are front row seats good at a broadway show

The Front Mezzanines main advantage is its small size; the back rows, although more distant, dont feel too badly removed from the action below. Named for British-American theatrical producer George Broadhurst, the Broadhurst Theatre opened in 1917 with 'Misalliance', a comedy by George Bernard Shaw. The Hudson Theatre is one of the oldest surviving theatres in Broadway, built between 1902 and 1903. Does anyone have an opinion or rule of thumb as to how far back in orchestra is too far back to sit in which case mezzanine becomes a better choice? Most Broadway theaters have three sections, namely, orchestra, front mezzanine, and rear mezzanine. Overall, A FRONT ROW SEAT: AN INTIMATE LOOK AT BROADWAY, HOLLYWOOD, AND THE AGE OF GLAMOUR is a good read, not too deep, with wonderful anecdotes about show business and famous people Olson has encountered. The theatre opened in 1925, as a theatrical society called the Theatre Guild. Orchestra RC. Designed by Herts & Tallant, the theatre features Art Nouveau style interiors and Beaux-Arts style exterior. I want emails from Fodor's Travel with travel information and promotions. Seats near the center of the theatre with an obstructed/limited notice are usually blocked by a pole or obstructed by the overhang. Maybe I just have poor eyesight! The theatre is now known as Lyric Theatre after ATG acquired the site and renamed it in 2013. Official Blog - ticket news, tour previews & company announcements, Best Seats at a Theatre for a Broadway Show, A low-hanging Mezzanine can obstruct the view from the back of the Orchestra; when available, study the view from these rows to determine if the rear of the stage is visible, Mezzanine and Balcony sections typically require more stairs than Orchestra seats; if you or a guest has ambulatory issues, consider skipping this area, If seated near the front row for a musical, you may see spit flying out of performers' mouths as they sing; if this sounds off-putting, choose a seat farther back, At some theaters, there are large walls/railings at the front of the Mezzanine; consider sitting a row or two up if bringing kids or shorter guests. Chambers coaches day trips. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-71733223', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Broadway theatre) to 1,000 seat theatres. more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. For main floor seats, I never sit in the first 10 or 12 rows for that reason. We had 2nd row seats when they came through here and we really, really enjoyed it. Any time we see a show in the city we always reserve 1st row mezanine. Good or bad, it's the raw energy of seeing a live performance that gets my adrenaline pumping. - steve on broadway (sob). For more Broadway information, here are some helpful quick links! Gypsy Pasadoble? Thanx! I sat in the third row of the front mezzanine at one Hamilton performance, and it was fine, but everything was a bit fuzzy. Your higher up, but still close enough to see the details. Have gone and booked front row middle Mezz. Both times, the seats were perfectly fine. That said, I can't stand to be far, far away, so I would take first row before the 2nd balcony. Will you miss some of the action? Forget seats! anonymous. Guide, Trusted platform used by 100K+ people, each month, Get the lowest prices and last minute availability, Discover and connect with 10,000+ experiences, Browse verified reviews and professional photographs, Have a question? This area is known for having the most comfortable sitelines and is popular among both first-timers and veterans alike. Booking the best theatre seats since 2011. The mezzanine can also be a problem in the first row. Designed by Israels & Harder (interior) and J. Live chat with local experts anywhere, anytime. I agree that you wouldn't want to be front and center, but a couple rows back in orchestra is my preference. That said, please note that almost all Broadway houses are extremely old (75-100 years old, although there are a few exceptions) and both seat width and legroom leave a lot to be desired. DEAR WORLD, Photos: Julie Andrews, Billy Porter & More Gather to Honor Carol Burnett, Groban & Ashford in SWEENEY TODD On Broadway - P/reviews & News Thread. I have never been to a Broadway show, however I would love to, especially the Lion King. The Front Mezzanine's main advantage is its small size; the back rows, although more distant, don't feel too badly removed from the action below. Opened in 1927, the Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre is a Spanish-style building designed by Herbert J. Krapp, with its facade and auditorium being one of New York's noteworthy landmarks. We were MUCH too close; we couldn't see a lot of the stage. For a show with intimate moments and ballads, consider sitting closer to get the best view of the performers' facial expressions and reactions. Of particular interest to