10 BIGGEST Broadway Mistakes To Avoid in NYC!

[@HereBeBarr]

Watch This Next- NYC Travel Mistakes: What NOT to Do in New York City: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jaXLiIqajdGtfKs NYC Subway Survival Guide: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aF65nmanfM2SndE

[@zerocool6121]

4:01 hey, great video but the Theatre Development Fund (TDF) is not affiliated with TodayTix. TDF is a nonprofit that’s affiliated with the TKTS booth and does tons of theatre outreach, and has programs like autism friendly Broadway performances. TodayTix is a privately owned for profit company.

[@Julie-zv1sn]

You should have listed the guys KZbin channel here too!

[@curranissimo]

I work as a backstage doorman at a Broadway theatre. He's right, they won't eat the food you send, but I will, so please keep sending it.

[@jillybeanc]

I think you can send bakery items backstage though right? I remember a few interviews about fans sending Schmackary's cookies to them. Thanks to those interviews I made sure to hit that place when I was in NYC and it did not disappoint!!

[@curranissimo]

@@jillybeanc yes that’s true, if it’s delivered by the actual place rather than dropped off by a random person they’ll probably eat it. And like 99% of the time it’s Schmackary’s. One time someone dropped off a bunch of tomatoes. I was like what the hell is happening?

[@Froggy23162]

Haha so real

[@mm-yt8sf]

oooh this could be a plot device in a murder mystery! there's a killer on the loose...and suddenly the backstage doorman keels over after eating a deadly donut! who was it meant for?! maybe people think it was the star but the doorman had a lot of enemies... 🙂

[@danielledore8676]

Lol

[@manuelferrara6808]

Story time! I was performing in a production of We Will Rock You and there was this young kid in the front row that had a sign that said “You Rock!” And once we were backstage everyone literally everyone was saying “Ohhh, did you see the little kid in the front row, she was so adorable!” This goes to show WE SEE EVERYTHING!

[@lizlilliman3644]

We recently saw heathers on the UK tour. My daughter dressed as Heather mac, we where on the 3rd row, my preferred row at this theatre as lots of leg room and a good view. The actress who played that Heather saw her and gave her a nod. At the end when we went to the stage door, she said sh3 had seen her during the musical, this made my daughter really happy and we had tears.

[@JohanMsWorld]

Does that include the likes of musical tshirts, cats make up and such? I always wonder how much the performers sees and acknowles such things when I do them here where I live. And yes, sometimes actors has said they recognezed my laughts from the stage, so if you are in the first rows chances are you will be seen. J.

[@mm-yt8sf]

not a theater things but in college i kept falling asleep in the same class, so i told my friend let's sit in the front row so i have to pay attention. after i woke up he told me i did it again. "do you think he noticed?" "he was staring right at you" i asked why didn't he wake me up and he said he didn't want anyone to know he knew me.

[@peggyknecht5551]

Yes, we do. My friend was playing ' Mother Superior in Nunsense, and a guy's cellphone went off. She got off the stage, walked up to the guy and confiscated the phone. She told the guy "You will get this phone back at the end of the show, young man." LOL!!!

[@_.r3xsp2ge._]

I’m pretty sure I was seen when I went to see the Beetlejuice tour cuz I was wearing a Beetlejuice jacket thing and I kinda made eye contact with Justin and i think he kinda nodded :3

[@cecilia22012]

1:43 “They’re gonna talk about you when they walk off stage” is so real. As someone in theatre, I will say to my friends “X is sitting in row c” or “someone’s recording in the third row” so, this is confirmation. We can see everything ❤️

[@roscoemuttley]

This one was very good. I love Billy and he gave excellent advice. bottom line is be quiet and respectful. This isn't a movie or your home. The very important part is to know the actors CAN HEAR YOU.

[@HereBeBarr]

You really need that insider perspective sometimes.

[@abeach5420]

Adore our Billy so much. So truthful and raw like ollll skool New York. He deserves so many more followers.

[@newagain9964]

Whoa. Don’t talk at a movie either. And put phone away.

[@GoddessNeith]

I was an usher for 25 years at a broadway touring theater in Orlando, here are my tips. BATHE before you come to the theater, don't try to sneak photos, EVERYONE can see you do it. your phone lights up blue and the ushers WILL be told where you are and to get you out. dress up a bit, why spend big bucks and come to the theater looking like you just mowed your lawn. leave your house at least 1- 1 1/2 hours early, traffic, parking, misdirection, some shows have holds where we CANNOT let you in until a certain point in the act. we're not being mean, we don't want to break the atmosphere the troupe is creating. and management said DO NOT LET PEOPLE IN! keep your feet and possessions OUT of the aisle. sometimes, in some shows actors are running up and down the aisles. keep it clear. have a good time and know the staff working the theater want you to love your experience. listen to them when they tell you "10 minutes to show!" we're not kidding!

