Photo by Matthew Murphy & Evan Zimmerman
BROADWAY ON A BUDGET:
Tips and Tricks for Affordable Theatregoing
Broadway is associated with glitz, glamour, and the greatest live entertainment in the world, but it’s also seen as a pricey activity. Many theatre enthusiasts gaze yearningly at the shining lights of Broadway, believing that the magic within is beyond their financial reach. This common misconception—that Broadway is too expensive for the average person—has been perpetuated by the media, focusing only on premium ticket prices to create headlines. But the reality is much different. Broadway’s storytelling and creativity can be accessible to everyone, regardless of their budget.
Broadway is an iconic symbol of American culture and creativity, showcasing some of the most spectacular productions known to
the world of theatre. Every year, Broadway theatres draw millions of visitors from around the globe, eager to witness the magic that unfolds on its stages. The importance of Broadway lies not only in its entertainment value but also in its ability to reflect and shape societal issues through compelling storytelling and performances.
But making incredible live entertainment comes at a cost.
Staging a Broadway show is an expensive proposition—from the venue, salaries for the very best performers and crew, elaborate set designs and costumes, and marketing expenses. All of these help to drive ticket prices higher and give rise to the perception that Broadway is only for those who can afford to splurge. However, with some savvy strategies, Broadway can indeed be affordable.
BRING A GROUP AND SAVE
One of the most effective ways to experience Broadway on a budget is by booking discounted group tickets. Whether it’s friends, family members, a corporate outing, or a school field trip, buying group tickets in bulk often leads to significant savings—sometimes for a few as 10 people.
Broadway Inbound is an invaluable resource for groups looking to save on Broadway tickets. Their team specializes in providing exclusive rates for groups, making Broadway shows more affordable. By pooling resources, theatregoers can enjoy
the same performances at a great price. This is an excellent strategy for larger parties, school groups, or even neighborhood communities that share a love for theatre.
Through Broadway Inbound, you get the opportunity to experience the magic of Broadway without the financial stress often associated with it. It’s about making theatre more accessible and inclusive, with flexible payment policies, the ability to change your order, and an expert team to help you along the way.
MORE WAYS TO SEE A SHOW FOR LESS
An obvious and effective way to enjoy Broadway on a budget is by looking at different seating sections. While orchestra seats offer the closest view, they also come with the highest price tag. Instead, consider seats mezzanine or balcony, depending on the theatre. These upper-level seats offer a bird’s eye view of the stage, and you’ll still get to enjoy the full spectacle of the show at a lower cost. And don’t worry, the acoustics in Broadway theatres are designed to ensure everyone gets a great audio experience, regardless of seating location.
Another wallet-friendly option is seeing a new show during its preview period. Previews are the performances that happen before the official opening night. They offer the production team the opportunity to finalize the show with an audience, and because they’re early, tickets can sometimes be less expensive. And you’ll be able to say you saw it first.
If your schedule permits, you could save by opting for a mid-week performance. After the weekend crowds go home, Broadway’s prices often drop, so check out a Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday show for better prices and more availability.
For a great show at a lower price, don’t overlook NYC’s amazing offBroadway options. These shows, which take place in smaller theatres around New York City, are known for their innovative and intimate productions. Tickets for offBroadway shows are generally less, yet the experience they offer is no less enriching and entertaining.
A WALLET-FRIENDLY NYC EXPERIENCE
A trip to NYC and Broadway doesn’t have to be a budget-busting experience. With careful planning and smart choices, you can indulge in the magic of Broadway and NYC without stretching your finances. It’s all about experiencing the best of Broadway and NYC in a way that suits your budget and preferences. Let the city of dreams weave its magic around you without worrying about costs. After all, Broadway and NYC are all about creating unforgettable memories.
