BROADWAY 101:
Everything You Need to Know Before Your First Show
Picture this: It’s your first visit to New York City, and you’re stepping into the electric world of Broadway. It’s more than just a night out—it’s a thrilling mix of music, storytelling, and pure stage magic. Whether your group is full of seasoned theatre lovers or first-timers just getting curious, this guide is designed to help you make the most of your Broadway experience from the ticket search to the standing ovation.
From scoring group ticket deals to choosing the best seats in the house, we’ve got the tips you need. You’ll also find advice on where to eat nearby, what to wear, and how to navigate theatre etiquette like a pro. With the right prep, your group will be ready to soak up the energy of Times Square and the unforgettable magic that only a Broadway show can deliver.
One visit, and you’ll see—it’s not just a performance, it’s a New York moment you won’t forget.
Choosing a Show
When picking a Broadway show for your group, it’s all about finding that sweet spot between everyone’s interests and comfort levels. Think about the collective vibe of your party—are they in the mood for a laugh-out-loud comedy, a classic musical, or perhaps something a bit more thought-provoking? It’s also a good idea to keep the varying ages in mind as you browse through your options to ensure everyone can enjoy the show without a hitch. Taking these factors into account helps you choose a show that resonates with everyone in the group, making for a fun and inclusive outing for all.
This season on Broadway, some new musicals promise show-stopping appeal for first-time audiences. Broadway Inbound has a full list of Broadway shows and the recommended ages for audiences. Scan the QR code on the right and start browsing to find the perfect show for you and your group.
The Ins and Outs of Ticketing
Purchasing tickets ahead of time is essential, especially for popular Broadway shows and performance times that can sell out. By securing your Broadway tickets ahead of time, you not only avoid the risk of missing out but also save yourself from wasting time in line during your vacation. Book early for a stress-free experience and enjoy the show without any hassles.
Broadway theatres often have seating divided into three main areas: orchestra, mezzanine, and balcony. The orchestra, situated on the main floor, offers close-up views and is often preferred for its excellent sightlines, though it can be pricier. The mezzanine, elevated above, provides a broad perspective of the stage and can sometimes feel more intimate due to its angle and elevation. The balcony offers a bird’s-eye view at a more cost-effective price, giving a unique vantage point to enjoy the show.
For blockbuster productions, ticket prices can be higher, particularly if a high-profile celebrity is featured. Standard ticket prices generally depend on the production and seating choice, but budget-friendly options are often available on weekdays in the rear orchestra or mezzanine. Prime seats during weekend evenings tend to be the most costly.
For groups looking to enjoy a Broadway experience together, Broadway Inbound offers special group pricing options that can make tickets more affordable. This service provides a streamlined process for securing tickets for larger parties, allowing groups to enjoy the thrill of Broadway without breaking the bank. By leveraging these group discounts, it’s easier than ever to coordinate a memorable outing that combines the magic of live theatre with the convenience of group-friendly pricing.
Purchasing tickets ahead of time is essential, especially for popular Broadway shows and performance times that can sell out. ... Book early for a stress-free experience and enjoy the show without any hassles.
Walking through Times Square as a first-time visitor is exhilarating, especially after seeing a Broadway show. ... As you stroll past the glowing billboards and immerse yourself in the excitement, you’ll feel the thrill of having experienced one of the world’s most iconic entertainment hubs.
Tips to Go Like a Pro
If it’s your first time experiencing a Broadway show, following a few simple tips will help you navigate the evening like a seasoned theatregoer.
Arriving at least 30 minutes early gives you time to settle in before the curtain rises. (Keep in mind that some shows require latecomers to wait for a suitable break to be seated, if at all!) Take that extra time to flip through your Playbill or visit the merchandise booth, where you can grab unique show souvenirs to commemorate your Broadway experience.
Once inside, be sure to silence and put away mobile devices to avoid distracting both performers and fellow audience members so everyone can enjoy the magic of the performance without interruptions. Remember: photography and video recording are prohibited.
When it comes to dress, Broadway theatres don’t demand formal attire, so there’s no need to stress about elaborate outfits. A smart-casual outfit strikes the right balance between comfort and style, allowing you to enjoy the performance without feeling restricted. Dressing up a bit can add to the occasion, making your night at the theatre feel even more special.
After a Broadway show, visiting the stage door offers a unique opportunity to meet performers and continue the magic. However, it’s important to observe proper stage door etiquette—be polite and patient. Not all performers may be available to interact with fans, so respect their space and time by keeping interactions brief and pleasant, always asking for permission when taking photos or requesting autographs, and expressing your gratitude for their time.
SCHEDULE
Varies
RUNNING TIME
2 hours, 30 minutes
GROUP MINIMUM
10 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 7pm
Thursday 7pm
Friday 7pm
Saturday 2pm & 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 & 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 29 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 & Jeremy Daniels
SCHEDULE
Varies
LOCATION
Richard Rodgers Theatre
226 West 46th Street
HAMILTON
Now celebrating its 10th anniversary on Broadway, the unforgettable story of passion, unstoppable ambition, and the dawn of a new nation has been seen by more than 28 million people around the world.
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, and the Pulitzer Prize for Drama.
“THIS THEATRICAL LANDMARK HAS TRANSFORMED THEATER AND THE WAY WE THINK ABOUT HISTORY.”
