ticket use code ‘Classic35’ (limit 2 tickets per customer per event). Please bring ID to the box office to verify your age when you arrive at the theater.”
“A limited number of $20 tickets are available for select performances throughout the season. Sign up to receive email alerts about availability and exclusive limited-time promotional codes as they become available.”
“Subject to availability, $30 rush tickets are available in person at the box office one hour prior to curtain. Limit 1 ticket per person.”
“Subject to availability, $20 student rush tickets are available in person at the box office one hour prior to curtain. Limit 1 ticket per person with valid student ID (required). Subject to availability, middle and high school students may use the code ‘TEEN10’ for $10 tickets for Teen Takeover performances. Teen Takeovers are performances hosted by members of CSC NextGen, a program in which teens gain insight into careers in theater. Limit of 2 tickets per student (valid student ID required).”
IRISH REPERTORY THEATRE
“Our Young Patron discount program for those under the age of 40. Members receive one ticket per production for only $25. Must be a member before ordering tickets.”
“For each preview performance at Irish Rep, a block of tickets will be made available for $22 each (limit 2 per person) at 1pm. These tickets will be released 2 weeks before the first preview performance of each production and will remain available until all allocated inventory has been sold. Any member of the general public can access the tickets.”
“Seniors (age 65 or over) may receive a $10 discount on each ticket purchased with a valid ID. Subject to availability. Senior tickets may be purchased in person at the Box Office, or reserved over the phone subject to age verification in person. Please bring ID and payment to the Box Office when you pick up your ticket prior to your scheduled performance.”
“Half-price rush tickets are available one hour before each show begins. Patrons may call the Box Office to inquire about availability, but please note that rush tickets cannot be reserved and will not be sold over the phone. Subject to availability. No rush tickets are guaranteed until one hour prior to the performance.”
“Digital lottery tickets are available for select shows on the TodayTix app.”
LINCOLN CENTER THEATER
“LincTix is free to join! Gives you access to cheap tickets for each new LCT and LCT3 production at the Vivian Beaumont, Mitzi E. Newhouse, and Claire Tow Theaters and on Broadway. $35.50 when purchased online (includes a $3.50 Telecharge service fee and a $2 LCT facility fee) and $32 when purchased in-person at the Box Office (includes a $2 LCT facility fee.) Gets you invitations to free post-show parties! LincTix nights will be announced by email when tickets go on sale for each new show. Allows you to purchase tickets in advance -- as soon as the show is on sale to the public. No more last minute rush to the box office! A limited number of LincTix are available for EVERY performance.”
“Each day, LCT offers $32 rush tickets to full-time students beginning two hours before a performance at the Box Office (subject to availability). Student rush tickets are limited to one ticket per performance and you must show a valid ID from your high school/college/graduate program to purchase a ticket. Please Note: not all performances have student rush tickets. This policy applies to LCT productions at the Beaumont, Newhouse and on Broadway. We do not offer student rush to LCT3 productions at the Claire Tow Theater.”
MANHATTAN THEATRE CLUB
“Anyone who is 35 years old or younger is eligible to participate in MTC’s 30 Under 35 program. 30 Under 35 members may purchase up to two tickets to all MTC productions, while supplies last. MTC sends emails to all 30 Under 35 members when new tickets are released for upcoming productions [with a show-specific promo code]. Tickets can be purchased online, by phone or at the box office. Tickets are $30 each when purchased in-person at the box office. Service fees apply to online and phone orders. Your guest may be of any age, but YOU must pick up your tickets, not your guest. Bring ID as the box office will check your age and membership.”
“We also partner with TodayTix to offer Rush tickets to most of our shows, which are released at 10:00AM each performance day – this is another good option for people who are unable to afford full-price tickets.”
MCC
“$35 Rush Tickets (inclusive of all fees) are available two hours prior to each curtain, subject to availability. Limit 2 per person. Must purchase in-person at MCC Theater box office.”
“$25 Student Rush Tickets are available two hours prior to each curtain, subject to availability. Limit 1 per ID. Students must present their school ID card at the MCC Theater box office to purchase tickets.”
NEW YORK THEATRE WORKSHOP
“Theatre isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity—a vital part of the culture that should be available to all. In an effort to make our work affordable to as many people as possible, we launched our CheapTix program. At the first two performances of every NYTW production, every seat is available for just $25. Tickets can be purchased online, over the phone, or in person. (Standard ticketing fees apply.)”
“If you’re under 25, over 65, an artist, or a resident of the East Village and Lower East Side, you can snag a $25 seat via our CheapTix Rush at any performance. Rush tickets are subject to availability and are sold day-of at the box office with a limit of two tickets per person. Proper ID is required for all rush tickets and paying in cash is encouraged.”