Luckily, many iconic NYC attractions are free or inexpensive. After your show, visit the iconic Central Park, the newer High Line, or take a stroll across the Brooklyn Bridge. Also, don’t miss the Staten Island Ferry that offers stunning views
of the Statue of Liberty and the NYC skyline, all for free. And of course, NYC’s best no-cost attraction is the city itself, so get out and explore. When it comes to dining, the Theatre District is not short of options. While it’s home to some high-end restaurants, there are plenty of affordable dining options, too. Check out homegrown eateries like Shake Shack for budget-friendly burgers or John’s Pizzeria for a slice of NYC’s famous pizza. Street food vendors are also a great option for a quick and cheap meal—like a real New Yorker.
Transportation in New York City can be another area where you can save money. While taxis and ride-shares are convenient, they can quickly add up. Instead, consider using public transportation. NYC’s subway system is extensive, efficient, and cheap. A seven-day unlimited MetroCard costs less than $33 and can take you anywhere in the city. Also, don’t underestimate how walkable the city can be. Many NYC attractions are within walking
distance of each other, and there’s no better way to soak in the city’s atmosphere. Just look both ways!
Choosing the right show can significantly enhance your Broadway experience. With so many spectacular productions to offer, making a choice can be overwhelming. Start by considering your interests. Are you a fan of musical revivals, plays with a bit of drama, or new shows with buzz? Perhaps you adore certain actors or are drawn to specific
themes or genres. Reading reviews, watching show trailers, and seeking recommendations can also assist in your decision-making process.
Planning ahead is crucial when aiming for an affordable Broadway experience. Keep an eye on early ticket sales, discount offers, and group deals. Find out when new shows are opening and when previews are happening, as these can offer cheaper ticket options. And be prepared to be flexible. Sometimes, the best deals come from less popular show times.
Remember, enjoying Broadway and NYC on a budget is all about making smart choices without compromising on the experience. With a little planning—and these tips and tricks—you can enjoy a fantastic Broadway experience and explore the best of NYC without overspending.
So get out there, find your show, and let Broadway weave its magic around you. The curtain is rising, and your Broadway experience awaits!
SCHEDULE
Varies
For more information, visit LouisArmstrongMusical.com
RUNNING TIME
2 hours, 30 minutes
GROUP MINIMUM 10 tickets
RECOMMENDED AGE
13 years & up
Children under the age of 4 are not permitted in the theatre.
LOCATION
Studio 54 254 West 54th Street
A WONDERFUL WORLD
Experience A WONDERFUL WORLD: THE LOUIS ARMSTRONG MUSICAL on Broadway!
Join Tony Award® winner James Monroe Iglehart and a talented ensemble cast as they bring Louis Armstrong’s incredible journey to life, from New Orleans to worldwide fame. This full-scale musical features a rich tapestry of characters, including the extraordinary women who helped shape his remarkable life and career.
Be captivated by Armstrong’s timeless hits like “What a Wonderful World” and “When You’re Smiling,” performed by a large, dynamic cast. Don’t miss this spectacular celebration of music, filled with vibrant dance numbers, stunning sets, and unforgettable performances. Get your tickets now for an unforgettable night that honors the iconic man who defined an era.
TONY AWARD ® WINNER JAMES MONROE IGLEHART IS “A KNOCKOUT LOUIS ARMSTRONG!” —Chicago Tribune
“ABSOLUTELY CAPTIVATING!” —Newcity
PACKED WITH “ALL OF THE SONGS YOU WANT TO HEAR!” —WGN Radio
Original New Orleans/Chicago Tour Cast Photos by Jeremy Daniel
SCHEDULE
Varies
RUNNING TIME
2 hours, 30 minutes
GROUP MINIMUM
14 tickets
RECOMMENDED AGE
6 years & up
LOCATION
New Amsterdam Theatre
7th Avenue & 42nd Street
214 West 42nd Street
ALADDIN
DISCOVER A WHOLE NEW WORLD AT ALADDIN, THE HIT BROADWAY MUSICAL.
Night after night, ALADDIN grants wishes and makes audiences cheer. With unforgettable music, sensational dance numbers and breathtaking special effects that only Disney can deliver, it’s no wonder The Wall Street Journal calls it “Broadway magic!”