me is to see what row of the orchestra is under the edge of the balcony. I've seen Book of Mormon 4 times as well, in the orchestra each time. The theatre is operated by The Shubert Organization. The Longacre Theatre is a Broadway theatre that opened in 1913. Not every set is designed to be as effective from a severe angle. The theatre is managed by Jujamcyn Theaters. Now I'd like to know if front row seats are any good? Also, the night I saw Avenue Q, a malfunctioning smoke machine saw the front row engulfed in clouds of smoke. The August Wilson Theatre is a Broadway theatre named after the playwright August Wilson, who wrote ten plays set primarily on the African-American community, collectively known as The Pittsburgh Cycle. The theatre was developed along with the Biltmore Theatre. Designed by Herbert J. Krapp, the theatre's interiors and facade are one of New York's landmarks. Rows H to P in the Center Orchestra are slightly cheaper than premium whilst retaining a clean look at the stage. The first of the two elevated levels, front mezzanine also has some of the best seats in a theater, especially the front row center section. All rights reserved. Rush ticket with partial view We saw the Lion King for our 1 year anniversary and it is wondeful! The stage is high and the set of this musical they have big screen on the back so when the actors are if back of the stage I cannot see them only from the big screen There are typically three sections to a Broadway theatre seating chart Orchestra, Mezzanine, and Balcony. It was magical. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-12688375', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');New York. While there are certain scenes that are clearly designed for the long view and I would not have known what I was missing if I had never seen it up close from the front row but IMO the expressions are what made many scenes for me. (It was a promotion that hadn't sold out.). It has operated under its current name since 1930, and despite intervening stints as a cinema in the 30s and 50s, it has enjoyed a long history as a hotspot for popular musicals. There are some smaller theaters, like the August Wilson, that have only two, orchestra and mezzanine. Designed by C. Howard Crane, the theatre features Palladian-inspired style. Staff is overly friendly and helpful. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. The auditorium features a vaulted ceiling, box seating and a large balcony incorporated with Spanish-style detailing. Rows D and E in the Front Mezzanine have enough rake for clean and not-too-distant overhead views. The theatre is named after the Longacre Square, which is now known as Times Square. Originally known as the Martin Beck Theatre, the Al Hirschfeld Theatre is a Broadway theatre designed by G. Albert Lansburgh. Furthermore, please be aware that ticket prices may vary depending on availability and show time. The Music Box Theatre is a Broadway theatre opened in 1921. The mezzanine seats were also noticeably tighter than the orchestra seats, and I'm a 5'4" small-framed woman. The seats in the Orchestra section. For more information about your privacy and protection, please review our full. I think you may have answered your own question - usually front row seats are not that desirable for a B'way show - if you could see everything from the back, well, there you go.. You should avoid the first row for any show that has dancing in it - you can't see the feet! Thank you! I've sat on a number of cool front rows. West Side Story Tickets are available online 24hrs a day. However, as the section is located up two flights of stairs, patrons with limited mobility should take care when booking these seats. He was 61 and had been on the job since 2012. The western singing cowboy isn't a style of music you hear much anymore, but one band in Jackson Hole, Wyoming has been keeping the spirit of cowboys like Roy Rogers and Gene Autr The advantage can be less obstruction from audience members in front of you, and you're not as tightly packed in as you are in the other sections of the theater. All rights reserved. Scroll/Swipe left and right for longer schedules. 20112023 SeatPlan.com. The coronavirus pandemic has. I'll admit, I love the first row. - Are front row seats any good? I am also short and so normally don't sit in the first two rows or back further than about 10 rows. After registering, I can manage my newsletter subscriptions by visiting my Profile Settings page. West Side Story Question regarding Neil Simon Theater (Hairspray), Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. The theatre is renamed after the producer John Golden in 1937, who named it after leasing the theatre in 1936. Lots of leg room with the aisle in front, unobstructed view, easy quick access to the doors for coming/going. The first row of the mezzanine is awesome, if you sit in the front row of the orchestra section, you can't really see