[@JacksG13]

Re: We're not kidding when we give the 10 minute warning. ESPECIALLY IF IT'S LES MIS! (Currently an usher at a Broadway touring theatre. 6+ yrs)

[@Caderic]

Learn how to use capital letters correctly.

[@Ytvzoey]

The fact that bathe is on the list is concerning 😂

[@MouseRants]

Lemme tell you, HUGE APPLAUSE for the the DON'T SING comment - it needs to be screamed from the rafters. As a local who has to save up a lot to get good seats to a show, it is so disheartening when people in the audience are singing along. I find this happens most often in JukeBox Musicals, like "&Juliet" - DO NOT SING ALONG - this show isn't about you. No show is about you. Don't be rude, this isn't Netflix. People paid hundreds of dollars to see this show and no one spent that money to hear YOU sing. And to add on to that, I know your kid knows all the lyrics to The Lion King. Let them know it's not a sing-a-long. It's the perfect time to teach some etiquette!

[@HereBeBarr]

🫡🫡🫡🫡

[@balzoemg8415]

@MouseRants Calm down. There are shows that encourage the audience to sing alone

[@MouseRants]

@@balzoemg8415 just callin people on stage to sing alone. Sounds like you went to a karaoke bar instead....

[@balzoemg8415]

No dodo head, No Karaoke. I’m talking about Broadway shows in NYC. I’ve been to many.

[@MouseRants]

@@balzoemg8415 Clearly no one was referring to the 3 shows in the history of Broadway that actually ask you to sing along.

[@MPMcDonald]

It wasn't Broadway, but a good production of Les Mis at a theater near Chicago. My daughter (about 14 at the time) and I had front row seats and she was a huge fan of the show. When Gavroche died, she was almost sobbing. (she was crying, but was silent). Some of the cast on our side of the stage, while singing One Day More at the end, saw her there, and smiled (very small/quick) and nudged each other. I thought it was sweet that they noticed how their performance had affected her.

[@kenndough]

I live minutes from the theater district and see shows all the time. The advice given in this clip is spot on and totally authentic. Trust them!

[@anyimegamagyi]

I wish every video on yt would be like this. Perfectly edited, answered all of my questions, not too long, enjoyable. Should be an example for everyone. Thank YOU!

[@ColtraneAndRain]

I love dressing up for shows! Even if it's a little black dress.

[@matthewb840]

I would say you need at least 45 minutes before a show starts. There is normally a line picking up tickets, going through security it’s always speedy, bathrooms can be a walk away (and sometimes have a line), and if you are new to the theater it will take some time to find your seat (especially if you have to go up stairs to get to your seat). 30 minutes is fine if you don’t need to pick up tickets but sometimes that’s still pushing it.

[@MaraMara89]

I also thought that maybe a little more time would be better. Especially if you don't know city and theater!

[@balzoemg8415]

I go 5 minutes before so you don’t have to wait in line.

[@timothymccracken]

One of my favorite tips to give to people: pre-order your intermission drinks and snacks when you arrive at the theater. Find the most convenient bar to your seats and plan ahead. The intermissions are somewhat short and it is always great to have your glass of wine or beverage ready for you versus standing in line.

[@megannicole8653]

How do you do that? Just to go up to the bar and ask them to do that prior to the show?

[@timothymccracken]

@@megannicole8653 Yes.

[@BradMarcus]

I've been going to lots of shows, almost exclusively rush and lottery. I'm going tonight to Purlie Victorious on lottery tonight, 2nd row center. Rarely are the seats truly obstructed and most often, they are orchestra. I also run Broadway on a Budget, a great resource for info and no cost.

[@Kristine_202]

3rd or 4th row center orchestra are the perfect seats. I've seen probably 100 Broadway shows and I believe that about all of them, you really can't go wrong there. In fact, I saw the final performance of "Parade" and sat in the 4th row on the right side because 4th row center was filled with Ben Platt's family. In 3rd row center were Michael Arden, Jason Robert Brown, and Alfred Uhry. When you're literally across the aisle from the director and the star's parents, you know you're in a good spot. I was actually seated next to one of the producers, which was funny because I'm a nobody who just bought the tix the day they went on sale, and I was fangirling over everyone. I said to the woman next to me, "OMG, that's Michael Arden!" and she was like, "Yeah, I know him. I produced the show." 🤦‍♀🤣 If the set is really big and elaborate and a huge part of the production, then front row mezzanine is also great. Those are good seats for the Disney shows and the big blockbuster musicals. But if you can get 3rd or 4th row center orchestra....Take it! You'll have the best seat in the house. And, yes, the actors can see you, but that's kind of cool. (As long as you're not filming.) When I gave Lea Michele a standing ovation for "Don't Rain on My Parade," she pointed right at me and smiled. The latest production of "Funny Girl" was fun because the actors kind of played around with the audience and broke the fourth wall quite a bit, which worked fine because it was a show about performers.