ALADDIN on Broadway features all your favorite songs from the film as well as new music written by Tony ® and Academy Award ® winner Alan Menken ( Newsies) with lyrics penned by the legendary Howard Ashman ( Beauty and the Beast), Tony Award winner Tim Rice ( The Lion King, Aida), and book writer Chad Beguelin ( The Prom, The Wedding Singe r).
Directed and choreographed by Tony Award winner Casey Nicholaw ( Mean Girls, The Prom, The Book of Mormon), ALADDIN boasts an incomparable design team, with sets, costumes and lighting from Tony Award winners Bob Crowley ( Mary Poppins ), Gregg Barnes ( Kinky Boots), and Natasha Katz ( Frozen, The Prom).
SEE WHY AUDIENCES AND CRITICS
AGREE, ALADDIN IS “ MUSICAL COMEDY WISH-FULFILLMENT! ” —New York Magazine
Top Photo by Matthew Murphy / Bottom Photos (LtoR) by Deen van Meer, Deen van Meer, Matthew Murphy, Evan Zimmerman for MurphyMade
SCHEDULE
Tuesday 7pm
Wednesday 2pm & 7:30pm
Thursday 7pm
Friday 7:30pm
Saturday 2pm & 8pm
Sunday 3pm
RUNNING TIME
2 hours, 40 minutes
GROUP MINIMUM
10 tickets
RECOMMENDED AGE
6 years & up
LOCATION
Winter Garden Theatre
1634 Broadway
BACK TO THE FUTURE
When Marty McFly finds himself transported back to 1955 in a time machine built by the eccentric scientist Doc Brown, he accidentally changes the course of history. Now he’s in a race against time to fix the present, escape the past, and send himself… back to the future. Adapting this iconic story for the stage are the movie’s creators Bob Gale ( Back to the Future trilogy) and Robert Zemeckis ( Forrest Gump). The production features original music by multi-Grammy winners Alan Silvestri ( Avengers: Endgame ) and Glen Ballard ( Michael Jackson’s Man in the Mirror ), alongside hit songs from the movie including “The Power of Love,” “Johnny B. Goode,” “Earth Angel,” and “Back in Time.”
“A JAW-DROPPING SPECTACLE THAT HITS ALL THE RIGHT BUTTONS!”
—USA Today
“MAGNIFICENT! A FEEL-GOOD TRIUMPH.”
—The Telegraph
“THE AUDIENCE GOES WILD!”
—The New York Times
Photos by Matthew Murphy & Evan Zimmerman
SCHEDULE
Tuesday 7pm
Wednesday 7pm
Thursday 7pm
Friday 7pm
Saturday 1pm & 7pm
Sunday 2pm & 7pm
RUNNING TIME
2 hours, 30 minutes
GROUP MINIMUM
10 tickets
RECOMMENDED AGE
13 years & up
Children under the age of 4 are not permitted in the theatre.
LOCATION
Eugene O’Neill Theatre
230 West 49th Street
THE BOOK OF MORMON
“THE GOLD STANDARD FOR COMEDY.”
—Rolling Stone
THE BOOK OF MORMON, winner of 9 Tony Awards ® including Best Musical, is the brainchild of collaborators Trey Parker and Matt Stone, five-time Emmy ® Award-winning creators of South Park , and Robert Lopez, two-time Academy Award ® winner for Best Original Songs from the musicals Frozen and Coco and Tony Award-winning co-creator of Avenue Q Entertainment Weekly calls
THE BOOK OF MORMON “the funniest show ever.” The New York Times simply calls it “the best musical of this century.”
“I’VE NEVER HEARD SUCH ROOF-SHAKING LAUGHTER.”
—Vanity Fair
“IT’S OUTRAGEOUS, SHOCKING, PEE-IN-YOUR-PANTS HILARIOUS.”