PAPER MILL PLAYHOUSE
Patrons under 30-year-old can purchase “up to two $30 tickets for any mainstage performance. All ticketholders must be 30 years of age or under. Valid ID with birthdate must be provided for all 30 Under 30 patrons in exchange for tickets. Excludes price section D. Available to purchase online with promo code ‘30UNDER30’.”
Patrons enrolled in an educational program can purchase “one $20 ticket per student. Excludes price sections A and D. Valid student ID or report card must be provided in exchange for tickets. Available to purchase online with promo code ‘STUDENT’.”
“Veterans or current military personnel, or their significant others may purchase up to 4 tickets per service member at up to 30% off the standard rate. Excludes price section D. Only valid for Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, or Sunday evening performances. Proof of military service must be provided in exchange for tickets. Available to purchase online with promo code ‘VETERAN’.”
“Active and retired first responders may purchase up to 4 tickets at up to 30% off the standard rate. Excludes price section D. Only valid for Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, or Sunday evening performances. Valid proof of first responder status must be shown at the box office in exchange for tickets. Available to purchase online with promo code ‘RESPONDER’.”
New Jersey Educator’s Association Discount
“Card-carrying members of the NJEA may purchase up to 4 tickets per member at up to 30% off the standard rate. Excludes price section D. Only valid for Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, or Sunday evening performances. Valid NJEA membership card must be provided in exchange for tickets. Available to purchase online with promo code ‘NJEA’.”
PERELMAN PERFORMING ARTS CENTER (PAC)
“US military, police officers, firefighters and nurses are invited to purchase $30 tickets, subject to availability. Identification is requested at the time of ticket pick up. Eligible identification for military includes, but is not limited to, a U.S. Uniformed Services (current or retired) Identification Card, a current Leave and Earnings Statement (LES), or a Veterans’ organization card (American Legion or VFW, for example). Guests wearing a military uniform are also eligible. Eligible identification is a valid work/employment ID with photo or a work/employment ID and accompanying ID with identical name. One ID is valid for up to four tickets per event, and applicable transaction fees will be applied to each purchase.”
“Teachers are invited to purchase $30 discounted tickets, subject to availability. A form of school ID must be presented at the time of ticket pick up. One school ID is valid for up to four tickets per event, and applicable transaction fees will be applied to each purchase.”
“Full-time students are invited to purchase tickets at 50% off plus applicable fees for select events, subject to availability. One student ticket per valid ID. Identification is requested at the time of ticket pick up.”
“Under 30s are invited to purchase $30 tickets for select events, subject to availability. Proof of age for each member of the party will be required at the time of ticket pick up. Under 30s can purchase one ticket per event, and applicable transaction fees will be applied to each purchase.”
PLAYWRIGHTS HORIZONS
“If you are 35 or under, or a full-time student, you can become a member for FREE! You'll get discount tickets for the whole season with no upfront cost. Get access to one ticket for every show at $20 with a Young Membership, or $10 with a Student Membership.” And $35 for a guest ticket.
THE PUBLIC THEATER
“On select dates, free tickets can be accessed through the Goldstar Digital Lottery and Text to Standby through The Public Theatre. Lottery opens 12PM noon the day before the designated free performance. The lottery will randomly draw winners starting at 12PM noon on the day of the performance, and winners will be notified by email and push notification from 2PM to 3PM that same day. You must claim your winning tickets with Goldstar within one hour of being notified. Tickets per person: Limit 2”
“A limited number of Rush tickets will become available through the TodayTix app at 9:00AM on the day of each public performance until the inventory is sold out or until 2 hours before the performance time.” Full-view tickets are $30 plus a service fee of $8 per ticket.
The Public Theater offers day-of rush tickets on a first-come, first-served basis at the Taub Box Office or by calling (212) 967-7555. Each person may purchase up to two tickets. Full, obstructed, and limited view seats are all sold at $30 each.
Students may purchase up to two $40 tickets in advance for every performance at the Public Theater box office with proof of a current student ID. (Subject to availability.) May not be offered for every Public Theater production and if a performance/production is sold out, there will be no student tickets available.
ROUNDABOUT THEATRE COMPANY
“Hiptix is Roundabout's low-price ticket program for theatregoers 18–40. It's free to join, and gets you access to $30 tickets to all Roundabout shows, plus invites to great parties. You may purchase up to two tickets and your guest may be of any age.” Hiptix are on a first-serve basis with limited availability at each performance in the far side orchestra. Tickets will be held at the Box Office with ID required for pick-up. For an additional donation, you can become a Hiptix Gold member and access upgraded seating locations.
