How to Catch a Broadway Show in New York City

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By eHow Contributing Writer

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(3 Ratings)

Step right up for tix!

When you visit New York City, you will certainly want to catch a Broadway show. New York City has 39 playhouses, so you are sure to find a show or two that interest you. You may be wondering how to purchase tickets, what to wear, whether children are welcome and so on. All these questions and more are addressed in the following steps.

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Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Step 1

Decide what type of show--a play, a musical or a seasonal show--you would like to see. You can find a list of all shows currently running and those in the works online (see Resources below).
Step 2

Read all the reviews you can find on a particular show before you purchase the tickets.
Step 3

Purchase tickets to popular shows well in advance, as seats sell out quickly.
Step 4

Check your tickets carefully to make sure they show the correct date and time for the performance you selected.
Step 5

Make sure to arrive at the theater in plenty of time to find your seats before the curtain rises.
Step 6

Sit back and enjoy the show!

Tips & Warnings

Wednesday matinees cost less than weekend evening shows.
Most Broadway shows last between 90 minutes and 3 hours.
You may be able to greet the performers near the stage door after the show.
Go to your show's Web site to find out if the performance is suitable for children. Most are.
Consider taking young children to a matinee.
Wear comfortable clothes to matinees and more formal clothes to evening performances. If you're lucky enough to attend the opening night of a show, be prepared for a black-tie affair!
You may be able to purchase a dinner package when you purchase tickets.
If the theater is close to your hotel, walking is probably the fastest way to get there. Evening traffic in the theater district is busy and congested.
Cameras (with or without flash) and recording devices are strictly prohibited by law in Broadway theaters.
Never wear jeans to a Broadway show.
Talk as little as possible during the show -- and turn off your cell phone!