—HuffPost
Photos by Paul Coltas and Julieta Cervantes
SCHEDULE
Monday 7pm
Tuesday 7pm
Thursday 7pm
Friday 8pm
Saturday 2:30pm & 8pm
Sunday 2pm & 7pm
RUNNING TIME
2 hours, 30 minutes
GROUP MINIMUM
10 tickets
RECOMMENDED AGE
13 years & up
LOCATION
Ambassador Theatre
219 West 49th Street
CHICAGO
After 27 years, CHICAGO is still the one musical with everything that makes Broadway shimmy-shake: a universal tale of fame, fortune, and all that jazz, with one showstopping song after another and the most astonishing dancing you’ve ever seen. No wonder CHICAGO has been honored with 6 Tony Awards ®, 2 Olivier Awards, a Grammy ®, and thousands of standing ovations. Now the longest-running show on Broadway, you’ve got to see why the name on everyone’s lips is still... CHICAGO.
“
CHICAGO GLITTERS HYPNOTICALLY!”
– The New York Times
“ CHICAGO REMAINS A SIZZLER — ONE EXTREMELY SEX-SEE EXPERIENCE!”
– The Star-Ledger
“THE SHOW IS AS CRAZY-FUN AS EVER!”
– WCBS-TV / People Magazine
Photos by Julia Cervantes and Jeremy Daniels
SCHEDULE
LOCATION
Richard Rodgers Theatre 226 West 46th Street
HAMILTON
A revolutionary story of passion, unstoppable ambition, and the dawn of a new nation.
HAMILTON is the epic saga that follows the rise of Founding Father Alexander Hamilton as he fights for honor, love, and a legacy that would shape the course of a nation. Based on Ron Chernow’s acclaimed biography and set to a score that blends hip-hop, jazz, R&B and Broadway, HAMILTON has had a profound impact on culture, politics and education.
HAMILTON features book, music and lyrics by Lin-Manuel Miranda, direction by Thomas Kail, choreography by Andy Blankenbuehler, and musical supervision and orchestrations by Alex Lacamoire. In addition to its 11 Tony ® Awards, it has won Grammy ® and Olivier Awards, the Pulitzer Prize for Drama and an unprecedented special citation from the Kennedy Center Honors.
“THIS THEATRICAL LANDMARK HAS TRANSFORMED THEATER AND THE WAY WE THINK ABOUT HISTORY.”
—The New York Times
Photos by Joan Marcus
SCHEDULE
Varies
RUNNING TIME
2 hours, 30 minutes
GROUP MINIMUM
14 tickets
RECOMMENDED AGE
6 years & up
LOCATION
Minskoff Theatre
Broadway & 45th 200 West 45th Street
THE LION KING
Experience the stunning artistry, the unforgettable music and the exhilarating choreography of this musical theater phenomenon that moves us all. A remarkable tale of hope and adventure, THE LION KING has found its way into the hearts of millions. As The New York Times says, “There is simply nothing else like it.”
Winner of six Tony Awards® including Best Musical, Disney’s THE LION KING showcases the talents of one of the most acclaimed creative teams on Broadway. Tony Award-winning director Julie Taymor reimagines the popular story using some of the theater’s most extraordinary stagecraft. THE LION KING also features the exceptional work of Tony Award-winning choreographer Garth Fagan and a glorious score crafted by the Tony Award-winning songwriting team of Elton John and Tim Rice.
Take your place in the circle of life at THE LION KING , The Award-Winning Best Musical, playing on Broadway eight times a week at the Minskoff Theatre.
“THE MOST EXCITING, MOST INVENTIVE, MOST MOVING THEATER THAT HAS EVER COME TO BROADWAY.”
—Good Morning America
Top Photo by Matthew Murphy
Bottom Photos (LtoR) by Joan Marcus, Deen van Meer, Matthew Murphy
SCHEDULE
Tuesday 7pm
Wednesday 1pm & 7pm
Thursday 7pm
Friday 8pm
Saturday 2pm & 8pm
Sunday 3pm
RUNNING TIME
2 hours, 30 minutes
GROUP MINIMUM
10 tickets
RECOMMENDED AGE
8 years & up
LOCATION
Neil Simon Theatre
250 West 52nd Street
MJ
Winner of 4 Tony Awards including Best Choreography from director Christopher Wheeldon , and featuring a book by two-time Pulitzer Prize winner Lynn Nottage , MJ goes beyond the singular moves and signature sound of the star, offering a rare look at the creative mind and collaborative spirit that catapulted Michael Jackson into legendary status. Get tickets now to the show the Chicago Tribune calls “a brilliantly choreographed, gorgeously executed celebration.”