—The New York Times
by
Photos
Joan Marcus
SCHEDULE
Tuesday 2pm
Wednesday 1pm & 7pm
Thursday 7pm
Friday 7pm
Saturday 2pm & 8pm
Sunday - Times Vary
Beginning September:
Tuesday 7pm
Wednesday 7pm
Thursday 7pm
Friday 7pm
Saturday 2pm & 8pm
Sunday 1pm & 7pm
RUNNING TIME
2 hours, 55 minutes
GROUP MINIMUM
10 tickets
RECOMMENDED AGE
8 years & up
LOCATION
Lyric Theatre
214 West 43rd Street
HARRY POTTER AND THE CURSED CHILD
Take the next adventure at Broadway’s Tony Award-winning phenomenon! Join Harry and his son on a mind-blowing race through time brought to life before your eyes and beyond your imagination. Prepare for spectacular spells, epic battles, and the most astonishing theatrical magic ever seen on stage. “You’ll be wondering ‘how’d they do that?’ for days to come” ( People Magazine ).
Experience the wizarding world like never before from the moment you arrive. The entire theatre has been transformed with hidden surprises to discover around every corner. “It’s a marvel of imagination, as magical as any spell or potion” ( The New York Times ).
“A SPELLBINDING THEATRICAL BLOCKBUSTER!” —Variety
“ABSOLUTE ASTONISHMENT! RAVISHINGLY ENTERTAINING.” —The New York Times
“ONE OF THE MOST DEFINING POP CULTURE EVENTS OF THE DECADE.”
—Forbes
Photos by Matthew Murphy
SCHEDULE
Varies
RUNNING TIME
2 hours, 30 minutes
GROUP MINIMUM
10 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
Tuesday 7pm
Wednesday 2pm & 7pm
Thursday 7pm
Friday 7pm
Saturday 2pm & 7pm
Sunday - Times Vary
RUNNING TIME
1 hours, 40 minutes
GROUP MINIMUM
10 tickets
RECOMMENDED AGE
8 years & up
LOCATION
Belasco Theatre 111 West 44th Street
MAYBE HAPPY ENDING
“CRITICS PICK! ASTONISHING. JOYFUL, HEARTBREAKING, CUTTING-EDGE. BRILLIANTLY EXECUTED.”
The New York Times
Winner of 6 Tony Awards, including Best Musical, Maybe Happy Ending tells the deeply human story of a chance encounter that sparks connection, adventure, and maybe even love. Universally acclaimed by critics and audiences alike, this totally original new musical explores what it means to be human. Even if you’re not.
“THE BEST, MOST ORIGINAL, MOST BEAUTIFUL MUSICAL IN EONS!”
—Observer
“DEFINITELY A BIG HIT! IT’S UNLIKE ANYTHING I’VE EVER SEEN.”
—The Wrap
Photos by Matthew Murphy & Evan Zimmerman
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 OperationBroadway.com
RUNNING TIME
2 hours, 35 minutes
GROUP MINIMUM
10 tickets
RECOMMENDED AGE
5 years & up
LOCATION
Golden Theatre
252 West 45th Street (between 7th & 8th Avenues)
OPERATION MINCEMEAT
OPERATION MINCEMEAT is the 2024 Olivier Award-winning Best New Musical, and 2025 Tony Award ® Winner for Best Featured Actor in a Musical (Jak Malone). It’s London’s biggest hit with 74 Five-Star reviews, making it the best-reviewed show in West End history! It has been hailed by Peter Marks in The Washington Post as “the year’s funniest musical.”
The year is 1943 and we’re losing the war. Luckily, we’re about to gamble all our futures on a stolen corpse.
Singin’ in the Rain meets Strangers on a Train , OPERATION MINCEMEAT is the fast-paced, hilarious and unbelievable true story of the twisted secret mission that won us World War II.
Lauded by the UK’s Daily Mirror as “part Mel Brooks, part SIX , part Hamilton with a side order of One Man, Two Guvnors .”
“THE BRITS HAVE MADE THE YEAR’S FUNNIEST MUSICAL.”
—Peter Marks, The Washington Post
“A LITTLE SHOW WITH A VERY BIG FUTURE.”
—David Benedict, Variety
“PART MEL BROOKS, PART SIX , PART HAMILTON WITH A SIDE ORDER OF ONE MAN, TWO GUVNORS .”
—Neil Norman, Daily Mirror
Photo by Matt Crockett
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 26 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 has been streamed over 100 million times worldwide.
“SO FREAKING FUN!” —TheaterMania
“BROADWAY’S HIGH-ENERGY HISTORY REMIX REIGNS SUPREME!” —Entertainment Weekly
by Joan
Photos
Marcus
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)
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
Photos by Joan Marcus
continued from page 5.
While You’re in the Area …
Walking through Times Square as a firsttime visitor is exhilarating, especially after enjoying a Broadway show. Known for its dazzling lights and electric vibe, Times Square truly captures the essence of New York City. As you stroll past the glowing billboards and immerse yourself in the excitement, you’ll feel the thrill of having experienced one of the world’s most iconic entertainment hubs. Make sure to soak in the atmosphere and snap some photos to capture the magic of this unforgettable part of your Broadway adventure.
No Broadway adventure is complete without savoring the flavors of the Theatre District. Tucked between the buzz of Times Square and the charm of Hell’s Kitchen, this neighborhood serves up everything from quick bites to indulgent pre-show dinners— perfect for every appetite and occasion.
For a true taste of NYC, don’t miss the classics: grab a gooey, brick-oven slice at John’s Pizzeria or dive into a slice of legendary cheesecake at Junior’s. These iconic eats aren’t just delicious—they’re part of the city’s flavor, adding the perfect finishing touch to your Broadway night!
When picking a Broadway show for your group, it’s all about finding that sweet spot between everyone’s interests and comfort levels.
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.
