Going to be in NY the 3rd week in August. Just have one more question about dress for the theatre. I know that at suit/tie for my husband isn't necessary, but, would he look out of place in dress pants and a tailored shirt?

No. He will not look out of place. In fact, he will fit right in with a nice shirt and dress pants.

It's virtually impossible to look out of place in Broadway theaters. You will find everything from men in suits to those in shorts, and everything in between.

Definitely don't need to dress up if you don't want to.
Just like Las Vegas. Those days are gone.

I'm only in my twenties, but I think one should still dress nice for the theater. The same goes for nice restaurants. If you're paying a certain price for these things, you should at least look the part. I save my jeans for the movies.

dawn,

why? Does the food taste better? Do the singers stay on key? Do the actors act better? Whoever came up with the idea of dressing up just did it so you could differentiate between the snobs and the workers. Think you still need to do that?

The purpose of dressing up is to show respect for others. But I don't expect a member of the me generation to understand that concept.

I usually wear whatever is comfortable. Why would New York's theaters be any different than the ones where you live? Enjoy the movie.
p

katie, katie, katie,

That has got to be the stupidest thing I have ever heard. How does my dressing up show respect for you? What does clothing have to do with respect? And, you couldn't be more wrong about being a "me" GenXer, I am a 60's flower child.

Update: we were in a B'way show last weekend, and amazing, everyone was in coat and tie. No tailer pants, no plain dress shirts, no unbuttoned collars. Looks like you better brush the moths off that suit and get 'er packed. Welcome to NYC, and showtime. That's a good thing!

Good for you Dawn!
It's a shame that so many people have turned into lazy slobs. I am only in my early 30's but I think there is still a time and a place for everything and if someone is going to church or the theatre, one should try to look respectable.

Just remember to bring a sweater, it could be cool inside the theater, even if it's sweltering outside.

I think that making an effort to dress well for dinner or the theatre indicates that you feel the evening is a special event and that the person you are with is important to you.You have purchased tickets,made reservations etc.because its a special evening.Why not let your dress say the same.It's not snobs vs.slobs,its one to show respect and affection.

Here in New Mexico, when we go to the theater, we don't usually dress up. Who wants all of that popcorn butter on their nice clothes anyway.

Whysnob: Wow, who could argue w/such a logical argument?

I go to the theater often and as I posted earlier, virtually anything goes.

When we attend on a weekday evening, I usually wear a suit and tie directly from work. On weekends, slacks and shirt is the standard. Contrary to what Freddie posted earlier, few men put on a jacket and tie, particularly in August. Also matinees are much more casual than evenings, with Saturday evening being the most dressy of the weekend preformances.

Having said that, I wouldn't personally feel comfortable wearing jeans, sandles, shorts, t-shirts, etc. But many people do.

I think Henry said it well. However, you should do what makes you feel best. As you can tell from the above posts, you wouldn't be the only one in jeans.

Paul, we get your point. Obviously, they aren't going to see Mr. Deeds at the local movie theater.

all theatre is surprisingly casual. he can go in jeans. it's the pre theatre resteraunts that like you to dress up.
but if you don't go to them (up to 60$ a pop for dinner) you're fine to come as you are. enjoy.