A local Broadway expert explains the different seating options inside theaters.
This page explains the terminology used in Broadway theaters, types of seats, ticket prices, and the view from each section. Ticket prices vary depending on how good the view is from the seat. Decide what you want to prioritize and choose your seats accordingly.
Most Broadway theaters have two levels, though some have three. Each level and section has a specific name.
The main floor seating. It’s called “Orchestra” because it’s on the same level as the orchestra pit beneath the stage.
Strictly, “mezzanine” means a middle floor, but on Broadway it generally refers to the second level. Some theaters divide it into Front Mezzanine and Rear Mezzanine.
Usually the third level (names vary by theater). Only some theaters have a balcony, and this level tends to be quite steep.
Across levels, seats in the 100s are placed in the center section.
Odd-numbered seats are in the left-side section (facing the stage from the audience). Seat 1 is on the aisle, then 3, 5… toward the wall.
Even-numbered seats are in the right-side section. Seat 2 is on the aisle, then 4, 6… toward the wall.
“Premium Seats” are the best-viewing seats designated by each theater. They are typically located in the center Orchestra within roughly the first 10 rows, and at the front of the Mezzanine.
They’re the most expensive tickets, but ideal for VIPs or important business outings—choose these and you can’t go wrong. Our discount inventory also lets you select “Premium Seats.”
Today nearly every production sells a premium section, but the first show to do so was The Producers, which won 11 Tony Awards in 2001.
At the time, the show was sold out months in advance. Scalpers snapped up newly released tickets and resold them at huge markups. To keep that revenue with the production (and to serve fans willing to pay more), the producers designated the 50 best seats in the house as premium and sold them directly.
Regular tickets cost about $120–$130 then, while premium seats were $480—and they still sold out immediately. The model soon became standard.
Generally, the better the view, the higher the price. That said, Broadway theaters are designed so audiences can enjoy the show from any section. Before you give up because of price, consider these tips.
In most theaters, the least expensive tickets are at the very back of the highest level. You’re farther away, but you get a great bird’s-eye view of the entire stage—perfect for big dance numbers. You’ll often see fans using binoculars here.
Side sections are usually cheaper because sightlines can be partially blocked, or heads may get in the way. Among side sections, the 2nd-level Mezzanine is often the least frustrating: the elevation provides better sightlines than the 1st floor. Great if you want to keep costs down.
If your top priority is the clearest view, choose premium tickets. These are specifically selected by the theater. If you don’t see a premium option in our discount listings, please contact us. Learn more about premium seats >>
The most popular non-premium picks are rear Orchestra and front Mezzanine. From these spots, you can take in the stage like a single picture, making it easier to follow the story and staging—especially helpful for first-timers.
These sections also tend to have the best discount rates. In our listings, look for “Orchestra” or “Mezzanine.” If you want the very best, go premium; if you’d like to pay less, consider Rear Mezzanine or Balcony depending on your budget.
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Wicked |
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MJ The Musical |
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