“A RIVETING ADRENALINE RUSH OF A SHOW!”
—Peter Marks, The Washington Post
“MJ DELIVERS THE THRILLS.”
—Jesse Green, The New York Times
“THE BEST DANCING ON BROADWAY.”
—Charles Isherwood, Broadway News
Photos by Matthew Murphy
SCHEDULE Varies
RUNNING TIME
2 hours, 35 minutes
GROUP MINIMUM
10 tickets
RECOMMENDED AGE
12 years & up
LOCATION
Al Hirschfeld Theatre 302 West 45th Street
MOULIN ROUGE! THE MUSICAL
Pop the champagne, MOULIN ROUGE! THE MUSICAL is the winner of 10 Tony Awards ® —including Best Musical!
Enter a world of splendor and romance, of eyepopping excess, of glitz, grandeur and glory! A world where bohemians and aristocrats rub elbows and revel in electrifying enchantment.
Welcome to MOULIN ROUGE! THE MUSICAL .
Baz Luhrmann’s revolutionary film comes to life onstage, remixed in a new musical mash-up extravaganza. Directed by Tony Award winner Alex Timbers, MOULIN ROUGE! THE MUSICAL is a theatrical celebration of Truth, Beauty, Freedom and—above all—Love. With a book by Tony Award winner John Logan; music supervision, orchestrations and arrangements by Tony Award winner Justin Levine; and choreography by Tony Award winner Sonya Tayeh, MOULIN ROUGE! is more than a musical...it is a state of mind.
“EUPHORIC! GASP-INSPIRING! IN MOULIN ROUGE , LIFE IS BEAUTIFUL.”
—The New York Times
“EYE-POPPING SPECTACLE AND OFF-THE-CHARTS ENERGY.”
—The Hollywood Reporter
Photos by Matthew Murphy & Evan Zimmerman
SCHEDULE Varies
For more information, visit SIXonBroadway.com
RUNNING TIME
1 hour, 20 minutes
GROUP MINIMUM 10 tickets
RECOMMENDED AGE 10 years & up
LOCATION
Lena Horne Theatre 256 West 47th Street
SIX
Divorced, beheaded, died, divorced, beheaded, survived.
From Tudor Queens to Pop Icons, the SIX wives of Henry VIII take the microphone to reclaim their identities out of the shadow of their infamous spouse — remixing five hundred years of historical heartbreak into a Euphoric Celebration of 21st century girl power! This new original musical is the global sensation that everyone is losing their head over!
The New York Times says SIX “TOTALLY RULES!” (Critic’s Pick) and Variety calls SIX “A Solid 10!”
SIX is the winner of 23 awards, including the 2022 Tony Award ® for Best Original Score (Music and Lyrics) and the Outer Critics Circle Award for Best Musical.
The SIX : LIVE ON OPENING NIGHT Broadway album debuted at Number 1 on the Billboard cast album charts and surpassed 6 Million streams in its first month.
“A RIOTOUS EXPLOSION OF WIT THAT SPEAKS STRONGLY AND VIBRANTLY TO TODAY.” —Vogue
“BROADWAY’S HIGH-ENERGY HISTORY REMIX REIGNS SUPREME!” —Entertainment Weekly
by Joan Marcus
Photos
SCHEDULE
Varies
For more information, visit NotebookMusical.com
GROUP MINIMUM
10 tickets
RUNNING TIME
2 hours, 20 minutes
RECOMMENDED AGE
10 years & up
Children under the age of 4 are not permitted in the theatre.
LOCATION
Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre
236 W 45th Street
THE NOTEBOOK
THE NOTEBOOK is a new hit musical based on the best selling novel that inspired the iconic film. Allie and Noah, both from different worlds, share a lifetime of love despite the forces that threaten to pull them apart, in a deeply moving portrait of the enduring power of love.
