Three Tips for Doing Broadway Better

Three Tips for Doing Broadway Better

Whether you're handing over a hundred bucks for a top ticket or shoestringing it in a nosebleed seat, seeing one show or seven, you'll have better Broadway experiences to brag about if you take our advice.

Do your homework. Remember—your friends' "must-see" may not be yours. If you're new to theater, or not a regular, try to discover Broadway for yourself. Subscribe to online services ahead of your trip; you'll get access to show synopses, special ticket offers, and more. If it's a classic play, try to read it before you go; for a musical, listen to the score.

Reserve ahead. The TKTS booth is great when you're up for what the fates make available, but for must-sees, we recommend booking early. While you're at it, don't forget to ask whether the regular cast is expected (an in-person stop at the box office is the most reliable way to score this information ahead, but don't hold them to it unless it's the day-of-performance. If there is a change then—and the replacement cast is not acceptable to you—you may get a refund). For musicals, live music will always add a special zing; confirm when ticketing to avoid surprises on the rare occasion when recorded music is used.

Know your seats. Know that Front Mezzanine is a great option; with seats that overhang the stage, they can be better than many Orchestra locations. Always book with a seating chart at hand (available online and at the box office); although even the priciest seats might be tight, it is always worth splurging for the best sight lines. Check accessibility, especially at older theaters with multiple flights of stairs and scarce elevators.

Know when to go. Surprisingly, Friday evening is a good option; Saturday night and weekday matinees are the most difficult. Do like the locals and go on weeknights. Tuesday is especially promising, and typically an earlier curtain—7 or 7:30 instead of the usual 8 PM—helps ensure you'll get a good night's sleep for your next day of touring.

Dress right. Informal is totally acceptable these days, but so is dressing to the nines, so why not have fun with it? Personally, we feel Bermuda shorts have no place on Broadway. Bring binoculars if your seats are up high, leave behind the heavy coat (coat checks are not the norm), and ditch the packages.

Travel smart. Trying to get to the show in time? Unless you don't mind watching the meter run up while you're stuck in traffic, avoid cabs into or out of Times Square. The pre- and post-theater crush will render Broadway virtually unwalkable, but that said, walk, especially if you're within 10 blocks of the theater. Otherwise, take the subway.

Be a good seatmate. Get settled, double-check that your cell phone is off, stash your bags, and please: liberate your cough drops from their cellophane wrappers before the show begins.