that much, and you cant really hear that much because the orchestra is SOOOOOOOOO loud, especially at "Dance of the Vampires", I think that was the loudest show I had ever seen!!!! The Broadway Theatre has a capacity of 1706 seats. Offering a mostly unobstructed view of the stage, orchestra seats are some of the most coveted and expensive seats in any theater. D . Mezzanine, Orchestra, or Box, the choice can be hard, especially if you dont know much about the theatre or Broadway theatre seating charts in general. Originally known as the Cort Theatre, the Broadway theatre was built in 1912. Seats are comfortable. Of course, I'd probably pass out if Sherie Renee Scott looked right at (through) me. As someone who has been involved in both politics and public relations, it's no wonder I love watching theatre. Stay away from the ticketing websites - look for the ones that show more detail. RTD Denver - 153 Schedule Instructions: Click/Tap to highlight the row & column. The theatre is now managed by The Shubert Organization and often hosts revues, and productions with smaller teams. This often makes it difficult to see the entirety of the rear of the stage. It was designed with an Italian Renaissance style featuring a brick-and-terracotta facade. Designed by Kahn and Jacobs, the theatre features continental seating, unlike the other Broadway theatres. One note about Wicked, which I saw only once and it was 4 years ago, but I remember that it's in a newer theater and the seat pitch is nice, good sight lines. These are also some of the most expensive in the house thanks to their unobstructed, sweeping views. Formerly known as Henry Miller's Theatre, the theatre is now known as the Stephen Sondheim Theatre, named after the American lyricist Stephen Sondheim. What is Hamilton about? Use our seat chart on your website for free! I have rarely found a bad sight line in a Broadway theater, but as already mentioned, have sometimes had to tuck my legs into unnatural positions to fit into the seat. When buying tickets for Aida on Broadway ticketmaster selected front row seats for me. When looking at the seating chart for most major theatres, the group of sections closest to the stage is usually referred to as the Orchestra. The first time I saw Hairspray was from the front row center orchestra. Sit a few rows back if you want orchestra, but, I agree, front mezz is prime. Personally I don't like sitting in the front row because I find that I am looking "up" for the whole show and if it is a musical you may not get the full effect of the choreography. 9 mo. If it's not your first time, these seats can get you incredibly close at a steep discount. The theatre's design was highly criticized at the beginning, and the theatre does not have ample space and dedicated restrooms. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-71752922', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Boston!) Usually mezzanine seats feel more cramped. Designed by Richard Lewis Blinder and Peter Kofman, the theatre features a proscenium arch. Does anyone know if there is a list of the dates its going to be in certain cities on the internet and where I can go to find the dates? Manage Settings #6 Posted: 6/28/03 at 2:48pm It really is a personal preference, but I think many frequent theatre-goers would agree that the 1st row is too close, especially. When searching for tickets, you may see a notice near listings that describes seats as "limited" or "obstructed" view. Among the Broadway shows: Spring Awakening ( Lilli Cooper practically sang to me), Our Town ( Paul Newman as the narrator towered directly over me for a significant portion of the show . Thanks for sharing these great tips. The theatre is run by The Shubert Organization. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-12694241', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');the Lion King as soon as show starts, trust me. Originally known as the Universal's Colony, Cin Roma, and many more names, the now Broadway theatre opened on We had 3rd row balcony and thought that was the best spot to watch the show. Or are they too close? BTW, if anyone cares, School of Rock was very good. It was only in 1953 the building was converted back to a theatre. Not only could I have goosed Ms. Peters on her way up the stairs on her first entrance (from which I restrained myself), I got to answer Gypsy's question, "Do you know what an ecdysiast is?" The front of the mezzanine is also good a good view for this . Most seats in the front mezzanine (up to 6 or so rows back) are also quite good. The theatre is managed by Nederlander Organization since 1981, and in 1990 they renamed the theatre after the composer Richard Rodgers. I envy you. A lot of West End stages are quite high, so those in front really have to crane their necks. I had an embarassing experience at "Spring Awakening"We were sitting front row center and my friend who was sitting next to me kept dozing