[@Jeff.Wilson]

Yeah, the suggestion to take some warm clothes is legit. I was on a show a couple of weeks ago, and despite outside was heat, inside was quite chilly, so good that I took additional clothes with me. Also, surprisingly, I was able to get inside with the bubble tea that I bought elsewhere.

[@adamschwartzberg5238]

Billy was such a great resource for this video - love the inside knowledge.

[@HereBeBarr]

He’s the best

[@wholderby]

I was lucky enough to score the On Stage "restaurant/bar scene" seats in Bryan Cranston's Network a couple of years ago. Sat right up on stage, they told us how to act "and things not to do" up there and it was AMAZING.....The more time goes by the more I appreciate that - the tickets weren't even THAT much more expensive and they only had like maybe 20-24 seats or so and Bryan Cranston acted literally on the other side of the small table from my wife and I......

[@haplessasshole9615]

Wow! This is a return to eighteenth century theater norms. William Hogarth's painting, "A Scene from 'The Beggar's Opera'," which hangs in the Tate, depicts the practice. The stage seating was eliminated by none other than David Garrick, as he (correctly) decided it detracted for the proverbial willing suspension of disbelief, especially as actors were prone to wander over and have a word with their influential acquaintances onstage between speeches. Talk about breaking character!

[@arandombard1197]

That sounds cool as fuck. I think the Rocky musical did a similar thing where the front rows got to go on stage and become the crowd.

[@danip3270]

I looked into getting those exact same seats. I couldn’t convince anyone to fly to NYC and go. I wish I had gone anyway!

[@wholderby]

@@danip3270it honestly was an amazing experience to look out at the audience and to have the play happening all around you and right across the”the bar” from you…..

[@jameswadley7291]

One of your best, Jon! Some great insights here and really useful info. Talking to someone with the hands-on experience that Billy has was terrific! Thanks for taking the trouble to share it with us! And thank you Billy as well!

[@ronaldcarlson8572]

The one thing you failed to mention, since I go to quite a few Broadway shows, is lack of leg room in the seats, especially if you are taller than 6-feet. Sit on the ends of the aisles so you can stretch your legs. Lastly, Junior's is great, I love that place, and drinks at the show are over $20 for a glass of wine.

[@BlazingSerenade]

half of the cost is for the souvenir cup lol

[@sternreport]

Standing Tickets might be something for you they can often be had on the day at the venue for one of the cheapest prices.

[@gldesigns348123]

You're absolutely right about the leg room. I'm just under 6 feet and always try to get aisle seats.

[@shejean]

Hubby and I love Junior’s, too. Best Chicken Matzoh Ball Soup….besides mine, of course! 😆

[@MaraMara89]

Never been on Broadway (I hope one day I will be able to go to US), but in Opera house I work I always go for 2nd floor, first row - it have a lot of leg room and I can see orchestra [1st floor would be also nice but usually that is were important guests are and I am not the dress person, on 2nd floor people wear not-so-fancy clothes]

[@kimmoses6397]

I love Billy...great advice for any level of theatre goer - being respectful in the theatre is the most important ....there is nothing worse than sitting near someone either talking or singing along with the show...

[@typerk]

Billy has become one of my favorite youtubers since you had him on for the hell's kitchen video. Barr/Hipkins Mashup is greatly appreciated

[@HereBeBarr]

Billy’s a true NYC character!

[@abeach5420]

Soooo luv him.....found via that vid also. True joy to follow a no holding back New Yorker.

[@billyhipkinsthealso-ran]

Aw shucks folks, I'm just runnin' my mouth! But thanks for watching!

[@sociallyawkwarddarcy]

Billy is so charismatic!!

[@genageeraert8039]

Same love him

[@AntonWongVideo]

Definitely want to see a Broadway show, an off-Broadway show, and maybe even a off-off Broadway show. even like a black box theatre. There's so much live entertainment in NYC!

[@HereBeBarr]

Heck yeah

[@Neville60001]

1:31-A sensible bit of advice for people sitting in the front rows next to the stage so close that the cast can see them; *_have a nap hours before the show_* , so that you're _not_ tired and ready to fall asleep.

[@HereBeBarr]

😂😂😂

[@kfor47]

I don't care if someone is sleeping. At least they're sitting still and not making a fuss. Some people get drunk or stoned before the show starts. They will talk loudly, harass other people (verbally and physically) and throw things (bottles, wine glasses, mobile phones). They may even start a fight in the audience just to amuse themselves. I've seen some individuals who were thrown out of the theatre. Show was stopped and the actors refused to go on stage. That was one hell of a performance. I had warned the theatre staff about disruptive people in the audience. Nobody listened until all hell broke loose in the stalls, less than 10 rows away from the stage. The actors noticed it (long before the security guys did) and took action. "Nope. Ain't gonna go out there until the audience calms the f**k down."

