Theater can be a transformative, one-of-a-kind experience for young students. But, the cost of attending a Broadway production may prevent many of them from getting through the stage door. Thankfully, many theaters are passionate about nurturing the next generation of theater-goers with highly discounted tickets. So, how do you become one of the lucky students to secure a discount?
It’s common for many theaters to offer rush options, lottery tickets, and even under-30 discounts. If you’re not afraid of getting a little creative, then you can absolutely see your favorite shows at an affordable price. So, check out this guide of tips and tricks to secure that highly coveted Broadway discount.
Why do we rush? The origins of discounted Broadway tickets
It’s very possible for students to access affordable Broadway tickets. You have to be clever and keep your schedule open, but any energetic or passionate student could absolutely see Hamilton for $10.
Discounted tickets became popular to lower the financial barrier to the arts and nurture the next generation of Broadway enthusiasts. Plus, making theater accessible to students helps cement the arts as part of the educational curriculum. Many theaters are currently trying to emphasize the importance of theater education.
Additionally, theaters want every seat in the audience to be filled! Discounted seating helps keep theaters in business and productions on Broadway for longer. Not to mention, the cast enjoys performing to a fuller house, especially to an energetic and engaged audience.
So, where does the idea of rushing a Broadway show come from? We can thank Rent for instituting discounted tickets. During the height of the show’s success, they sold the first two rows of the orchestra for a cheap $20 to those first in line at the box office.
How to get student rush tickets
If you’re willing to be part of the “rush” and wake up early, you’ll likely secure a student rush ticket at least once during the semester.
Student rush tickets are specifically set aside for students, usually in the Orchestra's front row or the Mezzanine's rear. Student rush tickets are reduced drastically, sometimes up to 75% off the ticket price. Since there are a limited number of available tickets per performance, they get scooped up fast. But, students can get lucky with Broadway plays or going on an off night, like a weekday.
Different theaters have different rush policies, but most offer student rush tickets as soon as the box office opens. Occasionally, some offer a rush a couple of hours before a performance.
You will need to show your student ID to purchase student tickets, and you must have cash on hand. So, be sure to hit the ATM before the box office! Some shows offer digital rush tickets on the TodayTix app, meaning you can skip the in-person lines to grab a last-minute ticket.
Any type of student can get a rush ticket–high school, college, or even a graduate student. Plus, only the ticket buyer needs to prove they’re in school.
One thing to note is that many Broadway theaters are switching to a General Rush model, so almost anyone can rush for tickets.
How to get lottery tickets
Another famous way to get discounted Broadway tickets is to join a lottery. You can get Hamilton tickets for as low as $10 for the front row! There is no cost to enter a lottery, and you’re not required to purchase the tickets if you win. Most lotteries occur the day before a performance, and the winner will be notified within minutes of it closing. You then have a limited amount of time to complete your purchase.
There are many ways to enter a Broadway lottery–either through TodayTix, a specific show’s website, or BroadwayDirect. A few theaters have specific rules, such as being present in person to claim your tickets. You can check out Bwayrush to see if rush or lottery tickets are available and how to claim them.
Usually, you do not get to choose your seats when you win the lottery, but you can still expect pretty great seats.
How to get discounted tickets via group sale tickets
Group sales are another fantastic way for students to get discounted tickets. Almost every Broadway show offers group rate discounts perfect for your friend group or a school field trip.
Most Broadway shows offer group sales for parties of 10 or more. However, each theater will have specific policies, so be sure to check the show’s website before booking. Group sale discounts range anywhere from $5 to $50 off the ticket, and you may even get the service fee waived.
In order to buy group sale tickets, you can submit a request online with the theater directly. You can also check out Broadway Inbound, which is a great source for group sales, offering additional special experiences and tour packages. You can then coordinate with your school’s theater department or get a friend group together to see the show.
