Going to Phantom of the Opera this weekend in New York.

Haven't seen a play on Broadway in Years.

What is the accepted dress for Men and Women ( in our 50's ) for a Friday Night Show on Broadway.

Is a suit expected for men ?

Your comments are appreciated.

Also appreciate and Dinner suggestions at or near the Theatre district.

We are staying at the Belvedere on 48th.

All opinion appreciated

I've seen everything from semi-formal wear to jeans and t-shirts. These days it seems that anything goes, but I agree with many posters that the theatre is a special experience and it's nicer to dress up, even if just a little.

I'm of the opinion that that a dress, skirt or nice slacks is appropriate for women and dress pants and a sports coat is appropriate for men. Of course, we all know what they say about opinions.

Anything goes does seem to be the rule - including tummy baring t-shirts, ratty cut-offs and dirty sneakers.

However - I agree that what's appropriate is at least business casual - depending on if you're going to be eating somewhere elegant or not. A suit is not necessary - unless that's what he wears all the time.

Dress for your dining establishment and skip jeans.

For women, black pants, black turtleneck or top.

For men, black pants and dark sportscoat with a dark neutral turtleneck.

Agree with the previous posts. Going to the theatre/show isn't what it used to be. You can wear WHATEVER you want!

I find that, while anything goes (unfortunately), your experience will be enhanced if you treat it as a special event. So, dress up a little and have fun!

Trivia note for you- on Monday, Phantom becomes the longest-running show on Broadway. So you're actually attending during a very historic time for the show!

You'll see anything and everything on others.

Best bet is to dress for whatever you're doing before or after.

Highly recommend Chez Josephine before or after for dinner.

I agree that dressing up makes the experience feel more special.

We like The Dervish (47th between 6th & 7th) for Turkish food, Zen Palate for Oriental vegetarian.

You'll see every sort of attire including jeans which cost HUNDREDS of dollars..please don't tell those people they aren't "dressed up" and ruin the illusion.

I wear 'Saturday night casual" to NY Theatre, meaning nice pants/skirt and sweater/blouse.

Restaurants:
I recommend
"Becco" at 355 W 46th st
212-397-7597

Baldoria (never been there but friends loved it) 249 w 49th st, 212-582-0460

Enjoy!!

Last week, I didn't have time to change and had to go to the theatre in jeans, I wasn't the only one, but usually would have dressed up. Intrepid, they were "nice" jeans , but I would normally change.

I'll second Becco; also, last week we ate at Osteria al Doge which was great (you can book that at opentable.com which is convenient)--have fun.

Assume you know that Phantom is approaching/has reached a milestone--go to washingtonpost.com for a recent (within the last week) article on the three folks who have been with the show since the beginning (!).

Have fun,

Mary