[@amylou22snowhite]

I never won’t dress for a show. It’s a show of respect. Respect for the actors and their craft, for the back and front of house staff.

[@jdavis9684]

I've been a theater-goer for something like 50 years and this video will really help someone seeing their first show. Well done!

[@jono1432]

The cell phone thing....I'll never forget being at the revival of Les Mis (2015?) and literally right at the ending scene where Valjean is dying, he says "Forbid me now to die" and the lady who is sitting next to me has her cell phone goes start ringing. I was MORTIFIED. We were probably in the 4th or 5th row of the orchestra. After the show, I said to the actor , Ramin Karimloo, "How'd you like the cell phone going off right at the end". He said "Oh my god, right at this part where I sing (above) right?" I said "Yes! She was seated right next to me!". He lost it laughing.

[@Alexandra-rb7ju]

Oh man if you think that's mortifying, my mother and I got front row tickets to Hamilton last year and she forgot to shut her cell phone off. Her ring tone is seriously the most ANNOYING constant barking dog ringtone I have ever heard. She was too embarrassed to shut it off and I accidentally shouted, "If you don't shut it off, I'll do it for you!!" There was a moment when the entire theater was silent after that, but everyone including the cast laughed. I am forever embarrassed because of that haha.

[@gschreckster]

Great advice! I ALWAYS go to the official show website to find tickets. Always go to Juniors after the show. I love front row seats for most muscials unless the price is prohibitive or the set, like with Moulin Rouge, reaches out into the auditorium. In that case I like front row of the messanine. I understand you can take photos before the show and during curtian call. At least that's what ushers have told me.

[@tracyturner-browne4012]

I just adore Billy! But then, who doesn't?;!! I'll watch anything with him in it!!!!! Plus, you're awesome too Jon,and I'm so sorry about Ben ...

[@NickyMay16]

I have been seeing shows for half a century and these two gents are a gift. And I am so happy that someone highlights obstructed seats. The worst is the Richard Rodgers. In the last several rows of the orchestra you can't see above about 10 feet. I saw the original Chicago there and missed a good bit of the show. Last night I was watching a production of Cyrano at the Rodgers and in the first few minutes would have missed lots of stuff.

[@MidnightL2008]

So true! I recently found a website called”view from my seat”. It has helped me tremendously when picking seats for shows. People upload pictures of the stage from their seats then tag the section, row, and seat they were in. When buying tickets to shows I now use two tabs one for the ticket sales website and the other for View From My Seat so I can check out the available seats before I buy! I haven’t had a bad view since I started doing it this way!

[@procurorick]

Hey Jon, great content, as always, I just got home after a week in NYC and your voice was running comment in my head. Took my daughters to The Book of Mormon. I also visited the Tick Tock Diner, since I stayed at a nearby hotel Thanks for the channel, maybe you could do more on the lower East Side and the east village? Greetings from Chile!

[@reshamsingh_18392]

Im not going to a Broadway show, heck im not even going to NYC. Im just a theater kid, and my yt recommendations knew very well that I would click on this.

[@bonniepwtf]

Very well done and helpful information. Great job Billy & Jon.

[@laneblanchard1860]

I seen about 50 Broadway shows sitting 8th to 12th center . It’s been perfect as far as I’m concerned. The only time I’ve paid scalper level type prices is for an opening night and I’ve been to several of those just because I wanted to go..

[@cherylkoski7184]

You HAVE seen.

[@JoseFlores-kl6jm]

Hey Jon thank you for making this video ! I will make sure to catch a show on Broadway for my next visit to NYC. More importantly, I'm aware of the do's and dont's of visiting Broadway.

[@BTSArubanArmy1990]

As a former dancer for a local academy and theater (almost 13 years) I can say these mistakes are so true! I was so annoyed when I noticed a man got to film our second half show and I just stopped and gave him a look, and he was immediately removed off of the premises

[@LeviClay]

Catch Gutenberg, it’s great. But ALSO… if you want a bar, it’s a bit of a trek, but Marie’s Crisis is the place to be. Piano bar playing musical theatre numbers all night and everyone sings.

[@LuckyDipster2]

I'll be visiting NY for the first time in January to see BTTF after enjoying it a couple of times in London and found this video informative. 👍 I agree that front row isn't always the best. It's fine for a show you've seen before or will be seeing again in the future, but BTTF needs to be seen from further back if you're only planning on seeing it one time. As Billy said, front row is fun for seeing the performers up close, but the effects work so much better upstairs.

[@sylviemac1971]

Thanks for this video! I have been fortunate to come to New York a few times and I always see a Broadway show. I always go to TKTS to buy my tickets. The last one I saw was a play with Nathan Lane in it. The theatre was very small so I was like 11 rows away and I paid 50% off my ticket! And Juniors cheese cake is awesome! Good to know about the seating and tips for buying tickets

[@inwoodliver]

Photos from home?

