Now that you’ve chosen a show to see, what’s the best way to get tickets? Here are five things you need to know about buying theater tickets.
1. Before You Buy, Try Online
Almost all New York and London theaters and most regional theaters sell tickets online. Usually, there’s a link to online ticket sites through the website for the show you’ve chosen. You can check availability and price, but typically there are hefty per-ticket surcharges, so watch out for that.
2. Check Out Discounts
There are numerous sources of discount tickets online, and I’ve listed many of the best for you. You can also find discounts for regional theaters in most major cities.
Finally, don’t forget to check out the TKTS Booths in New York and London for half-price tickets the day of a show and, in some cases, the day before a show.
3. Go To the Box Office
Four reasons to go to the box office:
- No additional charges for ordering online or “will call” or anything else. (There will be a “facilities charge” for New York theaters, but that is built into the price of the tickets.)
- Often, you can print out online offers, take them to the box office, and get discounted tickets without surcharges.
- Many box offices offer special deals for lotteries, student rush, or standing room tickets.
- If the house isn’t full, box office ticket agents sometimes offer special discounts.
4. Become a Subscriber
For regional theaters and non-profit theaters anywhere, by subscribing for an entire season, you often get choice seats at reduced rates. Check your theater’s website for details.
5. Buyer Beware!
Never buy online from any site that has not been recommended as reputable by someone you trust. You might be like a school group attended by a friend of mine who found a “great deal” online, came to New York, and discovered their tickets were bogus. Again, I’ve listed several good sites for you and offered discount buying tips.
Finally, never buy from a vendor off the street. Never. Ever. Period.