What Are the Best Seats for a Broadway Show?

Obstructed Seats

Obstructed seats may not seem like a good option for your next Broadway performance. After all, who wants an obstructed view of a great play? These seats aren’t perfect, but they do make up for it in other ways. Specifically, these tend to be the most affordable seats available for Broadway performances, which is why they may be an economical option if you want to return to see a performance you’ve already seen before.

There’s no telling specifically what the obstruction or blockage will be when you purchase an obstructed view ticket, which means you might get lucky. You may also find the situation is less than ideal, so only pick these tickets if you’re not afraid of a little risk. 

Balcony Seats

It’s important to note that balcony seating differs from mezzanine seating in the larger theaters that offer both. The two phrases are often used interchangeably, but you always want to double-check that you’ve picked out the best seat or spot for a full view. 

Balcony seats are the most elevated of all seats, which means they’re actually above the stage. This may not be a bad feature. Depending on the type of performance it is, you may be able to see different perspectives or elements of the show from your balcony position.

Another benefit of purchasing balcony tickets is the price. The somewhat limited view means that these tickets are the most affordable of all available tickets, with the occasional exception of obstructed view tickets. 

Front Mezzanine Seats

In smaller theaters, you may not find a mezzanine if the theater has a balcony, but many theaters offer both. Like the balcony, the mezzanine is raised above the orchestra seats, which means you’re elevated above the stage level. 

Depending on the type of performance you’ve come to see, this could be beneficial, or it could draw away from the full impact of the performance. That’s why it’s always useful to do your research in advance of purchasing tickets, so you know exactly where you’re going to end up.

If a theater has both a mezzanine and a balcony option, a better view and experience will typically be found in the mezzanine because you’ll still be able to see everything that’s going on. In fact, front or center mezzanine seats from Row A to F are often considered some of the best seats in the house, rivaled only by the front-center section of the orchestra.

It all comes down to personal preferences in the great center mezzanine vs. center orchestra battle, but the former tends to be a less expensive seat with an equally great view.

Back and Side Orchestra Seats

The orchestra level is the section of seating that is the closest to the stage, where attendees will be able to enjoy the whole show without any visual disruptions. Orchestra seating areas can also be a lot of fun if you like to engage with the performers, as some shows will include dancers coming out in the aisles and other exciting elements.

If you want to be as close to the stage as possible but you’re still looking for a way to save on tickets, consider purchasing orchestra tickets that are either on the side wings or at the back of the orchestra section. 

These seats may have a little bit of an obscured view, depending on the type of performance and if the theater has a mezzanine section, which has an overhang over the back of the orchestra. Because of this, they’ll be a little more affordable, and you’ll be able to see your favorite performance without missing a single moment.   

Front Orchestra Seats

Arguably, the most premium seats in the house when it comes to Broadway tickets are the center orchestra seats. These are the seats you’ll find right in front of the stage and for a few dozen rows back. 

Unlike concerts, you don’t necessarily want front-row seats to a Broadway performance. Because the stage is so tall, you can sometimes miss parts of the action — and strain your neck in the process. Some shows, like Broadway’s Moulin Rouge, have unique theater seating set-ups in the first rows that make the close-up views more than worth it. (Plus, you get to see the actors’ facial expressions up close and personal.) Still, those middle-front options are more commonly considered the “good seats” amongst those in the know.  

Attendees in Rows D to G typically have a totally uninterrupted, panoramic view of the stage, and they can engage with any events or activities that develop when the performers step off stage, like onto the stairs or into the aisles. 

The one thing you do want to consider when purchasing front-and-center orchestra tickets is the cost. Because these are the best seats in the theater, and you’ll be able to see the entire stage from the front orchestra seats, they tend to be more expensive. Depending on the show you’re seeing and the performers in the lead roles, however, it might just be worth it. 

Box Seats

Another luxurious and exciting option you have to pick from when it comes to the next Broadway show is the box seats, which are available in some of the newer theaters that have had renovations. Box seats can be found along the sides of the theater and offer viewers a more private and comfortable viewing experience. You’ll also have more legroom to spread out, and you won’t have to worry about someone tall sitting in your way.

With box seats, you will be slightly removed from the performance and any off-stage antics, but you’ll be able to see just about everything. These seats often come with amenities, such as wait service and even tables, so it shouldn’t come as a surprise that they tend to be more costly than some of the alternative seats. With box seats, you’ll be able to enjoy the luxury and glamor of theater from days past. 

Plan a Broadway Adventure With TickPick

There’s no shortage of exciting and memory-making Broadway shows to see, whether you prefer comedy, drama, or the perfect musical. 

Of course, you want to ensure that you’re taking in every minute of the next great performance, which makes the perfect seating decision so important. That’s why our team at TickPick is sharing all you need to know about your seating options, whether you want to get high up with balcony and mezzanine seats or save on shows with obstructed view seats. We’re even here to help you pick between orchestra and box seats to make the most of your next Broadway experience.

Whether you prefer Broadway theatre or college football, TickPick is the team you can trust for the tickets. We never tack on hidden fees — just check out our BestPrice Guarantee — and we offer a useful grading system for finding the best seat every time. We also help fans and attendees learn everything there is to know about location and experience, so you can focus on enjoying the special day you have planned. Pick out Broadway tickets with support from TickPick today.