[@abeach5420]

Eeeee my Billy, ok 'OURRRR" gheesh, is the duuuude. Deserves kajillion followers. I howell my face off every time.....true New Yorker as no holding back. Mr. Hipkins is a genious creator and legend.

[@mrpeel3239]

I remember my astonishment when ticket prices reached $100 a ticket 25+ years ago! Ps Billy should be anointed Mr. Broadway!!

[@MiJoOc76]

Once upon a One More Time was highly underrated! I saw the closing show and I was enamored! Loved it beyond belief and I only heard about the show 2 weeks before visiting New York.

[@beckystar101]

Don’t be afraid to spend money on a good seat, if you can splurge for it, it will be worth it.

[@lisamitchell9725]

Pre pandemic there was the TKTS booth at South Street Seaport which almost never had a line and I got some great priced tickets to wonderful shows from there. I hope they can re-open at some point but given the whole redevelopment of that area I am not too hopeful

[@laurasteenson8505]

That was our favorite TKTS booth. I'm so sad it's closed.

[@ThatMarkGilroy]

Had absolutely no cue about the differences betweeen broadway/off boadway/off off broadway. Super interesting video Jon, thank you!

[@HereBeBarr]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@ninabmbh]

Wow. What a complete video! I'm even more excited for Hamilton in December ($289 for the seat, but ok… it's the best show ever!).

[@kevinmcguire5696]

Love it. First Broadway Theatre I ever worked in during the original run of Cats.

[@MRP3261]

Jon and Billy I've been to 3 Broadway shows . Mary Poppins. Grease. Rock of Ages. I've had a fun time going to all 3 shows .

[@linzzz519]

Did you get to see Laura Osnes and Laura Michelle Kelly??

[@MRP3261]

​@@linzzz519 I was there with my family

[@josephwind2089]

I second Juniors. It's not just good for Broadway, but it's also comes in clutch before concerts at the Palladium around the corner from there.

[@ocularpatdown]

Just ate there for lunch yesterday, before seeing “Water for Elephants.”

[@roxtar38]

My first Broadway show was Cats at Winter Garden, front-row center. It was the right seat for that show. I have not been to Winter Garden for many years (maybe School of Rock) but I recall it was not a large theater despite the popularity of Cats.

[@bingovegas4867]

Went to N.Y.C. from our hometown of Buffalo. My friend Susan got tickets for CATS at the Winter Garden. Usher took us down the aisle, 1st row center, I almost cried. Immediately in front of us was a tire I remember and junkyard items...part of the set and not at all in the way of our view. Exciting actually and of course we loved it. Can't believe Susan didn't tell us where we were sitting, what a surprise.

[@djs2356]

back in the day I saw, up close, Stephanie Mills in the WIZ... I was in shock for about a week afterwards.

[@EastSide-qc5oy]

Stephanie Mills original Dorothy. Andrea McArdle original Annie. What an era!

[@fantasticworld7485]

Thank you very much Jon! Thanks also to the handsome gentleman for explaining everything. I needed this valuable information for my future trip to NYC. Love from Saudi Arabia.

[@raegolema]

I had an obstructed view seat at Into the Woods and it actually ended up being a more immersive experience because I was in front of the narrator's podium, which was part of the set ✨️

[@chibicake]

For the whole thing about actors noticing you in the audience, that’s SO true. I was in a jr show and I remember seeing a kid in the audience with their hands up during the bows, jamming out kinda. I brought it up to some friends back stage after and how cool I found it that they liked the show that much. I did also notice how some kids smiled during the opening number which I thought was awesome that they were already enjoying the show 😭🙏

[@kimtaylor3515]

I have seen many Broadway plays as well as off Broadway plays. My favorite was a theater in the round production of CATS were they popped up out of the audience. One of them was right by me and pawwed at me. I bent down and rubbed it's ear.

[@CallMeGailyn]

Oh, I loved Back to the Future at the Winter Garden! Excellent seats. Very innovative production I thought.

[@egriff11]

My wife and I saw wicked after we watched a Steelers game at Hibernia. In our jerseys (I had on Harrison)... I have never felt more like a yinzer on vacation in my life.

[@linzzz519]

Ouch!!

[@Phlimbob]

I've seen Book of Mormon a couple of times. The most recent time I saw it, my sister got tickets for the second row (which I thought would be too close because we would be looking up). The oddest thing happened during intermission, an usher came to us and told us to stop recording the show or we would be kicked out. Our party was very confused because all of us had completely put our phones away during the first half. They insisted again that we stop recording and we were just like "yeah, sure, we weren't using our phones." I've seen a person audio record an entire musical, so I know it happens, but I don't know what these guys saw for them to get our case.

[@drodriguezwdsc]

Attention to my fellow "pleasantly plump" or tall people, these theaters were built in a different era. An era of tiny humans. I'm a large guy, length and width. Most of the shows I've been to have very little leg room and are very narrow. Either find a theater that has been renovated recently or is newer. If you have to go an older theater, speak to an usher. They might be able to get you a chair and find you a spot somewhere. Depending on the theater of course. Good luck!

