Broadway the Smart Way: Lotteries and Rush

Most Broadway shows hold back a small number of inexpensive seats every day, sold through digital lotteries and rush, and with a little planning you can see major productions for a fraction of the box-office price. Lotteries usually open the day before a performance; you enter with an email or an account, winners are notified and must pay within a short window. Rush tickets are sold on the day, either online at a set hour or in person at the box office when it opens.

Use only the official channels each show names on its own website: typically Broadway Direct, Telecharge, Lucky Seat or the TodayTix app, and for a few shows their own apps. Enter several shows at once, keep your phone on during the payment window, and expect seats that may be in the front row or the far side, and not always together. In-person rush rewards arriving early. Avoid resale sites selling lottery seats, which are not transferable.