THE NOTEBOOK is “full of butterfly-inducing highs, stunning performances, and beautiful songs” ( Entertainment Weekly ). Chris Jones of The Chicago Tribune says The Notebook is “absolutely gorgeous, not to be missed,” and The New York Daily News calls it “a love story for the ages.”
THE NOTEBOOK is directed by Michael Greif ( Dear Evan Hansen, Next to Normal, RENT ) and Schele Williams ( The Wiz, Aida ) and features music and lyrics by multi-platinum singer-songwriter Ingrid Michaelson, book by Bekah Brunstetter (NBC’s This Is Us ), and choreography by Katie Spelman.
“ABSOLUTELY GORGEOUS, NOT TO BE MISSED.” —Chicago Tribune
“ROMANTIC, LIFE-AFFIRMING, AND INGENIOUSLY ADAPTED.” —USA Today
“ONE OF THE MOST EPIC, ROMANTIC, TOUCHING MUSICALS EVER TO GRACE BROADWAY.” —Amsterdam News
Photos by Julieta Cervantes
SCHEDULE
Varies
For more information, visit WickedtheMusical.com
RUNNING TIME
2 hours, 45 minutes
GROUP MINIMUM 15 tickets RECOMMENDED AGE
8 years & up
Children under the age of 5 are not permitted in the theatre.
LOCATION
Gershwin Theatre 222 West 51st Street (between Broadway & 8th)
Don’t forget about Behind the Emerald Curtain — an exclusive behind-the-scenes experience led by cast members on select dates and on demand for larger groups. Please reach out to your tour operator or contact groups@321mgt.com.
WICKED
WICKED , the Broadway sensation, looks at what happened in the Land of Oz…but from a different angle. Long before Dorothy arrives, there is another young woman, born with emerald-green skin—smart, fiery, misunderstood, and possessing an extraordinary talent. When she meets a bubbly blonde who is exceptionally popular, their initial rivalry turns into the unlikeliest of friendships…until the world decides to call one “good,” and the other one “wicked.”
DEFYING GRAVITY ON BROADWAY 8 TIMES A WEEK!
“A MAGICAL BROADWAY MUSICAL WITH BRAINS, HEART AND COURAGE.”
—Time Magazine
“A GLOBAL PHENOMENON!” —NBC TV
“REMEMBER THE LAST TIME AN ORIGINAL BROADWAY MUSICAL MADE YOU LAUGH, CRY AND THINK? WICKED IS THE MOST COMPLETE, AND COMPLETELY SATISFYING, NEW MUSICAL IN A LONG TIME.” —USA Today
by Joan Marcus
Photos
The orchestra is tuning, and the curtain’s about to go up. Broadway’s ready for you!
Which shows are you dying to see? When was the last time you experienced the energy of NYC and the bright lights of Broadway? Don’t wait any longer; there’s never been a better time to visit the city.
Broadway Inbound’s awesome team is ready to help turn your vision into an incredible Broadway adventure. See a show (or two). Add a workshop or tour. Get videos and all the info you need to build excitement.
Broadway Inbound makes planning a trip to the theatre easy and fun, including the latest news and videos to help you discover the perfect show.
SEEING A SHOW? COME PREPARED.
NYC is a busy place, but it adds to the excitement of going to a Broadway show. Here are some tips:
» Know where your theatre is and give yourself plenty of time to get there.
» Don’t bring outside food or drinks with you.
» There will be security at the door, and every person must have their own ticket to enter.
» Most of all, turn your phones off and enjoy the show without distractions.
BOOKING A GROUP:
» Always request the maximum number of tickets you could possibly use.
» Provide up to two alternate choices (seating, date, or show) when placing a request. Think about what’s important to your group and add your alternate choices accordingly.
» For best availability, consider requesting the front mezzanine, which can provide a great view and increase your chances of getting the show and date you want.
» Weeknight performances generally have better availability than weekends. Some may start a little earlier—just be sure to check the start time when you place a request.