[@alexwallace6120]

Thanks for the good advice about attending the theater. I haven't been there in about 40yrs. I was in my early 20's living in North central CT, when a friend moved to NYC. and invited me to take the 2 hr. bus trip, to see a show. I do remember a few musicals that I loved. I started to go on a Wednesday matinee, wait in the 1/2 prick TDK's line. I saw some good drama's. The only play I saw that I disliked was David Mamet's American Buffalo with Al Pacino. From what I've read and what you said. it is so much more expensive to see a show, more than I can afford, especially with travel, and food.

[@christinealcott7076]

Thank you! Planning our 1st time to NYC and wanted to see a show. I had definitely been looking at the wrong website for tix. It is truly cheaper going to the show's website. Great advice!

[@maryloududley696]

We had front row seats for Anything Goes with Sutton Foster. It was great fun and a forever memory.

[@RWM07001]

Back to the Future is a great show. Loved it.

[@krember4445]

Seeing this after I got back from a new york trip, and saw the outsiders. I'll say it was an amazing show 10/10 would recommend, got my playbill signed by the cast and a picture with Brody Grant.

[@mgeek1]

As someone who has never seen a Broadway show and is dying to, this was very informative.

[@Javachacin]

Billy is so eloquent, thank you for including him!

[@linzzz519]

I’ve been to 6 different Broadway theaters. I actually prefer tour theaters. There is more room, they are usually nicer, and you don’t feel like cattle being shuttled in/out and to the bathrooms. That being said, the talent is always amazing! Also, I agree with most of the points being made. I do think that people should wear something decent, though. I’ve seen people in raggedy cut off shorts and flip flops. It’s not the beach, it’s live theater. I wear a dress and my husband and boys wear collared shirts. We respect the cast and crew who are working so hard every night! It’s a big deal!!

[@michaelsangster5673]

Saw Lion King and book of Mormon this week, loved both & love NYC!

[@TudorCityGrrrl]

I’ve been in the orchestra section, and up in the mezzanine. I definitely prefer the orchestra section. Also watch out for the mezzanine if you’re in the first row sometimes there’s a bar that is at eye level and can block your view. I spent 2 1/2 hours hunched over to look under the bar.

[@Von_Doom-t3z]

I got lucky with rush tickets for wicked both seats where next to the each other in the middle on the floor about 12 rows back i was pretty happy with the win!

[@jacksonj3082]

Was very lucky - came across a pair of season tickets - Sat night, first balcony, center section on the aisle - always special coming to the theatre. Kept them for 6 years during the 70's-80's and saw fabulous musicals, then moved away.

[@Elitist20]

Fun aspect of NY theater - realizing (sometimes years later) that you've seen an up-and-coming star early in their career. I saw Holly Hunter in Crimes of the Heart in 1982 and Yeardley Smith (according to IBDB, replacing Cynthia Nixon) in The Real Thing in 1985. (In the latter I also saw Nicol Williamson - who'd been Merlin in the film Excalibur several years before.) I've also looked at the Internet Off-Broadway Database for the 1985 play Orphans, and now find that the actor who'd memorably played the old man was none other than Frasier's John Mahoney! 😀

[@15two]

also dont be afraid to talk to an usher if you have accessibility issues! my dad is physically disabled and it was near impossible for him to get into some of the seats we got in the mezzanine. all of the ushers we spoke to were really accommodating and were able to get seats for our group of 3 that worked better (and were all a lot closer to the stage)

[@x0hitsme0x]

I'm disabled too... why would you not pick seats that he could access? I can't imagine showing up somewhere where I picked my seat & saying "Hey, you need to move me." Unreal 🙄

[@user-ef5id9km3p]

One of the best NYC videos ever. Loved Billy and the tips were next level. Thank you!

[@ThornsNRoses]

This was so helpful ! The lottery for the broadway show is a perfect budget option for my next trip thank you guys !

[@williamboo9017]

Gotta love Billy Hipkins. He’s hilarious!

[@nelsonjr16]

My seating rule is buy something you can afford as long as it's not behind a pole/column and not too far that you can't see their facial expressions.

[@gslazar]

Although most of the info I knew, it was good to hear their take. BUT, if you are talking about Broadway, why at 1:31 is that picture of the Vienna State Opera used. It is the back of the main floor seating. That's a VERY long way from Broadway.

[@theimp5901]

Dude is 1000 % correct ! Drama, 4-5th anywhere in Center is pretty good , I like to see them sweat LOL ! I've done some theater and we CAN see you . Huge mistake for a musical is TOO close . I like 1- 3 in front of the closest mezz or, about 12 to 15 in Center . Great post !!! Thanks .

[@AEO123]

Love Billy!!

