NYC: seating suggestions for plays
 

I would appreciate any seating suggestions for:
1. Gershwin theatre
2. Winter Garden theatre
3. Neil Simon theatre

I'm interested in the best views possible, especially with the Gershwin since we will buying tickts at Broadway box or Ebay, etc..

You don't indicate where you prefer to
sit. I personally always sit in Front
Mezz -
Gershwin:
Orchestra - center section - BB to ZZ
Front mezz - Center section - A-E
Mid-Mezz: Center F-G
Rear Mezz - Center H to J

Neil Simon: Orch Center- A-Z
Mezz - Center A-J
Balcony - 2 Center Sec - A - T

Cadillac Winer Garden:
Orch - 2 Centers: AA-Q
Mezz - 2 centers: K to W
Rear Mezz -2 centers - A to H

This help?

The "best seats" are pretty well thought to be the fifth through about the 9th rows of the orchestra in the center section. Mostly those are blocked these days as more expensive VIP seats. I'm usually very happy with the two seats in a side section right on the aisle. They often have the benefit of no heads in front of you, particularly for the aisle seat.

Generally speaking, I prefer the center of the front row mezzanine for most shows, particularly musicals where you get a greater perspective of the full effect particularly choreography.

The Gershwin's mezzanine is quite far back and because the orchestra is very steeply raked, it's one theatre I'd prefer orchestra seats for. We sat in about the middle of the side section for Wicked about 12 rows back and still loved the seats. Some here have mentioned being way back for Wicked and still loving their seats. I'd just avoid seats "against" the walls.

Haven't been in the Winter Garden in a long time, but front row mezzanine would be great for Mama Mia there and I'd do the same for Hairspray if I could.

The question is what is available, of course.

One more thing, I would avoid at least the first three rows of the orchestra for any of the shows you mention. It is just too close to get any perspective and the sound will be way out of balance. The stages are all quite raised too and you won't even be able to see the feet on the performers once they're back more than two or three feet from the front of the stage.

Thank You, this will certainly help! Hairspray vs Mamma Mia, if you had to choose one?

Thanks!

No contest....Hairspray!

Both are great fun, but it's Hairspray all the way if there's a choice!

Mama Mia....

rogfam, have you seen Hairspray on Broadway? Just curious if your recommendation was based on a comparison or only seeing one of the two?