offTalk about embarassing! Designed by Herbert J. Krapp, the interiors of the building are a renowned landmark in New York. Only when they are front of stage I can see but mo The theatre is often preferred for large scaled production due to its facilities and a large auditorium. The theatre hosts a variety of shows, including the Tony Awards, Grammy Awards and graduation ceremonies of universities. Bringing small binoculars helps for close ups, too, if you want them. Think about it: how many people at the movies rush to the front row? Any seat in the first 2 rows of the mezzanine are really good seats. Designed by Henry Beaumont Herts, the theatre features an Italian Renaissance-style design. I'm just going to hope for the best (plus I've seen the show but the BF hasn't). The theatre opened on the 10th of January in 1910. Yeah, I've seen the show on tour--so I know the secrets---the boyfriend doesnt though :) (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Am wanting to see Grease when we come to (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Since 2000, American Airlines has held the naming rights to the theatre. There are presently 40 theatres that qualify as "Broadway" and the largest of these has just under 2,000 seats. Most of the time I prefer the first 3 rows of the mezzanine section, but it also depends on the type of play/event I am seeing, and the size of the theater or venue. Seats to Wicked Broadway in Gershwin Theatre: Orchestra Row M. NY Theater Gurus, Which Broadway Seats are the Best for Sound and Sight Quality? Designed by architect Thomas W. Lamb, the theatre features a neoclassical design. Designed by Herbert J. Krapp, the highlight of the building is its neoclassical facade made of terracotta and bricks in buff colour. Initially, the theatre was designed by architect William Albert Swasey, and later remodelled by Herbert J. Krapp in 1922. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. Designed by Henry Beaumont Herts, the theatre features an Italian Renaissance style with two levels. Yes, those performers work so hard singing and dancing that frequently those sitting in the first few rows in the center area leave the show a bit wet. The theatre is named after two brothers who wrote many Broadway musicals - Ira Gershwin and George. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-71752866', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Row S/T have only partial views, though the tickets do not state this. The closer you are to the stage, the more of an issue it becomes as the corner of the stage can get cut off from view. Balcony seating is similar to the Mezzanine in that the sections are elevated above the stage. The Selwyn Theatre, now known as the American Airlines Theatre, is a Broadway theatre developed by brothers Edgar and Archibald Selwyn in 1918. It is a legitimate company that facilities hundreds of millions. I was in the front row for By The Bog Of Cats (with Holly Hunter) a couple years ago and know I missed some things. For a show with intimate moments and ballads, consider sitting closer to get the best view of the performers' facial expressions and reactions. The back row seats, while still offering a great view of the stage, are further back, which means you won't get a good look at the actors and might miss out on their facial expressions during key dramatic moments. Chapman remained at the scene reading J. Say what you will about Mario Cantone - the part was written for him.I was on the first row for "The Full Monty" - Patrick Wilson - say no more. You often find that the available balcony seats are actually closer to the stage (albeit higher) than the orchestra seats you might be considering. We're Broadway insiders, giving you access to the best seats in the house, direct from the theatre . There was just enough space that I didn't feel like I needed to look straight up. Be careful of the "rear mezzanine," though, as the term usually applies to only a few rows way, way, way in the back. Every seat in a Broadway theatre is a good seat. Oh, and one that perhaps you have to be English to appreciate: the wonderful John Simm in Elling. I have been wanting to see this and this will be a perfect 8th birthday gift for my son and possibly mothers day gift for my mom. I would choose center rear mezzanine seats over front row side seats any day. Great view of the entire show! For a show with a visual sweep or intricate choreography, you might be better off in the mezzanine. Useful 2 Funny 2 Cool 2 Brad G. Elite 2023 Louisville, KY 503 701 4308 The Orchestra seating chart splits into Left, Center and Right, with views best in the Center. The best seats are at least 4 or 5 rows back in the center up to about the 12th row. In 2009, the theatre reopened with 1055 seats. Tickets were $57 in the orchestra including front row seats. Designed by Herbert J. Krapp, the theatre features a Spanish Revival style design. The Marquis