[@cherisej7829]

Spot on with Juniors! Been going there for years. Perfect place to go before or after a show.

[@Caderic]

I love Billy... I am glad you had him on. I am going to check out his KZbin.

[@cijmo]

This is a great video for everyone to watch - not just newbies. I don't like that thPOPCORN! This isn't a Sunday kiddie matinee. But I'm fat and I can go three hours without eating. Dietary issues aside (they usually have their own sweets for sugar, crackers for reflux), it's not hard to hold off 'til after the show. The other thing is turn your cell phone OFF and put it away. I don't know what people think they're "getting away with" putting it on silent then holding it upside down on their lap. One guy kept tipping it sideways to look at it. What are you looking for? If you're worried about an emergency at home (and they can't ALL be), then put it on vibrate but put it in a pocket so you're not tempted to "sneak peeks". The last thing, and this was from a performer, please don't wear anything reflective/high vis clothing if you're in the first 10 rows. It's just as bad as a camera flash as far as concentration goes.

[@MaraMara89]

That reflective cloths advise is also good for cinema. I was watching Dune last week and there is that bright light from desert parts and woman next to me had bag with metal plaque with brand name that reflected all that light right into my eyes... I have to put empty popcorn container on the armrest between us (almost on her bag) just to not be blinded :/

[@danielledore8676]

I’m a theater kid and that’s all true! ❤ billy, I’m going to ur Chanel now ❤😊

[@rolfjacobson833]

one of your best so far!!!! well done

[@janabromell3696]

Yesterday, I purchased a rush ticket to “& Juliet” and I had an amazing seat in the Orchestra (it was perfect) and I only paid $47…I was so lucky and excited!!!

[@TheTradge]

I had some of my own thoughts on each of these points, most of them relating to UK theatre and various similarities/differences. (WARNING: LONG COMMENT 😂) 1) I always say the front and centre of the mezzanine/dress circle is the best place to sit, just for a better vantage point, and means you're not constantly having to turn your head back and forth, plus (depending on the production) you get the full experience of the lighting effects on the stage, and the revolve if one is used. I think in general broadway theatres have better raking and a better distribution of seats, plus the shape of the tiers tends to be less curved. If you go to venues in London like the Apollo, Lyric and Gielgud theatres, there are four levels which are all pretty close together, the grand circle and balcony levels in particular tend to a) be massively curved, b) have a massive overhang, and c) be VERY steep, so if you're right at the back or at an extreme side view, you will have a pretty dreadful view. 2) unless it's a show I really want to see, I very rarely pay full price or for the most expensive seats, usually try and get rush where it's available, or enter the lotteries. The rush system in the UK tends to work much better because all shows that do rush tickets do them through TodayTix so it's all done online, meaning the moment it hits 10am you need to be hitting that button as fast as you can to make sure you don't miss out. Worth mentioning though is that ticket prices in London tend to be a bit cheaper, for example the most expensive tickets for Hamilton are only £200 and they start at around £20, whereas unless you win the $10 lottery your cheapest seats are over $100. I will also say that the venue/show's own website gives you the best possible ticket protection as well, as I once booked a ticket through Broadway.com but accidentally double booked, and they don't have the same kind of resale system that SeatGeek and Ticketmaster have; I did thankfully manage to get a full refund, but only after the show (New York, New York) had closed. 3) a lot third party sites are quite often going to try and rip you off, unless you go with a trusted one, again like TodayTix or SeatPlan. I work in theatre in the UK and have often had people come in with Ticketmaster tickets, which here are pretty much always more expensive than those you get from the theatre's own website (though I know it's used as the official seller for quite a few broadway shows). In the west end the best avenue is to go through the official theatre company websites like Nimax, Delfont MacKintosh and ATG, or use TodayTix who do discounts in sale events. 4) agreed, it's entirely up to you, but obviously you have to consider the show you're attending, like you wouldn't go to a Shakespeare play in a pair of hot pants, but if you dressed like that to go to Rocky Horror that would be absolutely fine because lots of people dress up 😂 how I dress depends on my mood, but usually something like a shirt, some jeans and a pair of boots. 5) Latecomers is a huge pet peeve of mine, obviously there are extenuating circumstances like the reliability of public transport, getting stuck in traffic, etc, but I always say 30 minutes before should be the latest you should aim to arrive, as it gives you leeway. This is where the West End and Broadway differ greatly, as if you're there early in London, they generally have bar and foyer areas where patrons can wait and grab a drink, have a seat, etc before the house opens, so they tend to open the doors to the venue around an hour before the show starts, whereas I know broadway theatres tend to have bar areas inside the actual auditorium. That all said we still get people arriving 10 minutes after the show starts, sometimes they're not theatre goers and perhaps thought the doors opened at the time on the ticket, rather than that being the show's start time. Basically, you should ALWAYS check, and then double check every single detail of your trip to make sure you're there in good time. 6) OH. MY. GOD this angers me, there has been a distinct diminution of good theatre etiquette over the years, especially since theatres reopened after covid, I didn't have any issues when I've been to broadway, but the number of people who think it's ok to check their phones every 5 minutes, or take photos/videos even though THEY'RE TOLD NOT TO AT THE START is a severe source of rage on my part! There's nothing worse in a theatre when you are engrossed in what's happening on stage and suddenly someone in front of you decides to get their phone out, that little light from the screen is SUPER distracting, those messages are still going to be there when the show is finished, put that phone away!! 8) this is another area where the UK and US differ greatly I think, in theatres over here, as long as it's not hot food or alcohol, you're perfectly within your rights to bring a coke, some crisps or sweets, or a refillable water bottle, I often buy a glass of wine before the show, but also have a can of lemonade or coke in my pocket to drink later. That said though, it's often forgotten that the primary source of revenue for theatres is bar and confectionary sales, as profits from ticket sales will largely go towards the company, with only the transaction fee being taken in by the venue, so bar prices may well be expensive, but they're what keep theatres open. 9) not many thoughts to add on this one, it's pretty much exactly the same here as it is in the US, it can seem overwhelming if you aren't a theatre aficionado and don't know where to start, but even if you've never been to a play or a musical, there will be things you recognise, since a lot of musicals have prior source material, be it Disney, other films, novels, mythology, there is something for everyone. I usually say if you're planning in advance, it's a good idea to check out some brief synopses of shows, to give you an idea of what to expect, though I know a lot of people like to go in blind, especially when it's a show that's generated a lot of hype. 10) this is where broadway do far better than the west end, a 7pm show can easily be followed by dinner as usually it's still before 10pm, and an 8pm show you can often still eat dinner at a normal time before attending, but in London venues (and most other UK theatres) the standard start time for an evening show is 7:30, which I feel is an awkward time, as it means you're either eating way too early or way too late, it may seem insignificant but that extra half hour can make a world of difference. Bonus) I feel stage door is pretty much universal, though from what I've seen it's SO much bigger in NY, when I went to Sweeney Todd this year and Music Man last year, the crowds surrounding stage door were absolutely insane, for the latter I got absolutely nowhere near Hugh Jackman because there were so many other people surrounding the stage door area, but for ST I managed to get a good spot and got pretty much everyone to sign my playbill. I think UK audiences are more polite, and less "manic" when their favourite performers come out.