“Hiptix High is Roundabout's low-price ticket program for students 14–18. It's free to join and gets you $10 tickets to all Roundabout shows. Hiptix High tickets are only available for Friday evening, Saturday matinee and Sunday matinee performances. All tickets are $10. You can purchase 2 tickets for each production with your Hiptix High membership and your guest can be any age. You can buy tickets in advance—in fact, we even reserve tickets at every performance just for Hiptix High members.”
“A limited number of mezzanine tickets offered at each venue’s box office on the day of performance only. Subject to availability.”
“Roundabout Theatre Company is proud to offer digital access programs on TodayTix all season long.”
“½ price—best available—½ hour prior to curtain at each venue box office. One ticket per valid student ID. Subject to availability.”
SECOND STAGE
“$30 tickets are available to people aged 30 and under for all Second Stage productions! Simply use promo code ‘30UNDER30’ to access tickets. Only applicable for productions at the Tony Kiser and Hayes theater.” Tickets may only be picked up the day of the performance beginning one hour prior to curtain with proof of valid ID.
“$25, two hours prior to curtain. 2 tickets per full-time high school or college student with ID. Subject to availability, blackout dates may apply.”
Tickets go on sale at 9:00AM day of show.
SIGNATURE THEATRE
“This program aims to expand access to underserved communities and continue our mission of creating a space for all. With the support of Signature partners and donor contributions, affordable tickets are made available for every production. If you identify with any of these categories, we encourage you to sign up for free and be part of this exciting new program: 1. Education, Public Sector, Nonprofit Employee and Nonprofit Theater Workers, 2. Military/Veteran, 3. Public Benefit Recipient, 4. People with Visual, Hearing or Physical Impairments, and 5. IDNYC Cardholder.” $40 (no fee) tickets for select seats at all regular run performances can be purchased tickets one week before the general public. Plus a 10% discount at the Cafe.
“Student Members have access to discounted $20 tickets, student-centered community events, and special behind-the-scenes looks at Signature programming. Our Student Membership extends Signature’s commitment to creating a home for storytellers, a space for all, bridging access and activation at the Pershing Square Signature Center for folks navigating the educational system as students.” Enrolled students may purchased up to two $20 tickets for Signature Theatre productions plus up to two $30 guest tickets with the option of free exchanges.
SOHO REP
“99¢ Sunday tickets are only available at the door on the day of the performance. A line will form outside the theater. Audience members typically arrive anywhere between one and four hours before a performance. Tickets will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis beginning 30 minutes before the performance. Each person in line may purchase up to two tickets, but all parties must be present at the time the ticket is bought. Cash only please!”
“Can’t make it to 99¢ Sunday? $20 rush tickets are available for nearly every performance. Those waiting for rush tickets will be served on a first-come, first-served basis. Each individual may purchase up to two rush tickets and payment is cash only. Box office will begin taking names 30 minutes before curtain time.”
ST. ANN’S WAREHOUSE
“A standby list may be taken in person on the day of a sold out performance, one hour prior to showtime. Cash only. Standby tickets are subject to availability and not guaranteed. Contact the box office to confirm if a specific show is offering Standby tickets.”
“St. Ann’s Warehouse has partnered with mobile theater ticketing app TodayTix to offer $30* Mobile Rush Tickets (*includes TodayTix fees). A limited number of Rush tickets will be made available to most performances, on sale at 9:00am Eastern Time on the day of the performance. The tickets will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis. To purchase, download TodayTix from the App Store or Google Play. Blackout dates may apply.”
THEATRE FOR A NEW AUDIENCE
$20 New Deal Tickets
“$20 New Deal tickets are available for those ages 30 and under or full-time students of any age! Please note up to two New Deal tickets may be purchased; however, a valid ID listing proof of age or full-time student status must be presented for each New Deal ticket purchased. Failure to show proof of age/student ID will result in a surcharge for a full-price ticket. All New Deal tickets will be held at the Box Office to be picked up at Will Call, which begins one hour prior to curtain. Internet and phone orders are subject to a handling fee. All sales are final; no refunds.”
“Theatre for a New Audience is proud to make tickets to our shows available to employees of local partner organizations for only $20 per ticket. Brooklyn Pass tickets are not available to purchase online, but can be purchased in-person at our box office.” See website for eligible Member Organizations.
VINEYARD THEATRE
“10% of tickets to all Vineyard performances are made available for $35.” No promo code or membership needed - the Community Supported seats are available directly on the seating chart.
“Each production includes performances for which tickets are substantially subsidized for affinity groups and community organizations whose missions align with the values of The Vineyard.”
“For just $40, get access to $20 tickets to every performance of the season (subject to availability). Access to all performances during the season. Some blackout dates apply. No ticketing or exchange fees.”