Theatre is a Broadway theatre located inside the New York Marriott Marquis hotel. I personally LOVE front row seats at the theater, but then again if there is a show that I really love, I tend to see it at least twice to get different perspectives on it. I thought that was kinda funny. For a musical, often first few rows of the mezzanine is better than back of the orchestra but try to get as close to the center of the theater as possible (not on extreme sides). theatres in Broadway to feature a thrust stage. Genie was entertaining. There are presently 40 theatres that qualify as "Broadway" and the largest of these has just under 2,000 seats. This happened to us at the American Airlines Theater when we saw On The Twentieth Century. West Side Story Click to view full interactive Broadway Theatre seating plan. A Pit section may be added in front of the Orchestra. The current Lyric Theatre building was made by merging two old theatres - the Apollo theatre and the former Lyric theatre building. The Lion King. :Aladdin, Lion King, /tickets/lion-king), sitting farther back gives you a wider view of the action. This is a full view seat. At theatres with a Balcony and no Mezzanine, these are usually excellent seats. The theatre's facade made of terracota and brick, is a popular landmark. 9 3RD Mezzanine 3 section B row 313 seat anonymous Radio City Music Hall Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes Very nice. Rocco - A life changing experience? If you're at the front of the mezzanine, then you may actually be much closer to the stage than you would be if you were in the back of the orchestra. When it came to my city last year, I wanted to go and have it as part of my christmas present from my mom. Sounds like great front row seats but is that actually too close to sit at a show? I haven't seen the Lion King, but I personally think the balcony seats are much better than floor seats. This is especially true of the last few rows where getting to and from the lobby is a breeze. "Do you know ChrisLovesShows?" I felt very comfortable throughout the show. Without a doubt the best seats are mid-level orchestra on the aisle, so you're up close for the animal parade. Without a doubt the best seats are mid-level orchestra on the aisle, so you're up close for the animal parade. I like seeing the actors faces, their expressions, their eyes light up, their mugging for the audience. Do Not Sell My Personal Information -, Fodor's may use your email address to send you relevant information on site updates, account changes, and offers. Most theatres for musicals actually hold 1,000 to 1,500 seats, with most dramas and comedies in 500 (minimum to qualify as a Broadway theatre) to 1,000 seat theatres. Registered in England and Wales 04120984. all things travel. Just try finding a pair of tickets for the show online, at least at the standard rate--top price: $155, soon to be $175. West Side Story Based on what I've read here, though, I've just added this practice as one of the experiences I'll add on my life's to-do-list :)I'll keep you postedCheers!MaxieM/LizGpixeltheatre.wordpress.com. And these eyes just may be in an audience near you! Sean M. said: I have to admit that I wasn't that interested in coming here when my, Alyssa S. said: There were at least 3 guards hanging around here, which, for some, Jane E. said: My husband and I along with another couple spent 2 hours here this, Carrie K. said: My husband and I had such an incredibly positive experience here that, Tunie B. said: So I went into this place because it had good reviews and I was so, Roberta S. said: We were visiting our family in NY and wanted to go someplace with. liv2006 Dec 4, 2022. Formerly known as the Alvin Theatre, the theatre was later renamed to Neil Simon Theatre in 1983. Designed by Donald Deskey and Edward Durell Stone, the theatre features an Art Deco-style design. Recent shows include Shrek (2008), Sister Act (2011) and a revival of Miss Saigon (2017). Labels: Assassins, Broadway, Front Row Seats, Long Day's Journey Into Night, Neil Patrick Harris, Our Town, Paul Newman, Rent, Robert Sean Leonard, Special Messages, Spring Awakening, The Boy From Oz, Xanadu, posted by Steve On Broadway (SOB) @ Monday, October 01, 2007. I even got a single seat for the front row balcony and it was not only a lot cheaper, but the seat was fabulous because you can see the whole picture. (although the true winner for leg hell is the Colonial in (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? The theatre is also one of the few theatres that feature walls with windows and wooden panelling below. The building's design is inspired by Byzantine and Moorish styles. Get FREE email communications from Fodor's Travel, covering must-see travel destinations, expert trip planning advice, and travel inspiration to fuel your passion. An important consideration when choosing Orchestra tickets is that the seating area is (typically) not very sloped.