[@shawnryan8345]

Very nice - I’m completely in the dark on this one - wife and I bucket list is to see a NYC Broadway show. Most helpful. And find your most approved restaurant / food truck / festival - Ty - C U on the next 1 😀

[@brently1398]

Excellent video as always and Billy was a great perspective to add. Looks like I am not yet done learning stuff from you! 😊

[@HereBeBarr]

I'm not done learning either.

[@jerrycaddie838]

I just visited. First time. Saw 4 shows....I will say this. The days of Les Mis are over. A few shows were ok but when you think Broadway you think THE BEST! Soul Grabbing shows that stay with you. None of them had me feeling that way. One of them was just embarrassing to sit through. Maybe it was the wrong time to go

[@chrisshoemaker3855]

Live about 35 minutes outside of the city and have been to more shows then I count. Billy is right on the money with everything!

[@johnbivins]

Didn't see this till now , Wonderful video!

[@magicdoves]

Billy seems like a super chill guy. Totally want to hand out and have beer with him.

[@VixLeu]

Thank you for the tips. Most I knew from having gone to many shows over the years, but some I didn't like other places for cheaper seats. Friend and I went to see Brad Williams at Town Hall and then had an hour to burn while waiting for my kiddo to get out of New World Stages. We went to Empanada Mama and they were very tasty, though you will pay almost $5 for each one, they're a big empanada. They have more food than just Empanadas too, which is great.

[@tksambrano]

Very informative! Thanks for posting

[@gschreckster]

Love front row seats even though my last trip a couple weeks ago I had front row to two shows where the floors of the stages were high. Just a fun, intimate experience. For a show like Moulin Rouge I sat in the mezzanine, because the stage decorations came way out into the theater, so I thought it was important to have a view that took in most of the theater. For taking photos I always ask ushers whar the rules are. Usually, taking photos during the curtain call is allowed as well as before the show. Glad some shows have "ice" rules. Almost nothing is worse than someone chomping ice during a performance.

[@milkmilk8721]

I believe for your seats, it matters the musical. For something like wicked, mezzanine. But I saw shucked close to stage and it was fun!

[@NickC1966]

Stood in line for rush tickets in Toronto to see Colm Wilkinson play Valjean. Got there the night before and stayed in line all night with a bunch of other hopefuls. My sister and I got four tickets which were ten dollars each. Wouldn’t have been bad if it wasn’t late December.

[@desidiva76]

The table seats for Cabaret were awesome ☺️