How to get tickets to a Broadway show for under $40

An introduction to rush and lottery tickets.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• An ID
• Cash
• Time

1. Figure out what shows have rush/lottery tickets. Playbill.com and Talkinbroadway.com maintain lists of current rush/lottery policies.
2. (For Rush) Call the box and find out what time people start lining up for tickets. There are shows where people line up as early as 5:00 a.m., and then there are shows where you can get tickets 15 minutes before showtime. Broadwayworld.com is also a useful place to ask what time people line up. Get to the box office early, and wait in line until the box office opens. Have cash and ID ready.
3. (Lottery) Make a list of the shows that you want to try lottery for, their locations, and the times lottery is at. Go to each lottery and put your name in. If you don't win, try the next lottery! If you don't win any (which is rare), try TKTS, or try again for the next performance.

Tips & Warnings

• Student Rush means that you need a student ID.
• Have enough cash on you.
• Make friends with people in lotto! Set up a deal where you'll give each other tickets if you win too many.
• Always call the box office in advance to double check their rush/lottery policy.
• If you don't win, find out if the theatre offers discounted tickets or standing room.
• Have fun!
• These aren't always the best seats. Some shows, like Rent, offer the best seats in the house. Others, offer partial view.
• This isn't a guaranteed way to get tickets!